Southern Africa

Starlink Launches in Chad: A New Era of Connectivity In a landmark development for digital access, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has officially launched Starlink, its innovative satellite internet service, in Chad. This significant step follows the completion of its licensing process, firmly establishing its operations in the nation. The confirmation of this launch was shared through the company’s official availability map, much to the excitement of those eager for enhanced internet connectivity in this region.…

David Mabuza, a prominent political figure who once held the position of deputy president and later served as the premier of Mpumalanga, has sadly passed away at the age of 65. His tenure as Deputy President, spanning from 2018 to 2023, made a significant mark on South Africa’s political landscape. President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging Mabuza's unwavering dedication to not only the government but to the very fabric of the nation. He noted, “Mabuza deserves our appreciation for his…

Recently, a significant event unfolded that brought together shareholders, institutional investors, and regulators in a collective space of review and forward-thinking. This gathering served as a platform to delve into the comprehensive Annual Report and Financial Statements for Beta Glass Plc for the year ending December 31, 2024. It wasn't merely about numbers and charts; it was about shaping the future trajectory of the company and reinforcing its dedication to sustainability. Dr. Vitus Ezinwa, the Chairman…

When you think of iconic national airlines, names like Emirates and Qantas likely spring to mind. Emirates, with its glitzy branding and luxurious services, instantly conjures images of the United Arab Emirates, while Qantas proudly represents the spirit and ambition of Australia. These airlines are more than just airlines; they are symbols of national pride and identity. Yet, in stark contrast to these emblematic carriers, some African countries find themselves without a functional national airline. How does this absence…

Embracing the Future: Africa's First AI Factory In an exciting development, the collaborative efforts of two visionaries, Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa and Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang, are paving the way for Africa's first AI factory. This landmark initiative, facilitated through Masiyiwa's Cassava Technologies and Huang's Nvidia, a powerhouse in the tech industry, is a significant stride toward revolutionizing the digital landscape of the continent. The heartbeat of this initiative is pulsating in…

In the throbbing heart of Africa's economic evolution lies the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a monumental venture aiming to redefine the continent’s trade dynamics. Yet, as with any ambitious initiative, the path forward is strewn with both opportunities and obstacles. Among these challenges, the security of ports emerges as a critical focal point, given that a staggering 80% of Africa's trade transits by sea. How can nations truly thrive if the vessels carrying their dreams are vulnerable to theft and…

In a bold bid to redefine leadership in Namibia, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has embarked on a significant governmental overhaul. With a keen eye on efficiency, she has streamlined her Cabinet to just 14 ministries, making a commendable effort to highlight gender diversity within her administration. Her appointments reflect a commitment not only to a broad representation of women but also to results-driven governance. Yet, as the initial excitement of her first 100 days begins to settle, experts caution that the focus…

In the recent survey conducted by Kearney, South Africa and Egypt emerged as the sole contenders from Africa in the rankings of emerging markets poised for foreign direct investment (FDI) confidence in 2025. This recognition not only highlights their potential but also places them on a global stage where investor interest is increasingly crucial. Notably, South Africa made remarkable strides by rising from 11th to 7th place in the global rankings, achieving an FDI confidence score of 1.48. This improvement…

In the face of rising crime rates, many African countries find themselves navigating turbulent waters. The ramifications of escalating criminal activity extend well beyond individual incidents, influencing economic viability, deterring investment, and ultimately eroding public confidence in governmental institutions. This intricate web of challenges calls for a deeper examination of the socio-economic landscape affected by crime. Consider, for instance, a country where the crime index is perceived as alarmingly…

Upcoming US-Africa Summit: A New Chapter in Relations The anticipation surrounding the upcoming summit in Washington is palpable, as media outlets such as Semafor and Africa Intelligence confirm that heads of state from several Western and Central African nations will convene for an important dialogue. This summit promises to tackle pressing issues like trade, regional security, and investment opportunities that could dramatically reshape U.S.-Africa relations. Among the notable attendees is former President…