Eye on Africa

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…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant move toward fostering unity and collaboration among Somali leadership, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened a meeting with the Somali Salvation Forum, a pivotal coalition representing opposition interests. This gathering occurred at the Presidential Palace, known locally as Villa Somalia, and marks the second high-level dialogue in less than a month — a testament to the urgency and necessity for communication in this crucial time. The discussions revolved around four vital national…

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) finds itself at a critical juncture, issuing a 21-day ultimatum aimed squarely at the federal government. The stakes are high, as the association threatens nationwide industrial action unless urgent attention is paid to pressing issues surrounding salaries, allowances, and overall welfare. When medical professionals raise their voices in unison, it is not just a flurry of words; it's a call for action that demands to be heard. Bala Audu, President of the NMA, recently expressed…

Thriving Startups: The Rise of African Innovation in 2025 In an exhilarating display of resilience and ambition, startups across Africa raised a remarkable $365 million in June 2025. This impressive figure not only marks the continent’s strongest funding month in nearly a year but also highlights a powerful narrative encapsulating the first half of 2025. New insights from Africa: The Big Deal reveal that African startups collectively secured a total of $1.35 billion in funding during H1 2025. This figure represents an…

In recent developments, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and various media advocacy organizations have urgently appealed to the Zimbabwean government for the release of Faith Zaba. Zaba, the editor of the Zimbabwe Independent, found herself in legal jeopardy after her arrest on July 1. The charges stem from a satirical piece published on June 27, which provocatively characterized Zimbabwe as a "mafia state," suggesting that a desperate regime was clinging tenaciously to power. Using a law that criminalizes…

Kenya's Cross-Border Cash Movement: Insights and Implications The latest Survey on Cross-Border Movement of Cash has shed light on a significant trend in Kenya's financial landscape. The report indicates that 15 commercial banks, representing an impressive 39.4% of all licensed banks in the country, are actively engaged in facilitating cash shipments across borders. It's fascinating to consider how interconnected our global economy truly is. Have you ever pondered where the physical cash you come into contact with…

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…

Mogadishu Extends Heartfelt Condolences to Uganda After Helicopter Crash Mogadishu (AX) — In a poignant display of solidarity, the Somali government has issued sincere condolences to the people and leadership of Uganda following a tragic incident that unfolded in Mogadishu on Wednesday. A Ugandan military helicopter, part of the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), crashed while attempting to land at Aden Adde International Airport, resulting in the loss of five dedicated personnel. This…

In today’s increasingly connected world, expanding a business across borders is enticing but fraught with challenges. Founders and investors alike can easily get swept up in the buzz of international expansion, often overlooking a critical truth: what works 'anywhere' does not necessarily translate to 'everywhere.' It requires a blend of global vision paired with meticulous localized execution. As someone who has been on the front lines, navigating the intricate waters of West Africa's markets as Country Director and…

In recent years, the continent of Africa has faced significant challenges in economic growth, primarily due to losses that severely hinder foreign direct investment (FDI) and development assistance. This loss is more than a statistic; it resonates in the lives of millions who are deprived of essential resources necessary for infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The underlying culprits—illicit financial flows—are often driven by practices such as capital flight, tax evasion, and crimes ranging from money laundering to…