Africa

Celebrating Breakthroughs in Education: Slum2School Africa Wins the 2025 HP Digital Equity Accelerator Prize In a remarkable development that underscores the transformative power of education, Slum2School Africa has been awarded the prestigious 2025 HP Digital Equity Accelerator Prize. This accolade not only recognizes their impactful efforts in Nigeria but also places them among a select group of eight nonprofits across four countries—each committed to redefining accessible digital learning for…

In a poignant gesture that acknowledges a challenging past, French President Emmanuel Macron recently articulated his intent to seek “forgiveness” for France’s colonial domination over Madagascar. This statement comes as part of a broader commitment to revisit the historical narrative, beginning with the return of cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. Madagascar, with its rich tapestry of history and heritage, endured French colonial rule from 1896 until it regained full sovereignty in 1960. This period marked…

In a significant diplomatic gesture, President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This marked a historic milestone, as it was the first official visit by a Head of State from Ukraine to South Africa. Such events often carry weighty implications, reflecting the evolving dynamics of international relations and cooperation. The primary aim of President Zelenskyy's visit was to bolster bilateral relations, fostering cooperation across various sectors that could…

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebels, known for their ties to Rwanda, have declared a ceasefire in the eastern regions of the country. This agreement will remain in effect until peace negotiations, facilitated by Qatar, are brought to a close. It’s a significant development in the ongoing conflict that has claimed an estimated 7,000 lives since M23 escalated its military campaign in January. In a joint statement, representatives from both factions characterized their recent discussions as "frank and…

In a commendable display of leadership and commitment, Angolan President João Lourenço has announced a voluntary contribution of $5 million to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This decision is not merely a financial gesture; it represents a pivotal step towards strengthening regional health security and promoting sustainable health financing across the continent. This noteworthy announcement emerged from a high-level meeting held recently in Luanda, where President Lourenço engaged in…

Tanzania has recently enacted a sweeping ban on agricultural imports from South Africa and Malawi, marking a significant escalation in a regional trade dispute that poses a serious threat to the integrity of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Free Trade Area. This decision reflects not just a national policy shift but a deeper tension brewing among the nations involved. On Wednesday, the ban was officially announced by Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe. The directive targets all farm produce from both…

The recent visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to South Africa was abruptly curtailed due to a devastating Russian airstrike on Kyiv. This unfortunate event not only marked a significant turn in Zelensky's itinerary, but it also highlighted a deeper strategic maneuver by Ukraine aimed at countering Moscow's growing influence in Africa. In an era where geopolitics continuously reshape international relationships, such events carry layers of complexity and implications. "I am canceling part of the…

Tanzania's Agricultural Import Ban: A Complex Trade Dispute In an assertive move that highlights the growing tensions in regional trade, Tanzania has issued a ban on all agricultural imports from South Africa and Malawi. This latest development not only exacerbates ongoing economic strains but also raises questions about the future of trade relations in Southern Africa. Recently, tensions escalated when both Malawi and South Africa imposed restrictions on various Tanzanian agricultural…

Trade Tensions in Southern Africa: Tanzania vs. Malawi & South Africa In a significant escalation of trade tensions within the East and Southern African regions, Tanzania has recently instituted reciprocal import restrictions on agricultural products originating from both Malawi and South Africa. This decisive action is a direct response to previous import limitations imposed on Tanzanian exports by these two neighboring nations. It’s intriguing how trade relationships, which should ideally foster cooperation and…

In a move that surprised many, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has officially abandoned plans for a 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), a change that would have taken effect on May 1. The VAT rate will remain at 15%, offering a momentary sigh of relief for consumers and businesses alike. This decision did not occur in isolation; it stemmed from thorough discussions with various political factions and a meticulous evaluation of recommendations put forth by parliamentary committees. It appears the government is keenly…