Africa

Over the weekend, KwaZulu-Natal bore the brunt of torrential rains that intensified the devastation from earlier floods, leaving more families displaced and disrupting everyday life. The tragic toll of these floods has reached at least 20 lives lost in the past two months alone. What would you do if your community was suddenly uprooted by nature’s fury? The South African Weather Service has elevated its caution to a level 5 warning, signifying an urgent call to attention. They forecast an impending threat of further…

African Oil Discoveries Set to Transform the Global Energy Landscape Imagine a continent rich in energy reserves, like a dormant giant waking to its potential. That's precisely the scene unfolding in Africa's oil sector, according to S&P Global's recent publication, "High Impact Wells 2025". It's noteworthy that Africa has suddenly surged to represent 35% of new oil discoveries in this past year alone. Compare that with a modest 7% just a year before in…

Diplomatic circles often revolve around unspoken agreements, nuanced gestures, and the silent art of strategy. Yet, once in a while, politics thrusts someone into the limelight not for an anticipated accomplishment but a startling resignation. Consider Dana M. Brown, an accomplished diplomat who, while serving as the acting ambassador from the United States to South Africa, recently stepped down. This was confirmed through an official communiqué from the U.S. government to South Africa’s authorities.…

In a pointed discussion during the recent G20 gathering in South Africa, a coalition of former African heads of state convened to spotlight an urgent crisis: the escalating debt burden on the continent. United under the African Leaders' Debt Initiative, these seasoned leaders articulated a clarion call for "intensified international cooperation." But what does this cooperation truly entail? It begs the question: can the global financial structure be adjusted to genuinely uplift developing nations? The atmosphere during this…

Hurghada, nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Red Sea in Egypt, is more than just a tourist hotspot. Once a quaint fishing village, this vibrant coastal city has blossomed into a premier destination for travelers worldwide. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, the sun coaxing you out for a morning dive. Here, in its crystalline waters, you'll find an underwater spectacle of coral reefs and marine life dancing just beneath the surface.…

In a moment that resonates with profound national significance, the founding president, Sam Nujoma, lies in state at the serene Parliament Gardens. The stillness of the surroundings belies the wave of emotions that ripples through the hearts of those who gather to pay their final respects. Today, this solemn vigil transitions into a national memorial service, a poignant occasion set to unfold at the iconic Independence Stadium. As the sun begins its ascent, casting golden hues over the tranquil gardens, one cannot help but…

The impact of recent funding cuts by the Trump administration reverberates through South Africa. Specifically, organisations benefitting from the PEPFAR (The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) initiative, which is funded through USAID, have received troubling news: their financial support has been terminated permanently. This development signifies a dramatic shift in the landscape of HIV prevention and treatment efforts across the nation. According to a report by Bhekisisa's Mia Malan, this grim notification is not…

On February 26, an unsettling clash erupted between the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia and police officers, sending shockwaves through the streets of Monrovia. The incident unfolded at a checkpoint when a group of soldiers reportedly retaliated against police officers after several of their comrades, dressed in civilian clothing, were arrested and roughly handled. Panic ensued, casting a shadow over the day as bystanders watched the turmoil unfold. Both factions quickly summoned reinforcements, escalating tensions…

As the specter of strained trade relations looms over South Africa, a wave of uncertainty permeates the air. The United States, a significant player in global commerce, has hinted at severing vital economic ties, igniting anxiety among South African entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Is it time for Africa's most industrialized nation to brace itself for a seismic economic shift? This isn't merely theoretical speculation; it’s a scenario that resonates with real-world implications. Picture the bustling markets of…

The recent expulsion of French troops from Côte d'Ivoire signals a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. This move follows a similar withdrawal from Chad earlier this year and mirrors actions taken by Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—countries that have exhibited a growing discontent with French military presence. Could this be the death knell for French influence in the Sahel region? To understand the implications of this trend, one must delve into the intricate tapestry of historical relations.…