African

The Conviction of a Former Leader: A Landmark Case for Mauritania and Africa Recently, the Mauritanian appellate court delivered a verdict that has reverberated beyond its borders: the conviction of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz on charges of corruption. After appeals from both state officials and Abdel Aziz’s defense team, the court increased his sentence from five years to a significant 15-year term. This ruling addresses not just a local scandal but also speaks volumes about accountability on the African…

In a recent address at the African CEO Forum 2025 held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, President Cyril Ramaphosa sparked considerable discussion with his remarks regarding those who have fled South Africa. "Those people who have fled are not being persecuted. They are not being hounded. They are not being treated badly," he asserted, presenting a stark view on a deeply complex issue. What could lie beneath the surface of such claims? Perhaps it is worth examining the myriad experiences of those who feel forced to leave seeking…

Understanding GDP per capita growth isn't just about numbers; it's a window into the lived realities of a nation's populace. How many of us actually grasp what that growth means for an average citizen grappling with daily financial challenges? It serves as a vital indicator of whether economic advancements benefit all layers of society or if they remain ensnared by inflationary pressures, population surges, or stark inequalities. In the global landscape, some nations have seen their economic indicators trend…

In a significant development, the inaugural group of white South Africans has been granted refugee status through a program initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Departing from Johannesburg, this U.S.-funded charter flight carried 49 individuals, marking a unique moment in the ongoing conversation about race, privilege, and identity in South Africa. The Afrikaners—comprising a white minority with roots in Dutch, German, and French ancestry—have historically played a pivotal role within South Africa’s segregated…

Koyo Kouoh, the esteemed CEO and Chief Curator of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) in Cape Town, has sadly passed away at the age of 57 in Switzerland. The museum has confirmed this tragic news, temporarily closing its doors and halting all programming to honor her remarkable contributions. A Cameroonian-born visionary, Kouoh made profound impacts on the realm of contemporary African art. With a keen eye and an unwavering commitment to showcasing diverse narratives, her influence reverberated not…

Understanding Countries with Multiple Capital Cities It may sound unusual at first, but the concept of having more than one capital city is surprisingly common around the globe. Numerous countries choose to distribute their governmental functions across multiple locations, and this often stems from political, historical, or economic motivations. Each capital serves a specific purpose, reflecting a rich tapestry of a nation's governance and identity. This intriguing arrangement often aims to balance regional power,…

After months of stalemate and escalating humanitarian crises, a glimmer of hope emerges in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Yet, our optimism must be tempered by the lessons of the past. How many times have we seen initiatives crumble, leaving communities in despair? As Paul-Simon Handy, East Africa Regional Director for the Institute of Security Studies, astutely observes, faltering African interventions have inadvertently paved the way for global actors to step into a role of greater influence. It was under the…

The EAC: A Beacon of Economic Growth in a Turbulent World In an era marked by numerous global challenges—from soaring inflation to supply chain disruptions—the East African Community (EAC) stands out as a remarkable example of resilience and growth. This regional bloc, encompassing seven partner nations—Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—has achieved a substantial growth rate of 5.4%. This impressive figure is not merely a statistic; it is a reflection of…

Roads are often the unsung heroes of thriving economies. They facilitate the seamless movement of people, goods, and services, serving as the very arteries of trade and interaction. Imagine a small farmer in rural Africa, his harvest waiting to be transported to the market. Without reliable roads, his efforts may go unrewarded. Roads are not simply pathways; they are lifelines that connect communities, stimulate economies, and create opportunities. Each day, hundreds of thousands of workers travel to factories,…

The Strategic Necessity of Railway Coverage in Africa In an era where connectivity equals opportunity, the expanse of railway networks in Africa transcends the realm of luxury. It's no longer just a question of convenience; it has become an essential cornerstone for the prosperity of nations eagerly striving to fulfill their potential. As you ponder this, consider the transformative power of transport infrastructure—what kinds of doors could it open for nations yearning for economic progress? The ripple…