Africas

U.S. Tariffs and the Unforeseen Consequences on Africa’s Most Vulnerable Economies When President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariff hikes, it wasn't only the usual global economic powerhouses that paused in their tracks. Beneath the major headlines, tucked away from mainstream international attention, were smaller developing nations—countries that, economically speaking, barely register a blip on the American trade radar. Yet these nations, many located in Africa, now face potentially devastating consequences. One…

The enchanting realm of Lesotho has officially embraced a new era of internet connectivity, as Elon Musk's brainchild, Starlink, secures the green light for its operation. With the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) warmly announcing the licensing of the satellite network, an enthusiastic anticipation fills the air. Imagine a remote, mountainous kingdom now tethered to the world through beams of light from space, a scene straight out of science fiction becoming a tangible reality. It’s fascinating to ponder…

Over a decade ago, nations within the Great Lakes region united under a mineral certification scheme, aimed at curtailing the illegal exploitation of vital minerals. This endeavor was not merely bureaucratic; it sought to usher in a new era of transparency and accountability in a region often marred by strife. Yet, experts now caution that the promised progress has been minimal, leaving the specter of conflict still looming over these resource-rich lands. During a recent congregation at the International Conference on the…

Edited by Ali Musa, Axadle Times International–Monitoring Fuel prices—those defiantly fluctuating metrics that often dictate our frustrations at the pump and influence our day-to-day choices. I mean, who hasn't spent that fleeting moment wondering if it's worth driving across town just to save a few cents per litre? According to recently compiled data from GlobalPetrolPrices.com, some countries have either mastered the art of keeping these prices low—or have strategies so elusive that they look like they've cracked…

In a bid to bolster its maritime industry and echo the strides it has made in automotive manufacturing, Morocco is searching for private operators to manage what will soon be Africa's largest shipyard. This ambitious plan comes under a 30-year management contract. Reflecting on Morocco's automotive sector, one might ask: Can the success of its thriving car manufacturing industry serve as a beacon for this maritime venture? Just earlier this week, the state-run National Ports Agency (ANP) ushered in a critical phase. It…

Expanding Horizons: First National Bank's Strategic Growth in Africa As the world watches, Africa is blossoming into a hub of economic opportunities, with many eyes drawn to its burgeoning affluent demographic. In the midst of this transformation, a subsidiary of South Africa’s financial powerhouse, FirstRand Ltd., is keenly setting its gaze on Ghana. But what prompts a bank to venture into another country's market? The answer lies in the undeniable growth of Africa's affluent…

Have you ever paused to consider the critical role that airports play in our interconnected world? They are more than just places where you board a flight; they are arteries of economic lifeblood, especially in regions like Africa, where they promise to change lives and expectations. Often underestimated, airports serve as vital threads in the fabric of global commerce, tourism, and regional progress. This is nowhere more apparent than in Africa—a continent that stretches beyond our…

As the sun rose over the enchanting city of Rabat, a profound message was unveiled by a panel of distinguished speakers during the much-anticipated GITEX AFRICA Morocco press conference. This event, a beacon illuminating Africa’s tech future, heralded the continent’s grandest tech and startup gathering scheduled for April 14-16, 2025, in the culturally rich city of Marrakech. Cloaked under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI—may divine guidance continue to assist him—this…

Cape Town: Balancing Luxury with Accessibility Isn't it fascinating how a city can be both a place of opulence and a land of opportunity? Cape Town, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, stands as Africa's priciest city for real estate. It's where luxury meets the unstoppable drive of thousands seeking a fresh start. But here lies the bittersweet truth: as more people flock to the city, anticipating the classic notions of a better life, the stress on residential developments is…

Luxury vs. Digital Convenience Have you ever paused to ponder where we find the rich charm of a grand casino juxtaposed with the effortless click of digital adventure? It's a fascinating dichotomy. Picture this: a suave, high-end casino, its air rich with anticipation and luxury. The thrill of the chase, the clink of real chips – it's an atmosphere that awakens the senses. Yet, in our tech-savvy age, many find solace in the ease of online gambling. A simple button tap presents the world of…