Africas

Understanding Purchasing Power in African Nations It's a familiar story across many African countries: the struggle with low purchasing power arises from a web of complex issues. High levels of poverty overshadow progress, industrialization limps along, political landscapes ebb and flow, and access to the global market remains a great hope yet seen on the horizon. Let's consider Numbeo’s Purchasing Power Index, a useful compass in assessing where nations stand. This index breaks down…

Africa, a continent often painted with broad strokes of opportunity and challenge, is crafting a narrative of rapid economic ascendancy. Recent projections from the African Development Bank (AfDB) suggest that by 2025, several African nations will be climbing the ranks of global economic performance. This development promises to reshape not only the face of Africa but potentially shift some global economic dynamics as well. The momentum stems from targeted policies…

Aliko Dangote: The Rise of Africa's Wealthiest Titan Reflect for a moment on what it takes to nearly double one's wealth in a single year. Not just a modest increase, mind you, but an upsurge that pushes your financial power to an awe-inspiring $23.9 billion. This is the narrative of Aliko Dangote, a name that resonates profoundly not only across Africa but around the world. Today, standing proudly as the richest person on the continent, he commands a global ranking of 86th. How did he get…

Imagine waking up to find your bank account has nearly doubled overnight. For Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, this scenario isn’t a dream—it’s reality. As of now, Dangote's fortune stands at a staggering $23.9 billion, earning him the title of the wealthiest person in Africa and placing him 86th on the global stage. Just a year ago, in 2024, Forbes had listed him in the 144th position worldwide with a net worth of $13.4 billion. Quite the leap, wouldn’t you say? So, what triggered this massive…

On the horizon looms a pivotal moment for South Africa’s fiscal landscape as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to present the much-anticipated 2025 Budget Speech. This speech is more than just a financial outline; it serves as a reflection of the government's priorities, intricately aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent State of the Nation Address. The task ahead is daunting: how to strike a balance between fostering economic growth and providing essential social support, all while navigating the…

The small-scale fishers of Africa are a lifeline for many communities, providing not only food security but also vital income sources for countless families. Yet, a recent study published in Nature reveals a troubling reality: their voices and contributions are often overlooked in the halls of policymaking. How does this oversight impact both these fishers and the broader societal goals we aspire to achieve? Inland and marine fisheries are more than just economic activities; they are interwoven with the cultural fabric of…

In just a few days, President Cyril Ramaphosa will take center stage to deliver his eagerly awaited State of the Nation Address (SONA). This occasion holds added significance, as it will be the inaugural SONA since the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa. Anticipation runs high as the nation looks to Ramaphosa to illuminate his administration's roadmap for the coming year. The tone of his address is expected to revolve around pivotal themes such as economic rejuvenation, job generation,…

The Nigerian music landscape has been graced with numerous talents, but few have soared as high as Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems. Recently, she claimed the prestigious Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance during the 67th annual ceremony. Her triumph marks a significant milestone, as she outperformed a formidable lineup that included renowned artists such as Burna Boy, Asake, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and the dynamic collaboration of Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay. This accomplishment is a testament not…

Niger has carved its name into the annals of public health history as the first African nation to successfully eliminate onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness. This parasitic disease has long been regarded as the second-leading cause of blindness globally, casting a shadow over the lives of many. How does one contract this affliction? The culprit is the bite of an infected black fly, predominantly found in areas along rivers, where these tiny marauders carry the parasitic worm that ultimately wreaks havoc on…

On January 20, 2025, an executive order from the Trump administration sent shockwaves through the philanthropic world, as the U.S. government enacted an immediate freeze on foreign aid for a staggering 90 days. This bold decision ignited apprehension among aid organizations, leaving vulnerable communities in despair and shaking the foundations of essential programs tackling hunger, healthcare, and education. The reality is stark: lives depend on this assistance, and the abrupt halt threatens to pull the rug out from under…