Economy

Wicknell Chivayo, a well-known and often divisive figure in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, has firmly rejected any suggestions of his involvement in a contract for supplying ballot papers to the Namibian Electoral Commission (NEC). Chivayo expressed his dismay, deeming the claims linking him to this contract both unfounded and alarming. A report by the Daily Maverick pointed to Chivayo's connections with Ren-Form, the firm awarded the task of designing, printing, and packaging ballot papers for Namibia's upcoming…

As Guinea-Bissau gears up for its forthcoming elections, a notable chill has fallen over the media landscape, prompting serious worries about the state of press freedom in the country. Many media outlets face insurmountable obstacles, particularly the hefty $5,000 licensing fees imposed by the government, which they must pay to continue broadcasting. Consequently, a significant number of radio stations have found it challenging, if not impossible, to muster the funds necessary to renew their licenses in time for the…

Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, recently announced some promising news regarding the country's battle against the Marburg virus. Since the outbreak first emerged in September, there’s been a notable decrease in the rate of new infections, a sign that has the nation hopeful. Nsanzimana described this trend as "very encouraging." Reflecting on the initial phase of the outbreak, he mentioned, "The first two weeks felt somewhat stagnant; we were still unearthing the nature of this virus." However, he expressed…

Venâncio Mondlane, an independent candidate vying for the presidency in Mozambique, has issued a powerful call for a nationwide strike to protest widespread electoral malpractice. According to a civil society group known as Mais Integridade, the fraudulent activities were so flagrant that they unfolded right under the noses of various observers. "It’s hard to believe what we've witnessed," one member of the group noted, reflecting the disillusionment felt by many. Tragically, the political climate has grown increasingly…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has bestowed Egypt with the distinguished title of malaria-free, a momentous achievement that signifies a remarkable triumph in public health. This accomplishment is the culmination of nearly a century-long commitment by this North African nation to eradicate a disease that has shadowed its history since the dawn of civilization. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Malaria has been intertwined with Egyptian civilization for millennia.…

The Capitol Building, the heart of Liberia's legislative activities, became a hotspot for political unrest recently. This past Thursday, a faction within the Lower House attempted to unseat Speaker Fonati Koffa. However, their scheme unraveled when Koffa's loyal supporters, despite his absence abroad, intervened spectacularly, closing the Chamber doors and halting the coup attempt. Reportedly, those lawmakers who endorsed the resolution to oust the Speaker believed they were promised a hefty payday of U.S. $25,000 each.…

Mogadishu (AX) — Someday in a sprawling Mogadishu neighborhood, the wheels are already in motion for a bold endeavor — a dazzling residential development sprouting 50,000 homes in the Kaaraan zone. This isn't just an architectural venture; it's a mission to breathe life into the heart of Somalia's beachside cityscape. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has stirred the initial beat of the project drum at this delightfully dubbed "Pearl Beach" initiative, heralding an era of rejuvenation where Mogadishu meets the sea.Bankrolled…

Kawu Sumaila has stepped into the role of Chairman for the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and is already raising crucial questions about Nigeria's level of transparency in the oil sector. Taking over this position after the untimely passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Sumaila shared his vision for combating the pervasive secrecy that seems to cloak the industry like a heavy fog. Historically, Nigeria’s oil industry has faced harsh scrutiny due to its lack of transparency. This sector is not just vital;…

Nigeria has taken a significant leap forward in the battle against malaria, receiving a remarkable shipment of one million doses of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, courtesy of the Gavi Alliance. This marks a pivotal moment in the nation's ongoing struggle against this deadly disease. The vaccination campaign is slated to kick off in November, focusing on the states of Kebbi and Bayelsa, both of which suffer from high rates of malaria. With this move, Nigeria finds itself among the pioneering countries globally to embrace…

In the vibrant neighborhoods of Epworth and Mbare in Harare, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has embarked on a crucial mission: empowering the youth to confront mental health issues through a unique peer-led initiative. Equipped with specialized training, educators affiliated with MSF deliver essential psychological first aid. They bridge young individuals with critical mental health resources, encompassing a range of services such as medical care, HIV testing, STI management, contraceptive options, health education,…