expands

The arrival of Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service, in Guinea-Bissau marks a significant milestone for digital connectivity in the country. This is particularly noteworthy as it represents the seventh such launch across West Africa. It’s not just a technological advance; it’s a step toward building a more informed, connected society. Back in April, Guinea-Bissau’s National Regulatory Authority for Information and Communication Technologies (ARN-TIC) gave the green light for Starlink to commence…

In 2022, Pillar raised £13M (approximately $16.9M) in pre-seed funding to develop an innovative platform aimed at helping immigrants gain access to credit products as they settle in a new country. LemFi, through its recent acquisition of Pillar, is set to inherit this technology, positioning itself as the first significant remittance platform to integrate credit offerings into its core services. The deal has already received approval from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and it also welcomes Pillar’s visionary…

Understanding China's Visa-Free Transit Policy: Implications for Africa China's recent implementation of its visa-free transit policy has turned heads—transforming the travel landscape for many while stirring controversy regarding its implications for Africa. The new policy, which permits a 10-day visa-free stay for travelers in transit, currently extends to 55 countries, yet conspicuously excludes all African nations. This exclusion raises eyebrows and prompts us to question the alignment of travel diplomacy with…

Burkina Faso's Bold Move to Enhance National Profit in Gold Mining In a significant development for its mining landscape, Burkina Faso has officially increased its free-carried equity stake in key gold mining projects from 10% to 15%. This change comes in line with the provisions outlined in the new Mining Code, which was adopted in August 2024. It's a pivotal moment, one that reflects a larger narrative of national sovereignty and economic empowerment. This adjustment affects several prominent mining assets, including…

In a significant development for global shipping, Container News reports that Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has officially launched two colossal vessels, the Diletta and Türkiye, on its Africa Express service. This service is designed to connect leading Asian export hubs—namely, China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia—with vital ports in West Africa, including Lomé (Togo), Tema (Ghana), Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire), and Douala (Cameroon). The MSC Diletta is nothing short of a maritime marvel. Spanning an…

On a momentous day, Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, was warmly welcomed at Aden Abdullah International Airport by Somalia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Isaac Mohamud Mursal. This reception wasn't merely a formality; it symbolized a renewed commitment to fostering bilateral cooperation between the two nations. As they greeted each other, one could sense the weight of history and future possibilities permeating the air—a shared hope for a more collaborative path ahead. The exchange that followed was more than…

Burkina Faso's military-led government has recently moved to secure its economic future by granting an industrial mining license to Nordgold, a Russian company. This new gold project is a strategic step for the West African nation, which seeks to leverage soaring gold prices to bolster an economy still reeling from continued insecurity. The decision comes at a crucial time. Amid a backdrop of turmoil and unrest, Burkina Faso looks toward gold, not just as a precious metal but as a lifeline. According to a report by Reuters,…

In a significant development for telecommunications in Guinea-Bissau, the National Regulatory Authority for Information and Communication Technologies (ARN-TIC) has granted official approval for Starlink, the innovative satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk. This decision is likely to transform connectivity in the region, offering new possibilities for both individuals and businesses. The announcement came from Bamba Kote, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of ARN, during the opening ceremony of…

Starlink's Expansion: Somalia Joins the Network In a noteworthy stride toward digital connectivity, Somalia has become the most recent African country to welcome Starlink into its technological fold. This development follows similar introductions to West African nations like Liberia and Niger earlier this year. Starlink's unique offering utilizes low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver high-speed internet, ensuring seamless, low-latency connections even in areas traditionally burdened by limited…

In the ever-evolving landscape of finance, every strategic move tells a story. Take Standard Chartered Plc, for example, a banking giant that's now setting its sights on broadening its horizon in Africa. But what drives this ambition, and why now? The journey began after the bank decided to retract from several smaller African markets. This was a decision that unfolded over a three-year spell. Their strategic exits might prompt the curious mind to ask: what next for the bank on this diverse and promising…