Global

West Africa’s New Wave in Petroleum Pricing: A Strategic Initiative Nigeria has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with S&P Global Commodity Insights to pioneer a regional pricing benchmark for refined petroleum products within West Africa. Picture this: a local petroleum market dramatically reshaped to better reflect its unique conditions rather than being tethered to distant global benchmarks. This initiative, unveiled at the West African Refined Fuel Conference held in Abuja, is not just a theoretical…

A united front of Foreign Ministers from 26 countries, including Ireland, has issued a strong condemnation of what they describe as the "drip-feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians" in Gaza. Their statement calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the urgent release of all Israeli hostages held within the enclave. Among the signatories are representatives from Ireland, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the…

The Rise of African Fintech: A Transformation in the Financial Landscape In recent years, the financial technology sector has undergone remarkable changes, showcasing innovations that alter how we interact with money. Among the most exciting developments is the emergence of African fintechs, which has captivated global attention. The landscape features seven distinct categories: digital payments, digital assets, enterprise fintech, Insurtech, wealth technology, neobanking, and alternative financing. This variety not only…

G20 Reaches Agreement: A Diplomatic Triumph for South Africa In a remarkable feat of diplomacy, the recent G20 summit, held under South Africa’s presidency in Durban, culminated in a united communique, much to the enthusiasm of global investors. The atmosphere was electric as the news spread; even without the presence of the U.S. Treasury Secretary, the agreement sparked a surge in South African assets. Investors reacted positively, and the South African rand experienced a notable rise of approximately 0.6%, trading at…

This year, Nigeria proudly celebrates 26 years of stable civilian governance—no small feat for a nation that has weathered the storms of military coups and autocratic regimes. This milestone isn't just a statistic; it's a solid foundation upon which our economic future is being constructed. The significance of this durability cannot be overstated; it represents resilience, hope, and the potential for growth. Political stability serves not just as a governance metric, but as a vital business asset. In Nigeria,…

South Africa's Economic Landscape: A Call for Transformation Since 2010, South Africa's economic growth has been tragically slow, leaving its citizens significantly poorer than the global average. This unsettling reality has been highlighted by Investec Wealth & Investment International, which points to a stark discrepancy that continues to shape the lives of millions. In 2023, the GDP per capita—an essential indicator of economic health—was measured at $15,194, adjusted for purchasing power parity.…

In a world where barriers are continually being broken, stories of transformation emerge, and Omotayo Adeoye stands at the forefront of this evolution. Hailing from Nigeria, she has carved her niche in strategy consulting, shaping impactful strategies at prestigious tables across North America, Europe, and Africa. This journey showcases a vibrant generational shift in leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of long-term value. Her work intricately intersects finance, strategy, and systems thinking, enabling organizations to…

Somalia Government Upholds Commitment to Direct Elections Amid Dialogue with Global Partners MOGADISHU, July 8, 2025 – Somalia's federal government has taken a firm stand against reverting to indirect elections, emphasizing its dedication to implementing a one-person, one-vote system. This decision emerged during recent discussions with the C6+ coalition, a gathering of influential international partners. The talks unfolded in an atmosphere of cautious optimism. A ministerial trio, appointed by President Hassan Sheikh…

Highlighting Africa: A Closer Look at the 2024 Best Countries Rankings In a remarkable testament to growth, heritage, and cultural relevance, three African nations—Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa—have earned distinguished spots in the 2024 Best Countries Rankings. This prestigious list, produced by U.S. News & World Report in collaboration with the Wharton School and the global marketing agency WPP, offers a lens through which we can view the evolving narratives of countries around the world. Among these nations,…

In today’s increasingly connected world, expanding a business across borders is enticing but fraught with challenges. Founders and investors alike can easily get swept up in the buzz of international expansion, often overlooking a critical truth: what works 'anywhere' does not necessarily translate to 'everywhere.' It requires a blend of global vision paired with meticulous localized execution. As someone who has been on the front lines, navigating the intricate waters of West Africa's markets as Country Director and…