nations

It’s hard not to feel a heightened sense of tension in the world today—an undercurrent of uncertainty that seems to permeate our daily lives. If you've observed this sensation, you’re not alone. The latest findings from the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) corroborate these feelings, revealing a sobering truth: global peacefulness has declined for the sixth consecutive year. Alarmingly, this marks the 13th time in 17 years that we have witnessed such a backtrack. Yet, amidst this general decline, a curious silver…

The Rise of Millionaires: A Global Perspective on Wealth Growth The landscape of wealth is shifting dramatically across the globe, with numerous countries poised to welcome more individuals into the esteemed "millionaire club." As we observe significant growth in wealth per adult worldwide, it's essential to consider what drives this relentless rise. What stories lie behind the numbers? And how might this financial advancement shape our societies in the years to come? According to the…

Insights from the Latest OPEC Report: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Oil Prices The latest report from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) unveiled some intriguing insights into the dynamics of global oil markets. In May, the OPEC Reference Basket (ORB) saw a notable decline, falling by $5.36—or 7.8%—to settle at $63.62 per barrel. The fluctuation in oil prices invariably affects economies and consumers alike, leaving one to ponder: what does this mean for the average individual and the…

African Trade: A Resilience Story After a challenging year in 2023, the winds are changing for trade among African nations. As we step into 2024, intra-African trade has surged impressively by 12.4%, reaching an eye-catching figure of $220.3 billion. This rebound encapsulates not just numbers; it conveys a spirit of resilience that echoes the diverse experiences across the continent. However, how did we emerge from the shadows of a 5.9% drop the previous year?…

A recent report from the World Bank titled Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report 2025 reveals some troubling realities regarding electricity access, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. It's disheartening but not surprising to learn that a large proportion of the world's electricity deficits are concentrated in this region. As investment in energy infrastructure continues to lag, the urgent need for improvements is clearer than ever. Despite various initiatives aimed at boosting electrification across the…

2025 Global Peace Index: A Declining Trend in Global Peacefulness The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) presents a stark reality: for the 13th time in the last 17 years, global peace is on the decline. Over the past year alone, the average level of peacefulness has taken a hit, decreasing by 0.36%. It’s a sobering statistic that signals the sixth consecutive year where we witness a slip in global tranquility. What has led us to this state? And what does it mean for our collective future? While much of the world’s focus has…

Ghana is embarking on a transformative journey, one that could reshape its economic landscape for years to come. Recently, the country secured a vital agreement aimed at facilitating continued disbursements under a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package. This initiative is crucial, especially as Ghana grapples with the most serious economic challenges it has faced in decades. As the saying goes, "The only way out is through." But what does that pathway look like for Ghana? Known as the…

Exploring the Impact of Economic Sanctions on African Nations For decades, African countries have found themselves on the receiving end of various sanctions imposed by international entities such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the United States. Why has this continent become a focal point for such measures? It's essential to recognize that sanctions are often employed to advance specific foreign policy objectives. However, the implications of these actions reach far beyond the political…

Borrowing, at times, becomes a necessary tool for countries striving to enhance their development. However, the ability to maintain a modest, year-over-year increase in government debt reflects the sophistication of a nation’s economic management. It signals macroeconomic stability and lays down the foundation for long-term resilience. Imagine a tightrope walker, balancing carefully with each step—this is what prudent borrowing feels like in the context of national economies. Across the rich tapestry of Africa,…

When we talk about GDP per capita, we often think about raw numbers, economic theories, and statistics. However, this figure conveys a deeper narrative—one that reflects the lived experiences of ordinary people within a nation. It serves as a powerful lens through which we can view not only a country’s economic health but also the realities that its citizens face daily. In many regions across Africa, GDP per capita illustrates a persistent struggle. The rich potential of these nations often sits alongside…