nations

In Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, heads of state from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have convened for a pivotal meeting. This gathering comes in response to a significant development: three member nations have announced their intent to withdraw from the bloc in January. As the discussions unfold, the leaders aim to explore the complexities surrounding the countries' exit and its broader ramifications for ECOWAS agencies. ECOWAS, a cornerstone of regional cooperation, has consistently upheld…

The role of natural gas as a pivotal energy source has gained significant traction in recent years. Why has this transformation occurred? Primarily due to its cleaner-burning properties compared to traditional fossil fuels like coal and oil. Not only is natural gas recognized for its favorable environmental impact, but it has also proven essential in fueling industrial growth and driving economic progress in various regions across the globe. For many African nations, natural gas extraction emerges as a crucial…

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Throughout my travels, I've had the unique privilege of visiting 89 countries and calling various cities home. It might sound clichéd, but it is true: I have yet to encounter a country I didn’t enjoy. However, some places resonate with me more deeply; perhaps you've experienced the same wonder while exploring the globe, wondering what makes a place truly special? What if it isn't just the sightseeing, but the stories we weave as we connect with each destination?…

Coal has, for decades, served as the backbone of industrial progress in Africa, particularly in the southern regions where some of the globe’s richest coal deposits are nestled. It's a story of energy fueled by black rock, the kind of energy that has shaped economies and transformed lives. People often overlook the complexities of this story, focusing instead on the pressing need for renewable alternatives. But let’s pause and reflect: can we navigate the transition without acknowledging the role coal has played and…

In a remarkable twist of events, one of former President Donald Trump's initial actions upon entering the White House was to freeze nearly all overseas funding for a period of 90 days. The administration argued that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was not only inefficient but also misaligned with U.S. interests. Critics within the administration referred to the agency as being "run by radical lunatics," a statement that surely left many citizens pondering the future of foreign aid. With an…

Tariffs pose a significant threat to an estimated $8 billion in African exports to the United States. This predicament jeopardizes decades of commercial relationships built on mutual trust and economic collaboration. It begs the question: how did we reach a point where the interests of emerging economies are sidelined in favor of broader economic policies? According to a recent report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the implications of Donald Trump’s new tariff policies extend far…

When discussing the intricacies of maritime security, one of the most effective yet often overlooked strategies is the establishment and maintenance of a robust mine warfare fleet. This approach, rooted in history, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding nations amid the turbulent seas of geopolitical conflicts. Throughout human history, mine warfare has underscored important lessons about defense tactics. Despite its critical nature, it tends to languish in the shadow of other military strategies. Why is it that…

In recent years, African economies have encountered an array of global challenges that can only be described as a perfect storm. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic still ripple through these nations, leaving them grappling with slowed economic growth, mounting debt, and strained fiscal positions. It's akin to a ship trying to navigate through heavy fog, where visibility is limited, yet the journey must continue. Have we collectively learned enough from this turmoil to chart a safer course? Compounding…

Fuel prices are more than mere numbers on a meter; they often symbolize momentary relief, economic stability, and political goodwill. For people living in African nations, a drop in fuel costs can have far-reaching implications, extending beyond the pump and into their day-to-day lives. When the fuel prices in a country decrease from the previous month, it brings a flurry of benefits. These advantages are not limited to the immediate, tangible financial savings. There exists a more nuanced, symbolic optimism associated with…

PwC's Strategic Withdrawals: Navigating the Complex Landscape of African Markets In a surprising turn of events that has generated considerable buzz, PwC recently announced the cessation of operations in nine African nations. This decision was formally disclosed on the firm’s website, drawing attention to its strategic realignment. The countries affected by this move include Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Republic of Guinea, Senegal, and Equatorial…