trade

Ghana is grappling with the severe repercussions of illegal mining, commonly referred to as Galamsey. This rampant activity, primarily conducted by small-scale miners, is taking place across countless sites, igniting widespread protests and prompting the military to take action against it. As a key player in the global gold and cocoa markets, Ghana is feeling the pinch, as land degradation from these mining operations is significantly affecting agricultural productivity. Despite the apparent environmental hazards and…

Human rights advocates are strongly encouraging the authorities in Mozambique to take decisive action against the ongoing repression and violence directed at protesters challenging the questionable election results. The Committee to Protect Journalists has painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that the nation has "plunged into turmoil as security forces engage in violent confrontations." Disturbingly, they report that at least nine journalists have faced assault or arrest, while two foreign correspondents have…

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a powerful global campaign held every year from November 25 to December 10. During this time, people and organizations worldwide unite to advocate for the prevention and eradication of violence against women and girls. So, what exactly do we mean by “gender-based violence”? It encompasses harmful actions directed at someone because of their gender identity. Although men and boys can certainly be victims, the stark reality is that women and girls bear the brunt of this…

António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called on G20 leaders to tackle the pressing crisis of global hunger, a plight afflicting one out of every eleven individuals around the globe last year. This plea comes amid alarm over rising food insecurity, worsened by a medley of conflicts, climate change, and economic inequalities. South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has also chimed in, pushing global leaders to ramp up efforts to eradicate poverty and hunger. "Achieving gender equality is vital.…

In a significant move, Resolute Mining, an Australian-based company, has agreed to pay a hefty sum of $160 million to the Malian government in a bid to settle an ongoing tax dispute. This decision comes on the heels of a troubling incident where Mali's authorities detained the company’s CEO, Terence Holohan, along with two other staff members during their trip to Bamako for what was supposed to be routine negotiations with the current regime. As tensions rise, the spotlight on foreign mining operations in Mali grows ever…

World Toilet Day serves as a critical reminder of the pressing need for clean and safe toilets, particularly within Africa. The United Nations highlights a concerning reality— progress is lagging significantly behind in the race to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of providing "safe toilets for all by 2030." Currently, around 3.5 billion individuals across the globe are without access to basic sanitation. In various African nations such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and…

Recent reports reveal that a significant number of Gabon’s 860,000 registered voters have chosen to support a new Constitution, which might mark an end to military governance, as disclosed by State Television. This important referendum has the potential to dismantle a political dynasty that the Bongo family has held onto for nearly six decades. The proposed Constitution is not just a piece of legislation; it embodies one of the key promises made by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema following his seizure of power during…

Chidimma Adetshina has carved out a significant milestone in history, becoming the first Nigerian to clinch the title of first runner-up at the prestigious 73rd Miss Universe pageant. In the wake of this remarkable achievement, Adetshina took to Instagram to share her heartfelt appreciation. She reminisced about the unwavering support she received from Nigerians during her most challenging times. "Together, we find strength," she noted, highlighting how the vast African continent has imparted lessons on the essence of unity…

A handful of nations have officially punched their tickets to the 35th edition of the renowned African Cup of Nations, all set to unfold in Morocco. Countries like Nigeria, Tunisia, South Africa, Uganda, and Equatorial Guinea stood tall during the intense fifth round of qualifying matches. In a dramatic turn of events, Nigeria's ace striker Victor Osimhen salvaged a point for the Super Eagles against Benin, leveling the score at 1-1 with a late equalizer. Remarkably, the three-time champions had already cemented their…

A collaborative effort among various firms has welcomed the arrival of the initial set of 275 container wagons, designed to boost the transport capabilities of the Lobito Corridor project. This ambitious railway initiative stretches from Angola's Lobito port, reaching into the Democratic Republic of Congo and extending to Zambia. Unveiled in 2023 as part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, this corridor is backed by both the United States and the European Union. Once fully operational, it…