West Africa

Mali is forging a new path in its quest for economic autonomy. Recently, the country began the construction of a state-of-the-art gold refinery, powered by Russian backing. This strategic initiative, championed by its military-led government, aims to enhance the nation's control over its precious natural resources. But what does this really mean for Mali and its future? The newly established refinery is set to be a significant player in Mali's economy, with the Malian government holding a majority stake of 62%.…

The Current Landscape of Fuel Prices in Ghana: A Closer Look The landscape of fuel prices in Ghana seems complex, yet at the heart of it lies a noteworthy paradox. Even amidst a remarkable appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi by 24% since January 2025, fuel prices have remained high. It's almost as if the very currency gains have created an illusion of affordability, while consumers at the pumps still feel the sting of rising costs. As reported by GlobalPetrolPrices.com, the current fuel price in Ghana stands at an…

On a recent Monday, Judge Issa Aguibou Diallo made a pivotal ruling that has shifted the course of one of Africa's most precious mining assets. He instructed that Zoumana Makadji, a chartered accountant and former Malian Minister of Health, be appointed as a provisional administrator within 15 days. This critical move effectively places operational control of the mine into the hands of an external authority, prompting questions about the future of this vital resource. Dispute Over Taxation…

Gold Reserves: A Pillar of Financial Stability in Africa In today's unpredictable financial landscape, gold reserves stand as a beacon of stability. They serve not just as a buffer against currency volatility, but also as a cornerstone of investor confidence—a vital asset for nations especially susceptible to external economic shocks. The importance of gold cannot be overstated; it has historically provided a sense of security as well as a tangible representation of wealth and economic strength. As stated by…

In a surprising turn of events, the Togolese government has decided to suspend the operations of Radio France Internationale (RFI) and France 24. They assert that these networks have engaged in "inaccurate and biased" reporting, a claim that, according to officials, threatens to tarnish the country’s reputation on the global stage. “Freedom of the press cannot be synonymous with disinformation or interference,” stated a representative from the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication, a phrase that resonates deeply in…

A striking collage of President William Ruto (left) engaged in conversation and U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump (right) on a call on November 8, 2024, encapsulates the interconnected dynamics of global leadership in our modern world. Image courtesy of PCS U.S. Embassy. On June 16, fresh reports emerged, sending a wave of concern rippling through Kenya and across the African continent. The United States is reportedly poised to expand its travel restrictions, a move specifically targeting dozens of countries throughout…

The Pervasive Impact of Rising Fuel Prices in Africa In a world where connecting goods and services is becoming increasingly essential, one of the most striking consequences of soaring fuel prices is the noticeable spike in transportation and logistics costs. Have you ever stopped to consider how a simple trip to the grocery store resonates throughout the economy? Trucks and long-haul vehicles that carry our essential goods predominantly run on diesel. When diesel prices climb, the ripple effects can be…

Tuesday, June 17, 2025 By H.E. Hassan Moalim Mohamud - Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs The launch of Somalia’s National Dialogue on June 16 marked a significant and much-anticipated stride towards breaking free from years of political impasse in our nation. Though the event was neither flawless nor exhaustive, it represented a genuine attempt to foster national consensus—a feat long overdue. However, it's hard to ignore the irony when opposition figures criticize the process, particularly when they…

Impact of Dangote's Supply Strategy on the Petroleum Industry In a bold move that some are heralding as revolutionary, the company announced its intent to supply Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel to a wide array of customers. This includes fuel marketers, gasoline dealers, manufacturers, telecom firms, aviation companies, and other sizable consumers. To sweeten this deal, they promised free logistics, enticing many stakeholders to take notice. Yet, as…

Algeria's New Law: A Paradigm Shift in Mining and Economic Diversification Algeria's parliament recently approved a landmark law that transforms the landscape of its mining industry. This significant legislation allows foreign companies to own up to 80% of mining projects, signaling a bold new direction for this OPEC nation as it strives to diversify its economy. Have we reached a turning point in Algeria’s economic narrative? Only time will tell. A resounding majority of lawmakers supported this initiative during…