By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Renowned actress Lupita Nyong’o is embarking on a new venture: a podcast that brings to light the richness and diversity of African life. Throughout her illustrious career, Nyong’o has vividly portrayed African characters, both real and fictional, earning her critical acclaim and a place in Hollywood history as the first Black African actress…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian A local contestant for Miss Africa Great Britain 2024, Nadine Azari, is determined to inspire young African girls in Guernsey through her participation in the beauty pageant. After securing a spot in the top five in 2022, she has once again advanced to the finals. Miss Africa Great Britain, which features 20 finalists…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has set an ambitious goal to produce 0.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, driven by a strong focus on expanding renewable energy infrastructure across the region. This initiative is part of ECOWAS’s broader commitment to advancing the region’s renewable energy capabilities. During…
The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (www.AWIEForum.org/) is delighted to announce the finalists for the prestigious 2024 AWIEF Awards, set to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Africa’s women entrepreneurs and business leaders. The awards, held annually as part of the AWIEF conference, honor the impact of women entrepreneurs in driving innovation, promoting gender equality, and contributing…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Whitney Houston’s legendary 1994 performance in South Africa, held shortly after Nelson Mandela’s historic election, is set to grace theater screens this fall. The concert, now fully remastered, will be showcased in a theatrical release titled “The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban),” as announced by Houston’s estate, Sony Music Entertainment, and…
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) (www.BAL.NBA.com) will launch the second edition of the “BAL Future Pros”- a program launched last year to support early-career professionals across Africa to build their careers within the sports ecosystem, develop their skills, network and experience by integrating into different BAL departments. 22 BAL Future Pros were hired in 2024 from February to May…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian FIFA has released its updated national team rankings, bringing several notable changes within the African top 20. Tunisia made a significant leap, moving up to 5th place in Africa after an impressive performance in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. This advancement saw Tunisia gaining five places globally, while Nigeria stagnated and dropped to 6th in…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Carmart Africa has once again solidified its position as a leader in the Nigerian car market with the launch of its Free Car Price Checker and Car Valuation Tool (available here). This innovative tool is set to revolutionize the car-buying experience by addressing one of the market’s biggest challenges: the inflated and often…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian South Africa and Nigeria are in contention to host the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), following an invitation from the African Union. As Africa’s largest and longest-running music awards platform, AFRIMA enjoys massive global appeal, attracting a diverse audience from across the continent and beyond. AFRIMA’s main events are broadcast live to over…
The Africa Aerospace and Defense (AAD) 2024 kicked off Wednesday in Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, showcasing the latest advances in technology, goods and services from the international defense industry. Running until Sunday, the 12th edition of the AAD features cutting-edge innovations in aviation, aerospace, and defense. Segomotso Tire, chairperson of the AAD Executive Committee, emphasized that…
It’s been a decade since Wizkid’s groundbreaking hit “Ojuelegba” first hit the airwaves, and it remains a strong anthem that captivated listeners worldwide. Released in 2014 as part of his second album “Ayo,” the track tells the story of Wizkid’s struggles as an emerging artist, hustling through the streets of Ojuelegba, Lagos, to finance his recording dreams. In this…
The Africa Food Systems Forum 2024, the largest agricultural forum on the continent, has urged the mobilization of Africa’s youth and women to utilize their creativity as a catalyst for economic growth. This Focus On highlights the vital outcomes required to reform Africa’s food systems and emphasizes the importance of financial inclusion as a means to enhance rural development….
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Allison, a prominent communications consultancy, and BHM, Africa’s leading public relations firm, are teaming up to host an exclusive breakfast event during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York City. The event, named ‘Africa Breakfast Convos,’ will take place on September 27 at the World Trade Center. It will bring together…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with TradeMark Africa (TMA) and the East African Business Council (EABC), has introduced a $508,000 grant fund aimed at enhancing capital and credit access for over 220 small enterprises in East Africa. David Rogers, USAID’s Deputy Director for the East African region, highlighted that…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Aliko Dangote, the founder of Dangote Group, has urged African business leaders to take the helm in driving the continent’s transformation. Speaking at the African Renaissance Retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, Dangote highlighted that despite Africa’s numerous challenges, its youthful population and vast natural resources—including about 30% of the world’s mineral reserves and the…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Rwandan President Paul Kagame has praised the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) for ensuring that Africa has a clear voice in the future of its food systems. Speaking at the recently concluded Africa Food Systems Forum 2024, Kagame highlighted the critical role of food production in Africa’s economy, noting that…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Governments, industries, and key stakeholders now have access to a new, action-oriented toolkit aimed at ensuring the global energy transition is equitable, just, and sustainable. This toolkit comes as demand for minerals critical to renewable energy is expected to nearly triple by 2030, according to a report released on Wednesday by an expert…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian During his keynote speech at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing on September 5, President Xi Jinping unveiled a new blueprint for China-Africa collaboration over the next three years, emphasizing a joint effort to advance modernization. President Xi’s speech presented several distinctive elements, beginning with a “new” positioning of…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian AfriSummit 2024, an initiative by PRA Consultancy and organized by Hubplus Events in collaboration with Pioneers, is set to take place from November 3-6, 2024, at the Grand Nile Tower in Cairo, Egypt. This landmark event will bring together key players from the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, regulatory authorities, and leading solution…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian As businesses across Africa grapple with high employee turnover and a workforce increasingly driven by purpose and career development, experts emphasize the importance of meaningful work for talent retention. At the Regional HR Summit held in Nairobi, HR leaders, industry experts, and policymakers gathered to address the need for a shift in talent…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian South African star Tyla won her first MTV Video Music Award (VMA) this year, using her acceptance speech to spotlight the rich and diverse nature of African music. The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards took place yesterday at the UBS Arena in Queens, New York, with Megan Thee Stallion as the host. Tyla…
Africa is home to some of the most impressive stadiums in the world, showcasing not only architectural grandeur but also the rich sporting culture across the continent. These massive arenas have played host to iconic football matches, athletic events, and concerts, attracting millions of fans from far and wide. From the bustling cities of South Africa to Egypt and…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian We are excited to announce that Mr. Antony Phillipson, the British High Commissioner to South Africa, will be a keynote speaker at the DEVAC HYDROGEN-H INDABA, taking place from September 18-19, 2024, at the NH Sandton (formerly Hilton Sandton) in Johannesburg, South Africa. The conference aims to bolster global and local collaboration under the…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The United States has proposed adding two permanent seats for African countries on the UN Security Council, marking a significant step in its efforts to strengthen ties with Africa and Pacific Island nations, which are increasingly important in global geopolitics. US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, is expected to officially announce…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The Airtel Africa Foundation has launched the ‘Airtel Africa Fellowship Program’ for undergraduate students at IIT Madras Zanzibar, the first foreign campus established by an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). The Fellowship is aimed at supporting talented students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Elon Musk has revealed that SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is currently awaiting regulatory approval in South Africa. This update comes after a South African user expressed frustration on Twitter/X about the slow internet service available on his farm. The user, who posted a photo of a fixed wireless-access antenna on his farm,…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) has highlighted the crucial role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and inclusive trade in unlocking Africa’s vast economic potential. GABI emphasizes that these strategies are essential for spurring economic growth, reducing poverty, and creating jobs across the continent. Ahead of its 2024 flagship event, “Unstoppable…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote has once again claimed the title of Africa’s richest person, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Dangote, the 66-year-old founder and CEO of the Dangote Group—a conglomerate involved in cement, sugar, and oil—has surpassed South African billionaire Johann Rupert, who briefly held the top spot in late August. As…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Investing in female teachers and principals is one of the most effective ways to enhance educational opportunities for African girls, according to a joint report by the African Union and UNESCO, titled Educating Girls and Ending Child Marriage in Africa. The report, released during the first Pan-African Conference on Girls’ and Women’s…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The recently concluded 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, chaired by African Heads of State and delegations from across the continent, was hailed as a success. Chinese President Xi Jinping called it a “stellar example,” highlighting the progress made during the summit. President Xi committed to implementing ten…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has released its 2024 Africa Agriculture Status Report, titled “Harnessing the Private Sector for Food Systems Transformation in Africa.” The report examines the crucial role that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play in reshaping food systems across the continent. Created in partnership with…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Engie, a French utility company, anticipates increased mergers and acquisitions in Africa’s renewable energy sector, including in South Africa. Following its $1-billion acquisition of renewable assets from Actis last year, Engie is focused on integrating these assets rather than seeking further acquisitions. However, the company is also working on developing a pipeline of…
Kigali, Rwanda 9th September 2024 – The young people at the Africa food Systems on 6th September 2024committed to being accountable for the Africa food systems, a commitment set to be presented at COP29. The Kigali youth Declaration calls on various stakeholders to amplify the voice of the young people, address the pressing issues of climate change and youth…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), has lauded Saudi Arabia for its remarkable “support, dedication, and friendliness” towards Africa. His remarks came during the Saudi Fund for Development’s 50th anniversary celebration in Riyadh. Celebrating 50 Years of Impact In his address, Adesina highlighted the profound impact of the…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has granted CRDB Bank Plc a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to expand its operations outside Africa, marking a historic first for the Central Bank. This milestone acknowledges CRDB’s financial stability and strong performance, setting a new precedent in the region’s banking sector. A Pioneering Move BoT Governor Dr….
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Infinity Developments, a subsidiary of Dubai-based Infinity Group, is preparing to launch Africa’s most luxurious resort — the Anantara Zanzibar Resort. Scheduled for completion in 2027, this $230 million project will transform the pristine shores of Nungwi, offering unparalleled luxury and elegance. A New Standard in Luxury Construction for the Anantara Zanzibar…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged nearly $51 billion in financial support for Africa over the next three years, with plans to fund infrastructure projects and create at least one million jobs. Speaking at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Xi outlined China’s readiness to enhance cooperation with Africa across various sectors,…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian At the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) this week, China strengthened its diplomatic and economic ties with North Africa, announcing a strategic partnership with Libya and a $14 million investment in Egypt. The summit, attended by leaders from over 50 African nations, focused on issues such as climate…
This year’s WAYA awards finalists were selected from a record-breaking 1,535applications spanning 44 African nations, a significant increase from the 1,430applicants and 42 participating nations in 2023. This highlights the growing influence and importance of women in Africa’s agribusiness sector. The finalists represented diverse countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema signed a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) to revitalize the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). The agreement was formalized on September 4, marking the beginning of the summit,…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, has announced that the Dangote refinery is poised to meet the petrol demands of not only Nigeria but also the entire sub-Saharan region. The refinery, with a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, has commenced petrol production. Speaking to the press during a recent inspection of…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian At the Indonesia-Africa 2024 Forum, Tanzania has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing Africa’s economic transformation under the African Agenda 2063. On the second day of the forum, Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi emphasized the critical role of Africa’s economic development in fostering growth, political stability, and global cooperation. Dr. Mwinyi highlighted that Africa’s…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian China, Tanzania, and Zambia have signed a memorandum of understanding to revitalize the 1,860-kilometer railway connecting Tanzania and Zambia, according to Xinhua news agency. This $1 billion initiative, proposed by Beijing in February, aims to enhance Zambia’s access to global markets. The railway stretches from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s port capital, to Kapiri Mposhi…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian This week, African leaders are gathering in China for a pivotal meeting with President Xi Jinping, marking a significant moment in Beijing’s efforts to enhance its influence on the continent amid subtle competition with Western nations. The China-Africa Summit, running from September 4 to 6, will provide a platform for discussions on…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The ongoing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, from Wednesday to Friday, offers China and Africa another opportunity to enhance strategic communication and deepen practical cooperation. Since its inception in 2000, FOCAC has been widely embraced by African nations for its tangible outcomes and meaningful projects that have significantly…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian In a bid to build healthier, more inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems in Africa, AGRA, in collaboration with The Africa Food Systems Forum, has launched the 2024 Africa Agriculture Status Report titled “Harnessing the Private Sector for Food Systems Transformation in Africa” in Kigali, Rwanda. This launch comes amidst concerns that…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian On the sidelines of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Chinese leaders are engaging in extensive meetings and negotiations with various African leaders. The focus is on expanding cooperation in key sectors such as the digital economy, blue economy (centered on oceanic resources), and green development. Liu Yuxi, the…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian Many large South African corporations have implemented Enterprise Development Programmes (EDPs) and Supplier Development Programmes (SDPs) to support and uplift small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), especially those owned by individuals from previously disadvantaged groups. These programmes play a crucial role in fostering business growth and enhancing economic inclusion. Understanding EDPs and SDPs EDPs are…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Chidimma Adetshina has been named Miss Universe Nigeria, overcoming recent challenges following a controversial attempt to compete in Miss South Africa. The 23-year-old, who was born to a Nigerian father and South African mother in South Africa, faced backlash from some South Africans, including a government minister, due to her dual heritage. This…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian President Hussein Ali Mwinyi departed on Saturday for Indonesia to represent President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the second Indonesia Africa Forum (IAF), which will be held from today until September 3, 2024. Themed “Bandung Spirit for Africa’s Agenda 2063,” the forum is hosted in Bali and will feature African leaders from Zimbabwe, Rwanda,…
African leaders have gathered in Beijing this week, aiming to secure significant loans and investments for critical infrastructure projects amid intensifying global competition over resources and influence on the continent. Over the past decade, China has significantly deepened its ties with African nations, providing billions in loans to fund infrastructure projects. While these investments have helped build vital infrastructure,…
Urgent Need for Cross-Border Legal Frameworks to Combat Financial Crime African nations are increasingly recognizing money laundering as a pervasive issue that necessitates cross-border solutions. This call for coordinated legal frameworks comes amid growing concerns over how money laundering fuels various forms of organized crime, including terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and poaching. The 48th Eastern and Southern Africa…
OP|ED Harnessing Philanthropic Power to Transform Health Outcomes As a professional in the philanthropy sector, I am heartened by two significant trends that are shaping the future of health innovations in Africa. Firstly, there is a noticeable shift in international health assistance towards directly supporting African scientists and institutions. In 2023, over 55% of major donations from non-African funders…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Parliamentary Leaders from 22 Nations Meet to Forge Stronger Global Alliances The Indonesia-Africa Parliamentary Forum (IAPF) 2024 began on Sunday in Bali, bringing together parliamentary leaders and representatives from 22 countries. The event, hosted in Nusa Dua, Bali, was launched by Puan Maharani, Speaker of Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR), who called…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian As the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) approaches, Beijing prepares to host a crucial gathering from September 4 to 6 that could mark a new chapter in Sino-African relations. This summit is not just another diplomatic meeting; it represents China’s commitment to fostering long-term partnerships with Africa aimed at…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The China-Africa Summit, a three-day event in Beijing, aims to foster joint development between China and Africa under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A key focus of the summit will be aligning development strategies for African countries and enhancing connectivity to promote modernization and build a future-oriented society. China’s interest in Africa…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Tanzania Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has urged for the removal of barriers preventing patients from East African Community (EAC) member states from accessing medical services within the region. This initiative aims to boost the regional economy and foster the growth of medical tourism. Majaliwa made this appeal during the launch of the 12th…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The Deloitte Africa Private Equity Confidence Survey 2024 presents a varied picture of the business fundraising landscape across the continent. In East Africa, optimism is growing, with 52% of respondents expecting the fundraising environment to improve over the next 12 months. This positive outlook contrasts with other regions, where opinions are more divided….
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian Egypt has been ranked as the top African country in terms of soft power influence for 2024, according to a report by Business Insider Africa. The country achieved the highest position in Africa and 39th globally, with a soft power score of 44.9 points. South Africa follows in second place among African nations, scoring…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian The 12th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa (CCDA-XII) has commenced in Abidjan, gathering a broad coalition of stakeholders to address the pressing climate challenges facing the continent. Held alongside the special meeting of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) in preparation for COP 29 in Baku, CCDA-XII aims…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to officiate the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) scheduled to take place in Beijing from September 4-6, 2024. She will join fellow African heads of state and government leaders for this significant event. The announcement was made by Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian South Africa is poised to see the opening of five new universities over the next decade, comprising two government-funded institutions and three private ones. Government Universities Despite a growing preference for private institutions among prospective students, the South African government is committed to establishing two new universities. Currently, the country has 26 official…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian South African retailer Spar Group is contemplating an offer to acquire West Pack Lifestyle, which is currently undergoing business rescue. As the country’s second-largest grocer by revenue, Spar has expressed ambitions to diversify beyond the food sector and capture a larger share of the South African market. West Pack, known for its…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed that China and Africa remain a community with a shared future, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation between the two regions amid a complex global landscape. Xi expressed these sentiments in a letter to scholars from 50 African countries on Tuesday. In his letter, Xi highlighted…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian South Africa’s state-owned logistics company, Transnet, has secured a R5 billion ($283.53 million) loan from the New Development Bank, established by the BRICS group of emerging economies. The South African government will guarantee this loan, which is aimed at supporting Transnet’s ambitious turnaround plan. The loan is intended to address the years of underinvestment…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Botswana recently became the latest Southern African country to launch Starlink’s satellite internet services. This development follows the approval of a local license for Starlink, with Namibian telecom company Paratus signing on as the local reseller. Meanwhile, there is renewed hope that South Africa might eventually license Starlink in the future. However, a…
Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie underscored that the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) should not lead to a huge uncertainty and chaos in the Horn of Africa. “Let us be clear that ATMIS transition should not lead to a huge uncertainty and chaos in the Horn of Africa,” Foreign Minister Taye posted on…
This collaborative effort is driven by the shared understanding that the ongoing loss of agro-biodiversity, exacerbated by climate change, poses a serious threat to food security across the region. IN an era where agriculture forms the backbone of global food security, seeds are the fundamental building blocks of life. The quality, availability, and diversity of seeds directly shape the…
Story by Emma Brain Save the rhino. That was the overarching goal of a trip I took to South Africa this month, alongside a group of other UAE residents. The species that once roamed the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa now tragically has a global population of about 27,000, the majority of which are in national parks and…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian In 2023, Chinese lenders committed $4.61 billion in loans to Africa, marking the first annual increase in seven years, according to a study by Boston University’s Global Development Policy Centre. This figure represents a more than three-fold increase from the previous year, highlighting China’s renewed interest in African investments after a significant decline…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Africa is a continent of immense diversity, encompassing over 50 countries, thousands of languages, and a wide array of ecosystems. Yet, it is often misunderstood, with many misconceptions persisting due to stereotypes, outdated information, or a general lack of knowledge. These misconceptions can lead to negative attitudes and an oversimplified view of…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Since its inauguration in 2016, Tanzania’s Nyerere Bridge has generated Sh102.18 billion, according to the government. Despite this significant revenue, the bridge is still far from recouping its total investment cost. The bridge is an investment by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and is projected to repay Sh344 billion over 30 years,…
Flutterwave has been granted a Payment Systems Operator (PSO) license by the Bank of Uganda license which positions them to significantly impact Uganda’s rapidly growing digital payments space. Flutterwave has obtained a Payment Systems Operator (PSO) license from the Bank of Uganda, a significant milestone that marks a pivotal moment for the fintech company as it continues to expand…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian South African luxury goods tycoon Johann Rupert has claimed the title of Africa’s richest man, surpassing Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote. The 74-year-old Rupert, who controls the world’s largest luxury watchmaker, Cie Financiere Richemont, through a family trust, now leads the continent’s billionaires. Richemont, based in Bellevue, Switzerland, owns prestigious brands such as Jaeger-LeCoultre and Cartier….
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Elon Musk’s Starlink is poised to shake up Africa’s internet landscape with a new router-free service, potentially disrupting the market dominance of established telecom giants like Safaricom and MTN. By eliminating the need for costly hardware, Starlink aims to lower barriers to internet access in a region where high costs have long limited…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian G7 nations are slowing down the development of gas projects in Africa, much to the frustration of TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné, who fears this will hinder the global energy transition. Pouyanné has strongly criticized the West’s “exclusion policy,” which cuts off funding for fossil fuel projects in Africa, warning that such restrictions could…
The second annual Transforming Africa MedTech Conference (TAMC) began today at the Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi, uniting key stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing medical technology across Africa. The three-day event aims to foster collaboration and leverage MedTech advancements to enhance healthcare outcomes throughout the continent. Wilfred Njagi, Co-Founder and CEO of Villgro Africa, emphasized the need to support…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Dr. Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile has been elected as the new Regional Director for Africa at the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant appointment was announced alongside his continued service to Tanzania. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed confidence in Dr. Ndugulile’s capabilities, emphasizing the diverse and complex nature of the African region. “The…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Starlink, SpaceX’s Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet service, has officially launched in Botswana, marking the country as the latest addition to the growing list of African nations where Starlink is operational. Botswana granted an operating license to SpaceX’s Starlink unit, aiming to enhance connectivity in the country, which struggles with high data costs….
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of clear communication and active engagement between the government and business to build trust and ensure that policies reflect on-the-ground realities. Speaking at Business Unity South Africa’s (Busa) Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnering with Busa to drive economic growth. This…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) is spearheading a major initiative to support the development of Africa’s largest gas-to-methanol plant in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. This project aims to significantly cut CO2 emissions by converting flared natural gas into valuable methanol, used in solvents, paints, plastics, and automotive parts. The plant will initially produce 1.8 million…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Kia Middle East and Africa has officially launched the Kia EV5 in Rabat, Morocco, marking a significant step forward in the region’s journey towards sustainable mobility. The event, attended by over 100 media representatives and fleet companies from nine markets, highlighted the Kia EV5’s impressive range, speed, and futuristic design as the future…
Water pressure in Bertrams is too low to fill geysers For more than a year, residents in Bertrams, Johannesburg, have had only a trickle of water from their taps, not enough to use washing machines, or fill geysers. The low water pressure, despite Bertrams being on the floor of the valley between Kensington and Linksfield ridges, also makes it…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Residents of Eastern Cape, South Africa, were startled by a bright streak of light in the sky over St Francis Bay on Sunday morning, August 25. Initial reports on the internet and in the media speculated that the phenomenon might be space debris, possibly from a satellite, entering Earth’s atmosphere. However, scientists…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has vowed to push for the creation of an AU Visa to facilitate easier travel across the African continent if elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The AU introduced the African passport program in 2018, aimed at removing restrictions on Africans’ freedom to…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Russia is set to start importing cocoa beans directly from Nigeria, with initial deliveries expected between September and October, according to Maksim Petrov, Moscow’s trade representative in Nigeria, as reported by TASS. Russian trading houses, which already export products like frozen fish, alcohol, chocolate, and meat to Nigeria, will handle these new cocoa…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The 12th edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) expo is scheduled for September 18-22, 2024, at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng. As Africa’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition and air show, AAD holds a prominent place in both South Africa’s and the continent’s defence industry calendar. With each edition,…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Wolfpack Information Risk and CyberArk recently hosted an exclusive webinar focusing on the African Union’s Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, commonly known as the Malabo Convention. This pivotal event took place on August 22, 2024, and provided essential insights into the impact of this landmark treaty on businesses operating…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene, has expressed disappointment over South Africa’s reluctance to ratify the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a move he believes is crucial for reducing trade costs and accelerating economic integration across the continent. PAPSS, developed in partnership with the African…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian The digital advertising landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors, according to Burak Akinci, CEO of Ayoba. As the sector transforms, advertisers face several challenges, including fierce competition, evolving algorithms, fragmented audiences, and heightened concerns about data privacy and security. With more businesses vying for online visibility, standing…
’Find Your Soil’, Nurture Your AgriTech Innovation and Win $50,000 in Equity Funding The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa), in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy, proudly announces the launch of the 6th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC). This year’s challenge seeks to identify and support exceptional AgriTech entrepreneurs who are addressing critical agricultural challenges in…
Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez embarks on a three-day visit to West Africa on Tuesday to address the dramatic increase in migrant arrivals, especially in the Canary Islands. This surge has overwhelmed both Madrid and Brussels, with Spain’s coastguard routinely rescuing overloaded boats carrying African migrants to the archipelago. Sánchez’s visit will cover Mauritania,…
In an informal settlement just 10 kilometers from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, Saima Mukwiilongo is redefining the local business scene through her innovative catering venture. Her business, Sai’s Kitchen, which began in 2017, stands as a testament to the power of traditional cuisine and entrepreneurial spirit in addressing local challenges. Mukwiilongo launched Sai’s Kitchen in Havana, an informal…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Nairobi-based HR, payroll, and benefits platform, Workpay, has announced the successful completion of a $5 million Series A funding round led by Norrsken22. The investment round also saw participation from Visa, Y Combinator, Saviu Ventures, Axian, Plug n Play, Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures, and Acadian Ventures, a firm specializing in next-generation work technologies. This…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Last month marked a historic moment as passenger trains departed from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, heading towards Dodoma for the first time. This new railway line, part of a $7.6 billion project extending over 1,200 kilometers, was constructed by the Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi, known for its previous projects like the Dubai Metro…
By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Interswitch Group has been announced as the Gold Sponsor for the Africa Fintech Summit (AFTS) 2024, set to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 4-6, 2024. This sponsorship aligns with Interswitch’s ongoing expansion across Africa, marked by significant milestones such as the recent enhancement of its partnership with ACI Worldwide to modernize…
By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian Africa has increasingly become a prime target for cybercriminals. Recent data from Check Point revealed that in the second quarter of 2024, Africa experienced the highest average number of cyberattacks per organization globally, with an alarming average of 2,960 attacks per week. This marks a 37% increase compared to the same period in…
Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian Tanzania has called on African nations to collaborate in finding long-lasting solutions to the continent’s challenges. The country also urged Japanese businesses and investors to deepen their engagement in Africa, contributing to human development and promoting regional and global peace and stability. This call was made by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and…
By Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian Africa stands on the brink of a technological revolution, powered by a rapidly growing young population eager to adopt digital skills and tools. With a significant portion of its population under the age of 25, as highlighted by recent data from Wikipedia, the continent is uniquely positioned to leverage technology and bypass…
Edited By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian Fireblocks, a leading provider of digital asset infrastructure, has announced its collaboration with Yellow Card, a major stablecoin on/off ramp in Africa. This partnership aims to simplify and enhance cross-border cryptocurrency transactions across the continent. The announcement, made on X, highlights the ambitious plan to expand to 14 million wallets through Fireblocks’…