TIG Post

Tag: Africa

  • African Trade Ministers to meet over Trump’s tariffs on April 14

    African Trade Ministers to meet over Trump’s tariffs on April 14

    African trade ministers will convene on April 14 to deliberate on a new U.S. tariff policy introduced by President Donald Trump that threatens to reshape global trade dynamics.

    The policy imposes a blanket 10 percent tariff on imports from over 100 nations a move that could place significant pressure on African exporters.

    The upcoming summit will assemble a coalition of trade experts, government officials, economists, and regional blocs to examine the policy’s implications and strategize Africa’s collective response.

    Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), addressing journalists from Washington, D.C., cautioned that Africa must not remain passive in the face of such sweeping trade realignments.

    “This isn’t just a U.S. policy shift; it’s a signal that Africa must tighten its economic foundation,” Mene said. “We can’t afford to be caught off guard. We must respond with urgency and unity.”

    The tariff, expected to affect a broad range of African exports — from agricultural products and raw materials to textiles and manufactured goods — raises concerns about the future of Africa’s trade relationships with the U.S., especially under existing frameworks like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

    Mene noted that the real challenge lies not in reacting to protectionist policies, but in preparing for them.

    “We should treat this as a turning point,” he said. “Rather than depend on uncertain access to distant markets, we must create reliable trade systems among ourselves. This is a pivotal moment for AfCFTA to move beyond ambition and into full implementation.”

    While the U.S. policy is likely to affect several global partners, African nations—many of which rely on export-led growth—could face the harshest consequences if timely measures are not adopted.

    In anticipation of those impacts, the April 14 meeting will explore policy alternatives, trade diversification, and accelerated continental integration to ensure African economies remain resilient amid rising global protectionism.

    “Africa must now define its own trade future,” Mene emphasized. “And we must do so together.”

  • African trade ministers to meet on April 14 over US tariffs on African exports

    African trade ministers to meet on April 14 over US tariffs on African exports

    African trade ministers will meet on April 14 to discuss their collective response to the new import tariffs imposed by the United States under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

    The directive, which takes effect on April 9, introduces sweeping tariffs on countries worldwide. Some African nations, such as Lesotho, could face import duties of up to 50 percent, while Ghana is expected to incur a baseline import tax of 10 percent.

    Although the measure is premised on the principle of reciprocity, President Trump insisted in the executive order that the United States had been unfairly disadvantaged by trade barriers erected by other countries.

    “The United States has been subjected for decades to trade barriers that severely restrict the export of American goods. These new measures are necessary to restore fairness to international trade,” Trump stated.

    In reaction to the development, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, announced during a briefing in Accra that African ministers responsible for trade would urgently convene next week to chart a path forward.

    “This development must serve as a wake-up call,” Mene said. “It should spur Africa to accelerate efforts in creating a commercially viable internal market that is resilient to external shocks.”

    Mene further indicated that the ministers’ meeting will seek to craft a coordinated continental response to protect African economies and ensure that the continent’s trade interests are not undermined.

    Meanwhile, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2000 to provide duty-free access for African exports to the U.S. market, remains in effect but faces new scrutiny in light of the latest U.S. trade policy shift.

    In 2022, two-way trade between AGOA members and the US exceeded $46 billion, with $13.5 billion more in imports than exports.

    That year, AGOA recipients exported $30 billion worth of goods to the US, of which $10.2 billion were sold under the duty-free AGOA preference.

    However, with AGOA’s framework set to expire in September, there are growing concerns that the Trump administration’s stance may hinder any renewal.

  • Actions will break chain of dependency, not rhetoric of Africa is beyond aid – Mahama

    Actions will break chain of dependency, not rhetoric of Africa is beyond aid – Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has stressed that Ghana’s economic independence cannot be achieved through slogans and repeated rhetoric but must be driven by concrete actions.

    Addressing the nation at the 68th Independence Day celebration at the Jubilee House on March 6, 2025, Mahama pointed out the ongoing debate over Ghana’s reliance on imports, donor aid, and IMF bailouts.

    He cautioned that while these concerns are valid, continuously voicing them without real solutions risks reducing them to mere clichés. He criticized the contradiction of calling for self-sufficiency while still depending on external financial assistance.

    “Discussions about our independence often highlight our reliance on imports, donor aid, and IMF bailout as signs of continued dependency. This reminder is repeated so often that, while undeniably real, it risks becoming a cliché.

    “Yet the entire efficacy of this reminder lies not in just repeating it but in our willingness to take decisive action. Actions that will break the chain of dependency, not just the empty rhetoric of Africa that is beyond aid.

    “Proclaiming self-reliance while matching straight but into the hands of the donor agencies, begging bowl in hand, is meaningless,” he stated.

    To address these challenges, Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring economic stability by enforcing fiscal discipline and fostering self-sufficiency.

    “To break this cycle of spenders and restore our economy, my administration is formulating policies based on fiscal discipline and living within our means,” he stated.

  • Samospharma fights back against allegations of links to opioid suppliers

    Samospharma fights back against allegations of links to opioid suppliers

    Samospharma Limited has categorically denied any links to Aveo Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd and Westfin Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd, the two firms recently implicated in a BBC investigation into the illicit sale of opioid pills in West Africa.

    The BBC Africa Eye exposé revealed that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, through Westfin International, allegedly exported unapproved opioid-based medications, including tapentadol and carisoprodol, to Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.

    These substances, which are highly addictive, pose serious health risks such as respiratory failure and death.

    Following these revelations, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) revoked Aveo Pharmaceuticals’ Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification. Additionally, it instructed Samospharma, a Ghanaian importer, to immediately cease all dealings with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International.

    However, Samospharma has pushed back against these claims, asserting that it has no association with the accused companies. The company is demanding a public retraction from the FDA, arguing that the allegations are unfounded and damaging to its reputation.

    “We do not, and never have, engaged in any fraudulent practices as alleged in the BBC report, nor do we associate with entities such as Aveo Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd and Westfin Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd that engage in such activities.”

    Beyond rejecting any links to Aveo and Westfin, Samospharma also took issue with inaccuracies in the FDA’s statement concerning the manufacturer of Timonidin Eye Drops, an FDA-approved product.

    The company disputed the FDA’s claim that Indiana Ophthalmics LLP was responsible for producing Timonidin Eye Drops, clarifying that this information was incorrect. According to Samospharma, Indiana Ophthalmics LLP has never played a role in the manufacturing of the product. While acknowledging the firm as a respected name in ophthalmic care, Samospharma urged the FDA to review its records and correct the error immediately.

    To support its position, Samospharma provided several documents, including confirmation from Kilitch Drugs (India) Ltd, which stated that it is the actual manufacturer and exporter of Timonidin Eye Drops and Samocef Injection.

    The company also submitted commercial invoices and FDA consignment documents verifying the importation of these products in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, an export invoice and customs bill of entry from Sudarshan Pharma Industries Ltd and the GRA Customs Division confirmed the 2023 importation of Prolatan (Latanoprost) Eye Drops.

    Samospharma has called on the FDA to take immediate steps to correct what it describes as a serious misrepresentation and ensure accurate information is provided to the public.

    In a strongly worded statement, Samospharma has called on the FDA to either present concrete evidence supporting its claims or withdraw them entirely.

  • No law allows Minerals Commission to license small-scale miners – Center for Extractives

    No law allows Minerals Commission to license small-scale miners – Center for Extractives

    The Minerals Commission lacks the mandate to authorize small-scale mining in forest reserves or water bodies, according to Executive Director of the Center for Extractives and Development, Africa, Samuel Osei Bekoe.

    Speaking on Joy News on Tuesday, February 25, he asserted that any small-scale mining activity permitted by the Minerals Commission in these areas is unlawful and must be addressed.

    Tasked with policy development and enforcement in the mining sector, the Minerals Commission plays a crucial regulatory role.

    However, Mr Bekoe highlighted that its authority does not extend to granting licenses for operations in environmentally sensitive zones.

    His remarks come amid growing concerns over illegal mining, known as galamsey, which has caused extensive environmental degradation.

    Despite government measures, including military interventions and stricter regulations, illegal miners continue to operate, threatening Ghana’s natural resources.

    Bekoe urged the government to take decisive action to safeguard the country’s forests and water bodies from further destruction.

    “The Minerals Commission does not have any right to issue a licence for small-scale mining in water bodies or forest reserves. This means that anyone operating in these areas as a small-scale miner is doing so illegally. That is why we are calling for a state of emergency on the water bodies and forest reserves,” he stated.

  • Deadly mine collapse in Mali claims the lives of many

    Deadly mine collapse in Mali claims the lives of many

    At least dozens of people, primarily women, have tragically lost their lives after a gold mine collapsed in western Mali on Saturday.

    Officials reported that the victims had ventured into an abandoned open-pit mine left by industrial miners, hoping to collect small pieces of gold.

    Rescue operations continued late into the evening in Bilali Koto, with emergency crews and volunteers working tirelessly to rescue survivors.

    Local authorities have confirmed that many others sustained injuries, and the death toll is expected to climb further.

    This disaster sheds light on the growing dangers of unregulated mining, a practice that has significantly increased in recent years.

    This marks Mali’s second deadly mining incident in under three weeks, following a landslide at a similar artisanal mine last month, which also claimed the lives of several women.

    Mali, one of the largest gold producers globally, still has a largely unregulated mining sector.

  • Africa lacks leadership, innovative ecosystems and not talent – Bawumia

    Africa lacks leadership, innovative ecosystems and not talent – Bawumia

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President of Ghana, has called for stronger leadership and deliberate investment in innovation to drive Africa’s economic progress.

    Speaking at Harvard University on Saturday, February 15, he highlighted the importance of building ecosystems that support technological advancements, arguing that talent is not Africa’s challenge—leadership and infrastructure are.

    “Africa does not lack talent. What we lack is deliberateness, leadership, and investment to create the ecosystems where innovations and innovators thrive,” Dr. Bawumia stated while addressing students, faculty, and policy experts at the African Development Conference.

    He detailed Ghana’s digital transformation journey, illustrating how the country has strategically leveraged technology to modernise its economy, improve public service delivery, and expand job opportunities.

    Central to Ghana’s progress, he explained, is the adoption of the Ghanacard, a biometric national ID system that has provided over 85% of adults with unique identities, thereby streamlining financial inclusion, taxation, and government service access.

    Another key development is Ghana’s digital property address system, which has mapped the entire country and resolved a long-standing challenge in service delivery and governance.

    “A modern economy simply cannot function without a reliable address system,” he remarked, emphasizing the operational efficiency gained through digital innovations.

    Dr. Bawumia also showcased Ghana’s leadership in digital payments, particularly through Mobile Money Interoperability (MMI), which has transformed financial transactions. He highlighted that the initiative has granted over 90% of the adult population access to financial services, making Ghana the only African country to achieve universal financial inclusion.

    “Ghana is at the cutting edge of digital payments technology,” he declared, citing the nation’s recognition as the best globally in mobile money regulation.

    He explained how these advancements have spurred the growth of e-commerce and empowered small businesses, particularly those operating online.

    The former Vice President further discussed Ghana’s digitalisation of the healthcare sector, which has improved medical records and service efficiency. He highlighted the role of drone technology, in collaboration with Zipline, in revolutionising emergency medical supply deliveries to remote areas, ultimately saving lives.

    “Ghana now has the largest medical drone delivery service in the world,” he stated, illustrating the impact of technological solutions in tackling healthcare challenges.

    In agriculture, he outlined how the introduction of a biometric farmer database has enhanced planning, transparency, and financial access for farmers, strengthening the agricultural value chain.

    As he concluded his address, Dr. Bawumia urged African leaders to embrace digital transformation with a mindset of possibilities, arguing that technology is essential for economic survival and development in the 21st century.

    “By working together—governments, businesses, educators, and innovators—we can build a future where every African has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

  • Ghana recognized as 2nd most safest nation in Africa – Report

    Ghana recognized as 2nd most safest nation in Africa – Report

    A global tourism company, Altezza Travel, has identified Ghana as the second safest country in Africa, citing a very low crime rate in the country.

    In its 2025 tourism destination recommendations, the report highlights that Ghana’s crime rate is even lower than that of Canada, Greece, and Australia.

    The findings align with assessments from various international organizations, which have commended the Ghana Police Service for its enhanced community patrols and recent improvements in security efforts.

    “In terms of the Global Peace Index, it Ghana surpasses Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, China, and even Jamaica. In the Terrorism Index, it is among the countries with a zero score. Its crime rate is lower than in Canada, Greece, and Australia,” the report noted.

    “Regarding the Global Safety Report and the Human Development Index, Ghana lags behind all “first-world” countries yet outperforms the majority of African nations, including popular tourist destinations like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Madagascar (often romanticized in Hollywood),” portions of the report.

    It further noted: “according to the Numbeo Crime Index 2025, the top 3 countries with the lowest crime in Africa are Ghana, Rwanda, and Tunisia. However, crime can be difficult to measure, and rankings often depend on how crime is defined and reported. Different sources or indexes may rely on varying data collection methods, time frames, and survey approaches, leading to variations in their findings.”

    Altezza Travel selected eight countries as the safest in Africa based on various reports and assigned each country a point. The analysis was based on several rankings, including indexes on Global Peace, Global Terrorism, KOF Globalisation, Crime, Global Safety, and Human Development.

    Below are details of the report on Ghana

    Capital: Accra

    Population: 34.5 million

    Along its coastline, Ghana borders the Atlantic Ocean, and on land, it neighbors Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and the notoriously troubled Burkina Faso. Despite its location, Ghana is known for having an independent judicial system, multiparty democracy, and freedom of speech, including a free press.

    In terms of the Global Peace Index, it surpasses Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, China, and even Jamaica. In the Terrorism Index, it is among the countries with a zero score. Its crime rate is lower than in Canada, Greece, and Australia.
    Regarding the Global Safety Report and the Human Development Index, Ghana lags behind all “first-world” countries yet outperforms the majority of African nations, including popular tourist destinations like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Madagascar (often romanticized in Hollywood).

    Which country in Africa has the least crime?

    According to the Numbeo Crime Index 2025, the top 3 countries with the lowest crime in Africa are Ghana, Rwanda, and Tunisia. However, crime can be difficult to measure, and rankings often depend on how crime is defined and reported. Different sources or indexes may rely on varying data collection methods, time frames, and survey approaches, leading to variations in their findings.

  • Ask your supporters to leave collation centers – Peace Council to political parties

    Ask your supporters to leave collation centers – Peace Council to political parties

    The National Peace Council, alongside the West Africa Network for Peace-building (WANEP), has condemned the attack on the Electoral Commission (EC) office and collation center in Damongo, Savannah Region.

    The center was reportedly set on fire amid growing frustration over delays in the declaration of the parliamentary election results.

    In a statement issued on December 8, the National Peace Council urged political leaders to publicly instruct their supporters to vacate collation centers and respect the sanctity of the electoral process.

    “It is essential that political supporters withdraw from the collation centres and allow their accredited agents to observe the collation process,” the statement read.

    They further appealed to all parties to permit Electoral Commission officials to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism and integrity, ensuring the election remains free, fair, and transparent.

    The Ghana Police Service has apprehended 12 individuals in connection with looting and property damage during post-election unrest across the country.

    In a statement released on Sunday, December 8, the police confirmed that their initial investigations show the suspects were involved in a series of attacks, including setting fire to the Electoral Commission (EC) office in Damongo, vandalizing District Chief Executives’ (DCEs) residences, and damaging collation centers.

    The police also reported that the suspects broke into the School Feeding Project Warehouse in Tamale, stealing food and other items. They assured the public that those responsible would face justice.

    Tragically, one person has died from gunshot wounds sustained during the attack on the Damongo EC office.

  • Check out Africa’s most innovative countries

    Check out Africa’s most innovative countries

    Per the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII), Africa is home to a diverse range of nations that are excelling in innovation across various sectors.

    The report, compiled by Africa Facts Zone, highlights the most innovative countries on the continent, with Mauritius leading the charge.

    Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has once again claimed the top spot as Africa’s most innovative country.

    Known for its advanced technology infrastructure, robust economic growth, and strong focus on research and development, Mauritius continues to set a high standard for innovation on the continent.

    Following closely behind Mauritius are Morocco and South Africa, both of which have made significant strides in their technological advancements and innovation ecosystems.

    Morocco has invested heavily in renewable energy projects and technology-driven industries, while South Africa remains a regional leader in tech startups and advanced manufacturing.

    Tunisia and Egypt round out the top five, demonstrating the North African region’s growing role in driving innovation across the continent. Tunisia’s efforts in education and technology research are beginning to pay off, while Egypt’s booming tech industry and commitment to sustainable development make it a strong contender for the future.

    Other notable African countries on the list include Botswana, Cape Verde, and Senegal, each making their mark in the fields of sustainable development, digital innovation, and entrepreneurial growth.

    Kenya, known for its thriving tech industry, particularly in mobile financial services, and Ghana, which is fostering a growing startup ecosystem, are also part of this esteemed list.

    Other countries in the top 15 include Namibia, Rwanda, Madagascar, Cote d’Ivoire, and Nigeria, all of which are making impressive strides in various innovative sectors. These nations are increasingly recognizing the importance of research, technology, and innovation as key drivers of economic growth and development.

    Africa’s rise in global innovation rankings highlights the continent’s immense potential, with a growing number of nations prioritizing innovation as a central element of their national development strategies.

    These countries not only focus on technological advancements but also on fostering entrepreneurship, education, and sustainable practices to propel Africa towards a prosperous future.

  • Ghana emerges 6th among Africa’s leading investment hubs for 2024

    Ghana emerges 6th among Africa’s leading investment hubs for 2024

    Ghana has been ranked as the 6th most attractive investment destination in Africa for 2024, according to Rand Merchant Bank’s ‘Where to Invest in Africa 2024’ report.

    The country achieved an overall score of 0.24.

    For innovation, Ghana scored 0.549, placing it 9th. In Growth Structure, it scored 0.935, securing the 5th position.

    Ghana also ranked 6th in Economic Stability and Investment Climate, with a score of 0.27.

    However, it was ranked 10th in Urbanization (0.553) and 6th in Connectedness (0.850), while placing 26th in Complexity.

    The report stated that “Ghana represents a substantial market. Further, it is among the top ten for urbanisation, connectedness, innovation, political stability, personal freedom and employment. It also ranks favourably on corruption and tops the list on import concentration”.

    The report highlighted encouraging developments on the fiscal front.

    “Fiscal consolidation is broadly on track, with an estimated deficit of 4.6% of GDP [Gross Domestic Product] at the end of 2023, significantly lower than the 10.7% deficit in 2022. At 15.7% of GDP in 2023, revenues and grants reached the same level as 2022 despite lower oil revenues”, it stressed.

    By 2027, growth is expected to gain from a boost in gold and oil exports as new projects are launched.

    Seychelles topped the list with a score of 0.72%, followed by Mauritius in 2nd place with 0.69, and Egypt in 3rd with 0.49.

    South Africa ranked 4th with a score of 0.33, while Morocco secured the 5th position with 0.30.

    The latest RMB Where to Invest in Africa report emphasizes that investment choices should consider both economic performance and the operating environment.

    Thus, building on the previous work, it packaged this data as:

    1. Economic performance and potential

    2. Market accessibility and innovation

    3. Economic stability and investment climate

    4. Social and human development

    The four pillars are constructed from a total of 20 metrics, each comprising a multi-year database of robust figures drawn from pre-eminent institutions.

    The 2024 RMB Where to Invest in Africa report is based on the input of experienced professionals and, in part, on work published in peer-reviewed journals to expand on our earlier model. The quantitative model underlying this report stands on the shoulders of the work done on prior editions.

  • Idris Elba plans to stay in Ghana for close to 10 years to bolster Africa’s film business

    Idris Elba plans to stay in Ghana for close to 10 years to bolster Africa’s film business

    British actor Idris Elba has revealed his intention to relocate to Africa within the next decade to help develop the continent’s film industry.

    In an interview with the BBC, the 52-year-old actor, known for his role in The Wire, shared his involvement in projects aimed at establishing film studios in both Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana.

    Elba, born in London to a Ghanaian mother and a Sierra Leonean father, has strong ties to Africa and is eager to use his influence to support its growing film sector.

    He emphasized the importance of Africans being able to tell their own stories, saying it is crucial for the continent’s narrative.

    “I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen,” he said in an interview on the sidelines of an industry meeting in Accra.

    “I think [I’ll move] in the next five, 10 years, God willing. I’m here to bolster the film industry – that is a 10-year process – I won’t be able to do that from overseas. I need to be in-country, on the continent.”

    However, in the spirit of Pan-Africanism, he has chosen not to commit to residing in any particular location.

    “I’m going to live in Accra, I’m going to live in Freetown [Sierra Leone’s capital], I’m going to live in Zanzibar. I’m going to try and go where they’re telling stories – that’s really important.”

    One goal he does have is to make a film in his studio in Accra one day.

    ‘Own those stories’

    Mr Elba, who portrayed South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela in the 2013 film Long Walk to Freedom, believes it is essential for Africans to play a central role in the entire filmmaking process. This includes not only those in front of the camera but also those behind it, as well as in financing, distribution, marketing, and showcasing the final product.

    He envisions a future where global movie audiences possess a deeper understanding of Africa, similar to how they recognize the distinct characteristics of New York and Los Angeles, even if they have never visited those cities.

    “This sector is a soft power, not just across Ghana but across Africa.

    “If you watch any film or anything that has got to do with Africa, all you’re going to see is trauma, how we were slaves, how we were colonised, how it’s just war and when you come to Africa, you will realise that it’s not true.

    “So, it’s really important that we own those stories of our tradition, of our culture, of our languages, of the differences between one language and another. The world doesn’t know that.”

    With Nigeria’s Nollywood producing hundreds of movies a year, films are arguably one of the country’s most successful exports. There is also a tradition, especially in parts of Francophone Africa, of making high-quality films.

    Elba has previously recognised the talent in Africa’s film industry, but said the facilities were “lacking”.

    A 2022 report from Unesco backed up the actor.

    The UN’s cultural agency said that despite “significant growth in production”, the business of film-making across the continent was hindered by issues such as piracy, insubstantial training opportunities and a lack of official film institutions.

    Elba believes with the right momentum and involvement of governments willing to create an enabling environment, a virtuous circle can be established.

    “We have to invest in our story-telling because when you see me, you see a little version of yourself and that encourages us.”

  • Naana Jane steps down as Chancellor of Women’s University in Africa to focus on 2024 polls

    Naana Jane steps down as Chancellor of Women’s University in Africa to focus on 2024 polls

    Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has officially stepped down from her role as Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, located in Harare, Zimbabwe.

    This decision comes as she shifts her full attention to the 2024 presidential campaign of John Mahama.

    A statement released by James Agyenim-Boateng, the Spokesman for the NDC running mate, and shared with the Ghana News Agency, confirmed the development. It stated that Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s formal disengagement from the university is intended to allow her to dedicate herself entirely to the Mahama 2024 campaign.

    During her seven-year tenure as Chancellor, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang made significant contributions to the growth and restructuring of the Women’s University in Africa. Working closely with the university’s management, Board of Trustees, and Council, she played a pivotal role in making the institution more functional and financially independent.

    The statement highlighted her focus on supporting women who were unable to attend university in their youth but sought educational opportunities later in life. Additionally, she concentrated on providing access to young women who had been left out of high school, ensuring they had pathways to higher education.

    Under her leadership, the university became more appealing to women by offering flexible learning options and creating programs that bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

    Prof. Opoku-Agyemang will oversee her final graduation ceremony at the university on August 30, before returning to Accra the following day. Her departure marks the end of a notable chapter in her academic leadership as she now directs her energies toward the upcoming elections.

  • IMF to hand over new board seat to Sub-Saharan Africa on Nov. 1

    IMF to hand over new board seat to Sub-Saharan Africa on Nov. 1

    The IMF Board of Governors, the highest authority within the International Monetary Fund, has passed a resolution to expand its Executive Board by adding a 25th seat specifically for Sub-Saharan Africa.

    This decision comes in response to a recommendation from the International Monetary and Financial Committee during the 2023 Annual Meetings in Marrakech, which advocated for a new chair to enhance Sub-Saharan Africa’s representation and to improve the overall regional balance on the Board.

    “The Board of Governors have taken an important step towards creating an additional 25th chair at our Executive Board to increase Sub-Saharan Africa’s representation in IMF decision making, to make our Board more inclusive, and to reflect the region’s role in the global economy,” stated IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.

    To adjust the size of the Executive Board, the resolution required approval from 85 percent of the total voting power of the Fund’s membership. The resolution successfully surpassed this requirement.

    The expanded Executive Board, featuring 25 Executive Directors, will commence its duties on November 1, 2024.

  • Deaths by road crash increase by 17% in Africa – WHO

    Deaths by road crash increase by 17% in Africa – WHO

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the necessity for Ghana and other African nations to adopt comprehensive policies and strategies aimed at reducing road crashes, injuries, and fatalities by 50% by 2030, in line with Target 3.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The international health body noted that these policies should foster sustainable transportation systems, enhance legislative frameworks for road safety, invest in data management systems, improve post-crash response, and conduct research addressing the continent’s specific issues.

    Additionally, WHO highlighted that the policies must address a range of factors contributing to road accidents, including inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, deteriorated road conditions, speeding, drunk driving, and insufficient safety education for road users.

    This call was part of the recommendations from its 2023 road safety status report for the African region, which was presented in Nairobi, Kenya, last Tuesday.

    Findings

    The report highlighted that Africa has become a major hotspot for road traffic fatalities, placing significant pressure on the continent’s public health systems and jeopardizing progress toward SDG 3.6, which aims to cut global road traffic deaths and injuries in half by 2030.

    For example, the report showed that although Africa represents 15 percent of the world’s population and has just three percent of the global vehicle fleet, it accounts for 20 percent of all road traffic deaths worldwide.

    Additionally, the report noted that road traffic death rates in Africa have risen sharply over the past decade, with nearly 250,000 fatalities occurring on the continent’s roads in 2021 alone.

    From 2010 to 2021, road crash deaths in Africa increased by 17 percent, whereas global death rates declined by five percent.

    The report also pointed out that men aged 15 to 64 years are the primary victims of road traffic accidents, with particularly vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians, suffering the most.

    Lapses

    The report attributed the rise to multiple factors, including inadequate road safety laws and standards, indicating: “no country in the region currently has laws that meet the best practice standards for the five key road safety behavioural risk factors – speeding, drink driving, non-use of motorcycle helmets, seatbelts and child restraints.”
    It added that limited investments in alternative modes of transport, including cycling and walking, had fuelled road-related fatalities on the continent, with 13 per cent of countries having national strategies to promote walking or cycling.

    “These so-called multimodal transport systems have been determined to be more equitable and environmentally friendly, and safer for road users,” the report added.

    The report added that post-crash care services in the region were inadequate or unavailable in most countries – fewer than one-third have services that met recommended levels of access to pre-hospital care, emergency care, and treatment and rehabilitation services.

    The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said the findings of the report pointed to a serious public health concern for African countries, “with hundreds of thousands of lives being lost unnecessarily”.

    “As WHO, we’re committed to working hand in hand with countries to tackle this preventable threat and continue to fully support all efforts to make our roads safer for motorists and pedestrians alike,” he said.

    Action

    The WHO representative in Kenya, Abdourahmane Diallo, stated that for Africa to reduce the burden of road accidents, countries needed to revamp transport infrastructure, retrain motorists, and promote safety education targeting motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

  • Africa sees 17 per cent hike in road crash deaths – WHO 2023 road safety status report

    Africa sees 17 per cent hike in road crash deaths – WHO 2023 road safety status report

    World Health Organisation (WHO) has underscored the urgent need for Ghana and other African nations to adopt comprehensive policies and strategies aimed at reducing road traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities by 50% by 2030, in line with Target 3.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The WHO emphasized that these policies should focus on fostering sustainable transportation systems, strengthening legislative road safety frameworks, investing in data management, enhancing post-crash response, and conducting research specific to Africa’s unique challenges.

    The organization highlighted that these policies must address various factors contributing to road crashes, such as inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, poor road conditions, speeding, drunk driving, and limited road safety education.

    This call for action is part of the recommendations from the WHO’s 2023 road safety status report for Africa, which was presented in Nairobi, Kenya, last Tuesday.

    The report revealed that Africa has become a major hotspot for road traffic fatalities, placing a heavy burden on the continent’s public health system and impeding progress toward SDG 3.6, which aims to halve global road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030.

    Despite representing 15% of the global population and having only 3% of the world’s vehicles, Africa accounted for 20% of global road traffic deaths. The report also noted a troubling rise in road traffic deaths over the past decade, with nearly 250,000 fatalities recorded in 2021 alone.

    From 2010 to 2021, road traffic deaths in Africa increased by 17%, while the global rate decreased by 5%. The report further indicated that men aged 15 to 64 are the primary victims of these accidents, with motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians being particularly vulnerable.


    The report attributed the rise to multiple factors, including inadequate road safety laws and standards, indicating: “no country in the region currently has laws that meet the best practice standards for the five key road safety behavioural risk factors – speeding, drink driving, non-use of motorcycle helmets, seatbelts and child restraints.”


    It added that limited investments in alternative modes of transport, including cycling and walking, had fuelled road-related fatalities on the continent, with 13 per cent of countries having national strategies to promote walking or cycling.

    “These so-called multimodal transport systems have been determined to be more equitable and environmentally friendly, and safer for road users,” the report added.


    The report added that post-crash care services in the region were inadequate or unavailable in most countries – fewer than one-third have services that met recommended levels of access to pre-hospital care, emergency care, and treatment and rehabilitation services.

    The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said the findings of the report pointed to a serious public health concern for African countries, “with hundreds of thousands of lives being lost unnecessarily”.

    “As WHO, we’re committed to working hand in hand with countries to tackle this preventable threat and continue to fully support all efforts to make our roads safer for motorists and pedestrians alike,” he said.


    The WHO representative in Kenya, Abdourahmane Diallo, stated that for Africa to reduce the burden of road accidents, countries needed to revamp transport infrastructure, retrain motorists, and promote safety education targeting motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

  • 10 richest countries in Africa 2024

    10 richest countries in Africa 2024

    Africa, celebrated for its cultural diversity and varied landscapes, also hosts some of the globe’s fastest-growing economies and wealthiest nations.

    Spanning from the mineral-rich lands of Southern Africa to burgeoning financial centers in the north, the continent showcases a wide spectrum of economic strength.

    This article examines Africa’s richest countries, highlighting their economic prowess, natural resource endowments, and the key factors propelling their financial achievements on regional and global platforms:

    Seychelles: With a GDP per capita of $43,151, Seychelles thrives on a robust tourism sector and abundant fisheries.

    Mauritius: Leading the list with a GDP-PPP per capita of $32,094, Mauritius has diversified its economy beyond traditional sectors such as sugar and textiles.

    Libya: Despite challenges, Libya ranks second with a GDP-PPP per capita of $26,456, primarily due to its vast oil reserves.

    Botswana: Known for its diamond mining industry, Botswana holds the third spot with a GDP-PPP per capita of $20,097.

    Gabon: With a GDP-PPP per capita of $19,452, Gabon benefits significantly from its substantial oil reserves and low population density.

    Equatorial Guinea: This small nation boasts a GDP-PPP per capita of $18,378, largely driven by oil exports.

    Egypt: Ranking sixth, Egypt has a GDP-PPP per capita of $17,614, supported by a diverse economy including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.

    Algeria: Algeria’s GDP-PPP per capita stands at $16,483, fueled by its oil and gas industries.

    South Africa: A major economic powerhouse in Africa, South Africa maintains a GDP-PPP per capita of $16,424.

    Tunisia: With a GDP-PPP per capita of $13,645, Tunisia’s economy is diverse, encompassing tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.

  • Your Name and the Potential Disconnection from Your African Ancestral Quantum DNA: A Course of Disoriented Existential Essence

    Your Name and the Potential Disconnection from Your African Ancestral Quantum DNA: A Course of Disoriented Existential Essence

    Introduction

    It is so fascinating how the choice of foreign and European names for our children and ourselves has become like a spell or compulsion in the subconscious minds of most Africans.

    The situation has worsened in modern times, to the point that most young people are now shy about even identifying with their local and ancestral names. Religion and its initiation mandate have fuelled this colonial orientation, which is clearly at the root of this issue.

    These initiations mostly mandated the adoption of a foreign ancestor’s name, alienating the African from their roots, ancestral lineage, and African Ancestral quantum DNA.

    It is heartbreaking that, upon returning from exile in the Seychelles in 1924, a mental manipulation through religious initiation altered Otumfo’s name from Nana Osei Agyeman Prempeh II to King Edward Prempeh, accompanied by the title ‘Sir.’ Cutting him completely from his ancestry and existential essence. Then, adopting a foreign name became the new dawn.

    However, ancient wisdom and exoteric traditions’ insight on the power of naming and their link to resonating the individual’s existential essence through the ancestral lineage of the name coded to its existential being is the reason why many traditions change or adopt names to serve their conscious intentions.

    This is a powerful tool, capable of influencing even your biological DNA through quantum DNA, just as quantum physics manipulates physical properties. This also clarifies why authentic historical translations do not translate names from their original nature unless they conceal an ulterior motive.

    The names chosen upon coronation—Otumfo Osei Tutu II by the current Asante king, Agbogbomefia Togbe Afede XIV, and Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II—should pique your curiosity about the hidden power of naming.

    Wake up and know your conscious Self

    You are the Ancestor who changes everything in your lineage. This is the hope of your ancestors, many generations before your existence. We estimate that, starting with your two parents, 4,094 Ancestors must have lived for at least 400 years for you to be alive today and fulfil this purpose.

    These Ancestors have experienced a wide range of professions, struggles, battles, sadness, difficulties, happiness, love stories, broken hearts, hopes, aspirations, and rich experiences, all of which have contributed to preparing you for the essence of your existence. Your African Ancestral Quantum DNA stores these valuable orientational assets, and your traditional and ancestral names encode them.

    You may possess the biological DNA of your birth line, but you could be disconnected from your Africa Ancestral Quantum DNA as a result of the rejection of your African Ancestral name or a total adoption of a name that is alien to your African traditional Ancestry, in connection to the idea that our identities and experiences are intertwined with our ancestors and the collective unconscious.

    Name and Naming

    The common understanding of “name” and “naming” refers to their basic, common functions and uses in everyday life. People perceive a “name” as a word or a combination of words that distinguish one entity from another and facilitate communication.

    For example, calling someone “Pidana” or “Obrempong” allows others to recognise and address that particular individual directly (Igboin, 2014).

    “Naming” reflects the act of giving a name to someone or something, providing a clear and recognisable label for identification and communication purposes. For instance, parents name their child shortly after birth to give the child an identity within their family and society (Zulu, 2017).

    The Essence of Naming

    Names and naming someone go beyond the common understanding of simply identifying and labelling people (Igboin, 2014; Ephirim-Donkor, 2019). This is because names carry deeper cultural, social, personal, and spiritual significance. Many cultures choose names based on their meanings and the values they convey. They often reflect important events, characteristics, or aspirations.

    For instance, names can signify qualities such as bravery, wisdom, or beauty, reflecting the hopes and expectations placed on the individual.

    They are often selected to honour ancestors or convey specific messages that sum up all the experiences within the ancestral lineage’s quantum DNA. Additionally, traditional names label, code, and encode this quantum DNA, indicating familial connections and essence, linking individuals to their lineage and heritage, and fostering a sense of belonging and continuity within a family or community.

    Various traditions believe that names, given in ceremonies, carry spiritual or religious significance and influence an individual’s destiny or character. These names serve as surnames or family names, connecting individuals to their lineage and heritage.

    African cultures give a child’s name based on spiritual guidance, believing it to reflect their path or destiny (Ephirim-Donkor, 2019). In essence, your name is a code that, when consistently pronounced by both yourself and others, connects you to your ancestral quantum DNA, which has stored all the necessary elements to fulfil your existential essence.

    Names and Quantum DNA Through Quantum Physics

    Quantum physics deals with the fundamental principles governing the behaviour of matter and energy at the smallest scales, such as particles and waves.

    Although quantum physics does not directly address names or their generational transmission, it draws intriguing metaphysical and theoretical connections, especially when examining DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), a molecule present in all living organisms’ cells that carries genetic instructions for growth, development, functioning, and reproduction (Bauer et al., 2017), and my concept of “Quantum DNA.”

    Quantum entanglement, where particles become interconnected regardless of distance, can metaphorically represent the connection between individuals who share a name across generations. This “entanglement” suggests that a name maintains a persistent link to one’s ancestors, similar to how DNA carries genetic information through generations. This implies that ancestors’ values and essence influence present and future generations, with names serving as markers of this deep ancestral connection.

    Similarly, the concept of quantum superposition, where particles exist in multiple states simultaneously, can symbolise how a name embodies the cumulative experiences, traits, and histories of all its bearers, resulting in a rich, multifaceted identity encoded within what could be termed ‘Quantum DNA’- a term I have generated (Igboin, 2014; Ephirim-Donkor, 2019).

    Additionally, the dual nature of particles exhibiting both wave-like and particle-like properties mirrors the dual aspects of names. Names act as concrete identifiers for individuals while also carrying intangible cultural, emotional, and historical resonances across time.

    This wave-like nature reflects how names propagate through cultural and Ancestral contexts, shaping the identity of those who inherit them. Quantum decoherence, where quantum systems lose coherence through environmental interactions, parallels how names handed down through generations are influenced by changing cultural, social, and Ancestral environments.

    Yet, the core identity linked to a name can remain coherent, preserving tradition much like DNA preserves genetic continuity. We can apply the principles of quantum information, which suggest that information is fundamental to reality, to the concepts of names and Quantum DNA. As information carriers, names encode significant cultural, familial, and personal data, maintaining essential information across generations and contributing to a shared collective identity. While there is no direct scientific link, quantum physics and the concept of Quantum DNA provide rich metaphors for understanding the deep, interconnected nature of names across generations (Zulu, 2017; Nobles, 2012).

    Existential essence

    Existential essence, in relation to fulfilling ancestral obligations, is a complex concept rooted in African and Balinese traditions. Among the Akan, Ewes, and Northern Tribes, individuals are believed to embody the essence of deities, which guides their life purpose (Ficek, 2019). This connection to ancestral origins provides a sense of identity and responsibility within the community (Neubauer, 1983).

    Balinese culture views human existence as a transitional period for ancestral souls, where individuals act as agents to maintain social structures and fulfil communal duties (Filloux, 1991). Understanding mortality and one’s role in the ancestral line can lead to an existential awakening, allowing for personal growth and a deeper understanding of one’s place in the world (Більчук & Більчук, 2019). These perspectives emphasise the importance of recognising one’s spiritual and ancestral connections in shaping personal naming identity and fulfilling societal obligations.

    Pronouncing your Name.

    Constantly pronouncing your Ancestral name, as is also the case with mantras, produces sound waves that travel through a medium. These waves have the potential to cause localized physical effects such as vibrations, and they may also influence electromagnetic waves or magnetic fields through codes that the universe understands due to your African Ancestral quantum DNA.

    Psychologically, hearing one’s name repeatedly can trigger heightened attention and emotional responses, impacting self-esteem and stress levels based on associations with positive or negative contexts. The person in question not only experiences these effects, but their ancestral lineage also stores them.

    Metaphysical practices suggest that names carry vibrational energies that influence individuals, prompting exploration in quantum physics for scientific validation of claims regarding magnetic waves or broader electromagnetic effects. Despite the profound psychological and cultural significance of names, their purported influence on physical phenomena like magnetic waves remains a mystery, which quantum DNA may explain.

    Disorientation and Reorientation of Existential Essence

    Existential disorientation, also known as disoriented existential essence, refers to a state of confusion and lack of direction regarding one’s identity and purpose in life.

    This phenomenon can be exacerbated by a disconnection from one’s ancestral heritage, particularly when individuals adopt foreign names that are not aligned with their cultural and familial roots. In the context of African Quantum DNA, names carry deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance, acting as links to one’s lineage and heritage (Igboin, 2014; Ephirim-Donkor, 2019).

    When individuals choose names outside their ancestral line, they may inadvertently sever these connections, leading to feelings of alienation and a loss of identity. On the other hand, reorientation involves realigning with one’s African Ancestral Quantum DNA and rediscovering and embracing one’s cultural heritage to regain a sense of purpose and belonging. This process can be achieved through these various means:

    Reclaiming Traditional Names: Adopting or reclaiming names that reflect one’s ancestral heritage can restore connections to one’s lineage and reinforce a sense of identity.

    Traditional names often carry significant meanings, embodying the values, aspirations, and history of the community. By reclaiming these names, individuals can honour their ancestors and reaffirm their place within their cultural narrative.

    Cultural Education: Learning about and engaging with one’s cultural history, traditions, and values can provide a deeper understanding of one’s roots and the roles expected by one’s ancestors. This education can involve studying historical texts, participating in cultural festivals, and learning traditional crafts and languages.

    Such engagement helps individuals appreciate the richness of their heritage and the wisdom passed down through generations. A national day for traditional worship and ancestral veneration is necessary to assist citizens in this direction.

    Spiritual Practices: Participating in traditional spiritual practices and ceremonies can help individuals reconnect with their ancestral heritage and the spiritual dimensions of their identity. These practices might include the pouring of libations, rituals, prayers, and ceremonies that have been part of the culture for centuries.

    Through these spiritual activities, individuals can experience a profound sense of connection to their ancestors and the divine, grounding them in their cultural identity.

    Search for your Ancestors: As far as you can, look for the names and stories of your ancestors, particularly those you were named after, those who performed great deeds when they were alive, those who showed you love, those you frequently see in your dreams, and those who were traditional priests, herbalists, shamans, etc. List their names, show them respect, and pray through them. They are not demons; they love us and are waiting for us to connect.

    Community Involvement: Building relationships within one’s cultural community can foster a sense of belonging and support, helping individuals feel connected to their heritage and collective identity. Involvement in community activities, such as local events, volunteer work, and cultural organisations, creates opportunities to bond with others who share similar backgrounds and values. This communal engagement strengthens social ties and reinforces a shared sense of purpose.

    Through these methods, individuals can reorient themselves, finding their true purpose by aligning with the cultural and ancestral values embedded in their Quantum DNA. This alignment not only aids in personal fulfilment but also strengthens the continuity and vitality of their cultural heritage. By embracing their cultural roots, individuals can navigate the complexities of modern life with a stronger sense of identity and purpose, contributing to the preservation and celebration of their ancestral legacy. Don’t walk in African body with an alien mind.

    Our Ancestors are with heavy hearts !!!

    By:

    Nana Yaw Wi Asamoah Boadi

    (Traditionalist)
    nanayawwiasamoahboadi@gmail.com

    0260555600

    References

    Ephirim-Donkor, A. (2019). African spirituality: On becoming ancestors. Lexington Books.

    Filloux, J. C. (1991). Balinese religion. Oxford University Press.

    Ficek, R. (2019). Cosmology and the African metaphysic. University of Chicago Press.

    Igboin, B. O. (2014). Naming and identity in Africa: The case of the Benin people. International Journal of African Culture and Development, 6(2), 28-35.

    Neubauer, H. (1983). African tribal traditions. Greenwood Press.

    Nobles, W. W. (2012). From Black psychology to the African psychology: Voices and visions. Imhotep Press.

    Zulu, I. M. (2017). The power of names in African culture. Cambridge University Press.

    Більчук, Г., & Більчук, С. (2019). Existential essence and the African spiritual world. Routledge.

    DISCLAIMER: TIGPost.co will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana.

  • Jospong seeks backing for African enterprises from South Korea

    Jospong seeks backing for African enterprises from South Korea

    Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, has stated that Ghana and Africa stand to benefit significantly from their business and development relationship with South Korea.

    “Opportunity is important in business,” he said, adding, “South Korea has advanced technology in renewable energies such as solar and wind power, which can benefit our continent.”

    “South Korea has the capacity that can benefit African businesses, and they need to unleash that to benefit the continent and Ghana,” he said, adding, “The private sector is ready to partner with Korea, which must remove restrictions and bureaucracy as it seeks to support 48 African nations.”

    Dr. Agyepong made these remarks during a television interview following the Korean-African Summit in Kintex, Korea.

    He praised South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol for his dedication to increasing support for Africa, highlighting the president’s promises to enhance trade and investment.

    “The whole world is about climate change,” Dr. Agyepong said, adding, “In Ghana, the Jospong Group has tackled waste management as a serious issue, from collection, haulage, composting, recycling, and other forms of treatment.”

    The Summit emphasized initiatives such as Economic Partnership Agreements, Trade and Investment Promotion Frameworks, and support for the African Continental Free Trade Area.

    During the event, South Korea revealed plans to increase official development assistance to US$10 billion by 2030 and to provide US$14 billion in export financing.

    Dr. Agyepong highlighted the importance of collaboration in key sectors like minerals, digital transformation, climate change, food security, and public health.

    The Korea-Africa Summit, held on June 4-5, 2024, in Ilsan and Seoul, aimed to enhance cooperation, address global challenges, and foster collective strength for sustainable development.

    The outcome is anticipated to result in new agreements and investments in energy access, agricultural transformation, and capacity building across Africa.

    This is the first event of its kind since the establishment of the Republic of Korea. However, other summits and conferences between Korea and Africa have taken place, such as the 7th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference in September 2023. Additionally, the Korea-Africa Energy Investment Framework (KAEIF) was launched in 2021.

    Ghana and South Korea have maintained diplomatic relations since 1977. The two nations have collaborated on a broad range of issues, including politics, economics, trade, investment, technology, security, and culture.

    The Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has been involved in numerous projects in Ghana, such as the Dawhenya Integrated Rural Development Project, a maternal and child healthcare initiative, a water and sanitation project, and a capacity-building project for power transmission systems.

    Dr. Agyepong was optimistic about the future of Korea-Africa relations, stating, “The future looks bright, and I’m thrilled to be part of this transformative journey.”

  • Africa committed to tripling fertilizer production, distribution for smallholder farmers

    Africa committed to tripling fertilizer production, distribution for smallholder farmers

    African Heads of State and Government unanimously backed the Nairobi Declaration, affirming the outcomes of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya from May 7th to 9th, 2024.

    This signifies a monumental stride towards enhancing agricultural sustainability and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

    Recent years have witnessed a significant surge in local manufacturing of mineral fertilizers, with private sector investments exceeding $15 billion.

    However, despite Africa’s annual mineral fertilizer production reaching 30 million metric tons, a majority of it is exported outside the continent, leaving Member States excessively reliant on imported fertilizers, particularly non-phosphate-based ones.

    To counter this, Africa is committed to boosting investments in local fertilizer manufacturing and blending, leveraging the continent’s resources.

    Increasing fertilizer usage, encompassing both mineral and organic resources, is crucial for enhancing productivity and soil health restoration.

    To this end, Africa aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of mineral and organic fertilizers and other complementary inputs to boost productivity, profitability, soil health, and climate change resilience.

    The Nairobi Declaration outlines thirteen pivotal points detailing commitments, including the tripling of domestic fertilizer production and distribution by 2034 to uplift smallholder farmers.

    Governments pledge to prioritize local fertilizer production, strengthen research on fertilizers, offer incentives, promote low-carbon fertilizer production, and double intra-Africa fertilizer trade by 2034.

    Moreover, African leaders commit to ensuring that by 2034, at least 70% of smallholder farmers receive tailored agronomic recommendations to optimize fertilizer usage.

    Financing commitments include operationalizing the Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism (AFFM) and widening its scope to support farmer investments, infrastructure, and logistics.

    To create an enabling environment, recommendations include developing continental guidelines, policy harmonization, private sector engagement, and capacity enhancement.

    Additionally, there is a commitment to strengthening extension services, reviewing education programs, and incorporating the Nairobi Declaration into National Agricultural Investment Plans.

    The African Union Commission and AUDA-NEPAD will support Member States in implementing mechanisms to reward smallholder farmers, develop a soil health monitoring system, and align soil health metrics with existing monitoring and evaluation systems.

  • As a businessman, it’s frustrating having to apply for 35 visas to travel across the continent – Dangote

    As a businessman, it’s frustrating having to apply for 35 visas to travel across the continent – Dangote

    Renowned as Africa‘s wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote recently spoke out against the cumbersome visa process that plagues African travelers, contrasting it with the seamless experiences enjoyed by holders of foreign passports.

    At the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Dangote highlighted the stark contrast, revealing that his Nigerian passport necessitates a staggering 35 visas for his business travels across the continent.

    Expressing his frustration, Dangote emphasized that this arduous visa requirement poses significant challenges for investors and business leaders who seek to navigate Africa’s diverse markets.

    “As an investor, as somebody who really wants to make Africa great, I have to now apply for 35 different visas on my passport, and I told Mr. President that I really don’t have the time to go and be dropping my passport at embassies to get a visa. But the most annoying thing is that, yes, if you are treating everybody the same, then I can understand,” Aliko Dangote stated.

    “I can assure you Patrick [CEO of Total Energies] doesn’t need 35 visas… You don’t need 35 visas on a French passport, which means you have free movement than myself in Africa,” he added.

    He underscored that such hurdles hinder the region’s progress and investment potential.

    During the forum, which serves as a nexus for African decision-makers and international investors, Dangote called attention to the inequality in visa accessibility, citing the ease with which holders of passports from certain countries, like France, can move across African borders compared to their African counterparts.

    Dangote’s remarks shed light on a pressing issue within the continent’s business landscape, where

  • Africa’s economy to reach $16.3tn by 2050 – AfCFTA Secretariat reveals

    Africa’s economy to reach $16.3tn by 2050 – AfCFTA Secretariat reveals

    Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, has revealed Africa’s anticipated rise to become the world’s 8th largest economy, reaching an estimated $16.3 trillion by 2050.

    Addressing day one of the 3i Africa Summit in Accra, Mene emphasized the significance of businesses harnessing fintech to optimize outputs. He highlighted the imperative for governments across Africa to utilize all available technological resources to drive growth and sustainability in their economies.

    “The existential economic sovereignty of our continent is precisely why the African Continental Free Trade Area was established so that we can leverage on this market of 1.4 billion people, which by 2050 is projected to be the 8th largest economy in the world with $16.3 trillion 27 years from now but if we don’t deploy these digital technologies, all of us are going to be discussing where we got it wrong.”

    “The emerging global geo-political context should compel us Africans to collaborate to find ways of coming out of the challenges we are facing,” Mr. Mene added.

    The summit, themed ‘Unleashing the Fintech and Digital Economic Potential of Africa’, aims to convene prominent figures from the finance sector across Africa and globally.

    Organized by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), in collaboration with Elevandi and facilitated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the event will host plenary speeches and discussions involving heads of state, senior government officials, investors, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.

  • Libya apprehends senior customs officials for smuggling gold valued at $2b

    Libya apprehends senior customs officials for smuggling gold valued at $2b

    Libyan authorities apprehended numerous senior customs officials for their involvement in a thwarted plot to smuggle approximately $2 billion worth of gold.

    According to a statement from the Attorney General’s Office posted on Facebook, the individuals in custody, including the director-general of the customs authority and the head of customs at Misrata airport, allegedly colluded with others to traffic around 26 tons of gold bullion. This quantity would be valued at approximately $2 billion based on current market prices.

    The intercepted shipment comprises nearly a quarter of Libya’s gold reserves, which stand at approximately 116.6 tons, ranking fourth-highest in Africa.

    Since the overthrow of longtime dictator Moammar Al Qaddafi in 2011, Libya has been engulfed in turmoil, marked by political divisions, instability, and violence, thus becoming a focal point for illicit trafficking over the past decade.

    According to Libyan law, only the central bank is authorized to export gold. The Attorney General’s Office initiated an investigation into the matter in January.

  • Africa projected to become 8th largest global economy by 2050 – Report

    Africa projected to become 8th largest global economy by 2050 – Report

    Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, has revealed Africa’s anticipated rise to become the world’s 8th largest economy, reaching an estimated $16.3 trillion by 2050.

    Addressing day one of the 3i Africa Summit in Accra, Mene emphasized the significance of businesses harnessing fintech to optimize outputs. He highlighted the imperative for governments across Africa to utilize all available technological resources to drive growth and sustainability in their economies.

    “The existential economic sovereignty of our continent is precisely why the African Continental Free Trade Area was established so that we can leverage on this market of 1.4 billion people, which by 2050 is projected to be the 8th largest economy in the world with $16.3 trillion 27 years from now but if we don’t deploy these digital technologies, all of us are going to be discussing where we got it wrong.”

    “The emerging global geo-political context should compel us Africans to collaborate to find ways of coming out of the challenges we are facing,” Mr. Mene added.

    The summit, themed ‘Unleashing the Fintech and Digital Economic Potential of Africa’, aims to convene prominent figures from the finance sector across Africa and globally.

    Organized by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), in collaboration with Elevandi and facilitated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the event will host plenary speeches and discussions involving heads of state, senior government officials, investors, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.

  • Africa will be shut out of development finance if nothing is done about its debts – Seth Terkper

    Africa will be shut out of development finance if nothing is done about its debts – Seth Terkper

    Former Minister of Finance, Seth Terkper, has called on African governments to ensure the sustainability of their debts in order to attract development finance assistance.

    Development finance refers to financial resources to support economic development and growth in countries, particularly in low- and middle-income regions.

    Mr. Terkper, who is also the Executive Director of Public Financial Management (PFM) Tax Africa Network, a consulting firm, made the comment when he held a virtual engagement with journalists following the conclusion of the International Monetary Fund/World Bank Group (WBG) annual meetings in Washington, US.

    During the session, he noted that many African countries have transitioned to lower and middle-income status, reducing their access to grants and concessional financing for sustainable development and poverty alleviation.

    He emphasized the importance of development finance going forward and urged African governments to diligently address their debt burdens to attract such support.

    “Africa must do something about its debt, otherwise, we might be shut out of development finance,” Mr Terkper said. Per reports, he led Ghana’s 16th International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan-support programme,

    The IMF’s April 2024 Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa noted a gradual improvement in the region after four turbulent years.

    The region’s growth is projected to increase from 3.4 per cent in 2023 to 3.8 per cent in 2024. However, the report highlighted that “not all is favourable,” as the funding squeeze persisted.

    Governments in the region are still facing challenges such as financing shortages, high borrowing costs, and impending debt repayments, which need to be addressed.

    “Amid these challenges, sub-Saharan African countries will need additional support from the international community to develop a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future,” the report noted.

    Mr. Abebe Aemro Selassie, from the African Department of the IMF, emphasized the importance of African governments continuing to improve public finances, with a focus on domestic revenue mobilization. He made these remarks during the release of the April IMF Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa last week.

    He also encouraged a sustained effort to reduce inflation and suggested implementing reforms to enhance skill development, stimulate innovation, improve the business environment, and promote trade integration. These measures aim to secure more affordable and stable financing for the region.

  • 2024 top 10 richest cities in Africa in 2024

    2024 top 10 richest cities in Africa in 2024

    Henley & Partners’ 2024 Africa Wealth Report has it that, Africa is home to 135,200 high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) with liquid investable wealth surpassing USD 1 million.

    Additionally, there are 342 centi-millionaires with assets valued at USD 100 million or more, and 21 billionaires.

    The report highlights Africa’s top wealth markets, known as the ‘Big 5’ — South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco — which collectively account for 56% of the continent’s millionaires and over 90% of its billionaires.

    At the city level, Johannesburg remains Africa’s wealthiest city, boasting 12,300 millionaires, 25 centi-millionaires, and 2 billionaires.

    Cape Town closely follows with 7,400 millionaires, 28 centi-millionaires, and 1 billionaire. Other notable urban wealth hubs include Cairo (7,200 millionaires), Nairobi (4,400), and Lagos (4,200).

    Looking ahead, Andrew Amoils, head of research at New World Wealth, identifies several cities and regions expected to attract a significant influx of millionaires over the next decade.

    These include Cape Town, South Africa’s Whale Coast, Kigali, Windhoek, Swakopmund, Nairobi, Tangier, and Marrakech, all projected to experience a growth of over 85% in millionaire population.

  • Lack of water, energy; conflict and inequality to blame for Africa’s slow economic growth – World Bank

    Lack of water, energy; conflict and inequality to blame for Africa’s slow economic growth – World Bank

    The World Bank‘s chief economist for the region, Andrew Dabalen, has identified deep-rooted inequalities as a significant obstacle to Africa’s economic progress.

    In an interview on Citi TV’s The Point of View, he highlighted a lack of essential infrastructure and limited intra-African trade as key factors limiting growth.

    Mr Dabalen noted that Africa’s growth rate in reducing poverty is only half as fast as the global average, with East Asia showing much higher rates. He attributed this disparity to what the report refers to as “structural inequalities.”

    “There are many reasons why Africa’s growth is low, part of it is that we don’t have infrastructure in terms of energy, water and sanitation, and we don’t really trade a lot with each other.

    “We have lots of shocks from either commodity prices, conflict or climate disasters. One of the important determinants of this low growth and this ability of low growth to convert to poverty reduction is inequality and structural inequality.

    “They are inequalities because of circumstances an individual cannot control. You don’t have control over where you were born and who you were born to, your skin colour, or the fact that you are a man or a woman. These circumstances that you are born into account for almost 70% of all the differences you see between children’s access to education, health or nutrition.

    “That is what we call structural, it’s not something you can change with your ability or something that the market can correct, it requires social policy action,” he told host Bernard Avle.

    According to the World Bank’s Africa Pulse Report for April 2024, there are forecasts for Africa, including a projected slowdown in Ghana’s economic growth for the same year. This is despite expectations of increased economic activity.

    Several African countries such as Cape Verde, Kenya, Chad, Sudan among others face water crisis due to various factors such as climate change, population growth, poor water management, and inadequate infrastructure.

    Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been plagued by civil war, leading to widespread displacement, food insecurity, and humanitarian crises.

    Nigeria has faced conflict, particularly in the northeast, where the Boko Haram insurgency has led to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. Additionally, inter-communal violence and conflict in the Niger Delta region have also been significant challenges.

  • Africa now emits as much carbon as it stores: landmark new study

    Africa now emits as much carbon as it stores: landmark new study

    A landmark new study has found that, in the last decade, the African continent has started emitting more carbon than it stores. When the total amount of carbon that is sequestered by natural ecosystems (such as the soil and plants in grasslands, savannas and forests) exceeds the amount of total carbon emissions within a system, it’s referred to as a net sink of carbon.

    But, the study found, as natural ecosystems are converted for agricultural purposes, the carbon storage capacity is decreasing – while the rate of emissions is increasing.

    Yolandi Ernst of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa led the international research team that calculated the flows of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide through Africa’s terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. She and one of the study co-authors, Sally Archibald – also from Wits and the lead of the Future Ecosystems for Africa Programme – unpacked their findings for The Conversation Africa.

    What did you set out to calculate, how did you do it, and why?

    We wanted to know both the amount of greenhouse gases being produced by the African continent and the amount being taken up. This helped us to develop a greenhouse gas budget, quantifying the net amount of outgoing and incoming greenhouse gases. In this way we’re better able to understand how the continent is contributing to global climate change (by releasing greenhouse gases) and how, through taking up greenhouse gases, it’s helping to mitigate global climate change.

    This study formed part of a global effort by the Regional Carbon Cycle Assessment and Processes Phase 2 (RECCAP2) project. It aims to establish improved greenhouse gas budgets for large regions covering the entire globe at the scale of continents (or large countries) and large ocean basins.

    We collated data from a variety of sources and created models to calculate the amount of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide (collectively called greenhouse gases) being released into the atmosphere from several different sources. Some are human sources, like agriculture and fossil fuel emissions. Other sources, like wildfires and termites, are natural.

    Then we calculated the amount of carbon that’s drawn down from the atmosphere and stored in what are called carbon sinks: the soils and plants in grassland, savanna and forest ecosystems.

    The net budget estimate was the result of adding all the sources and sinks, just like balancing a household budget, where you don’t want to be spending more than you are earning.

    This information is crucial for policy making. If scientists, land managers and NGOs know which activities produce the most greenhouse gases they can work with governments and policymakers to minimise this. And knowing which parts of Africa best help to store carbon means funding and policy efforts can be directed to protecting and increasing this carbon “land sink”.

    What are the biggest sources of carbon emissions on the African continent?

    It’s important to distinguish between anthropogenic and natural emissions here. Fossil fuel burning and agriculture are the biggest sources of carbon emissions; both are anthropogenic (caused by humans). Other emissions are part of the ecosystem functioning but they can also be affected by human activities. Examples include fire, methane emissions from herbivores, and inland and coastal water bodies. These all represent quite large emissions, but they’re only somewhat affected by human activities.

    In Africa’s case, our budget shows that when people transform natural landscapes for agricultural and other purposes, the emissions from fire decrease, but emissions from herbivores increase.

    There are also some important natural processes that draw carbon and greenhouse gases back into the land surface. These include the growth of vegetation and soil carbon storage, as well as weathering of rocks (which turns atmospheric CO₂ into carbonate minerals), and burial of carbon in the ocean.

    The previous African carbon budget (1985-2009) showed the processes drawing carbon into Africa were higher than the natural emissions and the anthropogenic emissions. The continent was a carbon sink even though it emitted some anthropogenic greenhouse gases: Africa was providing a climate service to the globe.

    Globally the anthropogenic emissions of CO₂ are 11.21 gigatons of carbon per year (GtC/yr), but the land takes up about 3.5 GtC/year, so it is helping to slow the growth rate. The African land sink is about 0.8 GtC, representing about 20% of the world’s total land sink.

    Small patches of blue sky are seen through a towering canopy of lush green trees
    The continent’s forests, like this Ugandan rain forest, are crucial carbon sinks. Camille Delbos/Art In All of Us/Corbis via Getty Images

    Now, although the sink capacity hasn’t decreased – Africa is still taking up just as many greenhouse gases as it did in the past – the amount of anthropogenic sources has increased so much that the net effect is to be releasing greenhouse gases. In short, the continent has become as much of a carbon source as it is a carbon sink over the study period (2010-2019).

    What can be done to reverse the trend you’ve identified?

    Finding ways for Africa to develop in a way that is carbon neutral is a big challenge. Investment in carbon-neutral energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels would be a start.

    But this has never been done – all developed countries have grown their economies on the back of massive fossil fuel use. If African countries are to become carbon-neutral and also grow their economies, global support and funding will be required.

    However, fossil fuels are only part of the problem in Africa as less than half the continent’s greenhouse gases currently come from fossil fuels; land use change and agricultural expansion are the leading cause of its emissions. There are many innovative approaches to producing food in ways that emit fewer greenhouse gases – again, the challenge is to find ways to roll these out at scale.

    Protecting, managing and restoring the landscapes that are helping to take up the excess carbon dioxide can also help a lot. But there are challenges here, too. Making carbon storage the main goal of conservation can conflict with biodiversity and water provision.

    Mixed cattle-wildlife systems and novel livestock management methods show promise for reducing climate impacts and improving landscape functioning.

    Source: The Conversation

  • Ghana places 5th among the best-governed African countries

    Ghana places 5th among the best-governed African countries

    Ghana has been recognized as the 5th best-governed country in Africa and the top-performing nation in West Africa by World Economics, a research organization based in the United Kingdom.

    The ranking is based on four key indexes: corruption perception, rule of law, press freedom, and political rights, each carrying equal weight in the assessment.

    According to World Economics’ ranking data, Mauritius secured the top spot in Africa with a grade of B and an index of 69.3.

    Ghana, also graded B, secured 5th place with an index of 61.7, surpassing Senegal, which ranked 6th with a grade of C and an index of 53.6.

    Namibia ranked 2nd with a grade of B and an index of 69.1, while South Africa came 3rd with a grade of B and an index score of 65.5. Botswana followed closely in 4th place with a grade of B and an index of 65.1.

    In the global rankings, Denmark, Norway, Finland, New Zealand, and Sweden secured the top five positions. Ghana ranked 48th globally, surpassing countries such as Argentina, Bulgaria, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Brazil.

    The country also outperformed several African nations including Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Egypt, among others.

    After over ten years of dedicated research, World Economics has developed a new series of databases that offer a significantly different perspective on global economic growth in over 150 countries. These databases are highly relevant and useful for investors.

    For the past 30 years, World Economics and its parent company Information Sciences have been experts in creating economic data series that are integral to the financial industry.

    Their services are subscribed to by nearly all major banks, financial institutions, major corporations, and governments around the world.

  • Stranded cruise guests in Africa scramble to get back on board

    Stranded cruise guests in Africa scramble to get back on board

    Eight people who were on a cruise were left behind on an island called São Tomé and Príncipe in Africa. They have been trying really hard for many days to catch up with their cruise ship called Norwegian Cruise Line as it travels up the west coast of Africa.

    According to Norwegian Cruise Line, the passengers didn’t return to the ship on time on March 27th.

    “Eight people who were on a private tour on the island missed the last boat back to the ship at 3 p.m” The statement said the time in the area.

    “Even though it’s a really bad situation, guests need to make sure they come back to the ship on time. The time is announced on the ship’s loudspeaker, in the daily schedule, and right before people leave the ship. ”

    Norwegian Cruise Line said that they gave the passengers’ passports to local port agents for the guests to pick up. The cruise company said that if the guests were late for their private tour and missed the ship, they have to pay for their own way to the next stop to catch up with the ship. The cruise company said it was working with the local police and talking to the passengers who are stuck.

    A couple from South Carolina, Jill and Jay Campbell, got stuck in Gambia. They said a group of eight people had to travel through six countries for 15 hours to get back to their ship.

    But the ship couldn’t park that day because the weather was bad and the tides needed to be just right for it to be safe.

    The Campbells said to WPDE that the group will try to get to Senegal next, where the ship is supposed to stop on Tuesday.

    The cruise line talked to the group and gave them permission to join the ship in Senegal. They will also pay them back for their travel costs from Gambia to Senegal.

    The Campbells got on the ship on March 20th. According to CruiseMapper. com, the cruise ship Norwegian Dawn got to Dakar, Senegal on Tuesday.

    The Campbells said that some people in the group are old, one person cannot use their legs, and a woman is expecting a baby. They said one person in the group hasn’t had his heart medicine for five days and has gotten sick.


    The time for everyone to get on was missed.

    The group rushed after their tour in São Tomé and Príncipe took longer than expected on March 27th.

    “We thought we were running out of time, but the tour organizers said they could get us back in an hour,” Jay Campbell said. Campbell told WPDE that the company running the tour called the captain and said the passengers were coming but would be late. The ship was still at the port when they returned, but Campbell said that the captain did not allow them to get on the ship.

    “The person in charge of the harbor tried to contact the ship, but the captain didn’t answer,” Campbell told WPDE at the end of last week. “We tried to contact NCL customer service for help with an emergency, but they told us that the only way to reach the ship is through email, and they haven’t been responding to our emails. ”

    The Campbells said to WPDE that they didn’t have their medicine and most people in the group couldn’t use their credit cards in São Tomé and Príncipe. So the Campbells used their Visa card to pay for hotels and things the group needed, spending a lot of money.

    The Campbells told us that another person who wasn’t part of their group got sick while they were on the tour and had to go to the hospital in São Tomé. Now she’s stuck there too. The Campbells said they were able to contact the daughter of that passenger in California to help her come back to North America.

    The cruise company later told CNN that the passenger was taken off the ship for medical reasons. They were checked by the ship’s doctors and then sent to a hospital for more treatment if needed.

    “We tried to call the guest many times but couldn’t reach her, so we got help from our port agent in an African island country called São Tomé and Príncipe to get updates about the guest,” Norwegian Cruise Line explained.

    The guest has returned to the United States safely, the cruise line said.

  • Africa’s economic growth is dependent on human capital development – Mahama

    Africa’s economic growth is dependent on human capital development – Mahama

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, has urged African leaders to prioritize the development of human capital to drive economic growth.

    Addressing students at the London School of Economics (LSE), Mahama highlighted the rapid changes in the digital landscape and the emergence of new job roles in Africa over the past decade.

    In a Facebook post, the former president emphasized the need for education systems in Africa to evolve beyond traditional academic learning.

    He called for the inclusion of vocational and technical training to align with the technological advancements of the modern era.

    “Africa needs to develop the human capital required to propel our economies forward. The digital landscape, for example, was vastly different when I last spoke at the LSE a decade ago. Many job roles we see today were non-existent or just emerging in Africa. The job market is rapidly evolving, and it is imperative that our education systems evolve as well.

    “We must embrace technology and innovation and expand beyond academic learning to emphasise vocational and technical training.

    “The career aspirations of our children today reflect this technological evolution, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are prepared for the future job market,” the former president said.

  • Africa has until 2030 to attain the water, sanitation and hygiene SDG

    Africa has until 2030 to attain the water, sanitation and hygiene SDG

    With six years remaining, ForAfrika, the largest African humanitarian development organisation, is striving to extend water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services to as many people as possible in the countries where it operates: Angola, the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa, South Sudan, and Uganda.

    The SDGs, comprising 17 global objectives set by the United Nations, aim to tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges and foster sustainable development worldwide by 2030.

    “Everywhere we work, we collaborate with other development organisations so that resources are effectively allocated, and there is no doubling up. Most important of all, however, is that we work with communities to ensure that the services we help them to provide tie in with their goals and aspirations,” Wentzel says ahead of World Water Day on 22 March.

    In 2023, ForAfrika reached 463 191 people with WASH services, installing 140 wells, 448 handwashing stations and 2 392 toilets. In its 40 years of existence, it has sunk an estimated 4 250 wells, Wentzel says.

    The United Nations has warned that by 2030, water scarcity could displace up to 700-million people in Africa, emphasising the urgent need for effective solutions to address this crisis. Experts predict that as early as 2025, 460-million people in Africa will live in water-stressed areas and that nearly 50% of Africa’s projected population of 1.45-billion people will face water stress or scarcity.

    ForAfrika has learnt many lessons in its years of providing WASH access to communities, including in the aftermath of natural disasters such as cyclones and amid the fallout from conflict, Wentzel says.

    One of the most important lessons learnt is that it is crucial that organisations work with communities to establish what their needs and long-term plans are so that any services or resources provided slot in with that bigger picture.

    “ForAfrika has found that helping a community establish a water committee to oversee access and ensure maintenance of any installed resources and equipment is crucial. Community ownership is very important if a project or installation is to have longevity,” Wentzel says.

    It is also important to have qualified technical staff overseeing water access operations, and it is critical that development organisations collaborate so that their actions are well coordinated and resources and services are not oversupplied, or overlooked.

    Climate experts predict that Africa, already a water-scarce continent, will experience more significant water shortages in the years to come.

    Already Horn of Africa countries like Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya are facing a sixth consecutive failed rainy season. This has led to severe hunger, with the World Food Programme reporting that 13-million people across these countries and the autonomous region of Somaliland are affected.

    “Africa is our home. We want to see that everyone in Africa has access to WASH services, and enjoys food security, which is, in part, dependent on water being available for irrigation. We need to keep working at this enormous challenge,” says Wentzel.

  • Africa should have a King, not democracy – Sonnie Badu

    Africa should have a King, not democracy – Sonnie Badu

    In a recent interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo midmorning programme with Nana Romeo, Sonnie Badu expressed skepticism about democracy as a governance system for Africa.

    He attributed many of the continent’s challenges to its abundant mineral and natural resources.

    Badu questioned the practicality of democracy in Africa, particularly when compared to monarchies.

    He drew parallels with countries like the United Kingdom, where a monarchy coexists with democratic institutions, and highlighted the developmental progress made by nations under monarchic rule, such as Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

    “Sometimes, you see hospitals and clinics that are dilapidated, but the politician’s focus is elsewhere. You will see cases of money spent by politicians on one project or another, and you will ask why they couldn’t use the money to fix schools under trees or something.

    “The issue is that when they get into politics and they come across these huge sums of money, they have to pocket that money for themselves and for when they leave power. They also have to use money to settle those living with them.

    “You may not understand until you get into their shoes, that’s how politics works,” he said.

    He stressed the stability and advancement brought by monarchs compared to the political turbulence often observed in democracies.

    Badu advocated for African nations to consider monarchies, pointing to the steady development and safeguarding of resources evident in such systems.

    He condemned politicians’ focus on self-interest, attributing it to the exorbitant costs of political campaigns and the necessity to recover investments.

    The former musician, now a pastor, lamented the lack of emphasis on the well-being of citizens by African leaders, observing widespread poverty despite ample resources.

    He highlighted the familial connections that often transcend political boundaries, fostering a culture of profiting at the expense of the people.

    Acknowledging the imperfections within the political system, Badu implied that such conduct is inherent in politics and might persist until individuals encounter it firsthand. He warned against the deceit embedded in political opposition, often prioritizing politicians’ interests over the populace’s.

    In summary, Badu voiced apprehension for the African citizens’ predicament amid political maneuvering, advocating for a deeper comprehension of political dynamics and their societal repercussions.

  • Africa’s abundant resources can propel sustainable energy for the future – Energy Minister

    Africa’s abundant resources can propel sustainable energy for the future – Energy Minister


    The Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has asserted that Africa has the potential to propel itself into a sustainable energy future.

    He highlighted Africa’s abundant natural resources and growing population as key factors that offer a distinct opportunity for embracing energy technologies.

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh delivered these remarks during his participation in the Africa Energy Technology Conference held in Accra, Ghana.

    He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to energy transition, stressing the integration of energy policy with broader developmental goals such as poverty alleviation, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

  • Ghana holds 10th position in Africa as country with affordable fuel prices

    Ghana holds 10th position in Africa as country with affordable fuel prices

    GlobalPetrolPrices.com’s recent analysis positions Ghana as the 10th African country with the most economical fuel prices as of March 2024.

    Globally, Ghana secures the 39th spot for its notably affordable fuel rates.

    Currently, petrol prices in Ghana fluctuate between GH¢12.02 and GH¢13.29 per liter, while diesel ranges from GH¢13.21 to GH¢14.60 per liter, showing a slight uptick from previous levels.

    With an average fuel price of GH¢13.03, Ghana’s rates remain below the global average of $1.30 per liter, offering significant advantages for both consumers and businesses. This advantageous pricing fosters greater purchasing power and bolsters seamless economic activities.

    The report underscores the importance of maintaining low fuel costs, particularly in economies with lower income brackets, acknowledging their manifold effects on global economic landscapes.

    While Ghana’s status as the 10th most affordable fuel provider in Africa brings numerous benefits, it also poses challenges for the petroleum sector.

    The report recommends implementing strategic measures centered on efficiency, tax diversification, and infrastructure enhancements to address potential drawbacks and capitalize on this ranking to cultivate a mutually beneficial environment for all stakeholders.

    Meanwhile, several nations offer petroleum products at rates lower than the global average, highlighting the crucial role of affordable fuel prices in driving economic prosperity and sustaining essential operations across diverse sectors.

  • Natural gas vital for large-scale industrialization in Africa – Opoku Prempeh

    Natural gas vital for large-scale industrialization in Africa – Opoku Prempeh

    The Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has underscored natural gas as a pivotal resource for fueling extensive industrialization in Africa and narrowing the poverty divide with the global community.

    According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, African governments must play a pivotal role in financing the development of natural gas resources to ensure their sustainability.

    He advocated mobilizing funds through local financial institutions and collaborative efforts among African nations.

    During the Gas Day session of the Nigeria International Energy Summit on February 29, the Energy Minister proposed leveraging the African Energy Bank, supported by Ghana and expected to be headquartered there.

    This bank could secure competitive financing for accelerated natural gas projects, research and development infrastructure, and processing, transportation, and transformation of natural resources.

    Dr. Opoku Prempeh highlighted Africa’s substantial gas reserves, led by Nigeria with over 200 trillion cubic feet, and others like Mozambique, Angola, Senegal, and Cameroon in the sub-Saharan region.

    Ghana, actively exploring and developing its oil and gas resources sustainably, anticipates ongoing investment in natural gas infrastructure over the next decade.

    The Energy Minister stressed the importance of adequate infrastructure for processing, storage, transportation, and transformation of natural gas resources to meet market demands.

    He commended initiatives such as Dangote’s 650,000 barrels per day oil refinery and petrochemical complex in Nigeria, along with Ghana’s recent commissioning of a hundred barrels per day oil refinery.

    Ongoing projects in Ghana, including the Tema LNG Terminal and the Tema City Gate and Gas Distribution Pipeline Network, contribute to expanding refining capacity.

    Ghana envisions Nigeria as a primary supplier of affordable and reliable gas, complementing domestic sources and the West African Gas Pipeline.

    Dr. Opoku Prempeh also highlighted the potential impact of the Nigeria to Morocco pipeline, stimulating gas patronage and expanding the gas market across the continent, especially in countries along the pipeline route.

    “We can leverage the African Energy Bank which Ghana is supporting and whose headquarters Ghana expects to host, to raise competitive financing for the faster development of natural gas projects and the development of infrastructure for research and development, and for processing, transportation and transformation of our natural resources,” he said.

    “In the next decade, we can expect to see continued investment in natural gas infrastructure such as pipelines, liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, power plants and petrochemical establishments on the continent, which present a unique opportunity for Africa to take charge of its own destiny,” he added.

    He continued: “As indicated earlier, infrastructure development is key in fulfilling the massive untapped potential the resource presents. There has to be adequate infrastructure for processing, storage, transportation and transformation of natural gas resources to meet the market demands. In this regard, the initiative of Dangote to build the 650,000 barrels per day oil refinery and a petrochemical complex here in Nigeria is laudable.

    “In Ghana, we recently commissioned a hundred barrels per day oil refinery to increase our refining capacity and have plans in place to further increase our refining capacity in the near future. Other on-going projects include Tema LNG Terminal and the Tema City Gate and Gas Distribution Pipeline Network.”

    “The execution of the Nigeria to Morocco pipeline will also stimulate the patronage of gas and expand the gas market on the Continent, especially in countries along the pipeline route,” he adds.

  • Senegal: Presidential candidates demonstrate against delay of election

    Senegal: Presidential candidates demonstrate against delay of election

    On Sunday, Senegalese presidential candidates participated in a symbolic vote arranged by a civil society organization to protest the delayed presidential election, originally scheduled for that day.

    Candidates discreetly placed their ballots in a box marked with the words “RIP 25 February.”

    Presidential contender and former Dakar Mayor Khalifa Sall voiced strong opposition, stating, “we cannot accept, with the stroke of a pen, being deprived of what is essential to us, that is to say, our freedom and democracy, and above all our ability to elect our leaders,” said presidential candidate and former Dakar Mayor Khalifa Sall.

    “It hurts me a lot to see that our rights have been trampled on to bring us back today to an uncertain process,” said protester Ibrahim Deme.

    Despite a ban on their demonstration, some young Senegalese protesters gathered in Dakar, expressing discontent over the postponement.

    Protester Ibrahim Deme lamented, “It hurts me a lot to see that our rights have been trampled on to bring us back today to an uncertain process.”

    Senegalese President Macky Sall announced the vote’s postponement on February 3, triggering opposition-led protests, clashes with security forces, arrests, and mobile internet cuts.

    These events intensified political tensions in one of Africa’s historically stable democracies.

    This year’s election, marred by controversies, included deadly protests leading President Sall to announce he wouldn’t seek a third term and the disqualification of two opposition leaders.

  • We must locally invest 30% of Africa’s sovereign reserves – Akufo-Addo

    We must locally invest 30% of Africa’s sovereign reserves – Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo has suggested that 30 percent of Africa’s sovereign reserves, which are currently held in foreign banks, should be invested in the continent’s financial institutions.

    This proposal aims to promote economic growth and development within Africa by ensuring that a significant portion of its financial resources remains within the continent, rather than being held abroad.

    President Nana Akufo-Addo made this proposal during a Presidential Dialogue on the African Union’s (AU) Financial Institutions, which took place on the sidelines of the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the AU in Ethiopia.

    “We should decide that a minimum of 30 per cent of the reserves of each one of us, should, be invested in the multilateral institutions,” he said, citing the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Afreximbank.

    “Strengthening the capital base of those banks was a necessity to enhance their balance sheet and boost their capacity to facilitate more and more resources for the continent’s development and growth, he argued.

    President Akufo-Addo highlighted that most countries hold their reserves in foreign banks, where they often earn minimal or negative interest rates.

    “The fundamental fact is that, if we find a way that we can increase the financial power of our own institutions, we are in a better place to finance our development,” he echoed.

    Regarding the importance of investing in the continent’s financial institutions, President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized the crucial roles played by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the people of Africa.

    “These are institutions which are ours, and which we can trust. So, if we can find a way of strengthening them, we strengthen ourselves,” he noted.

    President Nana Akufo-Addo also urged African leaders to seriously consider ratifying the decision to designate Afreximbank as a specialized agency of the African Union (AU). The Presidential Dialogue, initiated by Ghana’s President, was attended by AU leadership, African policy institutes and financial institutions, as well as development partners.

    As an advocate for reforming the global financial system, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for a mechanism to monitor the use of funds invested in African banks.

    “This is critical for ensuring that we get proper accountability,” he said.

    The President urged leaders to collaborate in developing a robust global financial architecture that prioritizes African development needs. He emphasized the importance of reforming the global financial system to address issues such as stemming illicit financial flows from Africa.

    In recent times, African Union Heads of State and Government have intensified efforts to establish an African Monetary Union by harmonizing monetary zones and creating three AU financial institutions: the African Central Bank (ACB), African Monetary Fund (AMF), and African Investment Bank (AIB), along with the creation of a Pan-African Stock Exchange (PASE).

    The concept note for the Presidential Dialogue emphasizes the urgency of establishing these AU financial institutions and revising the legal instruments governing them, given the evolving global economic landscape.

    Africa’s transformation journey requires a global financial system that meets the people’s needs and leverages the continent’s natural and human capital.

    Additionally, the 37th Ordinary Session of the AU will witness the launch of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions – the Africa Club. This initiative aims to unite member institutions to address financing challenges and support Africa’s sustainable economic development and integration goals.

  • Let’s invest a minimum of 30% of our reserves in multilateral institutions – Akufo-Addo to African leaders

    Let’s invest a minimum of 30% of our reserves in multilateral institutions – Akufo-Addo to African leaders

    President Akufo-Addo has suggested allocating 30 percent of Africa’s sovereign reserves, currently held in foreign banks, to be invested in the continent’s financial institutions.

    During the Presidential Dialogue on the African Union‘s (AU) Financial Institutions, held on the sidelines of the 37th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Ethiopia, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of strengthening the capital base of institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Afreximbank.

    “We should decide that a minimum of 30 per cent of the reserves of each one of us, should, be invested in the multilateral institutions,” he said, citing the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Afreximbank.

    The President emphasized that increasing the financial power of African institutions could significantly contribute to financing the continent’s development and growth.

    Currently, many countries hold their reserves in foreign banks, attracting predominantly negative interest rates.

    President Akufo-Addo urged African leaders to consider ratifying the decision to designate Afreximbank as a specialized agency of the AU.

    He acknowledged the critical role played by institutions like AfDB and Afreximbank, citing their contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “The fundamental fact is that, if we find a way that we can increase the financial power of our own institutions, we are in a better place to finance our development,” he echoed.

    “These are institutions which are ours, and which we can trust. So, if we can find a way of strengthening them, we strengthen ourselves,” he noted.

    While championing global financial architecture reforms, the President stressed the need for a monitoring mechanism to ensure accountability in the utilization of funds invested in African banks.

    He called for collaborative efforts among leaders to develop a robust global financial architecture that prioritizes African development and addresses illicit financial flows from the continent.

    The recent push by African Union Heads of State and Government for the establishment of an African Monetary Union, including the African Central Bank, African Monetary Fund, African Investment Bank, and Pan-African Stock Exchange, aligns with the continent’s aspirations for economic transformation.

    The 37th Ordinary Session of the AU will also witness the launch of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions, known as the Africa Club, aimed at fostering collaboration and finding solutions to financing challenges for sustainable economic development in Africa.

  • Surge in sovereign debt activity sweeps across Africa

    Surge in sovereign debt activity sweeps across Africa

    Throughout Africa, there’s been a notable surge in activity within the sovereign debt market. Investors, enticed by appealing yields and optimistic prospects of global interest rate reductions, are eagerly purchasing bonds from various nations.

    While Ghana is currently on the sidelines, awaiting its opportunity on the international stage, neighboring countries such as Ivory Coast, Benin, and Kenya have recently succeeded in issuing Eurobonds surpassing their target amounts by significant margins.

    Ghana, once among Africa’s fastest-growing economies, remains under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, which restricts its access to the market until at least 2026.

    Just recently, a temporary suspension of debt service for official creditors until May 2026 was announced, aiming to provide some breathing space while finalizing the restructuring of its $13 billion commercial debt by March 2024.

    Success Stories Among Neighbors

    Meanwhile, neighboring countries are enjoying the limelight. Ivory Coast raised $2.6 billion through two Eurobond tranches, with yields ranging from 7.875 percent to 8.5 percent. Even Benin, a first-time issuer, attracted significant interest, with over $5 billion in orders for its $750 million bond. Kenya also capitalized on investor enthusiasm, drawing $5 billion in orders for its high-yielding bond, as reported by Bloomberg.

    Analysts attribute this renewed investor confidence in African assets to expectations of major central banks relaxing their monetary policies in the current year. Databank, an asset management company, noted projections of up to three interest rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve in 2024 to stimulate economic growth, while similar easing measures are anticipated from the European Central Bank. The diminishing returns on assets in developed markets are driving investors toward riskier emerging and frontier markets like those in Africa.

    Nevertheless, fund managers caution that investors are still factoring in a significant risk premium for African debt compared to bonds from developed markets. The gap between 10-year U.S. Treasuries and recent African sovereign bond yields remains historically wide, indicating that investors still perceive African bonds as speculative despite the growing appetite for such investments.

    Successful Eurobond issuances are anticipated to bolster African currencies by attracting foreign capital inflows. Ivory Coast’s recent bond sale has already had a positive impact on its currency, the CFA franc, while Benin’s debut issuance led to a rally of its currency against the dollar earlier this week. Several African countries are gearing up for Eurobond sales this year to capitalize on the increasing risk appetite among global investors hungry for yield.

    Analysts believe that while Ghana currently remains on the sidelines, it is actively working towards rejoining the market. Successful completion of the IMF program and debt restructuring could pave the way for Ghana’s return, potentially garnering similar investor interest as its peers.

  • Stop proposing to men; it’s embarrassing – Efia Odo advises women

    Stop proposing to men; it’s embarrassing – Efia Odo advises women

    Ghanaian socialite and actress Andrea Owusu known popularly as Efia Odo expressed her disapproval of women who take the initiative to propose to men, labelling it as both embarrassing and senseless.

    The budding singer and influencer questioned the rationale behind women kneeling down to propose and pondered whether this act also implies they would bear the expenses of the wedding.

    Odo highlighted the traditional social norms in Africa, emphasizing that it has historically been the man’s role to kneel down and propose love and marriage to a woman.

    However, she acknowledged that modern trends appear to be challenging these traditional gender roles.

    “Women stop proposing to men, Stop proposing to men, what is that, it’s embarrassing, does it mean you will pay the wedding bills, it’s stupidity,” Efia Odo stated.

    Efia was a U.S based assistant nurse who relocated to Ghana.

    She was born on the 18th of July 1993 and hails from Juaben in the Ashanti region of Ghana and is currently pursuing her passion in acting.

    Watch video below:

  • WHO utilizes Africa’s booming mobile money sector

    WHO utilizes Africa’s booming mobile money sector

    Since 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has successfully automated payments for over two million African health professionals, transitioning from cash payments to mobile money.

    The WHO Digital Finance Team has implemented digital payment systems in 24 African countries, including Benin, Botswana, Madagascar, Rwanda, Togo, and Zimbabwe.

    This move aligns with WHO’s participation in the Better Than Cash Alliance, a UN alliance aimed at enhancing payment digitisation and advancing financial inclusion.

    “With these inspiring results, WHO is clearly taking a leadership role in accelerating the digital transformation in the provision of health outcomes globally,” said Tidhar Wald, managing director of the Better Than Cash Alliance.

    According to the WHO’s Digital Finance Team, more than 80% of workers surveyed in several countries prefer digital payments. Studies funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have shown that timely compensation improves morale and staff retention.

    Maria May, senior program officer for Inclusive Financial Systems at the Gates Foundation, stated that over the last four years, WHO has leveraged the increasing presence of mobile money in Africa to ensure that frontline healthcare workers are paid quickly and securely.

  • Nigeria is Africa country with lowest cost of living – Presidency

    Nigeria is Africa country with lowest cost of living – Presidency

    The Nigerian president’s office said that Nigeria has the cheapest cost of living in West Africa, but some people are not sure about that.

    On Sunday, a person called Bayo Onanuga, who advises the President, said that he didn’t agree with a political opponent who said Bola Tinubu’s economic plans were making life tougher for Nigerians.

    Numbeo, a cost-of-living website, says that Nigeria is very affordable to live in. But only 23 out of 54 countries in Africa were included in the survey.

    Nigeria’s national ranking won’t make its citizens feel better. They are struggling with high prices for basic foods and things they need, the government taking away fuel subsidies, and a weak currency.

  • Renowned Scientist, Prof Einstein, pays historic visit to Ghana  

    Renowned Scientist, Prof Einstein, pays historic visit to Ghana  

    Founder of the Einstein Medical Institute in Florida, USA, Professor George Einstein, has touched down in Ghana.

    The Professor arrived in Ghana on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, marking his maiden voyage to the African continent.

    This landmark visit, orchestrated by Relevant Achievers Impacting Nations, holds immense significance as it paves the way for the prelaunch of two transformative initiatives – the Einstein Memorial Institute and The Einstein Lectures (TEL) Africa. Scheduled to officially debut in Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa this September, these initiatives are poised to reshape the educational and scientific landscape of the continent.

    Professor George Einstein, a distinguished figure in the medical field, brings with him not only a rich legacy as a member of the Einstein family but also a wealth of knowledge accumulated through the establishment of the Einstein Medical Institute. 

    The Einstein Memorial Institute, first of its kind in Africa will be officially launched on 21st September during the Ghana edition of TEL Africa.

    Speaking to Author Ralph Antwi, the founding President of Relevant Achievers Impacting Nations at the prelaunch on Saturday 27th January, he outlined three key objectives of EMI.

    “The Einstein Memorial Institute aims at serving Africa in the areas of Education and Health. This establishment will engage the imaginative potential of the African brain, activate the creative powers of this indispensable human asset, and precipitate the quality and longevity of life on earth, through educational and health interventions,” Author Ralph said.

    The official prelaunch was attended by dignitaries from various sectors of society, including medical practitioners, media personality, clergymen, and security experts.

    Professor George Einstein and other authorities in Education and Health will deliver high-impact lectures in September themed, ‘Securing Tomorrow Today’.

  • DBG fuels growth with investment exceeding GHS1bn

    DBG fuels growth with investment exceeding GHS1bn

    The Development Bank Ghana (DBG) has played a pivotal role in bolstering the private sector, injecting more than GHS1 billion since its inception in June 2022, according to the Chief Executive Officer, Kwamina Duker. This substantial investment has fortified over 80 businesses, resulting in the creation of over 6,000 jobs, with 38% of these jobs empowering women. Additionally, DBG’s interventions have generated significant foreign exchange revenue exceeding US$40 million over the years.

    CEO Kwamina Duker emphasized that the bank’s focus extends beyond immediate financial inputs to emphasize long-term impacts and profitability. He made these remarks during the 2024 Africa Prosperity Dialogues’ Business and Policy Leaders Dialogues held in Aburi, Eastern Region, under the theme ‘Delivering Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, Trade.’

    Highlighting the shift from conventional transactional approaches, Duker noted that DBG is prioritizing enduring impact and value generation. The bank aims to de-risk the financing landscape by enhancing the capabilities of financial entities to explore traditionally high-risk sectors while empowering local businesses to adopt innovation and scalability.

    Duker also revealed that DBG, in collaboration with the central bank and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, is developing the Ghana Integrated Financial Ecosystem (GIFE). This unique platform is designed to enhance financial inclusion and literacy across Africa, providing a secured digital platform that empowers businesses with reliable financial tools and services.

    Encouraging African entrepreneurs to utilize GIFE, Duker highlighted its role in facilitating swift access to financial products from various parts of the continent. With reliable credentials, entrepreneurs can effortlessly interact with financial institutions and trade partners, promoting confidence and transparency in every transaction.

    “This vision is the embodiment of the African Prosperity Dialogue: creating a seamless and integrated marketplace underpinned by trust and digital innovation,” concluded CEO Kwamina Duker.

  • Africa is too rich to be poor, we are blessed – Akufo-Addo

    Africa is too rich to be poor, we are blessed – Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo has underscored that Africa should not endure poverty, given the continent’s abundance of natural resources.

    Speaking at the second edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Peduase, Eastern Region, on Thursday, January 25, 2024, the President highlighted Africa’s wealth, including oil, gas, minerals, abundant sunlight, and 65% of arable land capable of feeding 9 billion people globally by 2030.

    President Akufo-Addo expressed his vision for Africa to evolve into a global powerhouse, leveraging its rich resource base and youthful population.

    Encouraged by a private sector prepared for economic collaboration, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the President emphasized the significance of economic integration as a key factor in realizing Africa’s prosperity.

    He noted that the current focus on facilitating the free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent is essential for realizing the United Africa dream.

    “We all know that Africa is blessed, Africa is not a poor continent, in fact, she is too rich to be poor. A continent that has every natural resource imaginable; oil, gas, minerals and an abundance of sunlight. We have some 65 per cent of all arable land available to feed 9 billion people globally by 2030 and our continent is filled with the most youthful population in the world –everything we need to transform Africa into a global powerhouse of the future,”

    “I’m now encouraged that Africa now has a private sector that is ready, deliberate and eager to see that the 60-year-old dream of the United Africa manifests. The difference perhaps, of the then and today is that the focus is on an area where there can be no debate –economic integration.

    “How we facilitate the free movement of people, goods and services across this vast and resourceful mass Africa is what we must devote our energies to.”

  • Stop the ‘dig and ship’, add value to your natural resources – Lands Minister charges African leaders

    Stop the ‘dig and ship’, add value to your natural resources – Lands Minister charges African leaders

    Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, has underscored the importance of value addition to the successful and responsible harnessing of natural resources, urging African countries to follow the blueprint being implemented by the government of Ghana.

    Delivering a speech at the ongoing African Prosperity Dialogue on Thursday, 25th January 2024, the Lands Minister gave prominence to the key role value addition can play in the economic fortunes of African countries and implored on the countries to begin the institute measures that will ensure that mineral resources are exploited effectively.

    Touching on the theme of the Conference, “Delivering Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value and Trade,” Mr Jinapor identified value addition and local participation as the two principles which are fundamental to the extraction of more Value Mineral resources and making the extractive sector the bedrock of economic turnaround.

    He espoused that the pre-colonial practice of “digging and shipping” should make way for addition of value to the minerals as it enhances the revenue generation capacity of the country which will culminate into the transformation of the economy.

    To encourage the other countries to chart the same path as Ghana, the Minister outlined some policy interventions made by the Ghana government which are already bearing fruits.

    “We cannot transform our economies if we continue to dig and ship!!! That is why since assuming office in 2017, Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo has been working to ensure that we add value to our mineral resources. Today, for the first time in our country, Government has established, through a Public Private Partnership, a four hundred kilogramme (400kg) gold refinery to refine the gold we produce, and we are working to secure a London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Certification”, he stated.

    ”The Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) and the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), which we established in 2018 and 2019, respectively, have been working to promote and develop integrated aluminium and iron and steel industries, from exploration, through refining, to downstream production. And work is far advanced for the commencement of the construction of a Four Hundred and Fifty Million US Dollars (US$450million) manganese refinery in Ghana,” he added.

    On local participation, he said the importance of citizens benefiting directly from the resources in their countries cannot be overemphasized adding that government owe the citizens a duty to facilitate their participation in the exploitation of their resource.

    He further disclosed that government is currently working on policy with Ghana Chamber of Mines that will compel large scale mining companies to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange which creates a platform for Ghanaian ownership of the companies through acquisition of shares.

    “To derive optimal benefit from our natural resources, African peoples must participate, fully, across the entire value chain of the industry. Our peoples must have equity in the companies involved in the exploration, production, and processing of our mineral resources. It is for this reason that the Government of Ghana is working with the Ghana Chamber of Mines to ensure that large scale mining companies, operating in the country, list on the Ghana Stock Exchange, to enable Ghanaians acquire shares in these companies. We have, also, enacted the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2431), to promote local content in the mining industry”, he said.

    “Pursuant to this law, we have increased the items on the Local Procurement List of goods and services reserved for Ghanaians from twenty-nine (29) to fifty (50), retaining, here in our country, some Three Billion US Dollars, (US$3,000,000,000.00), annually, which would have otherwise been exported.”

    The maiden edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues series which kicked off today, Thursday January 25, 2024 will end on Saturday, January 28, 2024.

    The dialogue series which is an initiative of the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) seeks to bring Africa’s political and business leaders together in conference with other thought leaders on Africa. Not only will they brainstorm on the all-important single-market project for the continent, but the dialogues will also create an annual platform for the continent’s leaders to spearhead collaborative implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

  • Aliko Dangote tops Forbes’ list as Africa’s richest man for year 13

    Aliko Dangote tops Forbes’ list as Africa’s richest man for year 13

    Despite economic challenges in Nigeria, Aliko Dangote has secured the top spot on Forbes’ list of Africa’s richest individuals for the 13th consecutive year.

    Dangote’s fortune experienced a $400 million increase over the past year, reaching a net worth of $13.9 billion.

    The Forbes list, tracking the wealth of billionaires residing in Africa or conducting primary business on the continent, features 20 individuals with a combined net worth of $82.4 billion.

    Dangote, renowned for his success in the cement and sugar industries, maintains his position amid economic fluctuations and currency devaluation in Nigeria.

  • Man travelling length of Africa troubled over visa problem

    Man travelling length of Africa troubled over visa problem

    A man is running across Africa to raisemoney for charity, but he’s worried he might have trouble with his visa.

    Russell Cook from Worthing, West Sussex, had planned to run 360 marathons in 240 days.

    The 26-year-old had to make the challenge last longer because some bad things happened, like an armed robbery.

    Mr Cook said that it all depends on if he can get permission to go into Algeria and then cross the border into Mauritania.

    “I’ve been traveling for 278 days, running 12,000km [7,456 miles] through 13 countries, and raised over £140,000 for charity. But now everything is uncertain,” he said.

    “If we don’t get the visas, then we can’t continue. “

    The tough journey started at the furthest point south in South Africa on April 22nd and will end at the furthest point north in Tunisia.

    Mr Cook wanted to travel 9,320 miles (14,500km) and cross 16 borders, but he had some problems with his visas, health, and politics, so he had to make the journey longer.

    Mr Cook, who is called “Hardest Geezer”, asked for help from those who have been following the challenge to get a visa.

    “He said it’s the only choice we have. “”We have no other way to reach the very top of Africa. “

    The event is for The Running Charity and it has collected £142,659 until now.

  • Julius Malema visits Ghana; advocates economic emancipation for Africa 

    Julius Malema visits Ghana; advocates economic emancipation for Africa 

    South African politician Julius Malema has emphasized the need for Africa to move beyond mere political freedom and strive for economic emancipation. 

    He made the call on his visit to Ghana on January 23, 2024.  

    Acknowledging Ghana’s long-standing history of democracy on the continent, Malema pointed out the persistent challenge of economic control, which he believes remains in the hands of those who previously colonized the nation.

    Known for his outspoken stance on economic justice and pan-African unity, Julius Malema underscored the significance of breaking free from economic dependencies that trace their roots to the colonial era. 

    “…political freedom without economic emancipation is meaningless,” he asserted, challenging the prevailing status quo that has left many African nations grappling with economic structures established during the colonial period.

    During his address, Malema highlighted the fact that Ghana’s democracy stands as one of the oldest on the continent, yet economic power remains concentrated in the hands of entities with historical ties to colonial powers. This, he argued, hampers the true realization of independence and hinders the progress and prosperity of the African people.

    “Ghana’s democracy is very old compared to other democracies in the continent but the means of production are still owned by those who previously colonized us,” Malema pointedly stated, urging African nations to reassess their economic frameworks and explore strategies for reclaiming control over their resources. The South African politician believes that economic autonomy is essential for the continent to achieve genuine sovereignty.

    Malema’s message resonates with the broader sentiment across Africa, where discussions about economic independence have gained prominence. Advocates have argued that a united front is crucial in breaking the chains of economic exploitation, with the belief that only through collaboration and solidarity can African nations truly prosper.

    “The unity of Africa is a threat to the enemies of Africa,” Malema emphasized, highlighting the importance of fostering a sense of unity among African nations. He stressed that a divided Africa only serves the interests of external powers, perpetuating a cycle of economic dependency.