Browsing: News

The growing influence of the internet as a tool for economic development cannot be underestimated, especially in light of its role in transforming Africa’s socio-economic landscape. The assertion hinges on several research studies, underscoring the undeniable significance of affordable and reliable internet access for businesses and households alike on the continent.

In a compelling address on World Cancer Day 2024, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, stated that approximately one-third of cancer cases in Africa can be prevented. Furthermore, she emphasized that an additional third can be fully cured if identified at an early stage and treated effectively.

In a strategic move aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Microsoft tycoon Bill Gates, in partnership with his charitable foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has launched an innovative COVID-19 surveillance system. This groundbreaking measure will primarily be focused on sub-Saharan Africa.

South Africa has imposed an 8.5% increase in the national minimum hourly wage, enhancing it to $1.46. Predicted to impact the lives of the country’s 6.44 million workers who earn the minimum wage, the decision comes amidst tracking inflation rates, currently recorded at 5.7% according to the National Department of Employment and Labour.

Facing a sustained threat to national security, the government of Mali has reportedly contracted the services of the Russian private security firm, Wagner, instead of extending its almost decade-long reliance on French troops, causing ripples in the international diplomatic sphere.

South Africa’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has embarked on an unprecedented operation to enable prison inmates across the country to participate in the forthcoming local government elections. Taking the constitutional right to vote to another level, the commission registered eligible voters in 147 correctional facilities in a recent drive.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has marked a significant milestone in environmental and sustainable finance by unveiling its first-ever USD Global-Sustainable Hybrid Transaction. This unique transaction is comprised of $1 billion in sustainable bonds under both fixed-rate and floating-rate notes. This innovative initiative is particularly significant, being the inaugural 15-year-term transaction performed by any supranational AAA-rated issuer beyond green or social bonds in the Colony Capital markets.

While the economic furor in West Africa continues to unfurl, Burkina Faso’s President, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, has raised a significant query over his country’s affiliation with the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). His consideration arises on the heels of neighboring Mali’s recent announcement of its imminent departure from the Union.

Russia has extended a humanitarian hand to the Central African Republic (CAR) by delivering 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat. This sizable consignment comes amidst widespread anxiety about a proposed law that could curtail Russian grain exports.

Landing another significant punch for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Niger has pronounced its departure from the bloc, citing the community’s damaging economic sanctions. The president, Mohamed Bazoum, described ECOWAS embargoes as an instigator of economic and social suffering. This follows in the footsteps of Mali and Burkina Faso, two nations that recently broke ties with ECOWAS after facing similar punitive measures following coups.