As the world's largest chromium producer, South Africa relies heavily on Mozambique's Maputo port for up to 50% of its mineral exports. However, the country is currently dealing with a severe post-election crisis that has significantly impacted its economy. The Minerals Council of South Africa expressed particular concern on December 12 about the impact of Mozambique's unrest on the chrome...

The Telecom Namibia cyberattack is more than a localized issue; it is a symptom of the broader challenges faced by nations undergoing rapid digital transformation without commensurate investment in cybersecurity. Addressing these challenges will require a coordinated effort involving government, businesses, and international partners to build a resilient and secure digital ecosystem. Telecom...

The ICT sector is a cornerstone of modern economies, serving as a catalyst for innovation, connectivity, and productivity. Namibia’s 17% revenue growth demonstrates its ability to adapt to global digital trends despite stagnant profits. Namibia’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector has demonstrated resilience and growth, with a newly published 2023 ICT Sector Market Report...

The Afema gold project, situated 120 km southeast of Abidjan, was originally managed by Sodim, which now holds a 20% stake. Recently, Turaco Gold, an Australian mining firm, identified over 71 tons of gold at the project.  Australia’s Turaco Gold announced on December 16 that it completed the acquisition of an 80% interest in the Afema gold project in Côte d'Ivoire. This acquisition...

Aura Energy, the owner of the Tiris uranium project in Mauritania, plans to commence operations at what could be the country's first uranium mine by 2026. The project is expected to produce 2 million pounds of uranium annually over 25 years. By doubling its annual production, the company would be better equipped to benefit from any increase in demand and nuclear fuel prices. Aura Energy unveiled...

In East Africa, the number of displaced people rose from 13.2 million in 2020 to 26.5 million in 2024, according to the WFP. The World Food Program (WFP) has received $118 million from the U.S. government to provide critical support to over one million displaced people across seven countries in East and Central Africa. According to the official statement released on December 13, the...

At the opening of an urgent CEMAC summit Monday in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya called on his regional counterparts to take immediate steps to revive their economies. The summit, attended by leaders from the community addressed growing concerns about a looming economic and financial crisis. “I am confident that during this summit, we will make the necessary and urgent decisions...

While cryptocurrencies are often used as a shield against inflation, they are viewed more positively in developing countries than in developed ones. However, market volatility and the prevalence of scams remain the main obstacles to wider adoption of these digital assets. Nigeria and South Africa have the highest rates of cryptocurrency ownership in the world in 2024, according to a report...

Ending the trade preference program, which has consistently enjoyed bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, seems unlikely. However, the next U.S. administration may choose to expand or restrict the program based on its economic and strategic priorities. Donald Trump’s return to the White House has created uncertainty over the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The...

Sarama Resources has initiated arbitration proceedings against Burkina Faso, claiming $115 million in damages following the withdrawal of its mining permit. The dispute traces back to 2023 when the Canadian company faced the abrupt cancellation of an exploration permit the firm held for 12 years. Sarama deems the decision "incoherent" and is determined to explore all legal avenues to be...