Shows
African CurrentsGhana Eyes BRICS Membership as MP Hails It 'Best Thing That Will Ever Happen'As old Western-dominated power structures increasingly lose relevance, BRICS rises as a catalyst for change—driving inclusive growth, forging equal partnerships, and empowering nations to break free from imposed systems in pursuit of a just, multipolar world order.2025-07-0334 minAfrican CurrentsFitch's Downgrade of Afreximbank Reveals Deeper Issue of Systemic Rating BiasA recent controversial credit slash by Fitch Ratings has sparked concern among experts, who warn it could make financing more expensive for African countries. They claim the decision ignored international standards and treaty-backed loan guarantees.2025-07-0129 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Energy Drive Reflects Its Growth Potential, Oil and Gas Expert SaysMozambique is accelerating its path to energy independence through a new partnership involving Nigeria's energy giant, Aiteo Eastern E&P, and state-owned Petroleos de Mocambique, S.A. (Petromoc), to build a modular refinery capable of processing 200,000 barrels per day. With expanded fuel storage and product diversification, the project aims to reduce imports, lower costs, and create new jobs in the energy sector.
Maputo is also launching a $1.5 billion gas pipeline to Zambia, designed to transport 3.5 million tonnes of fuel annually. The project seeks to boost regional energy security, position Mozambique as a key oil and gas player in Southern...2025-06-3032 minAfrican Currents'Cryptocurrency is an Instrument of the Future,' Nigeria's SEC DG SaysOn March 29, 2025, President Bola Tinubu signed the new ISA 2025 into law, replacing the old version from 2007.
The new law gives the SEC more power to oversee the market, and introduces several forward-looking provisions aimed at deepening Nigeria’s capital markets. It empowers the SEC to supervise commodity exchanges, crowdfunding platforms, and financial technology operators, etc.
The Act establishes a framework for systemic risk monitoring, enhances investor compensation mechanisms, and enforces stricter penalties for market infractions—all designed to improve market efficiency, foster innovation, and protect investor interests. These reforms align Nigeria’s regulatory architecture with global standards.2025-06-2514 minAfrican Currents'We Have Seen Growth of Sizable Russian Investments,' Tanzanian Official SaysAs global powers recalibrate their engagement with Africa, Tanzania's longstanding partnership with Russia has already produced solid economic benefits, and a new chapter of collaboration is unfolding.
Tanzania’s commitment to market reforms, regional integration, and foreign investment has further reinforced its geographical advantage and market appeal—making it a compelling partner for nations looking to engage meaningfully with Africa’s growth story.2025-06-2423 minAfrican Currents'Happy to be Part of Global Digital Forum, Because It's Hosted in Russia,' IT Expert SaysDelegates from more than 30 African nations convened at the Global Digital Forum to forge strategic alliances with Russia and other global innovators in digital technology and media. Durin the roundtable, "Practices of Countering Disinformation Across Nations: Colonial Legacy, Technology, and Politics," panelists warned of the dangers posed by AI-driven deepfakes. They also underscored the necessity of real-time fact-checking to counter misinformation and manipulated content often propagated by Western media in less technologically sophisticated regions.
The forum also outlined inclusive growth strategies, demonstrating how robust e-commerce platforms and streamlined logistics can open new markets, reinforce value chains, and drive sustainable...2025-06-231h 05African Currents'Africa Needs to Ride on Russia for Smart Partnerships,' Zimbabwean Official SaysThe first-ever Global Digital Forum—the largest event of its kind—was recently held in Russia’s historic city of Nizhny Novgorod, bringing together over 2,000 IT experts, along with representatives from government, international and regional organizations, businesses, and the academia, to shape a shared vision for the future of digital technology.2025-06-2055 minAfrican CurrentsHow Ghanaians Are Transforming Future of Their Cocoa IndustryLong before chocolate graced shop windows worldwide, indigenous peoples revered Theobroma cacao as a “food of the gods,” a potion of power and pleasure. A millennia later, cocoa’s story in West Africa is being reborn.At Volta Winery, cocoa pulp once tossed aside now ages into crisp white and hibiscus-kissed red wines, while a physician-turned-cocoa farmer codifies crop’s medicinal credentials against diabetes and hypertension.
With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) beckoning a generation of young people hungry for opportunity, cocoa promises more than an export: it is a cataly...2025-06-2054 minAfrican Currents'Black Box Rating Models' Don't Reflect Africa's Economic Potential, Expert SaysGlobal wealth and economic indicators overwhelmingly favor the Global North, leaving the Global South at a persistent disadvantage. This imbalance manifests in trade terms, investment flows, and access to affordable credit. For poorer nations, the deck is stacked: they often face dire circumstances that limit their policy options due to external pressures.2025-06-0339 minAfrican Currents'It's Just a Chain of Exploitation Happening in Africa', Workers' Rights Advocate SaysData workers in Africa risk their physical and mental well-being and struggle with poor pay, unfair firing, covert surveillance, and short-term employment. These abuses stem from hidden labor‐arbitrage practices in which companies representing Western tech giants exploit regional wage disparities to drive down costs.2025-06-0357 minAfrican CurrentsHow AI-Powered Technical & Vocational Education Can Reshape AfricaAfrica stands at a transformative crossroads where artificial intelligence (AI) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) can together unlock unprecedented opportunities for skill development and economic growth. With over 60 percent of its population under 25 years old, according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the continent faces an urgent need to equip its youth with practical, future-ready skills that AI-driven TVET programs uniquely provide.
Integrating AI into TVET will personalize learning, bridge infrastructure gaps, and propel innovation—turning Africa’s demographic dividend into a powerhouse of technological progress and sustainable development.2025-05-3030 minAfrican CurrentsHow Nigerian Humorist Fights African Stereotypes With TikTok SatireNigerian TikTok sensation is taking on false notions about Africa with humor and flair, using her viral skits to challenge ignorance and misinformation about the continent. With over 3.2 million followers, she blends sarcasm and wit to answer bizarre questions from viewers—like whether Africans live alongside wild animals or use mobile phones—turning social media into a powerful tool for education and cultural pride.2025-05-2330 minAfrican CurrentsWitchweed: Kenya Strikes Back at the ‘Botanical Vampire’ Threatening Food SecurityAcross Africa, a silent invader is crippling harvests and threatening food security. Witchweed, a parasitic plant, has plagued farms for decades. In Kenya’s drought-stricken fields, it is ravaging maize crops—until now. This invasive menace may have met its Waterloo through an unlikely source.2025-05-2051 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Private Capital Attracts Global InvestorsAfrica’s private capital markets are roaring to life, defying global economic headwinds with an 8 percent year-on-year surge in deal volumes—the second-highest growth globally, according to 2024 data from the African Private Capital Association’s (AVCA) 2024 data..
This momentum is powered by the continent’s youthful population, rich green resources, and reform-minded leaders dismantling bureaucratic hurdles to welcome international investment.
But challenges remain. The African Development Bank notes that Africa’s GDP is projected to grow by 4.1 percent in 2025, yet its core economic engine—the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), often called the “missing middle”—remains underfunded despite employing...2025-05-1929 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Medical Ingenuity Transforms Lives and Builds Healthier FuturesEvery child deserves the chance to smile, eat, and speak without struggle—but for many born with a cleft lip or palate, life begins with daunting challenges. These conditions, often left untreated in parts of Africa due to limited access to surgical care, can severely affect feeding, hearing, and speech. Organizations like Operation Smile are helping to bridge that gap by providing free surgeries, training local doctors, and raising awareness across the continent. Their work restores dignity and hope to countless families. In that same spirit of innovation and compassion, South African surgeon made global headlines in 2019 by performing the wo...2025-05-1221 minAfrican CurrentsHow Are Western Diets Making Africa Sick?Based in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region—a sharp contrast of urban processed-food influx and rural agrarian traditions—novel research reveals the hidden toll of dietary Westernization. Researchers tracked young men switching from ancestral diets (rich in fermented mbege, leafy greens, and whole grains) to calorie-dense junk food, observing increased inflammation and immune dysfunction within weeks. Yet when participants reverted to traditional meals, their bodies rebounded: gut microbiomes came alive, inflammation plummeted, and immune responses surged. The findings, published in Nature Medicine, spotlight Africa’s culinary heritage not as a relic of the past but as a potent antidote to a rising t...2025-05-0738 minAfrican CurrentsWill US Tariffs Trigger Africa’s Economic Reinvention?Amid the disruption lies an opportunity. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gaining traction, there is renewed urgency to recalibrate economic strategies, reduce external dependencies, and invest in intra-African trade. If anything, this moment may serve as a catalyst, prompting African leaders to pursue a more resilient and self-determined economic path, less vulnerable to the political tides of external partners.2025-05-0541 minAfrican CurrentsHow Homegrown Fertilizer is Revitalizing Uganda's Coffee FarmsUganda, Africa’s second-largest coffee producer and the world’s 10th largest, depends heavily on coffee for economic survival. In the 2023/24 fiscal year, the country earned $1.14 billion from coffee exports, a 35 percent increase from the previous year.
Coffee doesn’t just bring in revenue; it supports over 1.7 million farmers, making it a vital source of livelihood. But as Uganda’s coffee production grows, so does the pressure on the land. Soil depletion threatens not only crop yields but the financial security of its farmers.
However, a promising new solution is offering hope: collagen-based fertilizer. By boosting microbial activity...2025-04-2429 minAfrican CurrentsBranding Africa: It’s Time to Forge a Bold Narrative and Reclaim IdentityThere is a clarion call for Africa to change how the world sees it, not as a land of problems, but as a place of pride, power, and promise. From tech to fashion, food to finance, African brands are on the rise, boldly rewriting a narrative long shaped by foreign eyes. With giants like MTN, Dangote Group, and Ethiopian Airlines leading the charge, momentum is building for a strong “Made in Africa” movement, one that inspires confidence, drives trade, and shapes a future imagined and built by Africans, for Africans.2025-04-1834 minAfrican CurrentsHow Kenya's Flower Industry is Blossoming Into New Markets GloballyThe global flower trade is far from ornamental — it’s a serious business worth billions. Valued at an estimated $37.45 billion in 2023, the cut flower market is projected to grow steadily at 4.8 percent annually through 2030.
While Europe has long dominated global consumption, new markets are quietly gaining ground. Among them is Russia, where floral demand remains strong despite ongoing geopolitical realignments. With a flower market worth $1.6 billion in 2023, Russia continues to rank among the world’s top consumers of fresh blooms.
Traditionally reliant on imports from the Netherlands, Ecuador, and Colombia, Russia is now broadening its bouquet of suppli...2025-04-1750 minAfrican CurrentsGagarin Defied All Odds, Botswana's Space Chief Reflects on Cosmonautics DayWhen Yuri Gagarin became the first human to orbit Earth in 1961, circling the planet in just 108 minutes, he didn’t just claim a victory for the Soviet Union, he fired the starting gun for a global space adventure. His courage sparked imaginations and inspired many worldwide, including in Africa, where a Zambian science teacher named Edward Makuka Nkoloso dreamed of sending an African astronaut to the moon. Though his grassroots program never left the ground, it captured international attention and symbolized Africa’s right to pursue the stars.
Today, that early dream is becoming reality, with over 15 African countries buil...2025-04-1154 minAfrican CurrentsCan Urgent Action Halt the Extinction of Africa’s Goliath Beetles?The majestic African Goliath beetle, one of the largest insects on our planet, is turning into an unexpected symbol of Africa’s disappearing rainforests. Stretching across West and Central Africa, these beetles do far more than impress with their size — they quietly keep the forest alive, helping to recycle nutrients and acting as living signals of how healthy the forests truly are.
But new research has uncovered a worrying truth: two species, Goliathus regius and Goliathus cacicus, are disappearing fast. Forests are being cleared for agriculture, and collectors are snapping up beetles for the growing insect trade. These vanishing gian...2025-04-1137 minAfrican CurrentsGhana and Zimbabwe’s Ancestral Treasures Dazzle at UNESCOUNESCO has added Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth, along with Zimbabwe’s revered Mbira/Sansi and Mbende Jerusarema dance, to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity—highlighting Africa’s vibrant living traditions on the global stage. Kente, with its bold patterns and vivid colors, serves as a visual language of the Akan people, conveying history, philosophy, and cultural values through each carefully crafted motif.2025-04-1000 minAfrican CurrentsWelcome Home: Ghana Reconnects Diaspora with Citizenship Drive for National GrowthBy nurturing a sense of shared heritage, African countries can encourage the diaspora to contribute to the continent's future.
Ghana is leading the way for Africa’s reconnection with its diaspora, transforming history into a powerful source of strength and opportunity. In 2019, the country launched the landmark "Year of Return", commemorating 400 years since enslaved Africans were first taken to Virginia, and welcomed thousands of descendants back to their ancestral home. Building on that emotional milestone, Ghana rolled out "Beyond the Return", an ambitious ten-year campaign to deepen diaspora ties through investment, cultural exchange, and community building. The momentum reached ne...2025-04-0757 minAfrican CurrentsFrom Cream to Crisis: What's Behind Africa's Skin Bleaching EpidemicSkin tone remains a social currency in many African societies, often shaping how individuals are valued and how they value themselves. While governments attempt to regulate the sale of skin-lightening products, entrenched beauty ideals rooted in colonial histories continue to drive demand. In Nigeria, an estimated 77 percent of women reportedly use these products - a trend echoed in Congo-Brazzaville (66%), Senegal (50%), Ghana (39%), South Africa (32%), and Mali (25%), according to the World Health Organization’s African Regional Office (2023). Speaking at a high-level workshop in Gabon, Nigerian health officials raised urgent concerns about the growing prevalence of these products and their harmful effects, which in...2025-04-0259 minAfrican CurrentsHow Ghana Combats Rising Internet Safety Threats to Protect ChildrenRecent studies show an uptick in digital engagement among African youth, with internet usage rates varying significantly across the continent. In Eastern and Southern Africa, over half (65 percent) of children aged 12-17 have accessed the internet in the past three months, though this figure ranges from just 25 percent in Ethiopia to a staggering 81 percent in Namibia, according to Safe Online. In response, organizations like the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF) are tackling these challenges head-on, offering education and advocacy to protect children online.2025-03-3131 minAfrican CurrentsNew Way of Measuring Inflation: What Changed and Why It Matters to NigeriansThe National Bureau of Statistics has rebased Nigeria’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) from 2009 to 2024, dropping the reported inflation rate from 34.80% to 24.48%. The move aims to reflect current economic realities, improve credit rating and investor decision-making, and help policymakers tackle the cost-of-living crisis more effectively.2025-03-2732 minAfrican CurrentsGabon Leverages Mineral Wealth to Drive Economic GrowthWhile oil has long underpinned Gabon's economy, mining is fast emerging as a backbone of its diversification agenda. The manganese mining industry, in particular, is experiencing a surge in revenue. Between January and September 2024, production rose by 10.7 percent, reaching 7.5 million tonnes, up from 6.7 million tonnes the year before—driven by improved infrastructure and mining technology. To secure long-term sustainability, the Central African country is pursuing investor-friendly reforms, offering tax incentives, and upgrading transport networks to attract foreign investment and bolster its position in the international minerals market.2025-03-2647 minAfrican CurrentsWho Really Benefits? The Uncomfortable Truth About Africa-Europe Economic Relations"A bird that relies on another for food will never fly far," says an African proverb that captures the quiet danger of dependency. This wisdom finds relevance in The Self-Deception Trap: Exploring the Economic Dimension of Charity Dependency with Africa-Europe Relations, where Professor Carlos Lopes, a Bissau-Guinean scholar at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, University of Cape Town, South Africa, offers a piercing critique of the unequal power dynamics that lie beneath Europe's so-called benevolent assistance.
In a spellbinding conversation, African Currents spoke with Professor Lopes to scrutinize the mindset shaping Africa-Europe relations, questioning whether Africa can...2025-03-2439 minAfrican CurrentsWestern Telecom’s AI Project in Africa Ignores the Continent's Linguistic DiversityLarge Language Models keep transforming multiple sectors around the world, yet African languages generally get less attention in AI development. While numerous African start-ups, including South Africa's Lelapa AI and Nigeria's Pamoja AI, are working to reduce this gap, Orange Telecommunications' recent collaboration with global AI tech behemoths raises worries about real inclusivity, as it concentrates solely on Pulaar and Wolof. By leaving out local markets where Orange offers telecom services to speakers of prominent African languages, this strategy risks limiting access to AI-driven digital solutions and strengthening the current digital divide. To achieve greater linguistic and cultural inclusiveness, a...2025-03-2057 minAfrican CurrentsHow Nigerian and Russian Cinema Can Reshape Global FilmmakingCinema has long been a window into culture, history, and human experience, and two of the world’s most dynamic film industries - Nollywood and Russia’s - are set to explore new creative frontiers together. While Nollywood captivates audiences with its fast-paced, emotionally charged storytelling, Russia’s film industry is celebrated for its cinematic depth, rich historical narratives, and meticulous craftsmanship. Their styles may seem worlds apart, but both industries share a deep-rooted passion for storytelling that resonates across generations. As global audiences demand more diverse narratives, an artistic exchange between these two film giants could introduce fresh perspectives, blendi...2025-03-1829 minAfrican CurrentsUncovering the Taung Child's True Legacy Beyond Colonial NarrativesThe discovery of the Taung Child, a new hominin species classified as Australopithecus africanus, is often hailed as a groundbreaking moment in science. Published on February 7, 1925, by Australian anatomist and anthropologist Raymond Dart, this finding marked a significant milestone in our understanding of human evolution. However, this achievement cannot be separated from the colonial biases that shaped it. Dart’s work was part of a system that treated African fossilized remains as mere tools for Western science while ignoring and excluding Indigenous knowledge and perspectives. Rather than challenging the systemic racism of the time, his research became entangled with it. La...2025-03-1357 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Journey Towards Sustainable Environmental StewardshipThe Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported in 2024 that over a third of Africa’s land is at risk of desertification. On the other hand, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) believes that 40% of the world’s land is substantially degraded, affecting millions of people. As a result, African governments are increasing their efforts to restore ecosystems by combining scientific research with local approaches to the problem.
Regreening Africa is a project that is reviving landscapes across the countries of Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, and Somalia. It is an initiative that shines out among othe...2025-03-1157 minAfrican CurrentsDo Africa's UN Votes on Ukraine Reflect A New Geopolitical Reality?By siding with Moscow on key UN resolutions concerning Ukraine, Washington has signaled a major shift in its foreign policy. The Trump administration's move, framed as prioritizing diplomacy over confrontation, raises questions about the US's long-term strategy and the potential fallout for its allies.The recent vote at the UN General Assembly over the Ukraine conflict exposed deep divisions in international politics. Ukraine, supported by European countries, presented a resolution titled "Advancing a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace." However, experts argue that the resolution's wording was confrontational.
The US, on the other hand, proposed a brief "Path to Peace"...2025-03-1044 minAfrican CurrentsUSAID in Africa: Development Partner or Trojan Horse?Recent revelations from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have exposed evidence of systemic corruption, financial mismanagement, and hidden agendas of bureaucrats, revealing USAID's role in advancing self-serving US political and economic goals like securing access to critical natural resources and expanding its geopolitical footprint in the Global South. This is often done through Western non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, and their local collaborators. These issues not only raise eyebrows about the agency's efficiency and resource allocation but also highlight the urgent need for a shift toward more transparent, locally driven development strategies that prioritize the autonomy and needs of...2025-03-0739 minAfrican CurrentsCan Medicine and Music Blend? This Doctor Makes it HappenA Zimbabwean medical professor is making waves in the music world under the alias "Prof. Daddy" or "Groovy Dr. Zi." Known for his expertise in hematology, he has never let go of his childhood love for music. His passion for medicine and music is evident in his unique ability to blend the two worlds. From recording his first album called "Mandela is a Giant" to hits like "Mtshele" and "Gimme Musiek," he has continued to inspire with his Afro-rock, Afro-pop, and mbakumba rock-based style. His music, influenced by rock legends and African icons, reflects his diverse talents. When he's not...2025-03-0459 minAfrican CurrentsCan Nigeria Become Africa's AI Powerhouse?Wini University is launching as Nigeria's first higher institution dedicated to artificial intelligence, marking a significant step toward placing the country as a leader in cutting-edge technology. Located in Epe, Lagos, the university aims to train a new generation in AI, blockchain, data science, and machine learning—fields critical to the digital economy. The initiative is a strategic push to transform Lagos into Africa's "Silicon Valley," tackling challenges like unemployment and the tech skills gap.2025-02-2659 minAfrican CurrentsDRC Crisis: What is Driving the Conflict?M23 rebels are tearing through DR Congo, leaving destruction in their wake and alarming regional and world leaders who fear a prolonged war. Kinshasa blames Kigali for fueling the insurgency, an accusation Rwanda denies. Reports suggest M23's control over mineral-rich areas is fueling illicit trade, with Western commodity traders and tech firms accused of profiting from "blood minerals." As fighting escalates, diplomatic efforts lag behind. African leaders push for a diplomatic solution, and even Russia's UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia has called for an immediate ceasefire. But with the rebels seizing Bukavu and thousands displaced, the crisis worsens.2025-02-2559 minAfrican CurrentsKenya Harnesses AI to Save its Forests from DestructionKenya's forests are vanishing at an alarming rate, driven by illegal logging, charcoal production, and the growing demand for agricultural land. This poses a threat to communities, water security, and the country's fight against climate change. Yet, artificial intelligence offers hope with an innovative way to protect forested areas.2025-02-1859 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Union: What Key Issues Does It Face Today?Recently, African leaders convened in Addis Ababa for the 38th AU Summit, calling for reparations for historical injustices like slavery and apartheid. The gathering also underscored the continent's push for cohesion and stability amid rising geopolitical tensions in its sub-regions.2025-02-1759 minAfrican CurrentsUnusual Local Solution to African Food SecurityAfrica's heavy reliance on wheat is driving up the cost of staple foods as imports rise by 9 percent annually, with East and West Africa leading the demand, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) warns. The growing trend is worsening food inflation and economic strain on households across the continent.2025-02-1159 minAfrican CurrentsNigeria Strengthens Global Ties With Strategic BRICS PartnershipAs international relations and diplomacy evolve, Nigeria—Africa's most populous country and an economic powerhouse—aligns with BRICS in pursuit of a fairer global system. It forges common ground with emerging economies, promoting multilateralism and broadening its global standing.2025-02-0659 minAfrican CurrentsHow Ideological Battles Shaped Africa's DestinyAfter Africa's decolonization, two rival factions shaped the continent's political course. Ghana's Kwame Nkrumah and Egypt's Gamal Abdel-Nasser led the Casablanca Group, advocating quick pan-African unity. However, Nigeria's Nnamdi Azikiwe and Liberia’s William Tubman piloted the Monrovia Group, favoring phased integration and national sovereignty.2025-02-0459 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Culture Makes its Voice Heard: Time to Reflect and Honor a LegacyEvery January, the international community commemorates the profound influence of African heritage on global society. From music and literature to science and fashion, these cultural roots run deep. But beyond the celebrations, is this rich legacy truly valued in mainstream narratives, or is it in danger of fading away?2025-01-3159 minAfrican CurrentsEgypt’s Foreign Reserves Hit Historic Highs: What’s Behind the Rise?The Central Bank of Egypt announced that the country's net international reserves reached $47.1 billion in December 2024, up from $35.22 billion during the same period of 2023. This milestone reflects strategic foresight, international cooperation, and the robust foundations of the North African country's growing economy.2025-01-2859 minAfrican CurrentsHow Western Second-Hand Clothes Undermine African Textile IndustryUsed clothing exports from the West to Africa are a remnant of colonial rule and are often labeled as support for the "poor." However, since the 1990s, the rise of fast fashion has turned this trade into a damaging force, increasing the dependence of local populations on these bales of ruin.2025-01-2159 minAfrican CurrentsOver $60 Billion at Stake: Libya’s Battle to Repatriate Gaddafi-Era Secret Bonds from USLibyan Asset Recovery and Management Office head Mohammed Mansli is set to discuss concealed US bonds dating to Muammar Gaddafi's regime. As the North African nation navigates legal and financial hurdles, the discovery raises hopes for an economic revival driven by recovered assets.2024-12-3059 minAfrican Currents2024 in Review: Africa Steadily Positions Itself as Powerful ForceAs Africa reflects on 2024, the continent stands at a pivotal juncture in its economic evolution. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) driving regional collaboration and a new seat at the G20 table, Africa is steadily positioning itself as a powerful force in the emerging global multipolar order.2024-12-2859 minAfrican CurrentsIs Africa's Debt Reaching Breaking Point?Africa's debt servicing costs have skyrocketed by 500%, with private creditors now holding nearly 50% of the continent's debt. In 2024, Africa's debt reached about $74 billion, threatening long-term stability. The African Development Bank proposes reforms, but finding sustainable solutions remains a pressing issue.2024-12-2759 minAfrican CurrentsSouth African Doctor Makes History With World’s First 3D-Printed Middle Ear ImplantFrom rural Venda, in South Africa, to global recognition, one young medical pioneer defied the odds to transform ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care. Using 3D printing, he created a groundbreaking solution for conductive hearing loss, giving hope to millions. His story shows how African innovation is shaping the future of modern medicine.2024-12-2659 minAfrican CurrentsColonial Legacy of Cultural Heist: How Western Museums Resist Returning Africa’s ArtifactsThe quest by African communities to return their cultural treasures stolen during colonial times and stashed across European and North American museums is not just about missing objects; it is a wound that continues to hurt. The call for their repatriation highlights the deep-seated injustice rooted in colonial exploitation.2024-12-2359 minAfrican CurrentsZimbabwe to Ditch Colonial-Era Names of Provinces, Pushes Gold-Backed CurrencyAt a recent convention, ZANU-PF, Zimbabwe's ruling party, announced plans to erase colonial legacies by renaming provinces with native names and adopting the new gold-pegged ZiG as the sole legal tender. These initiatives aim to reshape the nation’s post-colonial identity, foster economic stability, and dedollarize.2024-12-1959 minAfrican CurrentsCan World’s Largest Free Trade Agreement Double Intra-African Trade in 5 Years?With a single market of over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to transform Africa into an economic powerhouse through infrastructure development, capital mobilization, and policy coordination, unlocking the continent's full growth potential in just five years.2024-12-1759 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Gene Pool: A Critical Source for Pharmaceutical Research & DevelopmentThree percent of global clinical trials happens in Africa, limiting research on how medicines interact with its genetic makeup. This imbalance hinders the development of treatments tailored to African populations, which could potentially revolutionize global health and improve the efficacy of medications worldwide.2024-12-1659 minAfrican CurrentsMahama’s Comeback: What Ghana's President Elect Means for the Nation's FutureThe outcome of the December 7, 2024, elections in Ghana reaffirmed the country's role as a democratic model in Africa. With a peaceful process and high voter turnout, Ghana opted for a leader returning for a second non-consecutive term to address pressing national issues.2024-12-1259 minAfrican CurrentsWhy is Africa Prioritizing Value Addition and Revenue Growth in its Critical Minerals Revolution?Africa is ramping up efforts to plug revenue leakages and revitalize its extractive industries, with Kenya adopting the initiative through gold refining and granite processing plants set to launch by mid-2025. With the continent targeting a 9 percent share of global rare earth supply by 2029, experts see potential for economic benefits and jobs.2024-12-1059 minAfrican CurrentsFrom Buzzing Bees to Sniffer Rats: Unsung Heroes of Africa's Wildlife ConservationProtecting wildlife is challenging due to the damage caused by elephants to farms and the growing illegal animal trade, worth $20 billion annually. Innovative methods, such as using bees to deter elephants and training rats to detect smuggled wildlife, are making a difference. These efforts aim to protect both animals and local communities.2024-12-0659 minAfrican Currents'Galamsey': How Ghana Is Tackling Illegal Artisanal MiningUnregulated gold extraction in Ghana sustains livelihoods but devastates the environment, causing deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation. Despite measures taken by the government, nipping the problem in bud still demands sustainable solutions to balance economic needs with environmental protection.2024-12-0359 minAfrican CurrentsHow Collaborative Action Can Tackle Antibiotic Resistance in AfricaAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) has surpassed malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis to emerge as Africa's most dreaded health emergency. Despite regional efforts like the AMR Global Action Plan, misuse of antimicrobials, poor sanitation, and limited healthcare access continue to fuel the crisis, threatening millions of lives across the continent.2024-12-0259 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Manufacturers Unite to Build Resilience and Enhance Global CompetitivenessSub-Saharan Africa's manufacturing leaders convened at this year's Manufacturing Indaba to address industry challenges and growth opportunities. Discussions on digital innovation, skilled labor, and partnerships underscored the push for global competitiveness and an inclusive post-COVID manufacturing sector.2024-11-2559 minAfrican CurrentsHow Misleading Western Narratives Drain $4.2 Billion from Africa YearlyA new report uncovers the hidden costs of how Western media portrays Africa, showing an annual loss of up to $4.2 billion. The findings point to a vicious cycle: biased election coverage and constant negative stories raise borrowing costs, scare off investors, and push up bond yields for African countries.2024-11-0859 minAfrican CurrentsTurning Vision into Reality: South African Scientist Makes Solar Power BreakthroughIn 2005, South African physicist Vivian Alberts changed solar power with a new thin-film technology that uses a light five-element alloy instead of silicon. Now patented in over 100 countries, this affordable option can make solar power more widely available, especially in developing countries where accessibility and cost are big factors.2024-11-0259 minAfrican CurrentsCalls to Reform Multilateral Institutions Echo Africa and the Global South's Longstanding DemandsRecently, the Group of Twenty nations adopted a landmark “Call to Action on Global Governance Reform” at the UN, backing reforms in bodies like the UN Security Council, WTO, and IMF. Led by Brazil’s presidency, it seeks stronger representation of the Global South and women, equitable taxation, debt relief, and an reformed global financial system.2024-10-3059 minAfrican CurrentsBRICS Common Carbon Market: Russia’s Vision for Climate and Economic Gains for AfricaRussia's Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Union's initiative to integrate African nations into a BRICS unified carbon market could boost the continent's role in global emissions trading and increase access to investment and green tech, addressing infrastructure and resource gaps that have limited Africa's carbon market gains.2024-10-2859 minAfrican CurrentsBRICS Declaration: 'Resolutions Also Give us Sense of Level of Analysis Done,' ExpertBRICS leaders' gathering at the 16th summit ended with the adoption of a key document containing 134 resolutions, demonstrating the alliance's commitment to addressing pressing issues like security and economic inequality. It marks a shift toward a multipolar world, empowering developing economies and focusing on sustainable growth and inclusion.2024-10-2559 minAfrican Currents'BRICS Help Other Economies Rediscover Themselves,' Nigerian Academic SaysLeaders from emerging economies gathered for the BRICS 2024 Summit in Kazan, Russia, alongside representatives from over 30 countries. Focused on strengthening economic cooperation, reducing inequality, and reforming global governance, this event aims to reshape global dynamics and foster a more balanced, inclusive world for developing nations.2024-10-2559 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Crypto Boom: How the Continent is Racing Ahead in Global Digital FinanceCryptocurrency adoption is skyrocketing across Africa, outpacing more developed economies in growth. While advanced economies remain cautious, digital currencies are being embraced in Africa at an unprecedented rate. Bitget’s user base in the region has soared by 1600%, highlighting a rapid shift toward alternative financial solutions.2024-10-1659 minAfrican CurrentsRwanda Partners Russia's Rosatom to Build Nuclear Power PlantAs Africa's energy needs grow, Russia's growing influence in nuclear energy has reached Rwanda, marking a significant step in international collaboration on energy solutions. This includes initiatives to establish a research reactor and promote innovation in agriculture and medicine through nuclear technology in the country.2024-10-1459 minAfrican CurrentsFrom Sputnik to Climate Solutions: Africa’s Growing Footprint in Space TechWorld Space Week 2024 connotes the prospects and hurdles of space missions. This annual event unites the international community to celebrate key moments in space technology and the value of its education. Given the harmful effects of climate change, this year's theme, "Space and Climate Change," focuses on space's role in addressing this issue.2024-10-1059 minAfrican CurrentsRosatom Inspires Africa's Next Generation of Nuclear Scientists & Decision-makersRosatom's recent Atoms Empowering Africa event has recognized twenty young people who emerged as finalists. Through this initiative, the winners visited Russia to gain insights into nuclear technology advancements, fostering their knowledge of sustainable energy solutions while engaging with Russian cultural traditions.2024-10-0759 minAfrican CurrentsHow New African Auto Brand is Pushing Continent's Automotive RenaissanceThe automotive sector in Africa is experiencing significant growth, fueled by local manufacturing and strategic resource management. This transformation, driven by innovative practices and the utilization of abundant natural resources, is setting the stage for Africa to become a major force in the global automotive industry.2024-09-2748 minAfrican CurrentsRussia's Educational Influence Grows in Africa With Public Diplomacy PushRussian universities in Novosibirsk and Tomsk are partnering with Africa through education and research. Led by the Center for Public Diplomacy, these institutions promote talent and knowledge exchange in science, technology, and innovation, marking a new phase in Russia-Africa relations centered on capacity building and development.2024-09-2059 minAfrican CurrentsRussia-Africa Currency Shift: Nigeria's Chance for Enhanced Economic OpportunitiesNigeria stands poised to seize an economic opportunity as the shift to local currencies gains traction in Russia-Africa trade. By embracing this move, the country could reduce reliance on foreign currencies and unlock new trade avenues, economist say.2024-09-2059 minAfrican CurrentsCultural Pride & Diaspora Power on Display at August Edo Festival RussiaThe Edo Festival held in August in Moscow was a vibrant cultural exchange connecting the historic Benin Kingdom to the world. The event was organized to enhance economic growth and development in critical sectors and deepen ties between Edo State and Russia by highlighting the legacy of influential Edo indigenes and fostering cultural diplomacy.2024-09-1859 minAfrican CurrentsNigerians in Diaspora: A Vital Force for Nation-Building, Bilateral Relations With RussiaNigerians living abroad are integral to the country's development, contributing their expertise, skills, and resources to drive impactful projects back home. Their efforts exemplify how global networks can foster nation-building and mutually beneficial relations, especially with Russia.2024-09-1359 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Women in Science: Shaping Brighter Future for ContinentWomen and girls empowerment is crucial for Africa's future. When given better access to education, healthcare, and opportunities, their ability to make a real difference is unlocked. Recognizing their achievements and leadership acumen show their relevance in tackling problems and shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the continent.2024-09-1359 minAfrican CurrentsChina & Russia Lead Charge in Global Power ShiftAs global power dynamics evolve, recent events this month signal the growing call for multipolarity. While the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing advanced mutual dialogue and collaboration between the parties, the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok, showed Russia's deep ties with Asia-Pacific nations and global investors.2024-09-1059 minAfrican CurrentsHow South Africa is Pioneering Advances in Modern MedicineSouth Africa, a country with a history in advancing medical research and innovation is taking exemplary steps to find solutions to health problems from cleft lip and palate to tuberculosis, restoring hope to patients. African Currents hosts a plastic surgeon and a researcher to discuss the significance of these milestones.2024-09-0259 minAfrican CurrentsHistoric First: Africa Showcases Advancements in AstronomyAfrica hosted its first global gathering of astronomers in Cape Town, South Africa. The event featured competitions, symposia, and lectures that elevated Africa's standing in astronomy. It provided an opportunity for young scientists to interact with top astronomers to foster their passion for the field.2024-08-2759 minAfrican CurrentsIgbo Community in Russia: Catalyst for Strengthening Russia-Nigeria CooperationFar from their ancestral homeland in southeastern Nigeria, the Igbo diaspora in Russia is proving to be a multipurpose bridge between their host nation and their country. The annual Igbo Festival, a vibrant celebration of tradition and heritage, offers a unique platform for developing business cooperation and deepening intercultural dialogue.2024-08-2359 minAfrican CurrentsInvestigative Journalist Exposes UK NGO's Attempt to Sabotage Nigeria's Energy SectorAfrican governments have made gradual progress toward energy security, but foreign and local actors try to undermine these efforts. This is evidenced by a recent revelation from a Nigerian journalist exposing the UK-based NGO Dialogue Earth’s attempt to co-opt him for a paid advocacy job aimed at subverting Nigeria's energy independence efforts.2024-08-2059 minAfrican CurrentsZimbabwe Adopts Strategic De-Dollarization Roadmap, Shifts to Gold-Backed ZiGZimbabwe unveiled its blueprint for promoting economic stability and de-dollarization by adopting the gold-backed ZiG to reduce its dependence on the US dollar. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed confidence in the new currency's potential to become the nation's sole legal tender by 2026, outpacing the initial 2030 timeline.2024-08-1659 minAfrican CurrentsHow Africa Can Strengthen Its Fight Against Hunger and MalnutritionAfrica is making effort in achieving sustainable development in food security. In this episode of African Currents, we will highlight agriculturists' expert opinions on adopting innovative strategies to end hunger and eradicate all forms of malnutrition by 2030, focusing on sub-Saharan Africa.2024-08-1459 minAfrican CurrentsIs Nigeria's Proposed Homegrown Nigerium Blockchain Key to its Data Sovereignty?To enhance Nigeria's digital independence, the country's National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is considering creating an indigenous blockchain, dubbed "Nigerium," as a domestic alternative for data security to reduce reliance on foreign technology and set the West African nation at the forefront of the global tech scene.2024-08-0959 minAfrican CurrentsFrom Board to Pitch: Sports as Bridge for Global Diplomacy & Cultural ExchangeThe Russian House in Lusaka and the Zambian Chess Federation recently hosted the "Chess Museum" photo exhibition, an open Russian language lesson, and a chess tournament. African Currents' host, Chimauchem Nwosu, sits down with professionals and enthusiasts to discuss the power of sporting activities.2024-08-0840 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Governments Opt for Gold Amid Rising Distrust in DollarSeveral African nations, like Nigeria, Madagascar, South Sudan, and Zimbabwe, are taking precautionary measures to boost their gold holdings to offset geopolitical risks and support their currencies against inflationary pressures and economic turmoil.2024-08-0859 minAfrican CurrentsAfrica's Malaria Crisis: Can GMO Mosquitoes Come to Rescue?Malaria continues to devastate Africa, with vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children being hit the hardest. Despite progress, 95% of global cases and deaths occur on the continent, according to the WHO. Can radical solutions like Kenya's purported research collaboration on GMO mosquitoes help fight mosquito-borne illnesses?2024-08-0859 minAfrican CurrentsCharting Course for Awareness on Brain and Neurological Health in AfricaAccording to the World Health Organization, neurological disorders are the primary cause of global disability and ill health, with more than 3 billion people currently affected. These conditions result in over 80% of deaths and health issues in low- and middle-income regions, with sub-Saharan Africa hit the hardest.2024-07-2559 minAfrican CurrentsGMOs: Is Nigeria's Food Security Under Threat?Recently, the Nigerian government authorized the release of TELA maize, a genetically engineered crop, to boost food production and curb pest resistance. This move has sparked heated controversy due to safety concerns and potential environmental impact, although advocates assert that TELA maize is essential for Nigeria's food security.2024-07-1859 minAfrican CurrentsRussia Increases Access to Higher Education for African YouthsAbout 35,000 African students are currently enrolled in Russian universities, with this number growing each year. Education initiatives like the Russian-African Network University and various university partnerships are expected to enhance academic mobility for African students and scholars.2024-07-1532 minAfrican CurrentsChocolate's Dark Secret: Wealthy Companies, Impoverished FarmersThe global chocolate industry generates billions yearly, relying heavily on Africa, which produces 70% of the world's cocoa beans. However, Africa captures only a tiny share of the market, dominated by Western chocolatiers that benefit from price volatility and arbitrage, undermining the livelihoods of African cocoa farmers.2024-07-1241 minAfrican CurrentsIs Unified Visa Key to Southern Africa's Economic Prosperity?Southern Africa boasts a vast and diverse and flourishing ecosystem that makes it a prime tourist destination. Recognizing the need for enhanced regional integration and socio-economic development, countries in the subregion have embraced a unified visa regime to unlock tourism's full potential to drive economic growth.2024-07-0959 minAfrican Currents'We Call Ourselves an Entrepreneurial State', State Minister SaysThe imminent launch of Ethiopia's first stock exchange and its emergence as Africa's fifth-largest economy are testament to the country's economic growth, which has been spurred by sweeping reforms in critical sectors of the economy.2024-07-0823 minAfrican CurrentsHow Africa Fights Drug AbuseThe menace of drug abuse among Africa's young population has spiked in recent years. According to the UN's 2021 World Drug Report, the number of drug users globally is projected to hit 11 percent by 2030, which translates to 40 percent in Africa. However, there are concerted efforts by governments on the continent to tackle the problem.2024-07-0559 minAfrican CurrentsTechnological Sovereignty: Can Africa Wean Itself From Western Dependence?Western technologies have become the backbone of every economic sector in any country in Africa. This over-dependence begs for a critical self-assessment by African governments to address this widespread problem and prioritize fostering homegrown inventions and innovations to attain technological sovereignty.2024-07-0229 minAfrican CurrentsRedefining Education for Sub-Saharan Africa's Growth & ProsperityAfrica's working-age population [15-64] is expected to double by 2050, yet African nations' spending on education is low, yielding slow progress in educational outcomes, an IMF's report from April said. Thus, countries on the continent should increase their education budget to attain universal enrollment by 2030, the IMF concluded.2024-06-2534 minAfrican Currents'Eventful and Productive': Putin's State Visits to North Korea and VietnamThe Russian president's state visits to long-standing allies underscore the Moscow's efforts to bolster its strategic partnerships with its Asian neighbors. These visits highlight the necessity of diplomacy, mutual respect, and shifting from a hegemonic unipolar system to a multipolar world order.2024-06-2424 minAfrican CurrentsNigeria's Mining Sector Gets Major Boost From Russia's RosatomPragmatic economic reforms have positioned Edo State as a top investment hub in Nigeria. This is exemplified by Edo granting Russia's state atomic energy corporation, Rosatom, a lithium exploration and processing license.2024-06-2159 minAfrican CurrentsAfrican Development Bank Group Launches New 10-Year Plan for the ContinentDuring its annual meeting this year in Nairobi, Kenya, the president of Africa's multilateral development finance institution, Akinwumi Adesina, presented the institution’s fresh blueprint for the next decade, aimed at steering the continent toward long-term economic development and prosperity.2024-06-2137 minAfrican CurrentsMacron's Policy Missteps Erode French Influence in Former ColoniesRelations between France and its former colonies in Africa has drastically thawed, resulting in its diminished influence in those countries. Also, New Caledonia's recent unrest begs the question: Why is France's influence under Emmanuel Macron's presidency?2024-06-1400 min