AFRICA

The last two decades have been tumultuous for African banking, with big international banks moving out of the continent and a bevvy of more nimble local banks stepping in to mop up opportunities in a fast-growing region. A technological revolution in the form of digital banking helped smaller banks spread …

A recent Afrobarometer survey shows shifting attitudes among Africans regarding gender-based violence. Experts suggest a more comprehensive approach could help shift the dial further. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | Public perceptions towards gender-based violence are shifting in Africa, according to a survey by Afrobarometer, a pan-African attitudes research company. …

A modest popsicle-making business in Umoja, Kenya is transforming options for women working in the neighbourhood. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | The rains may have started but residents of Umoja in Nairobi County are still able to enjoy a frozen treat from Azin Pops – and while they’re at …

Harare, Zimbabwe | Xinhua |  Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Mthuli Ncube on Thursday proposed a “wealth tax” that targets the country’s super-rich with an intention to use the funds earned from the new measure to upgrade urban infrastructure. Presenting the 2024 national budget statement to …

As the globe gathers for COP28’s first-ever Global Stocktake, Africa demands that the world’s biggest polluters to fund the fallout of their actions. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | African nations are intensifying their push for substantial climate finance from the world’s biggest polluters as the 28th edition of the …

A multi-billion capital infusion revitalises Africa’s landmark “Loss and Damage” climate deal SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | After securing the landmark climate damage compensation deal at COP27, Africa’s push for the Loss and Damage Fund gets a major shot in the arm at this year’s climate summit, after states …

Lagos, Nigeria | THE INDPENDENT |  With $6.2 trillion worth of natural resources, 65 percent of the world’s uncultivated arable land, and a vibrant youth population, Africa has no excuse to be poor, African Development Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina has said . He said the continent must look inward urgently …

Recent surges in home solar energy installations across Africa indicate that more people on the continent may have access to electricity than previously thought. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY |  Emerging data is shedding new light on the electricity landscape in Africa, indicating the oft-cited statistics of those without power …

SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | Press freedom has emerged as a crucial barometer of Africa’s democratic progress. Across the continent, ten nations are scripting a new narrative of empowerment and transparency, where a bold and free media is not just a dream but a burgeoning reality. This list was …

A Tanzanian sugar company is vying to acquire one of South Africa’s largest sugar companies, a development that highlights the potential for collaboration among African businesses. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | An African sugar multinational is one of a number of companies vying to take over operations of South …