Recycling, central to global waste reduction strategies, presents a mixed picture. While countries like Germany recycle 67% of their municipal waste, the global average remains low at 19.7%, according to the International Solid Waste Association. In the European Union alone, recycling has cut 42 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, highlighting its role in mitigating climate change. However, the effectiveness of recycling programmes depends on government policies, public participation, and investment in waste management infrastructure. Japan has pioneered waste-to-energy technology, converting over 80% of its waste into energy through incineration and biofuel processes. Meanwhile, Sweden, which recycles 99% of its waste, has developed an advanced circular economy where waste is converted into resources.

READ ALSO: Africa’s Waste Management Success: A Model for U.S. Reform?

Africa’s Waste Management Challenge

Africa contributes roughly 9% of global waste but faces the most severe waste management challenges. The continent generates approximately 70 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 10% being formally recycled. The rest ends up in open dumps, rivers, and streets, exacerbating environmental hazards and public health crises. Nigeria alone produces over 32 million tonnes of solid waste annually, yet only 4% is formally recycled, leading to widespread pollution. Similarly, Kenya generates 3,000 tonnes of waste daily, but only 8% is recovered through recycling. In Ghana, over 12,000 tonnes of plastic waste are generated daily, but only 2% is recycled, leaving vast amounts of waste to clog waterways and contribute to flooding in cities like Accra.

Despite these challenges, Africa is witnessing a growing movement towards a circular economy, where waste is transformed into economic opportunities. South Africa leads the continent in recycling, with a 43% recycling rate for plastic packaging waste, according to Plastics SA. Rwanda, through its ban on single-use plastics and strict waste management policies, has emerged as one of Africa’s cleanest nations. The country has also invested in e-waste recycling plants that process over 10,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually. Ethiopia has developed Africa’s first waste-to-energy plant, the Reppie facility, which processes 1,400 tonnes of waste daily to generate electricity for over 25% of Addis Ababa’s population.

Recycling as a Solution: A Double-Edged Sword?

Recycling alone cannot entirely solve Africa’s waste crisis, but it can be a powerful tool in the broader waste management strategy. The industry has the potential to create over 500,000 direct jobs across Africa if properly implemented, according to the UN Environment Programme. However, several barriers must be addressed. A lack of infrastructure remains a significant challenge, as many African countries lack formal recycling facilities, making waste separation and processing difficult.

Low public awareness also hampers progress, with many communities unaware of the economic and environmental benefits of recycling. Financial constraints further complicate the issue, as recycling is capital-intensive, requiring investments in technology, transportation, and processing plants. Additionally, weak policies and enforcement undermine efforts. Many African nations have recycling policies but struggle with enforcement, leading to low compliance.

The informal waste sector, consisting of millions of scavengers who collect and resell recyclable materials, plays a crucial role in waste management but lacks government support. In Lagos, Nigeria, an estimated 500,000 people engage in informal waste collection, yet they receive little protection or financial assistance. The expansion of formalised recycling programmes could integrate these workers into structured, safer systems while boosting recycling efficiency.

Investing in a Circular Economy

For recycling to be a viable solution, African governments must adopt a multi-pronged approach. Investing in waste management infrastructure is crucial, including building modern recycling plants and waste separation facilities. Incentivising the private sector through tax breaks and grants for companies investing in recycling can accelerate progress. Public education through awareness campaigns on the importance of recycling is essential for behavioural change. Legislative backing must also be strengthened by enforcing strict waste management laws to ensure compliance.

Case studies from successful waste management programmes can serve as blueprints for Africa. Brazil, which implemented a nationwide recycling incentive programme, saw waste collection rates rise from 2% to 59% in under a decade. The United Arab Emirates, through its Zero Waste Initiative, aims to divert 75% of its waste from landfills by 2025, demonstrating the effectiveness of policy-driven strategies. African nations could replicate these models by adapting them to local contexts, leveraging technology, and enacting policy reforms.

Africa is at a crossroads in its waste management journey. Recycling alone is not a silver bullet, but when combined with proper waste disposal, government policies, and public participation, it can significantly reduce waste pollution and unlock economic opportunities. The time for action is now; the longer Africa waits, the heavier the burden will become. If properly harnessed, recycling can turn Africa’s waste crisis into a wealth-creation opportunity, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.

The post Addressing Waste Crisis in Africa Through Recycling appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

In 2024, the most sought-after career paths among African students align with fields that promise high employability, career advancement, and opportunities for international migration. Key trends highlight strong interest in business, health, and science disciplines, with the UK, Canada, and the U.S. remaining leading destinations. These preferences reflect students’ desire to equip themselves with in-demand skills and knowledge to secure successful careers globally.

READ ALSO: Education, Partnerships, and the Future of Learning in Africa

Enrolment Surge: International Students Make Their Mark

International student enrolment statistics across the UK, Canada, and the U.S. indicate consistent growth, underscoring the increasing significance of these destinations for global education.

Canada: In 2023, Canada experienced a surge in international students, with the number of active study permits reaching 1,040,985—a significant 29% increase from the previous year, according to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

United Kingdom: The UK higher education sector also saw substantial growth, hosting a record 758,855 international students in the 2022/23 academic year, marking a 12% rise from the previous year.

United States: The U.S. continues to attract a large number of international students, with 1,126,690 students from over 210 countries enrolled in higher education institutions during the 2023/24 academic year, reflecting a 7% increase. New international student enrolment remained steady at 298,705, maintaining pre-pandemic levels.

Key Trends: Health, Business, and Science Lead the Way

The latest data reveals significant trends in the preferred fields of study among international students from Ghana and Nigeria:

Health Programmes on the Rise: Interest in health programmes in Canada surged in 2024, reflecting a growing focus on this sector among international student populations. Ghanaian and Nigerian students showed a particularly strong preference, with interest rates rising to 21% and 20%, respectively—each reflecting a five percentage point increase.

Business in Demand: Business courses remain highly attractive, particularly to Ghanaian students, with the UK being their top destination at a 26.3% interest rate. This demand reflects their aspiration to acquire business acumen and build careers in a range of industries.

The Sciences Hold Strong: STEM fields continue to be a major draw, especially for Nigerian students in the U.S., where 18.3% have expressed interest. Ghanaian students also show strong interest, underscoring the importance of science-based careers in their ambitions.

The Road Ahead: Adapting to Evolving Preferences

As the preferences of African students continue to evolve, universities and educational institutions must adapt their recruitment strategies to meet the growing demand for high-value programmes. By understanding trends in career aspirations, analysing search patterns, and monitoring enrolment statistics, institutions can better position themselves to attract top students from Africa and support their journey towards a brighter future. The focus should be on offering programmes that equip students with the skills and expertise necessary to thrive in the global job market.

The post African Students Seek Global Opportunities in High-Demand Fields appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Elected at the 38th Ordinary Summit of the African Union in Addis Ababa for a four-year term, Youssouf embodies the promise of a new generation of African leadership, one that seeks to break from historical inefficacies and drive the continent toward self-reliance and prosperity. Youssouf, 59, takes over from Chad’s Moussa Faki, who has led the Commission since 2017. Algeria’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU, Selma Malika Haddadi, was also elected Deputy Chairperson, succeeding Rwanda’s Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa.

READ ALSO: Raila Odinga’s Vision for Transformative Leadership in the African Union

Who is Mahmoud Ali Youssouf?

Born on 2 September 1965, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has played a crucial role in shaping Djibouti’s foreign policy for nearly two decades. He has served as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation since 2005, making him one of the longest-serving diplomats in the Horn of Africa. His tenure has been marked by a strong focus on regional peace, security, and diplomatic engagement.

His education took him to the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, where he honed his skills in management. He attended the University of Liverpool, earning a master’s degree in management in 1990. This international academic experience provided him with a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.

Before assuming the role of Foreign Minister, Youssouf worked at Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, heading its Arab Affairs department during the 1990s. His early diplomatic roles were instrumental in shaping his leadership approach. In 1997, he was appointed ambassador to Egypt, a position he held until 2001, further expanding his diplomatic expertise.

Youssouf’s career has been marked by pivotal roles in international diplomacy. In 2001, he was appointed Minister-Delegate for International Cooperation and subsequently became Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in 2005. In 2008, he chaired the 129th Ordinary Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Arab League, further cementing his influence in regional and global diplomacy.

In a 2008 interview, Youssouf expressed Djibouti’s ambition to develop its economy along similar lines to Dubai. He emphasised the country’s strategic location, arguing that its port held advantages even over Dubai’s, underscoring his vision for Djibouti’s future economic and geopolitical prominence.

His career spans several administrations in Djibouti, having worked under three different presidents—a testament to his political adaptability and the trust placed in him by the nation’s leadership. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to regional peace, stability, and economic growth. His diplomatic acumen has also made him a key player in broader African diplomacy, earning him respect among fellow African leaders.

A New Era for the African Union?

As he assumes leadership of the AUC, Youssouf inherits a continent facing pressing challenges, from security crises to economic instability. He has been vocal about the need for Africa to take charge of its own peace and security, emphasising that the AU must reduce its dependence on external funding for military operations.

“We have to be outspoken and frank. We make decisions at the Peace and Security Council level, but these resolutions are not implemented,” Youssouf said during a live debate before his election.

He has stressed the need to revamp the AU’s peacekeeping framework, ensuring that African-led solutions drive conflict resolution efforts across the continent. He is expected to bring this experience into his role at the AUC, where he will be tasked with addressing pressing continental issues such as regional conflicts, economic integration, and sustainable development.

A Vision for Africa’s Future

Youssouf’s leadership comes at a critical time for Africa’s economic and political landscape. His priorities include:
Strengthening Continental Security—He aims to mobilise AU standby forces more effectively and push for greater financial independence in peacekeeping missions.

Economic Integration and the AfCFTA—The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) remains a key agenda, and Youssouf is expected to push for deeper economic integration.

AU Institutional Reforms—Many critics argue that the AU needs structural reforms to be more effective. Youssouf has hinted at streamlining decision-making processes and reducing bureaucracy.

Climate Change and Sustainable Development—He has expressed concerns about Africa’s vulnerability to climate change and has pledged to prioritise sustainable development initiatives.

Despite his extensive diplomatic experience, Youssouf faces significant challenges. The AU has been criticised for its slow response to crises in Sudan, the Sahel, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, concerns over funding and member states’ commitment to AU policies remain persistent issues.

His ability to navigate these hurdles will define his legacy as AUC Chairperson. Will Mahmoud Ali Youssouf be the transformative leader Africa needs? Only time will tell.

The post Who Is Mahmoud Youssouf, the New Face of the African Union? appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Justice for Africa is not merely a slogan; it is a call to action that echoed powerfully in Addis Ababa during the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU). At the heart of this gathering was a defining message: reparations for Africans and people of African descent are both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. This session on reparative justice highlighted Africa’s enduring colonial scars and the pressing need to address historical and systemic injustices.

Mr. Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), delivered a compelling address on the structural inequalities that continue to hinder Africa’s economic growth. From the transatlantic slave trade to colonial-era resource extraction, Africa has suffered relentless economic dispossession. Yet, paradoxically, it remains one of the world’s most resource-rich continents. It holds 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, 40% of its gold, and up to 90% of its chromium and platinum. Additionally, 65% of the world’s arable land lies within its borders. Despite these vast resources, Africa accounts for less than 3% of global trade and only 1% of global manufacturing output—an economic imbalance that calls for urgent redress.

The historical context of this economic injustice is deeply rooted in Africa’s past. The Berlin Conference of 1884–85, orchestrated by European powers, led to the arbitrary partitioning of the continent, disregarding existing ethnic and political boundaries. This facilitated a system of forced labour and ruthless exploitation of Africa’s wealth. Under King Leopold II’s rule, for example, an estimated 10 million Congolese perished between 1885 and 1908 due to brutal colonial policies in the Congo Free State.

Similarly, the transatlantic slave trade, spanning the 16th to 19th centuries, forcibly removed millions of Africans from their homeland, stripping the continent of its human capital and leaving a legacy of suffering. The effects of these atrocities persist today in the form of systemic racism and global economic disparities.

The injustice extends beyond historical exploitation. Africa remains significantly under-represented in international financial institutions. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), for instance, allots the entire African continent the same voting share as Germany, despite its 54 sovereign nations. Additionally, biased credit rating systems label most African economies as high-risk, increasing borrowing costs and deepening cycles of debt.

One of the most striking economic paradoxes discussed during the session was Africa’s disproportionate burden in the fight against climate change. Despite contributing the least to global carbon emissions, Africa bears the brunt of climate disasters, losing up to 5% of its GDP to climate-related damages annually. Yet, from the US$10 trillion invested globally in clean energy between 2015 and 2022, Africa received just 2%. This glaring disparity underscores the need for equitable climate financing mechanisms that recognise Africa’s vulnerabilities and provide substantial funding for adaptation and mitigation.

To address these injustices, Mr. Gatete outlined five crucial pathways:

1. Reforming the Global Financial System—Advocating for debt restructuring, fair credit assessments, and greater African representation in global financial decision-making.
2. Harnessing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—Strengthening intra-African trade, industrialisation, and regional value chains in a market of 1.5 billion people with a combined GDP of over US$3 trillion.
3. Maximising Resource Value Addition—Shifting from raw material exports to local processing industries that create jobs and economic growth for Africans.
4. Engaging the African Diaspora—Mobilising the global African community for economic investment, cultural partnerships, and heritage-based initiatives.
5. Fostering Free Movement and Regional Integration—Implementing the AU Protocol on Free Movement of Persons to unlock economic opportunities and unity.

Justice for Africa is not just about historical reparations—it is about reclaiming economic sovereignty, securing fair access to global markets, and dismantling structures that sustain African dependency. As Africa asserts its rightful place on the world stage, the AU’s commitment to reparative justice serves as both a rallying cry and a strategic blueprint. The time for action is now, and the world must listen.

King Richard Igimoh is an award-winning communication strategist with over two decades of experience in the field. He excels in Diplomacy, Journalism, Economic and International Affairs. As the Group Editor and a key member of the management team at the African Leadership Organisation, he continues to contribute significantly to promoting Africa’s dignity and opportunities globally

The post Africa: A Call for Reparations and Economic Sovereignty appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The healthcare sector, in particular, has been one of the hardest hit by this migration trend. Nigeria, for instance, has lost over 6,770 medical doctors to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) alone, exacerbating the country’s already dire doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:5,000—far below the World Health Organization’s recommended 1:600. With 57% of Africans lacking access to quality healthcare, the impact of this workforce depletion is alarming.

READ ALSO: The Great Migration: Addressing Africa’s Brain Drain Crisis

In contrast, developed nations such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada have benefitted immensely from this migration, with African professionals contributing billions of dollars to their economies. This article critically examines the root causes of brain drain, its economic and social impacts, and potential solutions to curb the crisis, supporting every claim with data.

The Scale of the Brain Drain Crisis

The departure of Africa’s skilled professionals has created an alarming workforce gap across multiple industries. According to the World Health Organization’s Global Health Workforce Statistics, some African countries have dangerously low doctor-to-patient ratios. Chad, for example, had 0.00 doctors per 1,000 people as of 2017, Burundi had 0.1, and Ethiopia had only 0.2 per 1,000. In contrast, South Africa, one of the continent’s most developed nations, had a relatively better ratio of 4.3 per 1,000, while the United States had 2.6 per 1,000 in 2023.

Africa loses approximately US$2 billion per annum due to professionals migrating to countries such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and the United States. While Africa suffers from brain drain, host countries reap immense benefits from these trained professionals. A study revealed that African medical professionals working abroad contributed approximately $2.7 billion to the UK economy, $846 million to the US, $621 million to Australia, and $384 million to Canada. These numbers highlight how developed nations benefit significantly from Africa’s talent while the continent continues to grapple with human capital flight.

Why Are African Professionals Leaving?

Several factors contribute to Africa’s struggle to retain its talent. One of the most pressing issues is poor remuneration and economic hardship. African professionals earn significantly less than their counterparts in Western nations, making migration an attractive option. In 2015, a surgeon in New Jersey, United States, earned approximately $216,000 per year, compared to $24,000 in Zambia, $6,000 in Kenya, and as little as $3,000 in Uganda. The financial disparity between African and Western nations makes it difficult for many professionals to justify staying, especially as inflation continues to erode their purchasing power.

Beyond financial incentives, many professionals leave due to limited career growth opportunities and inadequate infrastructure. In the medical field, hospitals in many African countries lack basic equipment, making it nearly impossible for doctors to perform their duties effectively. Similarly, in the technology and engineering sectors, the absence of funding for research and innovation has stifled progress. Political instability, economic mismanagement, and widespread corruption further discourage professionals from remaining in their home countries. Conflicts in nations like Sudan and Ethiopia have forced thousands of skilled workers to flee, exacerbating the continent’s human capital crisis.

Aggressive foreign recruitment strategies by Western nations have also played a significant role in accelerating the brain drain. The United Kingdom, United States, and Canada have streamlined immigration policies to attract highly skilled workers from Africa. The UK’s visa programme for healthcare professionals, for instance, offers fast-track entry and job placement, making it even easier for African doctors and nurses to relocate.

The Consequences of Brain Drain in Africa

The loss of skilled professionals has had devastating effects on Africa’s economy. Every year, African governments invest millions of dollars in educating and training professionals, only to see them leave for greener pastures. This results in significant economic losses, forcing many African nations to rely on foreign expertise and external aid. The healthcare sector has been particularly affected, with countries like Zimbabwe, Chad, and Nigeria experiencing severe shortages of medical personnel. Nigeria, for example, has just one doctor per 5,000 people, leading to high mortality rates and poor disease management.

Beyond healthcare, brain drain has stifled technological and scientific progress. Africa’s inability to retain engineers, scientists, and IT professionals has slowed the continent’s digital transformation. While Africa boasts a rapidly growing tech startup ecosystem, many companies struggle to scale due to a lack of skilled personnel. The education sector has also suffered immensely, as the migration of African lecturers and researchers has weakened the quality of higher education. Countries like Nigeria and Kenya frequently experience lecturers’ strikes due to poor wages, further disrupting learning and making it harder to produce future professionals.

What Can Africa Do?

Despite the challenges, African governments can implement several strategies to slow brain drain. One of the most effective solutions is improving salaries and working conditions. Competitive remuneration packages and better benefits can reduce the financial incentive to migrate. Rwanda, for instance, has successfully reduced the migration of its healthcare professionals by increasing wages and improving hospital infrastructure.

Another critical solution is investing in research and development. African governments should allocate more funds to innovation, ensuring professionals have access to the resources they need to thrive. South Africa and Kenya have taken steps in this direction by increasing research funding, leading to significant scientific breakthroughs in renewable energy and biotechnology.

Political and economic stability also play a crucial role in retaining talent. Governments must prioritise transparency, anti-corruption policies, and economic reforms to create an environment that encourages skilled professionals to stay. Countries that have made progress in governance, such as Botswana and Ghana, have seen slower rates of professional migration compared to politically unstable nations.

Additionally, African nations should implement diaspora engagement programmes to encourage professionals abroad to return home. For example, Ghana’s “Year of Return” initiative has attracted skilled professionals from the diaspora by offering tax breaks, investment opportunities, and research grants. Similar initiatives across the continent could help reverse the brain drain by encouraging African talent to return and contribute to national development.

Africa’s brain drain is a pressing issue that demands immediate action. While external opportunities will always attract skilled professionals, African governments must take bold steps to make staying a more viable and attractive option. Improving salaries, investing in infrastructure, and fostering career growth opportunities can help retain the continent’s best minds and build a sustainable future. Without decisive measures, brain drain will continue to cost Africa billions of dollars, weakening its healthcare, education, and technology sectors while enriching Western economies.

The post Africa’s Brain Drain: The True Cost of Talent Migration appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The Scale of Africa’s Brain Drain

Migration is not inherently a tragedy. Throughout history, humans have moved in search of better opportunities. For Africa, however, brain drain signifies a haemorrhaging of intellectual wealth. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that around 20,000 skilled professionals emigrate from Africa each year, leaving critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology severely understaffed.

READ ALSO: Africa’s Influence on Global Migration Policies

For instance, Nigeria loses over $2 billion annually due to healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities abroad. Similarly, more than 50% of doctors trained in Ghana work overseas, with many heading to the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, one in four university graduates migrates within five years of completing their education, driven by low wages, political instability, and limited research opportunities.

The allure of the West, symbolised by promises of better pay, career growth, and stability, acts as a powerful magnet. Meanwhile, African countries, burdened by underfunded institutions and stagnant economies, struggle to compete. This imbalance leaves the continent grappling with critical shortages of expertise while enriching foreign economies.

Africa’s Response to Brain Drain

The tide may be turning, however. Recognising the gravity of brain drain, African nations are adopting innovative strategies to reverse this trend. This is not simply about plugging the leaks but about transforming the river itself—creating an environment where talent thrives and circulates within the continent.

One significant step in addressing brain drain is tackling its root cause: lack of opportunity. Countries like Rwanda, once devastated by genocide, are rebranding themselves as hubs for innovation. The Kigali Innovation City, a $2 billion project, serves as a beacon for tech entrepreneurs, attracting both diaspora talent and foreign investors.

Similarly, Ghana’s Year of Return initiative in 2019 encouraged Africans in the diaspora to return home, offering incentives such as tax breaks and dual citizenship. This cultural and economic initiative generated over $1.9 billion in revenue, demonstrating the potential of reconnecting with the diaspora.

Strengthening Education Systems

Africa’s education systems are undergoing reform to retain and nurture local talent. Initiatives like the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology (PASET) aim to bridge the skills gap by providing scholarships and improving tertiary education. Additionally, countries like South Africa are investing heavily in research and development, dedicating 0.8% of their GDP to R&D, with aspirations to meet global standards.

Diaspora Engagement

The African Union (AU) has launched the “Diaspora Division” to harness the expertise of Africans abroad. With an estimated 30 million Africans living outside the continent, their remittances alone contributed $95 billion in 2021, surpassing foreign direct investments. Governments are now creating opportunities for the diaspora to contribute intellectually through knowledge transfer programmes and remote collaborations.

Incentivising Returnees

To attract talent back, African countries are offering enticing packages. Kenya’s Reverse the Brain Drain programme provides financial support, housing, and research grants to returning professionals. Nigeria’s Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Award recognises doctors who choose to practise locally, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Innovating for the Future

Africa’s future hinges not just on stemming brain drain but on building ecosystems where innovation thrives. Pan-African collaborations, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), are creating a unified market that incentivises local entrepreneurship and regional partnerships. This agreement is expected to boost intra-African trade by over 52% by 2030, creating millions of jobs that will retain talent within the continent.

Moreover, digital platforms like Andela, a Nigerian-founded company, are connecting African software developers to global opportunities without necessitating migration. These models retain expertise while enabling Africans to compete on the global stage.

Human Stories: The Faces of Change

The fight against brain drain is more than a statistical journey; it is a narrative shaped by real lives. Consider the story of Dr Amina Bello, a Nigerian scientist who returned home after a decade in Germany. With the support of a government-backed grant, she established a biotech startup in Lagos, employing dozens of young scientists and contributing to research on tropical diseases.

Similarly, South Africa’s Thuli Madonsela, once tempted by offers abroad, chose to remain and serve her nation. As the former Public Protector, her contributions to good governance have become a rallying cry for others to invest in Africa.

Bridging the Gaps

While progress is evident, challenges remain. Political instability, corruption, and inadequate funding continue to drive skilled professionals abroad. For instance, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has displaced hundreds of thousands of professionals, undoing years of progress.

Nonetheless, Africa’s leaders are increasingly prioritising structural reforms. Countries like Botswana and Mauritius consistently rank high in governance and economic freedom, demonstrating that stability and accountability can be achieved.

Africa’s brain drain is a wound that, if left unattended, could fester into a systemic crisis. However, as nations rally to create opportunities, embrace innovation, and engage the diaspora, the tides are shifting. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Africa is reclaiming its narrative, crafting a future where talent flows not outward but circulates within—a self-sustaining ecosystem of growth and potential.

The journey is far from over, but with collective effort and unwavering resolve, Africa can transform its brain drain into a brain gain. The world watches, as the cradle of civilisation once again strives to cradle its own destiny.

The post The Great Migration: Addressing Africa’s Brain Drain Crisis appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Over the past two years, The Outpouring concert aptly named has witnessed massive gatherings of Christians from different denominations in Nigeria and beyond, seeking a deeper connection and communion with God. Through the vision entrusted to the event’s convener, the purpose of The Outpouring has been grand and profound. Igniting a spark of spiritual transformation across the country. 

This year, a spiritual phenomenon of extraordinary proportions is set to unfold in the most populous province in Central Canada. The city of Ontario and its environs will come alive with an intense atmosphere of revival heralding a new era of spiritual reawakening.

Barely 24 hours after the announcement of The Outpouring Canada, the first batch of 5,000 tickets were maxed out. Oyekan took to the concert’s social media pages to announce that more batches of The Outpouring Canada Tickets would be released. To accommodate the ever-growing number of attendees. The town’s religious demographics suggest that the crusade will do well there. Worshipers from all parts of North America, Oshawa, Ottawa, Toronto, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba have equally taken to social media to reveal their anticipation for the event. As well as request for new batch of entirely free tickets.

Guest Ministers at The Outpouring Canada

the outpouring Canada

Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey will be ministering. Alongside Dunsin Oyekan and other anointed men of God at The Outpouring Canada. Previous events held in Lekki and Kwara state respectively featured guest appearances from renowned music ministers and preachers of the gospel including Bishop Wale Oke, Pst. Poju Oyemade, Apostle Orokpo, Nathaniel Bassey, Elijah Oyelade, Pastor Jerry Eze, Bukola Bekes, Victoria Orenze, etc. 

With a musical journey spanning more than twenty years, Dunsin has given life to songs that carry deep revelations. He’s been a part of choirs, and his role as a music director has added to enriching his musical journey. Beyond just a vocation, his devotion to worship is a full-time commitment. He has five albums so far. The Gospel of the Kingdom, Code Red, The Glory Experience – Songs of Zion, Kingdom Now,  and ‘The Birth of Revival.

Dunsin Oyekan is all about bringing a touch of God’s power and glory to the world. A mission that the Holy Spirit guides him on. Through his music, Dunsin becomes a messenger; his heart beats for Jesus. And with each album, concert, or communion of God’s people, he opens a new chapter of spiritual redemption. Inviting listeners to explore faith and a deeper connection with God. 

The post Dunsin Oyekan’s The Outpouring Canada 2023 Worship/Prayer Concert appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The Vatican announced on Thursday that the July 2-7 trip had been postponed indefinitely because of the 85-year-old pontiff’s knee ailment, which has forced him to use a wheelchair for more than a month.

“I feel great regret that I had to postpone this trip, which I am still very keen to make,” he said at his Sunday address before thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square.

“I ask you to pardon me for this. Let us pray together that with the help of God and with medical treatment, I can come to you as soon as possible. We are hopeful,” he said, directly addressing the people and authorities of both countries.

The Vatican said on Thursday that the trip was postponed “in order not to jeopardize the results of the therapy that he is undergoing for his knee”.

On Sunday, he referred to his ailment, which is believed to be a torn ligament, as “problems with my leg”. Francis also suffers from sciatica, which caused him to limp even before the flare-up of the knee problem.

Vatican sources have said the pope has been receiving several injections a week for the ailment, as well as physical therapy, and that he had hoped to be able to regain at least a partial ability to walk before the trip was due to start.

They have said the pope is against surgery because of problems with general anaesthesia following an operation to remove part of his intestine a year ago.

The pope is still scheduled to visit Canada from July 24-30.

He also urged his listeners not to become accustomed to the war in Ukraine. “Let us not allow the passing of time to dull our pain and our concern for those martyred people,” he said

The post Pope Apologises For Cancelling His Trip To Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Potash is used primarily as an agricultural fertiliser because it is an excellent source of soluble potassium.

Quoting Uche Orji, managing director of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Reuters reports that Nigeria bought three cargoes of Canadian potash, which should arrive within the next month.

Usually, the country takes five Russian cargoes a year.

“Russia was unable to deliver, so we bought a spot from traders in Canada. The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria helped start the conversation with producers,” Reuters quoted Orji to have said.

He, however, declined to comment on prices. But spot prices on Tuesday are up more than 250 per cent for deliveries to West Africa compared to last year.

The NSIA MD said there were ongoing discussions to see if a Russian delivery could still be possible.

According to the report, Western sanctions and self-sanctioning by many global companies and financial institutions have created chaos for anyone dealing in products of Russian origin and sent many energy and commodity prices to record highs.

Russia’s Uralkali, a major global producer of crop nutrients, has been Nigeria’s exclusive supplier since 2019.

The potash producer has not itself been targeted by sanctions so far.

But Dmitry Mazepin, a Russian businessman, left the board and cut his controlling stake in Uralchem after being hit by EU sanctions in March.

Uralchem owns the majority of Uralkali.

According to Reuters, Uralkali declined to comment. It also said the Canadian government did not have an immediate comment.

Nigeria imported about 200,000 tonnes of potash last year, one of three critical ingredients for fertiliser blending, according to the Fertiliser Producers and Suppliers Association of Nigeria (FEPSAN).

Nigeria’s raw material imports meet just under 40 per cent of its needs. The rest is sourced domestically, and local blended output was 1.5 million tonnes last year, nearly equal to domestic consumption.

“The Canadian potash will hopefully arrive just in the nick of time for the planting season, which starts as early as end-May in some parts,” Gideon Negedu, FEPSAN executive director, was quoted to have said.

He added that the association has a strategy to prioritise crops that need more potash.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently said the Russian invasion of Ukraine would lead to economic setbacks for sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria.

The war has triggered a sharp rise in commodity prices –straining the fiscal and external balances of commodity-importing countries and increasing food-security concerns across the region.

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Addis Ababa  August 10/02016  Ethiopia and Canada will see increase in their exchanges in fields of peacekeeping and security, according to Canadian Minister of Defense, Harjit Singh Sajjan.

The Minister today met and discussed with Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn in Addis Ababa.

“It is a great opportunity for Canada and Ethiopia to build this relationship. We have had a long tradition of working together as militaries from Korea to many different UN missions we have conducted,” the Canadian Minister told journalists following his meeting with Hailemariam.

Minister Sajjan appreciated Ethiopia’s endeavors and the so far contribution in peacekeeping missions in the Horn of Africa and beyond.

“It [Ethiopia] is already showing a leadership role,” he said, adding Canada values Ethiopia’s contribution in trying to bring stability to Somalia and the South Sudan.

He said Canada is interested to cooperate with Ethiopian in areas of peacekeeping and security, with further interest to enhance cooperation in other fields such as trade and investment.

Ethiopia is showing great work in reducing poverty, Sajjan said indicating his country’s interest to enhance its trade partnership.

Some 57 Canadian investors with an aggregate capital of USD 57 million have invested in Ethiopia.

Prime Minister Hailemariam briefed the visiting Canadian minister on Ethiopia’s role in maintaining peace and security in the Horn region particularly in Somalia and South Sudan.

He underlined the criticality of restoring peace and security for sustainable development, and the necessity of strengthening cooperation in the field.

Hailemariam called for a strengthened diplomatic and economic cooperation between Ethiopian and Canada.

Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen visited Canada last May during which the two countries exchanged views on ways of cooperating in various areas of trade and investment.

Source: Ethiopia News Agency

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