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Nghikembua has been recognised for her trailblazing contributions to Africa’s communications sector with reforms and regulatory responsibilities. She has steered the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia and thanks to her team they have consistently achieved recognitions for their outstanding performance, reflecting their commitment to excellence and strategic direction. These efforts have been directed by this mission, which has advanced the regulatory framework to support industry innovation and significant growth on the broader African continent.

The African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony is an annual flagship event that brings together policymakers, business leaders, civil society actors, and thought leaders from across Africa and beyond. The event serves as a platform to celebrate outstanding African leaders who are making significant contributions to the continent’s growth and development.

Other Distinguished Honourees at the 14th Edition Include:

• H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar—African Political Leader of the Year
• H.E. Bassirou Faye, President of Senegal—African of the Year
• H.E. Joao Lourenco, President of Angola—African Peace and Security Leader of the Year
• H.E. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda—African Female Leader of the Year
• Professor Charles Anosike, Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Nigeria
• H.E. Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
• Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister for Health, Uganda
• H.E. Fardowsa Osman Egal, Minister for Transport & Civil Aviation, Somalia
• Hon. Nani Juwara, Minister of Petroleum, Energy & Mines, The Gambia
• H.E. Rindra Rabarinirinarison, Minister of Economy and Finance, Madagascar
• Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Liberia
• Hon. Lefoko Maxwell Moagi, Former Minister of Minerals and Energy, Botswana
• Dr. Armstrong Takang, Managing Director of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Nigeria
• Mr. Mustafa Y. Shek, Director General of the National Communication Authority, Somalia

Prominent business leaders, including Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, Executive Chairman of Moni Polu Limited, and Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/CEO of FirstBank Group, Nigeria, were also in attendance.

The event attracted high-profile delegates from across Africa, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Angola, Uganda, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, Congo, Cape Verde, Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya, highlighting the pan-African significance of the awards.

For media enquiries or further information, please contact:

The Group Editor
King Richard Igimoh
editor@africanleadership.co.uk,
king.richards@africanleadership.co.uk

About African Leadership Magazine

The African Leadership Magazine, the flagship publication of the African Leadership Organisation (UK) Limited, has been dedicated to promoting impactful leadership in Africa for over 16 years. Through high-quality Afro-positive content, public sector training, and consulting, the magazine plays a crucial role in showcasing Africa’s success stories, driving positive change, and shaping the continent’s future.

The post CEO of Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia, Emilia Nghikembua Receives Young African of the Year Award at ALM POTY 2025 appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

For the first time, Egypt and Ethiopia participated in a BRICS summit as new members, while Nigeria and Algeria have been included as partner countries. The BRICS alliance, which originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has also welcomed Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) into its ranks.

In the summit’s closing session in Kazan, Russia, President Vladimir Putin emphasised that the new members share a commitment to a more democratic global order. This expansion demonstrates these countries’ collective aim to strengthen ties and collaborate across various areas.

Push for De-Dollarisation and Local Currency Use

A key economic discussion at the summit focused on reducing reliance on the US dollar in trade between BRICS countries. For African nations, this proposed shift could bring greater trade stability by mitigating exchange rate volatility. By moving towards local currency use within the BRICS bloc, African economies could stabilise trade flows, reduce the influence of Western financial systems, and reinforce their financial independence.

This transition holds particular relevance for African nations, which often face high inflation and debt burdens linked to dollar-based loans. Utilising local currencies could help alleviate these challenges and provide greater financial autonomy.

Energy and Technology Partnerships

Energy independence and technological innovation were central to discussions, with BRICS members pledging to expand cooperation. Russia and China, in particular, have undertaken significant energy projects across Africa, including nuclear and solar power developments, to help reduce the continent’s energy deficits. Russia’s partnership in Egypt’s El-Dabaa nuclear plant exemplifies BRICS’ commitment to providing long-term energy solutions for Africa.

China and India have also pledged to enhance Africa’s digital infrastructure, a vital element for the continent’s economic growth. Projects in digital economies and smart city initiatives could open new revenue streams and improve governance. However, African leaders are urged to consider the implications of over-reliance on BRICS for technology, which could impact policy autonomy.

Trade and Economic Collaboration: Opportunities and Challenges

A key promise of the BRICS alliance lies in promoting trade within the bloc, with the New Development Bank (NDB) playing a crucial role. By funding infrastructure projects across Africa and other developing regions, the NDB offers an alternative to Western financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank, which often impose stringent lending conditions. This shift is attractive to African nations seeking financial flexibility for their development agendas.

Nevertheless, there are challenges. Some African analysts express concern about over-reliance on BRICS, particularly regarding China’s trade policies. With minimal tariffs on exports to Africa, China risks undermining African manufacturing by flooding the market with inexpensive goods, potentially stifling local industries and reducing export opportunities.

Should Africa Align with the West or BRICS?

As BRICS deepens its engagement with Africa, a critical question arises: should African nations prioritise their ties with the West or pivot towards BRICS? Some leaders advocate for a balanced approach, suggesting that partnering with BRICS need not exclude collaboration with Western allies. Congolese analyst A.L. Kitenge Lubanda advises that African countries can benefit from BRICS while retaining strong diplomatic and economic ties with the West.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed this view, advocating for a multipolar world where Africa’s alliances are diverse and aligned with its unique interests. The overarching message from the summit is clear: Africa can build partnerships that promote sustainable development, inclusive growth, and equitable relations without choosing sides.

With additional African members joining BRICS, the bloc’s influence on the continent is set to grow, offering an alternative to Western economic models and expanding Africa’s strategic options. Nonetheless, African countries must navigate these partnerships carefully to ensure that BRICS’ support aligns with their long-term developmental and political aspirations.

The post BRICS 2024: Key Takeaways for Africa from the 16th Summit appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Africa is home to over 60 percent of the world’s youth population, presenting both opportunities and challenges, particularly in the realm of security. African youth are active participants in social movements, advocating for justice, equality, and systemic change. However, in regions marked by political instability, social alienation, and economic exclusion, these same youth can be drawn towards radicalisation.

Causes of Radicalisation

High unemployment and lack of educational opportunities are among the most potent drivers behind youth radicalisation in Africa. In regions plagued by poverty, young people are especially vulnerable to extremist recruitment, often as a means to gain a sense of identity, belonging, and financial security. When young individuals perceive their governments as corrupt or ineffective, they are more inclined to seek out alternative ideologies, including extremist narratives.

Marginalisation and disconnection from mainstream society further exacerbate young people’s vulnerability to radicalisation. Social media has played a significant role in reinforcing extremist views by creating echo chambers that amplify such narratives. Many young people, grappling with questions of identity and purpose, are drawn to the sense of belonging and direction that extremist groups offer, filling the gaps left by their immediate environment.

Regional Contexts of Radicalisation

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has experienced youth-led movements for both reform and extremist causes. In the wake of instability in the Middle East, groups like ISIS exploited the disillusionment of young people, leading to widespread recruitment and radicalisation.

In Nigeria, the rise of Boko Haram is closely tied to youth dissatisfaction and the high levels of unemployment. Extremist groups often appeal to disenfranchised youth by presenting themselves as viable alternatives to lives of poverty and marginalisation, especially when government responses to local grievances are perceived as inadequate or dismissive.

Addressing Youth Radicalisation

To address youth radicalisation in Africa, it is crucial to understand its root causes and implement proactive solutions. Investing in education and vocational training can empower young people, equipping them with skills for employment and diminishing the appeal of extremist ideologies. Community initiatives that foster cohesion and dialogue can mitigate feelings of alienation, while encouraging youth participation in local governance can instil a sense of agency and belonging.

Mental health support is also vital in addressing vulnerability to radicalisation. Providing counselling and guidance can help at-risk youth navigate personal challenges. Furthermore, using social media to promote counter-narratives that challenge extremist ideologies can be an effective strategy in combating radicalisation.

The Role of Youth in Security

Although young people may be drawn into extremist ideologies due to a variety of socio-political and economic factors, they also hold the key to driving positive change. By recognising their potential and investing in their future, societies can transform a pressing security threat into an opportunity for peace and stability. Engaging youth as active participants in shaping their communities is not only a strategic necessity but a moral imperative for a more secure world.

The post Youth Radicalisation: A Growing Security Concern in Africa? appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Disparities in Access to Healthcare

Healthcare disparities across the continent stem from deep-rooted issues such as uneven distribution of infrastructure, a shortage of trained healthcare workers, and the rural-urban divide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa bears 23% of the global disease burden but has access to just 1% of the world’s health resources.

During the pandemic, these disparities were exacerbated, with rural and low-income populations facing the greatest difficulties in accessing vaccines, medical supplies, and basic healthcare. For example, in rural Nigeria, inadequate infrastructure severely limited healthcare access during COVID-19, particularly in the northern regions where the distance to facilities posed a significant barrier to vaccine distribution and treatment. Similarly, remote areas of Kenya struggled due to shortages of medical personnel and supplies.

Rwanda’s Innovative Health Solutions

Rwanda’s healthcare system has been lauded for its innovative approach, particularly in its response to COVID-19. The country’s health insurance system, which covers over 90% of the population, ensured that even the most vulnerable individuals had access to healthcare. Rwanda’s use of drones to deliver medical supplies and vaccines to remote areas exemplified its commitment to cutting-edge solutions.

Moreover, the government deployed mobile health clinics to rural and hard-to-reach areas, expanding healthcare access to communities that would otherwise be cut off. As a result, Rwanda achieved high vaccination coverage and maintained relatively low infection rates compared to other African nations.

South Africa’s Public-Private Partnerships

South Africa was another leader in the continent’s pandemic response, leveraging its advanced healthcare system and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. Despite facing a high number of COVID-19 cases, this partnership enabled wider access to testing, vaccination, and general healthcare services.

Private healthcare institutions played a critical role in easing the burden on overwhelmed public hospitals. This model of public-private collaboration offers valuable lessons for other African countries aiming to strengthen their healthcare systems. Additionally, South Africa ran extensive public health campaigns, using media and community leaders to promote vaccine uptake and dispel misinformation, underscoring the importance of communication in public health efforts.

Africa CDC and Regional Cooperation

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) played a pivotal role in coordinating the continent’s response to COVID-19. One of its key initiatives was the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), which enabled African countries to procure millions of vaccines through pooled procurement.

This collaborative approach allowed even low-income nations to access life-saving vaccines, addressing a critical global challenge. Countries such as Kenya, Malawi, and Mozambique benefited from this effort, improving vaccine distribution and highlighting the importance of regional cooperation. Africa CDC’s leadership demonstrated the continent’s growing capacity to self-organise and reduce reliance on external aid during health crises.

Community Health and Grassroots Initiatives

Across Africa, community health workers have been crucial in delivering healthcare services, particularly in rural areas. Countries like Ethiopia and Ghana have prioritised community health programmes focusing on preventative care, education, and outreach. During the pandemic, these workers were instrumental in disseminating public health information, distributing personal protective equipment (PPE), and administering vaccines.

In Ethiopia, a vast network of community health workers educated citizens on infection prevention measures, while Ghana’s government launched a comprehensive campaign to reach even the most isolated communities with essential health services.

Investments in Health Infrastructure

Africa’s future resilience hinges on significant investments in healthcare. According to McKinsey, the continent will need to double its current healthcare expenditure to $5.4 billion annually by 2030 to build a robust system capable of addressing health inequities.

Senegal, for instance, has made substantial progress in developing local vaccine manufacturing capabilities. The Pasteur Institute in Dakar ramped up production during the pandemic to meet vaccine demand. Similarly, South Africa is investing in vaccine production, which will not only help mitigate future pandemics but also reduce the continent’s dependency on external supplies.

Africa’s response to pandemics has revealed both its challenges and its potential. Rwanda’s innovative technology, South Africa’s public-private partnerships, and Africa CDC’s coordinated efforts show that the continent can overcome healthcare disparities. However, sustained investments are needed to address the underlying social and economic determinants of health, strengthen local capacity, and ensure equitable healthcare access for all, particularly in rural and low-income areas.

The post Equal Healthcare Access Amid Crises in Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

According to the World Health Organisation, bacterial AMR was responsible for an estimated 1.27 million deaths globally in 2019 and contributed to a further 4.95 million deaths. Annually, around 700,000 deaths worldwide are attributed to infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. Reports indicate that the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and plants are major drivers of the development of drug-resistant pathogens.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources, and various member states reported that AMR caused 255,000 deaths in Africa in 2019—accounting for more than 20% of the global total. Sub-Saharan Africa experienced the highest AMR burden of any region, with a rate of 27.3 deaths per 100,000 people. Furthermore, without intervention, it is estimated that by 2050, deaths attributed to AMR could rise to 10 million annually, with Africa and South Asia bearing the highest burden.

The global economic cost of AMR is projected to reach US$100 trillion by 2050 if current trends continue. In Europe, the annual economic burden of AMR currently exceeds €2.0 billion, while in the United States, the cost is approximately $55 billion.

What is Antimicrobial Resistance?

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, become resistant to antimicrobial medicines. This resistance means that these medicines become less effective in treating infections, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased healthcare costs, and potentially higher mortality rates.

Africa’s Response to AMR

“We cannot ignore this silent threat that disproportionately affects the most vulnerable,” said Dr. Raji Tajudeen, Deputy Director General of the Africa CDC, in a press release. “Combating disease requires resources, and by working with member states and partners, we can save lives.”

Surveillance and Data Collection

Significant progress has been made across Africa in establishing AMR surveillance systems, which are crucial for monitoring the spread of resistant pathogens. The WHO’s Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) has played a pivotal role in this effort, with 34 African countries now participating in the programme. These surveillance initiatives have revealed alarming levels of resistance to common antibiotics such as penicillin and cephalosporins. For instance, studies in Nigeria have shown resistance rates for some antibiotics exceeding 80%, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Research and Innovation

Research and innovation are central to Africa’s battle against AMR. The African Society for Infectious Diseases (ASID) and the African Research Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases (ARNNTD) have been crucial in advancing the understanding of resistance mechanisms and developing new antimicrobial agents. Their research particularly focuses on diseases that are often neglected in global health research, such as tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV, which are prevalent in Africa. These efforts have led to the identification of drug-resistant strains and the development of targeted interventions, which are essential in curbing the spread of AMR.

Case Study: Tackling Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in South Africa

South Africa has emerged as a global leader in combating drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). Despite facing one of the world’s highest TB burdens, the country’s innovative approach to treating multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) has yielded impressive results. The introduction of bedaquiline, a new drug for MDR-TB, has been transformative, and South Africa’s rapid and widespread adoption of this treatment has led to a significant decline in TB mortality rates. This success underscores the importance of research, access to new drugs, and strong political commitment in the fight against AMR.

African countries have demonstrated strong political commitment to combating AMR, with 40 nations launching national action plans in 2023. These plans focus on enhancing infection prevention, optimising antibiotic use, and promoting public awareness. South Africa’s comprehensive AMR strategy, including hospital antimicrobial stewardship programmes, has significantly reduced antibiotic misuse, setting a precedent for others.

Public awareness campaigns, such as the WHO’s “Resist the Resistance” campaign, have been instrumental in educating the public about the dangers of antibiotic misuse and the importance of hygiene and vaccination. Community-level interventions have also proven effective in reducing the spread of resistant infections in rural and underserved areas. These efforts are crucial in changing behaviours and mitigating the burden of AMR in Africa.

Comparative Analysis: Africa vs. Other Regions

In comparison to other regions, Africa’s approach to AMR has been exemplary in several areas. The continent’s grassroots public health initiatives have been more effective in reducing antibiotic misuse than similar efforts in parts of Asia and Latin America. Africa has also taken a leading role in global AMR surveillance with comprehensive participation in systems like GLASS. This has allowed Africa to contribute valuable data that enhances the global understanding of AMR, often surpassing the contributions of more developed regions.

To maintain and expand its leadership role in the global fight against AMR, Africa will need sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, continued international collaboration, and the scaling up of successful interventions. Strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers, expanding access to quality diagnostics, and ensuring the availability of affordable antimicrobial agents are essential steps in this journey.

Africa is a leading force in the global fight against AMR. Through robust surveillance, innovative research, and effective public health campaigns, the continent is making significant progress. Organisations like the African Society for Infectious Diseases and the African Research Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases are at the forefront of these efforts. Africa’s leadership offers hope and valuable lessons for other regions facing this daunting challenge.

The post Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Africa’s Role in the Global Fight appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Reports from Statista state that in Africa, entrepreneurship is a thriving phenomenon, with the continent boasting one of the highest average entrepreneurial rates globally. While the lack of employment opportunities is a major driver of startup activity in developing regions, the growing demand for digital services and the rise of digitalisation have become increasingly important motivators for African entrepreneurs. This has led to a boom in startup creation in the tech sector, with innovative digital services attracting the attention of both international and local investors. As a result, the total funding value for African tech startups has grown significantly, from under $190 million in 2015 to over $2 billion in 2021.

The $420 million raised in July surpasses the total funds raised in the entire second quarter and is 2.5 times the average monthly amount raised over the past 12 months. This feat makes July 2024 the best month on record since tracking began in 2019, with a significant increase in fundraising compared to previous years.

The report highlights that the two mega deals announced during the month, d.light’s $176 million securitization facility and MNT-Halan’s $157.5 million raise, accounted for a significant 90% of the total funding raised in July. NALA’s $40 million Series A funding round is also notable, demonstrating the growth and success of African start-ups.

The $1.2 billion in funding raised since the beginning of the year is a significant milestone, exceeding the total funds raised in 2020. With this momentum, the next milestone of $1.4 billion raised in 2019 is now within reach.

The report suggests that despite hitting the $1 billion funding mark in July, it has been the slowest pace in recent years. However, this slowdown has not deterred African start-ups from securing significant funding, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability.

The African startup ecosystem has been making significant strides in recent years, with several countries emerging as hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship. According to a recent analysis, Africa’s largest economies are leading the way in terms of startup competitiveness, with Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco topping the list.

The analysis considered several key indicators, including the number of startups, incubators, co-working spaces, and the overall economic ecosystem. These indicators provide a comprehensive picture of the entrepreneurial landscape, highlighting the most promising environments for startups to thrive.

The growth of African start-ups indicates the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, with many entrepreneurs and investors driving innovation and growth. The increase in funding will likely have a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

African start-ups achieved a remarkable milestone in July 2024, securing $420 million in funding and exceeding previous records. This achievement showcases the region’s entrepreneurial spirit and potential for growth. With this momentum, African start-ups are set to continue breaking barriers and achieving success in the future.

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In recent years, several key initiatives have further advanced Africa’s vaccination efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic presented improvements in vaccination efforts. As of mid-2024, over 800 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered across Africa.

The GAVI Alliance, a global health partnership established in 2000, has been instrumental in supporting immunisation programmes in low-income countries. Since its inception in 2000, GAVI has invested over $20 billion in vaccines and immunisation programmes, substantially enhancing access to lifesaving vaccines across Africa. This investment has led to increased vaccination rates and improved health outcomes in many African nations.

In its mission to save lives, reduce poverty, and protect the world against the threat of epidemics and pandemics, GAVI helped vaccinate more than 1 billion children in 78 countries through the end of 2022, averting more than 17.3 million future deaths.

The African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has played a crucial role in accelerating vaccine access and distribution across the continent. had facilitated the delivery of millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses to various African countries. This initiative has been pivotal in addressing the urgent need for COVID-19 vaccines and supporting the continent’s pandemic response.

Hepatitis B is prevalent in Africa, and vaccination has been a key strategy to combat its spread. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. As of 2024, many African countries have incorporated hepatitis B vaccines into their routine immunisation schedules. Data from WHO indicates that hepatitis B vaccination coverage among infants in Africa has improved, with many countries achieving coverage rates above 80%.

While Africa has made progress in improving childhood vaccination coverage, challenges persist. According to the World Health Organisation’s 2023 data, measles vaccination rates have increased to around 80%, but significant disparities remain across countries and regions.

To bridge these gaps, sustained efforts are needed to reach underserved areas. Although polio eradication was achieved in 2020 when Africa was declared free of wild poliovirus, continued vaccination efforts are crucial to prevent the virus’s resurgence. Despite the progress, the fight against vaccine-preventable diseases is ongoing, requiring continued investment and commitment to protect public health.

Obstacles such as vaccine hesitancy, inadequate cold chain infrastructure, and logistical issues in remote areas continue to hinder comprehensive vaccine distribution. Addressing vaccine hesitancy through public education and outreach is essential to overcoming these barriers and ensuring higher vaccination rates.

Innovative solutions have been developed. Mobile vaccination clinics have been successfully deployed in some African countries, bridging the gap to remote communities and enhancing vaccine accessibility. Community health workers are being empowered through training and deployment, playing a vital role in both vaccine administration and public education.

Meanwhile, collaborative efforts between governments, international organisations, and non-profits have been instrumental in strengthening vaccination programmes and addressing infrastructure shortcomings.

The combined efforts of some vaccination programmes have led to improved vaccination coverage and public health outcomes. However, continued innovation, addressing challenges, and sustaining collaborative efforts are essential to achieving comprehensive immunisation and safeguarding public health across the continent.

The post Africa’s Progress in Vaccine Distribution and Coverage appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The debt burden is particularly onerous for many African nations, with several countries struggling under the weight of substantial external debt burdens. The majority of Sub-Saharan African countries dedicate a significant 15-20% of their government revenues towards debt servicing, leaving limited resources for vital development projects.

According to the United Nations, debt servicing is absorbing 41.5% of budget revenues across 144 developing countries; this means a drastic cut in welfare, education, or health expenditure to pay debts. This financial strain has far-reaching consequences, curtailing investment in essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, fundamental areas that are crucial for achieving the SDGs.

The UN estimates that Africa requires approximately $1.2 trillion annually to achieve the SDGs. However, the significant allocation of funds towards debt servicing leaves a substantial shortfall in resources for critical development initiatives. This has led to difficult decisions, with governments forced to make tough choices between vital public expenditures, often resulting in cuts to education and healthcare budgets. This, in turn, hinders progress towards targets related to quality education and good health, exacerbating the challenges in achieving the SDGs.

To mitigate the debt burden, international efforts have been launched, including the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative and the Common Framework for Debt Treatments. While these measures provide temporary relief, they do not fully address the underlying debt crisis. The International Monetary Fund’s allocation of $650 billion in Special Drawing Rights in 2021, Africa received only $34 billion—been barely 5 percent.  At the same time, European Union countries like mine received $160 billion with less than half a billion people.

Despite the hurdles, African countries are making progress towards the SDGs by adopting diverse strategies. They are prioritising domestic resource mobilisation through improved tax collection and anti-corruption efforts, leveraging the private sector’s expertise in areas like renewable energy and technology to drive development.

According to the UN, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) holds immense potential, with estimated market opportunities of $12 trillion and 380 million jobs by 2030. For Africa, the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique chance to accelerate SDG implementation and align with the continent’s Agenda 2063.

According to the 2020 scores, the average performance across all African member states stands at 53.82, a slight improvement from the previous year. However, this still means that the continent has only made halfway progress towards achieving the SDG goals and targets by 2030, highlighting the need for sustained efforts and accelerated action to bridge the remaining gap.

Regional cooperation is also gaining momentum, with initiatives like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 facilitating economic stability and collaborative projects that promote sustainable growth and development across the continent.

To achieve lasting progress, there is a need to scale up financial and technological support for African countries to secure affordable and clean energy access for all by 2030 and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. That requires doubling energy investments this decade by mobilising domestic resources and foreign investments to bridge the gap to guarantee that electricity gets to all African households.

To achieve sustainable growth, a comprehensive strategy is required, encompassing robust debt management, economic diversification, and international cooperation. By developing sustainable debt restructuring plans, Africa can redirect resources towards productive investments, reduce dependence on commodity markets, and create a more stable fiscal foundation. Concurrently, fostering international cooperation and promoting equitable trade practices can help reconcile debt servicing with development needs, ultimately fostering a more resilient and prosperous future.

The post Can Africa Meet Up 2030 SGD’s Agenda Amidst Debt Servicing? appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

In light of the need for a more sustainable way to meet the development demands of the continent, the African Union (AU), in 2013, came together and launched the Agenda 2063. Designed as a blueprint for every member state of the African Union towards achieving sustainable development and transforming the continent into a global powerhouse.

Agenda 2063 is a comprehensive strategic framework aimed at transforming the continent within the next fifty years, starting from 2013. The agenda which promotes economic growth, sustainable development, and social progress is a manifestation of the pan-African drive for unity, freedom, and collective prosperity.

Agenda 2063 emphasizes the utmost need for economic growth through infrastructure development. Economic growth being one of the eight goals of Agenda 2063 underscores the need for initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which are aimed at boosting intra-African trade. The agenda is fast-tracking the implementation of policies across African countries to facilitate the implementation of these kinds of initiatives across Africa to improve trade between African nations. Countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda have made promising strides in this regard and the rest of Africa are expected to follow not far behind.

Agenda 2063 advocates quality education and skills development across every African nation, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Education is a crucial element in ushering Africa into the new world and preparing its labour force for a highly competitive global market. The agenda also highlights key sectors that can be improved to meet the educational requirements of the continent.

Health is another crucial area that the Agenda 2063 focuses on. Ensuring standard healthcare and social inclusion is important in ensuring a prosperous Africa. Through this agenda, Africa can achieve universal health coverage and address social inequalities, combating notorious diseases like; malaria, cholera, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, which disrupt the life expectancy within the continent.

Through the Agenda 2063, some social disparities will be addressed. Gender disparities, and provisions for special needs Africans will be improved upon, breaking the barriers and promoting equality in economic and political participation.

Governance and political structure are influential aspects in achieving this agenda. With emphasis on the need for sustainable conflict resolution and democratic governance across Africa. The security threats and conflict regions within Sahel Africa are interrupting the socio-economic development of the region and are destroying the lives of millions. This agenda stipulates measures that should be undertaken by the country in question and the African Union in quelling conflicts and wars. It also serves as a model of good governance in addressing corruption, and political instability within the continent.

Agenda 2063 recognizes the need for sustainable management of natural resources and adaptation to climate change for Africa’s future development. The Great Green Wall project is one of the projects that demonstrate Africa’s commitment to climate-friendly development even as deforestation, desertification, and water scarcity threaten its progress. The solar power initiatives in North Africa and further investments in renewable energy across the continent show the continent’s commitment to climate change.

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Within the first decade of Agenda 2063, Africa has made significant strides in economic growth, infrastructure development and social progress. These achievements can be traced to efforts by singular nations. Spreading these achievements across the continent remains a mountainous task as the difference in economic and political policies among border countries limits the actualization of Agenda 2063.

Security stability and conflict regions are another major hindrance in the actualization of Agenda 2063. Intra-African collaboration and partnership should be facilitated in a bid to curb the insecurity and conflicts aching the continent. Partnerships with the private sector, NGOs and international organizations should also be encouraged to bring about technological advancements to facilitate security operatives and inclusive growth.

The post The Role of Agenda 2063 in Africa’s Development Strategy appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

According to Spotify’s data, music from North Africa saw a remarkable increase of over 170% between 2019 and 2022. November’s data highlights the presence of streaming tracks from highly talented Middle Eastern artists. Popular genres in North Africa include traditional Moroccan Amazigh music and the distinct sounds emerging from Egypt’s pop culture.

Spotify has praised North African music for its creative vibrancy and the evolving tastes of contemporary young Arab listeners, as reported by Trt Afrika. The region’s diverse musical output stands as a testament to its dynamic cultural scene.

The Spiritual Sounds of Gnawa

Gnawa music is an ancient tradition that originated in North Africa, specifically in Morocco and Algeria and characterized by its fusion of African, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. The Gnawa people, descendants of African slaves brought to Morocco, have preserved their cultural identity through this unique musical tradition. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2005, Gnawa music has achieved international acclaim, with musicians performing globally and collaborating with artists from various backgrounds.

The Rise of Rai 

Rai music emerged in the 1970s as a fusion of traditional Arabic music, Western pop, and local folk elements. With its catchy melodies, danceable beats, and socially conscious lyrics, Rai quickly gained a substantial following in Algeria and the North African diaspora.

Rai music has achieved global recognition, with millions of albums sold worldwide. It has influenced countless artists and genres, from hip-hop to electronic music. Rai music is the most popular genre in Algeria dominating music sales.

Gnawa and Rai represent just two threads in North African music. Other significant genres include:

• Chaabi: A popular urban genre with roots in Andalusian music.
• Malouf: A classical form of music with origins in the Ottoman Empire.
• Kabyle: A genre from the Kabylie region of Algeria, known for its political and social commentary.

Globalization has had a profound impact on North African music; many artists have collaborated with international musicians, blending styles and genres to create new sounds. While traditional genres continue to thrive, there is also a growing trend of musicians fusing traditional elements with contemporary sounds. This fusion has created a new generation of artists who are gaining international recognition. While North African music may not yet have reached the fame of West and Southern Africa’s Afrobeats, it continues to achieve significant success and recognition.

The post From Gnawa to Rai: Exploring the Diverse Soundscapes of North African Music appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.