Economy
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“I am powerless”: Chinese company mines with impunity in Congo Basin
In January, officials ordered Xiang Jiang Mining to cease operations. Nine months on, the mine is still open and residents are still protesting. Not ... -
Kenya: What future for social assistance under Ruto?
The new president’s manifesto shows awareness of the need for more social assistance but is light on specific commitments. The rising cost of living ... -
“Hotels have stolen our business”: Zim crafts vendors fear loss of lifeline
Hotels in Victoria Falls began selling curios directly to visitors during the pandemic. Local vendors fear it will jeopardise their way of life. Inside ... -
“They want a sample”: Women traders’ perilous cross-border journey
Taking informal routes to bypass checkpoints puts Ugandans at mercy of authorities who demand bribes, steal their wares – and worse. From the town ... -
Will China’s debt cancellations make a difference?
While welcome, Beijing’s debt relief for 17 African countries will likely have more political than economic impact. In mid-August, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs ... -
“The rich are untouchable”: Uganda’s struggles to protect its wetlands
As communities and small businesses are cleared from environmentally precious zones, big companies expand unabated. Last week, state officials accompanied by security forces swept ... -
Large-scale agricultural projects are not working for Africa
Big farming investments reduce local food security and erode trust. They need a fundamental rethink. In recent weeks, observers and officials have described the ... -
Congo’s oil auction: foiling climate colonialism or filling the coffers?
The DRC has two main goals in selling oil blocks that overlap with the world’s second largest rainforest. Neither involves developing oil. On 28-29 ... -
How useful is aid to Africa?
Mills’ latest book calls for donors to focus on democracies, but electoral systems can be as susceptible to corruption as autocracies. Since 1960, Africa ... -
What will it take for monthly rent payment to work in Nigeria?
Nigerians currently have to shell out a whole year’s rent in advance. Many renters want this to change, but landlords will need reassuring. Renting ...
