Know Afrika

  Africa’s infrastructure is evolving rapidly, with nations advancing in development. The 2024 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) reports significant infrastructure improvement across the continent, though an annual funding gap of up to $100 billion remains. The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates Africa needs $130-$170 billion annually to meet infrastructure demands. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, must raise infrastructure investment to 7.1% of GDP to meet development goals, as investment now stands at only 3.5%. Strategic partnerships are pivotal, especially in renewable energy and transport sectors, as African nations work to support urban growth sustainably. Top-ranking countries leading in infrastructure investment include Morocco, Egypt, and Mauritius, noted for their commitment to sustainable and modern development solutions that serve as models for Africa.

  His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, recently engaged in a constructive call with President Azali Assoumani of the Union of the Comoros, focusing on enhancing the partnership between the two nations. Their conversation centered on advancing cooperation across key sectors, especially economic development, investment, and other strategic initiatives. President Assoumani highlighted the enduring strength of UAE-Comoros relations and expressed his hope to broaden collaborative efforts, particularly within development projects that align with the countries’ shared priorities for sustainable growth and prosperity. His well-wishes for the UAE’s continued progress underscored the deep respect and aspiration for mutual progress under Sheikh Mohamed’s leadership.

  At the Commonwealth summit in Samoa, the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) saw 56 nations agree on the Apia Ocean Declaration, the Commonwealth’s first commitment to ocean protection. The declaration emphasizes safeguarding 30% of oceans, restoring marine ecosystems by 2030, and supporting sustainable blue economies. The summit also addressed calls for justice regarding the transatlantic slave trade. The declaration includes a commitment to adapt coastal zones to climate threats and calls for ratification of the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty and a global plastics treaty. Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa highlighted the significance of this united commitment to ocean conservation and justice.

  Economic stability is the backbone of global influence and national quality of life, shaping infrastructure, innovation, and foreign policy. This article examines the world’s most economically resilient nations as ranked by U.S. News Best Countries , spotlighting their unique paths to stability. The United Arab Emirates, an example of rapid economic transformation, highlights how strategic migration and investment policies have expanded its influence globally. Other countries, from Switzerland’s financial resilience to Japan’s technological leadership, showcase varied models of economic strength, all contributing to a stable, prosperous future. Top 10 Economically Stable Nations United Arab Emirates Once reliant on fishing, the UAE’s oil discovery in the 1960s set it on a path of economic expansion. Dubai and Abu Dhabi today are global hubs with thriving tourism, innovation, and investment climates, attracting talent and businesses worldwide. Migrants from Africa have contributed si

  Zimbabwe’s economic challenges trace back to its 2008 hyperinflation crisis, which peaked at 79.6 billion percent, forcing the country to abandon its dollar for the US dollar in 2009. While a bond note reintroduced local currency in 2016, hyperinflation returned. The Zimbabwe dollar was reintroduced in 2019, but it continued to erode in value, prompting a shift to a gold-backed currency, the ZiG, in April 2024. However, recent devaluations, a rising black market, and dual official rates have destabilized the ZiG. Amid civil confusion, government agencies distribute salaries in both ZiG and US dollars. Despite reassurances from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, many citizens remain uncertain about the future of their currency and economy.

  Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended his first BRICS summit, meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 23. Putin praised Ethiopia’s entry into BRICS, emphasizing their century-long diplomatic ties and Ethiopia’s support for Russia at the UN. Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s economic potential, calling for increased trade and investment within the bloc and positioning Ethiopia as sub-Saharan Africa’s third-largest economy. As a new member, Ethiopia's inclusion marks a strategic shift for BRICS, reinforcing the group's vision of a multipolar world that challenges Western dominance and amplifies voices from the Global South. BRICS, originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aims to foster economic cooperation among emerging economies. The bloc’s expansion reflects its desire to balance global power and provide a platform for non-Western perspectives, particularly from African nations like Ethiopia, which now plays a significant role in this