In 2025, currency strength across Africa is shaping both travel costs and investment flows, with regional standouts offering insights into the continent’s shifting economic balance. The strength of African currencies in 2025 reflects diverse economic conditions and influences travel costs and investment flows. Factors such as abundant natural resources, disciplined monetary policies, and robust tourism…
America-bound travelers should brace for higher fees starting September 30, 2025, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection has confirmed that the cost of applying for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) will rise from $21 to $40. The cost of applying for the U.S. ESTA will increase from $21 to $40 starting September 30,…
Zimbabwean billionaire Strive Masiyiwa has announced plans to build five artificial intelligence (AI) factories across Africa within the next year, as part of a $720 million investment through his company Cassava Technologies. Strive Masiyiwa, Zimbabwean billionaire, will invest $720 million to establish five AI factories across Africa. These facilities, built in part by Cassava Technologies,…
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has conceded that his recently opened oil refinery might be one of the greatest losers from his company’s aggressive investment in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles and logistics. Aliko Dangote revealed potential losses for his refinery due to Dangote Cement’s shift to compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. Dangote denied concerns…
Aliko Dangote, founder and president/CEO of the Dangote Group, has cast doubt on the prospects of reviving the long-stalled Ajaokuta Steel Company. Aliko Dangote expressed scepticism about the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, citing outdated technology and extensive challenges. The Ajaokuta Steel Company, conceived in 1979, remains incomplete despite over $10 billion in expenditures.…
The United States Mission in Nigeria has addressed rising concerns from Nigerians over paying steep U.S. visa fees without any assurance of approval. The U.S. Mission in Nigeria addressed concerns over visa fees without approval guarantees, emphasizing fair application reviews. Applicants are advised to prepare carefully and use official resources to minimize errors and costs.…
Hotel restaurants across Africa often struggle to make consistent profits, even as the wider hospitality sector continues to grow. Hotel restaurants in Africa face challenges in profitability despite growth in the hospitality sector. Costs, consumer spending habits, and management approaches hinder faster financial growth. Operational issues like energy costs significantly affect restaurant profits in regions…
Addressing the recent debacle between the Dangote Oil Refinery and union groups in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector, Africa’s richest man and the chairman of the oil refinery, Aliko Dangote, refuted claims that his distribution plan could lead to job losses. Aliko Dangote dismissed claims that job losses would result from the Dangote Refinery’s new distribution…
South Africa has given multinational oil majors and traders, including BP and Vitol, extended access to its main petrochemical hub in Durban, ending years of wrangling over short-term leases that had threatened investment and supply security. South Africa has extended lease agreements for BP, Shell, and Vitol at Durban’s Island View hub. This decision secures…
