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The Elite of Mboa” offers a witty political simulation rooted in African realities

19 April 2025 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

In the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon, a video game studio is gaining international recognition for its bold and original storytelling. Kiro’o Games, founded in 2012 by Olivier Madiba, has made it its mission to place African stories at the center of the gaming world. With its latest release, “The Elite of Mboa” (also known as Le Responsable), the studio delivers a humorous, strategic take on political life in a fictional African country—blending gameplay with social critique.

Kiro’o Games, short for Kiroho Maono (meaning “spiritual vision” in Swahili), is the first video game studio in Central Africa. Since its creation, the studio has trained and employed a team of young developers and artists, most of them local. It operates with a clear goal: to break away from Western-dominated narratives and build a game universe that reflects the realities and imagination of the African continent.

In 2015, Kiro’o Games launched its first title, “Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan,” an action RPG inspired by African mythology. The game received international praise for its originality and world-building. To fund its development, the studio raised over 300,000 dollars through a mix of crowdfunding and international angel investors—an unprecedented achievement for a startup in the region.

“The Elite of Mboa”: A Game of Choices, Corruption, and Comedy

“The Elite of Mboa,” released in 2020, is a satirical simulation game set in the fictional republic of Mboa. Players take on the role of a young graduate who lands a job in the Ministry of Paperwork and must navigate the complexities of public service, family obligations, and career ambitions. The game offers multiple storylines depending on the player’s choices, including whether to act with integrity or fall into corruption.

Players manage a character’s resources, organize public events, dodge internal audits, and interact with a colorful cast of coworkers and politicians. The design of the game draws heavily on the social and political culture of Central Africa, using local humor, real-world inspired scenarios, and expressive dialogue. It is available in both English and French and is compatible with PC and Android platforms.

As of 2024, “The Elite of Mboa” has been downloaded more than 60,000 times and is receiving increasing attention from educators and NGOs who see it as a tool for sparking conversations about governance, ethics, and civic responsibility in Africa. The game is also being adapted for mobile and console, and Kiro’o Games is actively working on expanding its reach.

Alongside game development, the studio has launched Kiro’o Rebuntu, a mentorship and funding platform designed to support young African entrepreneurs in the digital and creative industries.

By mixing satire with thoughtful gameplay, Kiro’o Games continues to prove that Africa not only has unique stories to tell but also the creative power and technical skill to share them with the world.

Photos : premortem.games –

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Ghana’s President-elect Mahama’s Plans and Challenges

23 December 2024 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

John Dramani Mahama, a prominent Ghanaian politician, has been declared President-elect following the December 7, 2024, general elections. Securing 56.55% of the vote, Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), achieved a decisive victory over Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 41.61%.

Born on November 29, 1958, in Damongo, Mahama’s political journey is marked by significant milestones. He previously served as President from 2012 to 2017, ascending from the Vice Presidency after the untimely demise of President John Atta Mills. His tenure was characterized by infrastructural development and efforts to diversify Ghana’s economy.

In his acceptance speech, Mahama emphasized a commitment to national unity and economic revitalization, stating, “This is a new beginning for Ghana.” He acknowledged the challenges ahead and pledged to work tirelessly to rebuild the nation.

The Ghana’s first female Vice President

A notable aspect of Mahama’s victory is the election of his running mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, who will become Ghana’s first female Vice President. This historic achievement has been lauded as a progressive step towards gender inclusivity in Ghanaian politics.

Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang

Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang

Mahama’s campaign resonated with voters amid economic challenges, including high inflation and a cost-of-living crisis. He has expressed intentions to renegotiate Ghana’s $3 billion bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to address wasteful state spending and enhance the energy sector. Mahama stated, “We’re bound by it but… it should be possible to make some adjustments to suit reality.”

Additionally, Mahama has pledged to reform the cocoa sector, a vital component of Ghana’s economy. He criticized the current structure where the state-run regulator, COCOBOD, competes with farmers for profits. Mahama proposes restructuring COCOBOD to act solely as a regulator and quality controller, allowing farmers to receive payments directly. He hinted at potential private sector involvement to improve efficiency and boost production.

Addressing corruption is also a priority for the President-elect. Mahama has constituted an anti-corruption team, chaired by Member of Parliament Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to tackle suspected graft and recover misappropriated assets. This initiative underscores his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.

Mahama’s return to power reflects a broader trend in West Africa, where economic dissatisfaction has led to the resurgence of former leaders. His victory is seen as a mandate to address pressing economic issues and restore confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions.

As he prepares to assume office on January 7, 2025, Mahama faces the formidable task of steering Ghana through economic recovery, implementing structural reforms, and fostering national cohesion. His leadership will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of governance and meeting the aspirations of the Ghanaian people.

Photos : al24news.com and happyghana.com

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Oman Vision 2040 and Its Ambitious AI Programme to Drive the Digital Economy

28 October 2024 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

Oman Vision 2040 is a strategic plan that sets a roadmap for the country’s socio-economic development over the next two decades. Launched to diversify Oman’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenue, the vision encompasses reforms in various sectors, including healthcare, education, environment, and technology. At its core, Oman Vision 2040 focuses on transforming the nation into a knowledge-based economy by promoting sustainable development, human capital growth, and digital transformation.

Unveiling the Ambitious AI Programme

In alignment with Vision 2040, Oman recently launched an ambitious Artificial Intelligence (AI) programme, designed to accelerate digital transformation and position the country as a competitive player in the global digital economy. This initiative emphasizes the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly AI, across government sectors, industries, and services. The AI programme, unveiled by Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, aims to incorporate AI into daily operations, drive innovation, and optimize services in healthcare, education, logistics, and energy.

The AI initiative also focuses on local talent development. Oman is investing in education and training programmes to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting AI research and development, thus fostering an environment that encourages digital literacy and technical expertise. This investment aims to create job opportunities in high-tech sectors and prepare Oman’s workforce for a data-driven future.

Driving Digital Transformation and the Digital Economy

Through the AI programme, Oman seeks to stimulate growth in its digital economy. By enhancing productivity, enabling automation, and facilitating data-driven decision-making, the country aims to increase its economic competitiveness. This will be achieved by fostering AI adoption in various industries, allowing businesses to innovate and improve efficiencies. Key initiatives include digitizing government services, which are expected to streamline processes, increase accessibility, and improve the quality of public services.

In addition to boosting the digital economy, Oman’s AI programme targets the development of robust AI infrastructure, such as high-performance computing capabilities and data centers, to support the vast processing needs of AI technologies. The government also plans to encourage partnerships with international tech companies and research institutions, fostering an ecosystem of collaboration and knowledge exchange that will further accelerate AI integration across Oman.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Oman’s Vision 2040 and the AI programme set an ambitious course, challenges remain. Building AI capabilities requires substantial investment in infrastructure, education, and regulatory frameworks. Oman will need to ensure cybersecurity measures and data privacy protections to build trust in AI systems among its citizens and international partners.

However, these challenges present opportunities as well. The AI programme has the potential to position Oman as a tech leader in the Middle East, drawing foreign investments, fostering innovation, and creating a model for AI-driven growth. By harnessing AI responsibly and ensuring inclusivity in digital advancements, Oman can achieve substantial socio-economic benefits.

Oman’s Vision 2040, coupled with the new AI programme, illustrates the nation’s commitment to digital transformation and sustainable economic growth. This initiative is expected to empower local talent, foster innovation, and modernize key sectors. With careful planning, strategic investments, and a focus on building an inclusive digital society, Oman is positioning itself to be a leader in the digital economy and a competitive player on the global stage by 2040.

Photos : omtilak.net – iskanco.com

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Algeria: A “Start-Up Nation” with Global Aspirations

22 January 2024 Comments (0) Politics

Algeria, traditionally known for its rich history and vast natural resources, is increasingly being recognized as a burgeoning “start-up nation.” This North African country, with a young and tech-savvy population, is making strides towards establishing itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, aiming to leave a significant footprint on the global digital economy.

The Current Landscape

Algeria’s start-up ecosystem is still in its nascent stages, yet it shows immense promise. The government, realizing the potential of digital transformation, has been instrumental in fostering a conducive environment for start-ups. Initiatives like the National Startup Fund, established to finance innovative projects, and the implementation of the “Start-up Act,” which provides legal and financial support to young entrepreneurs, are pivotal in this journey.

The country’s youthful demographic is a key asset. With over 70% of the population under the age of 30, Algeria boasts a large, dynamic workforce eager to embrace new technologies and innovation. This demographic dividend, combined with increasing internet penetration and mobile usage, sets the stage for a thriving digital economy.

Innovative Projects and Sectors

Algerian start-ups are making waves across various sectors. In tech, there are burgeoning developments in AI, fintech, e-commerce, and renewable energy technologies. Notable examples include TemTem, a successful ride-hailing app, and Djazair Ta3mal, an online platform helping Algerians enhance their employability.

The agricultural sector, integral to the Algerian economy, is also seeing a digital overhaul. Start-ups are leveraging technology to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, addressing challenges such as water scarcity and food security.

The Future Outlook

The future looks bright for Algeria’s “start-up nation” vision. The government’s increasing focus on digitization and economic diversification, away from oil dependency, signals a commitment to nurturing the start-up ecosystem. Moreover, the growing interest from international investors and venture capitalists in African tech start-ups could bode well for Algeria.

Advantages and Opportunities

Algeria’s strategic location as a gateway between Africa and Europe, combined with its large, young, and increasingly well-educated workforce, presents significant advantages. The country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes also offer untapped potential in sectors like tourism and cultural industries.

Furthermore, the government’s push towards enhancing digital infrastructure and the gradual shift in societal attitudes towards entrepreneurship are creating a fertile ground for innovation and business growth.

Challenges and Problems

However, the journey is not without its challenges. Bureaucracy, regulatory hurdles, and limited access to funding remain significant obstacles for many start-ups. Additionally, while the government has shown support, more consistent policies and effective implementation are needed to sustain long-term growth.

The education system, though improving, still needs to align more closely with the evolving demands of the digital economy. Bridging the skills gap and fostering a culture of innovation and critical thinking is crucial for the sustainable development of the start-up ecosystem.

Not Just a Dream but an Evolving Reality

Algeria’s aspirations to become a “start-up nation” reflect a bold and forward-thinking approach to economic development. While there are challenges to overcome, the country’s advantages, such as its young population, strategic location, and evolving digital landscape, provide a strong foundation for growth. With continued government support, international collaboration, and an emphasis on education and skills development, Algeria is well-positioned to realize its aspirations on the global stage. The nation’s journey towards becoming a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship is not just a dream but an evolving reality, paving the way for a vibrant and diversified economy.

Photos : israelvalley.com / jeuneafrique.com

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Germany looks to Africa as energy crisis looms in Europe

20 November 2022 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

With a sixth round of EU sanctions against Russian oil, Europe is looking to leave Russian gas behind for good. Germany is already looking at alternatives in Africa but ramping up production will not be a small task, with infrastructure challenges and increasing preference towards renewable energy over fossil fuels.

Europe looks to Africa as an alternative to Russia

With Russia ostracized in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine, and a sixth round of EU sanctions targeting Russian oil recently implemented, many countries in Europe are looking to leave Russian gas, oil, and coal behind for good. But cutting the use of Russian gas by 60% before the end of 2022 may come with a nasty side-effect – a lack of energy – especially over the winter where demand in Europe increases. Germany is already looking for alternatives in Africa, with the continent’s oil and gas reserves being an important topic at the June 2022 German-Africa Energy Forum in Hamburg. In 2020, African oil made up nearly 9% of global exports, with over 327 million metric tonnes produced on the continent. But ramping up production and getting it to Europe will not be an easy task, with infrastructure challenges and the zeitgeist in Europe moving towards renewable energy over fossil fuels.

Lack of investment at home raises questions for export

The first major barrier for gas exports to Germany is the lack of infrastructure. Energy development projects are capital-intensive and generally require private-public partnerships. Sultan Wali, Ethiopia’s energy minister said that “African governments cannot carry out these projects alone.” Ndiarka Mbodji, the French-Senegalese founder of Berlin-based Kowry Energy echoed this, saying, “They need financial support from Germany and other rich western countries. Africa holds the key to resolving Europe’s energy crisis. And if we look at Africa’s resources, for example gas, you cannot underestimate its importance.”

Despite such a positive outlook for Africa to fulfill Germany’s gas demands, half of the continent’s population lacks access to clean energy, with many households dependent on burning biomass for energy. Moreover, some 900 million Africans lack access to clean cooking solutions, and on top of this, South Africa is in the midst of its own energy crisis. Load shedding is now a daily occurrence, and the situation is predicted to worsen despite the country holding significant natural gas potential. There will no doubt be those who question whether the continent can afford to export gas when it could be put to good use domestically.

Africa must act quickly to profit

Many German companies are keen to help finance African initiatives that produce hydrogen and natural gas for export to Europe, and African nations are keen to power up using gas. Because natural gas, which is mainly produced in Algeria, Nigeria, and Egypt, creates fewer carbon emissions than other fossil fuels like oil and coal it is seen as a ‘transitional fuel.’ Mbodji says that gas should not be overlooked, stating, “you can see at the moment, with the Ukraine war that we are going through, that there is a need to diversify the source of energy. And if we look at the resource that Africa has in terms of, for example, gas, which is a source of transition, we can see its importance in Africa.” 

The International Energy Agency (IEA) produced its Africa Energy Outlook for 2022, published on 20th June, where it said that Africa could be in a position to export some 30 billion cubic meters (bcm) to Europe by the end of the decade. If all of Africa’s natural gas discoveries are turned into production, Executive Director Fatih Birol has stated that it could make an additional 90 bcm per year by 2030, with around two-thirds of this going towards domestic needs and the rest for export.

But the IEA has said that Africa must act quickly if it is to profit from these vast reserves of natural gas. Europe will only want Africa’s gas until it can shift towards lower carbon technology, something that is being increasingly championed with ever more lofty net-zero promises being made by politicians.

Renewable energy also ramps up exports

There is another energy source that could be exported – solar. Taking advantage of the huge potential for solar energy near the Sahara Desert, a massive undersea power cable is coming to Europe from Egypt. The GREGY intersection, going from Northern Egypt and into Attica, Greece, brings 3,000 megawatts of clean solar power to Europe. At the same time, the Xlinks Morocco-UK power project will connect Alverdiscott, Devon, with a solar site in Morocco, providing enough power to supply seven million homes by 2030.

There isn’t enough African gas available right now to save Germany from an energy shortage this winter, and with Europe pushing for cleaner energy, by the time production has increased to a suitable level it may already be too late to capitalize on Africa’s reserves.

 

Photos : dw.com – logupdateafrica.com – foreignpolicy.com

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UNDP’s innovative small-scale solar funding competition closes for applicants

15 September 2022 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

As part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the Climate Aggregation Platform is running a competition for off-grid solar financing in Africa. The results will provide a range of development benefits, especially for remote communities.

New financing models to tackle the lack of electricity for Africa

As part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of universal access to clean, affordable, reliable energy for all by 2030, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), through the Climate Aggregation Platform (CAP) is running a competition for off-grid solar financing in Africa. Applications have now closed for the first edition of the CAP Financial Innovation Challenge, which will cover East Africa. Aggregate funding projects like this are aimed at countering investment barriers and unlocking new financing for small-scale renewable energy projects, and the increased access to electricity will provide a range of development benefits, from giving farmers access to solar-powered irrigation to health facilities in villages no longer relying solely on diesel generators, to better-lit streets and roads for remote communities.

Aggregate funding reduces risk and encourages investment

Financing solar initiatives in Africa is not without risk or problems, and new sources of funding and new financing mechanisms are required if the necessary investment to meet the Sustainable Development Goal by 2030 is to be reached. In this case, the CAP is using financial aggregation, a process in which multiple energy assets, projects, and companies are compiled into investment portfolios. Investors choose to put money into these portfolios, rather than into specific initiatives.

This aggregation of projects reduces the risk to investors, as well as the transaction costs of investing in multiple projects, and can help counter investment barriers that would prevent these projects from being financed. A recent report from the UNDP and Climate Bonds has shown that financial aggregation has untapped potential in bringing financing to small-scale clean energy projects. Eduardo Appleyard, CAP project coordinator says, “while the market is still nascent, financial aggregation could one day be a game-changer for distributed renewable energy companies…through this process we want to spark a conversation about financial aggregation grounded in real-life examples to help demonstrate its potential and better understand market barriers and opportunities.”

The CAP Financial Innovation Challenge is open to solutions that involve financial aggregation at different levels, such as bundling individual assets, projects, or companies together, and also to other innovative aggregate models, such as carbon credit solutions, renewable energy certificates, innovative models for receivables financing, and digital aggregation platforms.

First initiative to choose five projects across East Africa

The CAP Financial Innovation Challenge will aid in the transfer of hands-on knowledge of solar energy applications that will help overcome energy-related challenges in East African countries. According to the UNDP, off-grid solar and mini-grids are the key to providing reliable electricity to under-served communities without access to electricity and to those that are in regions where the national grid is not reliable.

Off-grid solutions are standalone solar power collection systems operating independently of the main power grid. They are typically sufficient for phone charging and lighting but do not normally provide enough power for larger electricity loads such as powering machinery or agricultural equipment. Mini-grids are larger systems that provide an independent network for communities where the population is too small or remote to make a national grid extension feasible.

The first initiative is exclusively for projects in East Africa, and funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) will be given for up to five projects, with at least one project in Rwanda and Uganda each. Each winning company or organization will then receive $40,000 to develop their innovations.

Buy and sell-side actors welcome to enter

The competition was open to both buy-side actors such as banks, impact investors and financial intermediaries, as well as sell-side entities like project originators, developers, and energy companies. The competition was not open to individuals, but was open to almost any groups including governmental agencies, development banks, private sector entities, NGOs, academia, associations, and joint venture applications, in order to encourage maximum participation.

Both first-of-a-kind solutions that have not yet been attempted anywhere before and proven approaches adapted to a new market sector, geography, or context will be considered. Entries were originally to be stopped on the 31st of August 2022, however the deadline was extended to the 9th September.

No dates have yet been given for when the winners will be announced, but should the competition prove successful it is likely that further competitions to win aggregate funding opportunities will open up both on the African Continent and elsewhere in the world.

Photos : undp.org

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Realizing the digital potential of Africa requires a regional data governance framework

13 May 2022 Comments (0) Politics

There is an urgent need for a data governance framework across the region that is supported by robust, empowered institutions which can support development and allow for entrepeneurship to flourish, offering huge possibilities for the African continent.

Rapid digital growth could drive big developments in Africa 

Rapid digitization offers huge possibilities for the African continent, galvanizing regional developments like free trade areas and structural transformations that in turn promise economic and social growth. Moreover, with the pandemic proving that digital access is a necessity for all, creating secure, reliable digital infrastructure should be a priority for everyone. But while African countries have benefited from technological uptake across health care and economic sectors, there is a large digital gap, and threats ranging from digital monopolies, to lack of electricity, to inefficient regulation could slow this digital revolution. Implementing a data governance framework for the entirety of the continent is therefore a crucial next step.

A regional approach to data governance

A data governance framework is the collection of rules and processes that ensure privacy and compliance with enterprise data management in a country or region. With rising cybercrime, ransomware attacks, and identity theft, ensuring that all organizations and governments are following an established set of rules will offer safety to consumers and encourage confidence for entrepreneurs. There are two broad sets of laws:

  • Safeguard laws are the most well-known. These are laws focused on data protection and privacy, and in 2021 some 52% of African countries had enacted at least one form of data protection legislation.
  • Enabler laws are less commonly known. The idea of enabler laws is to support development outcomes, and policymakers in Africa should scale-up efforts on this type of policy. Investment into information technology infrastructure, improving technical skills in the region, and standardizing regulations particularly around e-commerce and financial transactions allows businesses to take advantage of digital opportunities.

While national efforts are ongoing, the data policy environment in Africa as a whole remains fragmented. Currently only eight African countries have ratified the Malabo Convention, a regional approach to data protection and cybercrime, and only six are participating in the World Trade Organization’s e-commerce negotiations to set up new global trading rules for e-commerce and digital trade.

Rapid growth constrained by infrastructure struggles

Before the continent can properly realize any kind of digital transformation, it must resolve a connectivity problem. In 2017 only 22% of the population had access to the internet, barring most of the continent from e-commerce and other new services. This holds back both startups, who struggle to attract funding, and established businesses who are slow to adopt digital technologies due to a lack of customers benefiting. While the ICT and mobile sectors have grown since then, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic started, millions in Africa still lack basic connectivity. In response to this, there are two main options being pursued:

  • Increasing sovereign debt to pay for new infrastructure, much of it Chinese-supplied. This strategy carries with it numerous other challenges, not least of which is transparency and corruption surrounding such deals, but also the predatory nature of many of the agreements.
  • Allowing the private sector to flourish by establishing the regulatory conditions in which it can grow. Too often in Africa the success stories of entrepreneurs are in spite of government interference, rather than as a result of it. African businesses have become well-practiced at circumventing government obstacles, rather than capitalizing on government policies.

A united, regional approach focusing on ‘enabler laws’ would help with this problem, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a key stepping stone towards a regional data governance and infrastructure policy that could start to change this environment.

From cybercrime to monopolies to offshoring

Even though infrastructure problems are slowly being resolved, a true, effective, regional data governance framework is important for promoting productive and inclusive growth on the continent. In order to ensure that technology complements and does not substitute workers, the digital literacy of Africa’s workforce needs to be increased, both in terms of hard and soft skills. This will help promote job opportunities, rather than replacing jobs with offshore jobs or automation.

There is also the threat from private businesses themselves. The current platform-based business model that dominates in the digital sector encourages a winner-takes-all, monopolistic paradigm which is especially harmful to developing economies. Still, leaving the solution with governments raises questions about data protection and citizen privacy. In both cases, it leads to high prices, poor quality of services, and potentially includes privacy violations for the customers and service users.

The intersection of all of these threats significantly affects the potential positive impacts of digitization on the African continent. There is an urgent need for a data governance framework across the region that is supported by robust, empowered institutions. This can foster a fair and competitive ICT market on the continent, promoting sustainable and productive growth.

Photos : cigionline.org – data4sdgs.org

 

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A circular approach to the economy promises huge gains for Africa

2 February 2022 Comments (0) Politics

Turning towards a ‘circular economy,’ one that focuses on avoiding waste, promoting repair and reuse, and embedding ecological principles, is quickly gaining popularity in the world, but the transition to a circular economy will require policies, incentives, new infrastructure, and business support to make the change a reality.

The Covid-19 Pandemic has shrunk the economies of nearly every country in the world, which has led to renewed calls to restructure economies to support more resilient future growth. Turning towards a ‘circular economy,’ one that focuses on avoiding waste, promoting repair and reuse, and embedding ecological principles, is quickly gaining popularity in the developed world. In Africa these principles have always been practiced both consciously and unconsciously, and the continent is in a very strong position to take advantage of this. With support from local governments, industry, and the international community, Africa could leapfrog the developed world in embedding the principles of the circular economy into its industrial growth and infrastructure development projects.

The calls for a new economic system

The 20th century has been characterized primarily by the ‘linear’ economy, one that heavily relied on the “make, take, dispose” model. This has been hugely successful in industrialized nations and generated massive amounts of material wealth, however the extraction of resources has been highly unsustainable, and in the early 21st century it became increasingly clear that this type of consumption would have severe consequences for ecosystem quality, human health, and food and water prosperity. With the world’s population growing at rapid rates, the impacts are only going to become more severe, and the need for a more sustainable economic system is undeniable. The circular economy has gained traction over the years as an effective approach to achieve global, national, and local sustainability. The principles of mindful ecological practices, repair and re-use of items, and avoiding waste could be the solution to guaranteeing sufficient resources for future generations.

The Circular Economy exists informally in Africa

The idea of re-use, repair, and refurbishment of goods instead of disposing of them is practiced in Africa, but much of it exists at a startup or informal level. In Senegal a company called Proplast produces plastic resin from recycled plastic waste. In Kenya, Ecopost turns plastic into building materials. Despite the 5 million tons of plastic Ecopost has up-cycled so far, the country still produces far more plastic every year than the company can handle. Other industries are more developed though. The high cost of luxury goods like electronic equipment or cars is prohibitive to many people on the continent so cheaper options must be found. In Nigeria, 95% of cars are second-hand vehicles, and in Ghana 80% of second-hand electronic products are re-used, repaired, or refurbished.

Challenges to the circular economy in Africa

The circular economy in Africa is mostly practiced at a small or informal level, but if the benefits are to be properly realized, a coordinated, strategic approach will be necessary. If this does not happen, there is the risk that companies will adopt token or even harmful activities under the name of ‘circularity.’ This could ultimately lead to even worse results, for example waste-to-energy initiatives could see sub-standard burning practices employed that create health risks.  In Agbogbloshie, Ghana, it is common to burn insulated copper wire. Once the plastic insulation is gone, the copper wire can be easily recycled for trade, however this process exposes workers to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide and other hazardous chemicals. Likewise, recycling initiatives with poor practices could see ‘pickers’ risking physical harm in landfill sites – a practice that is already common in much of the developing world. 

At the other end of the spectrum, switching to circular solutions would lead to large-scale shifts in industrial policy and this could risk job losses for those employed in resource extraction and processing. Careful consideration and management of these problems will be required in order to see a successful transition to a more sustainable economic system.

Making the circular economy a success for the continent

In a report by the World Economic Forum’s Circular Economy initiative titled “5 Big Bets for the Circular Economy in Africa,” the waste conversion, plastic waste recycling, e-waste recycling, mass timber, and garment recycling industries are identified as the sectors that can lead the charge towards a sustainable, circular economy on the continent. Training farmers to recover irrigation wastewater and converting food waste into organic fertilizer, instigating bottle deposit systems, conserving forests, and developing the e-waste repair and recycling capacity of nations can bring new opportunities and resilience to Africa’s economic sector. But these are not overnight projects, and the transition to a circular economy will require policies, incentives, new infrastructure, and business support to make the change a reality.

Photo : iucn.org

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African Nations Descend on Dubai’s Expo 2020

16 September 2021 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

After being postponed for a year due to pandemic, Expo 2020 is finally set to begin in Dubai, with nearly every country on the African continent represented both individually and through a dedicated pavilion for the African Union.

No expenses spared to make Dubai’s Expo 2020 a success

After being postponed for a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Expo 2020 is finally set to begin on the 1st of October 2021, with Dubai hosting the Universal Exhibition. For the first time in the 170 year history of World Expos, nearly every country on the African continent will be represented, both individually and through a dedicated pavilion for the African Union. Architecturally alone the event will be spectacular, with Morocco’s pavilion being a vertical earthen village that offers views of the whole event from it’s rooftop. With an estimated allocated budget of $8.7 billion, it is not a cheap event to host, but if successful it has been expected to generate up to US$17.7 billion in revenue for Dubai. Aside from the potential economic benefit, for the United Arab Emirates hosting the expo is a way to position themselves as a country of influence on the international scene, and further their political and economic presence on the continent of Africa.

A unified Africa presents a new image of the continent

For the continent too the exposition is an opportunity, as a myriad of countries wish to deepen their ties with Africa. With it’s Agenda 2063 – a 50-year plan to see an “integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens” – the African Union is ready to use the expo to show that the continent represents a dynamic force in the international arena. Aspiring to an Africa with no borders, whose people see themselves as Africans first, united in common heritage, culture and values the African Union pavilion will highlight Africa’s potential and ambitions, showing a new face of the continent that is exciting, young and modern.

The highlights of the continent on display

Within each carefully curated pavilion, over 40 countries on the continent will showcase to the world what they can offer:

Investment Opportunities

Some countries, like the Democratic Republic of the Congo will showcase the resources of the country. To attract investors the Congolese pavilion will highlight the country’s 80 million hectares of arable land, and the energy-production potential of the Congo River. Likewise Zimbabwe’s pavilion will showcase a destination filled with mining, construction and agriculture opportunities. In the Ethiopian pavilion conveyor belts will display locally-made products, while Nigeria’s ‘Opportunity City’ will put the country’s booming creative and technology sectors at the forefront for visitors to see.

Tourism

For many countries the Expo offers a chance to sell the country as a tourism destination. With the recent rehabilitation of Benin’s cultural sites, the country wants to revitalize its tourism industry. In fact, standing out as a tourism destination will be the challenge at Expo 2020. Heavyweights in tourism like Egypt will deploy pyramids, hieroglyphic signs and genuine antique pharaoh statues, while Nigeria will show visitors around it’s untouched destinations on a virtual reality Eco-tour.

Culture

Along with highlighting the economic opportunities, African countries will be reminding the world of the wealth of culture on the continent. Entering the Ethiopian pavilion will see visitors coming face to face with a replica of ‘Lucy,’ the world’s oldest human fossil, while in the Nigerian pavilion the ‘Nollywood’ film scene will be highlighted. Meanwhile in the Kenyan pavilion is the opportunity to meet the 44 different tribes that make up the country, and visitors can leave with a Kenyan name and digital copy of their own Kenyan passport.

Enticing investment into the continent remains a challenge

Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world, Africa as a continent had seen 25 years of continuous economic growth. Despite this, the bottom half of the global Human Development Index is dominated by African countries, and the continent’s lack of infrastructure remains a barrier to international trade. This makes international investors wary, further holding the continent back. This is acknowledged by Eugene Manga Manga, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s General Commissioner for Expo 2020. He has stated that, “The continent has a lot of difficulties, but it has also started to develop.” With rich natural resources and a youthful, entrepreneurial population, the continent does indeed have a lot to offer, and Expo 2020 may be the perfect chance to remind the rest of the world of this fact.

Photos : expo2020dubai.com/

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Controversy and Challenged for the African Development Bank

22 October 2020 Comments (0) Featured, Politics

In recent years, many African countries and organizations have worked hard to move away from the veil of corruption that has shrouded the continent for decades. Exploitative systems left in place by former colonial governments have often been marked by nepotism and misuse of power. 

The most recent ‘scandal’ has just resulted in Dr Akinwumi Adesina being cleared of all allegations and also re-elected as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) for a new five-year term.

Who is Akinwumi Adesina?

Dr Akinwumi “Akin” Adesina is a 60-year-old Nigerian who previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development from 2010 until 2015. Prior to that, he was Vice President of Policy and Partnerships for AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa).

From a farming family, Adesina was educated in Nigeria (where he was the first student at his university to be awarded a First Class Honours) and then at Purdue University in Indiana, USA, where he won an award for his PhD thesis. 

He then went on to work as a senior economist at WARDA (West African Rice Development Association) as well as continuing to work for the Rockefeller Foundation who he had joined in 1988. He served as the foundation’s representative for the southern African region from 1999 until 2003 and then as associate director for food security from 2003 to 2008. 

Adesina has been recognized for the work he has done in agriculture on several occasions. He was named Forbes’ African man of the Year in 2013 for his work in reforming the Nigerian agricultural sector. And in 2010, then UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, appointed him as one of 17 leaders to spearhead the UN’s Millennium Development Goals.

His record at the AfDB has been impressive. It is the only African financial institution with a Triple-A credit rating, and in October of 2019, they raised $115 billion in fresh capital, an achievement many ascribed to Adesina. 

Controversy

The corruption came from AfDB staff who alleged that Adesina had committed multiple breaches of trust and of abusing his position as well as breaching the bank’s own code of ethics. An initial 15-page report accused him of embezzlement, nepotism towards fellow Nigerians, awarding lucrative contracts to friends and families, and promoting people who were suspected of fraudulent activities. 

An internal inquiry cleared him of all allegations but this was rejected by the U.S.A., who are one of the AfDB’s 27 non-regional members as well as being the second largest shareholder in the bank behind Nigeria. 

This prompted the bank’s Bureau of Governors to set up a three-person review panel, headed by Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland. They were given a short four-week window to investigate and deliver their findings so as not to interfere with the approaching election for President of AfDB, an election Adesina had been expected to win unopposed until these allegations surfaced.

The review panel agreed with the original internal inquiry’s findings, stating: “…concurs with the (Ethics) Committee in its findings in respect of all the allegations against the President and finds that they were properly considered and dismissed by the Committee.”

Moving Forward

On 27th August, 2020, Adesina was re-elected for another five –year term as president of AfDB with 100% of the votes from both regional and non-regional members. 

The challenge for Adesina now is to put this controversy behind him and focus on the challenges facing the AfDB, especially in the current uncertainty of Covid 19. His first term focused on what the bank called their ‘High 5s’ priorities: Powering Africa, Feeding Africa, Industrializing Africa, Integrating Africa, and Improving the lives of Africans. 

That first term saw a lot of success which included 18 million receiving electricity supplies, 141 million benefiting from better agricultural technology, and 60 million getting access to better water supplies and sanitation. The bank has also seen its general capital reach its highest level ever, growing to $208 billion from $93 billion. 

With the independent panel exonerating him, and with the unanimous vote for his re-election, Dr Adesina can hopefully put these allegations to bed and continue to improve the lives of millions of Africans, 

Photos : Foreignpolicy.com / Afdb.org / africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk/ ft.com

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