First Independent Mena Newspaper
Nigeria has introduced a comprehensive ban on the export of wood and allied products as part of a renewed strategy to curb illegal logging and deforestation, local media reported on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The policy, anchored in a presidential executive order, will see all previously issued export licences and permits revoked. The announcement was […]
Egypt’s Pharaohs will face a stern examination of their readiness for the Africa Cup of Nations when they take on Nigeria in a high-profile friendly, just days before the start of their continental campaign. The warm-up match comes as Egypt prepare to open their AFCON journey on Monday, 22 December, against Zimbabwe. The tournament will […]
Morocco’s modernisation is an inspirational success. The country has built world-class ports, attracted tens of billions in investment, and positioned itself as a bridge between Africa and Europe—and between East and West, says Modern Diplomacy magazine in its latest edition. Since 2020, the country has drawn about $40 billion in greenfield manufacturing investment, becoming the […]
Tensions have surged in Cameroon following opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s declaration of victory in the 12 October presidential election, days before official results are due. Clashes broke out in Douala and other cities as protesters rallied against what they allege are attempts to manipulate the vote. Tchiroma, a former government spokesperson under President Paul […]
The European Union’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on steel imports beyond a reduced quota has sent ripples through global markets — and Africa is bracing for the fallout. While most African countries are technically exempt from the EU’s new tariff regime under WTO rules, the continent may still face serious indirect consequences. With major […]
A strategic energy partnership between Morocco and Nigeria reached a pivotal milestone with the establishment of a dedicated joint venture to manage their ambitious $25 billion trans-African gas pipeline project. The newly formed entity will oversee financing and implementation of this massive infrastructure initiative, marking a transition from planning to operational phases. According to the […]
Somalia’s government has firmly denied allegations that it entered into a secret agreement with Sweden to accept deported Somali nationals in exchange for redirected development aid. In an official statement, the Office of the Prime Minister rejected claims that Somalia received $9 million in Swedish aid as part of a covert deal. There is “no […]
Sub-Saharan Africa’s economy is expected to grow by 3.8% in 2025, a modest but meaningful rebound driven by easing inflation, stabilizing currencies, and improving investment conditions, according to the World Bank’s latest Africa Pulse report released Tuesday (7 Oct). The forecast marks an upgrade from April’s 3.5% projection and reflects renewed optimism in key economies […]
Africa’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity fell sharply in the first half of 2025, with deal volumes declining by 21% and total values down 16% compared to the same period last year. According to a new report by DealMakers Africa, foreign investors are retreating from the continent due to global interest rate hikes, a strong […]
Senegal is planning the construction of second refinery, SAR 2.0, by 2029, to increase its annual refining capacity and put an end to its paradox: exporting crude and importing refined fuel although it joined Africa’s oil-producing nations in 2024. Actually, Senegal finds itself in a paradoxical position: exporting its crude to Europe while importing both […]