Insights

In-depth analysis of Africa’s most complex stories. The Insights section goes beyond the headlines examining structural trends, policy implications, and long-term forces shaping the continent’s political economy. Essential reading for analysts, strategists, and senior decision-makers.

Benin votes tomorrow as Talon picks his successor

Benin votes April 12 as outgoing President Patrice Talon steps down after a decade, with finance minister Romuald Wadagni the…

Kenya halts rate cuts at 8.75% on oil price risk

Kenya's CBK paused its rate-cutting cycle at 8.75% after 10 consecutive cuts, citing oil price risks from the Iran war,…

Vodacom takes control of Safaricom in $1.6bn deal

Kenya's parliament approved Vodacom's $1.6bn purchase of the government's 15% Safaricom stake, giving South Africa's Vodacom 55% majority control of…

African sovereigns to raise $155bn in 2026

African sovereigns are projected to raise $155 billion in commercial markets in 2026, up 11% on 2025, driven by infrastructure…

Rwanda locks in $250m IMF credit facility

The IMF Executive Board approved Rwanda's $250 million, 38-month Extended Credit Facility on June 9,…

Nigeria’s trade surplus triples to N7.55tn

Nigeria's Q1 2026 merchandise trade surplus surged 341% to N7.55 trillion ($4.1 billion) from N1.71…