Business Africa

The Lobito Corridor, it's a transcontinental railway and logistics project between Angola, Zambia and the DRC, transporting mainly mineral . There's a lot of activity in terms of exports and upgrades financed by big institutions. The reason we are talking about it today is that Wellington Muzengeza who is a political risk analyst and urban strategist has penned an article highlighting how it is a test of sovereignty and governance and who controls Africa's critical minerals in the energy transition era. Reports indicate that there is a global demand for copper and cobalt and history has taught us what happens when there's a rush a demand for minerals. Mr Musengaza spoke to Thami Ngubeni about what it is he is picking up around this corridor and what it is opening itself to especially now that it is being upgraded.

We wrap-up our series on the economics of higher education by looking at what African leaders can do to prioritize funding in tertiary education.   The series was sparked by Malawi's decision to double fees for higher education which will definitely exclude the poor. So we've invited South Africa's (SA) former Statistician-General who is well vested in this subject and also travelled the continent engaging with universities and other academic institutions. How do the Chines, Indian and other countries get it right and what is making Africa stay behind?  To lead us in this discussion, Thami Ngubeni hosted Dr Pali Lehohla, SA's former Statistician-General.

In today's markets slot we look at the Africa Unlocked conference underway in Cape Town, South Africa (SA). Hosted by Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, the conference has evolved into one of the continent's leading business leadership platforms, convening influential business leaders, policymakers, investors, development finance institutions and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, forge partnerships and explore practical solutions that support sustainable economic growth. In its third year, this year's event takes place under the theme: "Built in Africa: Amplifying Continental Growth."  For more on this, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Junaid Jadwat, Head of Coverage for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank SA.

The 10th July marks the last day for entries for those interested in applying for the 2026 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards. To tell us why these awards are important for aspiring filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, students and technical practitioners, Thami Mgubeni spoke to  Luthando Mngomezulu, an award-winning filmmaker and director of Themba.

The 1st of May 2026 saw the start of China's zero-tariff treatment to all African countries that have diplomatic relations with Beijing. Some commentators interpreted this as a game-changer which could offer African countries an opportunity to further diversify their trade partners. But on the other hand, eSwatini has been excluded because of their diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The small land-locked is well-known for its citrus produce which used to offer high-quality grapefruit to the world's markets. It's been two months since the announcement by Beijing and one wonders what the direct impact has been on the ground and the sort of reaction in eSwatini. To give us a glimpse, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News Editor.

Back to our focus on the cost of higher education especially on the Africa continent, which came to our attention after Malawi announced a 100% increase in public university fees. Today we focus on the accommodation side of things and the impact it has on the overall costs of higher learning. Many students travel far from home to the institution of their choice for studying purposes which forces them to find accommodation and we know that it does not come cheap. So for someone in the accommodation space, what is that one thing that they would say pushes rent up?  To get an insider's take on this, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Kagisho Mamabolo, Chief Executive Officer of the Private Student Housing Association

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) last week signed a diamond processing agreement with Swiss company ADEX aimed at implementing measures that they say will modernize and formalize the country's diamond and coloured-gemstone sector. The country's Minister of Mines Louis Kabamba says that the initiative plans to establish a high-end cutting and jewelry workshop, a digital platform for direct access to global markets, and programs for technology transfer and national capacity building. For a perspective on this, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Peter Major who a mining analyst.

Consumers are increasingly spending on experiences rather than material goods, as businesses and brands invest more in immersive events to strengthen customer engagement. According to The Deuce Experience, the growing experience economy is reshaping consumer behaviour while creating new opportunities for sectors such as tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. To unpack this trend and what it means for South Africa's economy,  Thami Ngubeni spoke to Connie Motsumi, founder of The Deuce Experience.

We continue our series focused on trying to understand why tertiary education on the African continent is expensive. As we reported that last week Malawi decided to increase fees for public universities by 100% something that upset many activists and opposition parties as they say it will exclude the poor. So for today we look at what Ai is bringing and how it can help give access to more people and make it very inclusive. What answers is it bringing since we are all convince that this is the direction the world is taking? Where is it leaving the African continent and what should our leaders be doing to take advantage of it?  To help us navigate this issue,  Thami Ngubeni spoke to Dr Helper Zhou, CEO Quantilytix

The Gambia began the first day of hosting the African Caucus of The World Bank Finance Ministers, Central Bank Governors and senior officials from across the continent.  The country was selected to host the three-day high level discussions on Africa's economic future following the appointment of Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Seedy KM Keita, as chairman of the Caucus at its meeting held in Bangui, Central African Republic last year.  Under the theme, "Transforming Africa's Economies Through Investment, Innovation and Inclusion," this year's meeting will focus on strategies to boost economic growth, strengthen resilience and address the continent's financing challenges amid global economic uncertainty. To look at what we should expect to come out of this, and also why we see so little on the ground from such conferences, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Mkhululi Ncube - Credit Executive ABSA CIB Pan Africa .

Hundreds of delegates from across the Southern Africa region are meeting for the 44th Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) in Pretoria to discuss the future of transport and infrastructure.  The premier annual gathering for transport professionals, researchers, and policymakers is convened under the theme: "Developing and sustaining transport systems in an uncertain world .Stakeholders involved in the transport sector are discussing how to provide optimum, effective, and efficient transport solutions.  To tell us more on the conference, Thami Ngubeni spoke to Dr Mathetha Mokonyama, Chairman at the SACT.

Thami Ngobeni speaks to Siphamandla Mkhwanazi, senior economist at FNB about South African Reserve Bank announcing its repo rate decision, and the impact it will have on the economy. And also look at the latest Consumer Confidence Index and how South African consumers,  policymakers and businesses interpret the signals in the current climate.

South Africa's telecommunications giant announced the completion of its acquisition of an additional 20% effective stake in Safaricom PLC. This follows the staying of a conservatory order by the Court of Appeal in Kenya on the 26th of June this year and the fulfilment of all remaining conditions. The transaction, which is valued at $2.1 billion was first announced in December 2025 and sees Vodacom acquire a 15% stake from the Government of Kenya. To talk about the significance of this deal, Thami Ngobeni spoke to Channel Africa's East African correspondent in Nairobi, Daniel Ominde .

Activists in Malawi expressed frustration at news of a 100 percent increase in public university tuition fees. They felt that this will exclude the poor and urging government to reverse the decision. So at the back of this, we thought to look at the cost of tertiary education on the African continent and what it is that contributes to the costs. Thami Ngobeni speaks to those who are in the industry to get an insider's view of what it takes and how it works generally. She starts off with the TVET  (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) sector to talk about the challenges they face, and the sort of red-tape they go through in both establishing and running it. What is it that African leaders can do to make it more accessible and attractive?  Dr Dovhani Mamphiswana is CEO of Eastc Technocentric Varsity, a South African based TVET college.

As Malawi celebrates 62 years of independence, Christians have been challenged to step out of their churches, and actively participate in driving economic development in Malawi.  The call came from reverend Dr Matilda Matabwa of the Malawi Assemblies of God who was delivering a special sermon to mark the anniversary. Reports coming from Malawi say that the celebrations were low-key because government kept its promise of not holding state-funded celebrations for this anniversary, citing the need to save resources amid prevailing economic challenges. To get an understanding of some of the economic challenges faced by that country and the possible solutions moving forward, Channel Africa's Thami Ngobeni spoke to  Chifipa Mhango, Chief Economist and Director of Economic Research and Strategy at the Don Consultancy Group

The International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) is hosting the African Mainstream Media Workshop in China under the theme, "Building All-Weather China-Africa Community With A Shared Future For The New Era: The Responsibility of Media." The workshop brings together media professionals from mainstream news organisations in seven African countries, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania and Zambia, for in-depth exchanges on media cooperation and other areas of mutual interest. Thami Ngobeni caught-up with  Channel Africa's reporter, Michael Mbewe, who was  participating in the programme  in Beijing, China.

As anti-illegal migrant marches continue to spark debate across South Africa, attention is turning to their broader impact beyond politics and public safety. While supporters argue that the demonstrations are aimed at addressing crime and undocumented migration, critics warn they could harm South Africa’s international reputation, weaken investor confidence, discourage tourism, and fuel perceptions of xenophobia. To unpack the potential economic and branding implications, the programme is joined by economic brand specialist and Managing Director of Reputation 1st, Tshepo Matseba.

In today’s market segment, the focus is on the economic week that was, including oil prices, which have fallen to pre-war levels. Attention also turns to South Africa’s consumer confidence, which declined in the second quarter of this year. To unpack these developments and what they could mean for the economy, FNB senior economist Koketso Mano joins the discussion.

Africa’s agri-food sector is in focus as Nairobi hosts the FINAS 2026 Summit from June 30 to July 2, bringing together over 1000 stakeholders from government, finance and business. The summit aims to close a financing gap of more than $100 billion and boost investment into Africa’s food systems, which employ over 60% of the workforce. Discussions will focus on climate-smart agriculture, blended finance and new investment models to support farmers and agribusinesses across the continent. Joining the discussion to share more on the summit is Professor Hamadi Boga, Chair of FINAS and Vice President in charge of programme delivery at AGRA.

South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province is experiencing a busy winter tourism season, supported by school holidays and major events. Winter tourism continues to play a vital role in supporting the province’s hospitality sector and local economy, with increased visitor numbers driving demand across accommodation and related services. Major events, school holiday travel and business tourism are helping to boost occupancy rates and visitor spending across the province. Tourism continues to create opportunities for businesses of all sizes while supporting jobs and entrepreneurship. From a hospitality industry perspective, Mandy Massey, Deputy Chairperson for FEDHASA East Coast, joins the discussion to assess how the season has performed so far.

It is time for the market update, focusing on the latest developments shaping business, markets and the broader economy across Africa and beyond. Joining the discussion to provide insight into these trends is Viv Govender, Senior Analyst and Portfolio Manager at RandSwiss.

Public health advocates are raising concerns about the continued influence of the tobacco industry on policymaking in South Africa. The concerns were highlighted during the launch of the 2025 Tobacco Industry Interference Index Report, which measures how effectively governments protect public health policies from the commercial interests of the tobacco industry. The report indicates that South Africa continues to face challenges in reducing tobacco industry interference, despite repeated recommendations to strengthen safeguards. Channel Africa’s Lebogang Mabange reports.

China is calling on BRICS nations to strengthen cooperation on strategic mineral resources. Speaking at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting currently underway in New Delhi, India, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged member states to deepen collaboration on minerals, energy security and emerging technologies. With Africa at the centre of global critical mineral supply chains, questions are being raised about the opportunities and risks this growing BRICS cooperation could present for the continent’s resource-rich economies. There is also increasing focus on whether Africa can convert its mineral wealth into greater industrial and economic power under a BRICS-led framework. To unpack these developments, Mining Analyst David van Wyk joins the discussion.

South African salary earners remain under significant financial pressure as rising inflation, higher fuel costs and economic uncertainty continue to erode purchasing power. This is according to the latest PayInc Net Salary Index for May 2026, which tracks the monthly average nominal net salaries of around 2.1 million salary earners. While the report paints a challenging picture for households, there are indications that some relief could emerge for the local economy in the coming months. For more on the index and what it means for consumers, Independent Economist Elize Kruger joins the discussion.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is warning that a new El Niño weather pattern could severely disrupt food production and threaten the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The agency says communities already struggling with climate extremes, conflict and rising food production costs are especially vulnerable. The FAO, together with the World Food Programme, is calling for urgent action to mitigate the potential impact before the situation escalates. Lebogang Mabange reports.

Small businesses and informal enterprises are central to Ghana’s economy, driving employment, production and everyday economic activity. However, many operate without adequate insurance cover, leaving them exposed to risks that can quickly derail operations and income. With insurance penetration still low, attention is shifting to how stronger risk protection can support resilience and growth. Joining the discussion to explore this further is Daniel Boi Addo, Managing Director of Hollard Insurance Ghana.

The programme begins with the weekly business round-up, focusing on the top stories making headlines across the continent. Joining the discussion is Victor Kgomoeswana, author of Africa Is Open for Business and Africa Bounces Back. Victor also serves as the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo.

A landmark court ruling in France is placing renewed pressure on global oil and gas companies to take greater responsibility for their role in climate change. A Paris court has ordered TotalEnergies to account for the environmental impact of emissions generated by the use of its oil and gas products, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for the energy sector worldwide. Senior international trade consultant Collins Wekwe weighs in on the implications of this ruling.

South African salary earners remain under significant financial pressure as rising inflation, higher fuel costs and economic uncertainty continue to erode purchasing power, according to the latest PayInc Net Salary Index for May 2026, which tracks the monthly average nominal net salaries of around 2.1 million salary earners. But there could be some relief on the horizon in the coming months for the local economy. For more on the Index Elize Kruger, Independent Economist.

China is calling on BRICS nations to strengthen cooperation on strategic mineral resources. Speaking at the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting currently underway in New Delhi, India, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged member states to deepen collaboration on minerals, energy security and emerging technologies. With Africa at the centre of global critical mineral supply chains, what opportunities and risks could this growing BRICS cooperation present for the continent's resource-rich economies? Can the continent convert mineral wealth into greater industrial and economic power under a BRICS- led framework? Joining us now to unpack this further is Mining Analyst David Van Wyk.

Public health advocates are raising concerns about the continued influence of the tobacco industry on policymaking in South Africa. The concerns were highlighted during the launch of the 2025 Tobacco Industry Interference Index Report, which measures how effectively governments protect public health policies from the commercial interests of the tobacco industry. The report says South Africa continues to face challenges in reducing tobacco industry interference despite repeated recommendations. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports.

It's time now for our market update, where we look at the latest developments shaping business, markets and the economy across Africa and beyond. Joining to take us through some of these stories is Viv Govender, Senior Analyst and Portfolio Manager at RandSwiss.... Talking Points: -Oil prices have fallen to their lowest level since before the recent U.S.-Iran conflict, easing concerns over supply disruptions and offering potential relief for fuel-importing economies. -Nigeria's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has halted the marketing of the proposed Dangote Refinery initial public offering (IPO) pending regulatory approval, delaying what could become one of Africa's biggest stock market listings. -Ghana is nearing the completion of its debt restructuring after launching a mandatory bond swap, a key step towards restoring fiscal stability. -Botswana says it is seeing early signs of a recovery in global diamond demand, offering support to its mining-dependent economy. -The IMF says it is ready to support African economies facing potential economic fallout from rising tensions in the Middle East. -The Nairobi Securities Exchange has launched options on futures contracts, marking a milestone in the development of Kenya's derivatives market. -SpaceX's valuation is under pressure amid a broader technology sell-off, reflecting weaker investor sentiment towards high-growth companies.

The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, has offered Iran's perspective on the status of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy transit routes.  Addressing a diplomatic seminar in Pretoria on Tuesday, Khatibzadeh discussed the strategic waterway's significance and its role in regional security dynamics. Channel Africa's reporter Micheal Mbewe filed this report.

Southern African countries are facing growing economic pressure as tensions in the Middle East continue to affect global energy markets, trade routes and investment flows. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa's Subregional Office for Southern Africa today convened a high-level policy dialogue to assess the impact of the crisis on the region and discuss measures to build resilience. Participants heard that while the crisis presents significant challenges, it could also create new economic opportunities for Southern Africa. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports.

South Africa's Department of Mineral Resources says African countries must urgently strengthen cooperation to ensure minerals are beneficiated on the continent rather than exported in raw form. Speaking on the sidelines of the jus concluded Africa Energy Forum Director-General Jacob Mbele says beneficiation remains central to Africa's industrialisation agenda, but challenges such as energy constraints and infrastructure gaps continue to slow progress. Our economics reporter Innocent Semosa spoke to him.

As African nations intensify efforts to derive greater value from their natural resources Guinea has become the latest country to ban the export of unrefined minerals. The West African nation has prohibited the export of raw gold requiring all gold produced in the country to be refined locally before being shipped abroad.   Guinea's President General Mamady Doumbouya says the decision was taken following consultations with industry stakeholders and warns that companies violating the directive could face licence suspensions and the termination of mining contracts. To unpack these developments we're joined by political analyst, writer and research fellow at the Middle East Africa Research Institute, Kenneth Kgwadi.

The global trade in second-hand clothing is once again under the spotlight as delegates gather in Geneva, Switzerland, for the 15th meeting of the Open-ended Working Group under the Basel Convention. Discussions taking place from today to the 26th of June are expected to influence international policies on textile waste, circularity, and the movement of used clothing across borders. For many African countries, the outcome of these talks could have significant implications for jobs, livelihoods, and the growing reuse economy.  To discuss these issues, we are joined by Teresiah Wairimu Njenga from the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya.

South Africa's credit industry has come under the spotlight after the country's National Financial Ombud Scheme found that 62% of complaints against credit providers were resolved in favour of consumers. The findings suggest that in many cases reported, lenders failed to follow proper processes or treat consumers fairly. With complaints rising by 58% in 2025, the Ombud says some lenders are placing profit ahead of fairness, with related cases involving unlawful vehicle retention, excessive debt restructuring, unfair billing, and fraud listings without sufficient evidence. Joining us now to discuss this further is Nerosha Maseti, Lead Ombud at the Banking and Credit Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme South Africa (NFO) .

South Africans continue to face constraints amid economic uncertainty. This is due to a number of changes in key industries including the rise in fuel prices which came shortly after inflation was reported to have risen to 4.0% in April; while in March, the country's power  utility Eskom announced tariff increases. This further puts more pressure on households and small businesses as they are now paying more than they used to for basic needs. Thuto  Ngobeni has more.

Financing remains one of the biggest hurdles facing energy projects across Africa, with developers often struggling to secure the capital needed to move projects from concept to implementation. Industry leaders say innovative financing solutions will be critical to unlocking investment and accelerating the continent’s energy transition. Speaking to Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, at the Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, delegates stressed the need for the sector to explore new funding models to unlock greater investment in Africa’s power infrastructure and expand the pipeline of bankable energy projects across the continent.

The World Bank says Africa is making significant progress in expanding access to electricity, with 50 million people already connected under the Mission 300 initiative. Addressing delegates at the Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the continent is now connecting people to power at nearly twice the rate seen before the programme began. He credited African governments, development partners and private investors for driving reforms and investments aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030. Our economics reporter, Innocent Semosa, is attending the forum and filed this report...

As concerns over migration continue to spark debate across the African continent, questions are being raised about the impact of growing anti-immigrant sentiment on regional integration and the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, has called for migration to be viewed through a broader continental lens. He emphasised the need for legal and orderly movement of people, while also addressing the root causes that force many Africans to leave their home countries. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

In today’s market segment, the focus is on South Africa’s employment and growth outlook for 2026, as well as the performance of the country’s mining and manufacturing sectors amid global commodity price volatility. To provide further insight, FNB Senior Economist Thanda Sithole joins the discussion.

Kenya’s plans to expand Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi are under scrutiny over concerns relating to procurement, transparency and the legitimacy of the firms involved. The project initially began as a proposed partnership with India’s Adani Group but has since evolved into a political storm, with allegations surrounding procurement processes and transparency. To provide an update on developments, Solomon Ekanem, Editor of Business Insider Africa, joins the discussion.

The International Monetary Fund’s latest talks with Malawi have concluded without reaching an agreement on a new lending programme. Malawi’s bid for fresh IMF funding comes as the country faces mounting debt, high inflation and a shortage of foreign currency. Tonight, the focus is on the implications for the economy and what comes next. Joining the discussion is Dr Bertha Bangara Chikadza, President of the Economics Association of Malawi and Senior Lecturer in Macroeconomics at the University of Malawi.

A new study reveals widespread borrowing, loss-chasing and financial sacrifice among South African gamblers. The study, conducted by Yazi, a South African-founded, AI-powered consumer research platform, analysed over 2500 participants on online gambling behaviour in the country. Thuto Ngobeni has more.

As South Africa marks Youth Month, attention is turning to young people who are creating opportunities for themselves and others through entrepreneurship. While youth unemployment remains one of the country’s biggest challenges, some young South Africans are turning to agriculture to build businesses, create jobs and contribute to food security. Channel Africa’s Lebogang Mabange reports.

South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says Africa is making steady progress in balancing energy security, economic growth and its climate commitments. Speaking to Channel Africa on the sidelines of the 2026 Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, Ramokgopa stressed that stronger policy coordination across the continent will be key to unlocking investment, expanding energy access and advancing Africa’s long-term energy ambitions. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

In today’s markets segment, the focus is on a new report commissioned by Standard Bank Wealth and Investment. The inaugural study sheds light on how Africa’s wealthiest individuals build their fortunes, often turning what outsiders perceive as risk into opportunity. Released earlier this month, the findings shift the narrative away from headline wealth figures to a deeper understanding of the mindset driving the continent’s most successful investors. For more on the report, Jacques Els, Head of Wealth and Investment at Standard Bank, joins the discussion.

The Zimbabwean government has raised the minimum monthly wage for domestic workers from $85 to $90 in an attempt to ease pressure on low-income earners facing rising living costs. While the increase offers some relief, the country’s domestic worker wage has been criticised for remaining low compared with rates in South Africa, Kenya and Egypt. Economists say the real impact will depend on inflation, exchange rates and enforcement. To discuss the implications, development economist Dr Eddie Mahembe joins the conversation.