Author: Emmanuel Mbemba

Introduction to the Bond Issuance In a strategic move aimed at enhancing its financial framework, Maroc Telecom, a leading telecommunications operator in Africa, has triumphantly executed its inaugural private bond issuance, amassing a significant sum of 3 billion dirhams, equivalent to approximately 326 million US dollars. This milestone initiative not only marks a pivotal chapter for the Group but also signifies its resolute commitment to advancing high-value projects. Investor Enthusiasm and Strategic Goals The issuance was conducted under a private placement format, capturing substantial interest from institutional investors. It features a two-year maturity period with repayment at maturity and was…

Steadfast Economic Growth Amidst Global Uncertainties Ivory Coast’s economy continues to dazzle with its thriving performance as highlighted in the latest report by the African Development Bank (AfDB). The West African powerhouse is projected to maintain a robust real GDP growth rate of 6.1% in 2024, with forecasts predicting stability around 6.3% for 2025-2026. This news was unveiled during a thought-provoking seminar in Abidjan, focusing on ‘Harnessing Ivory Coast’s Capital for Sustainable Development.’ Kadio Lionel Kouao, an AfDB country economist, articulately credited the nation’s economic dynamism to strategic fiscal measures and investments. Inflation Eases as Fiscal Deficits Shrink The inflation…

Historic Trade Milestone The trade relationship between China and Africa has reached a historical peak with commerce totaling a remarkable $134.16 billion from January to May 2025. This figure represents a 12.4% increase over the same period last year, as announced by China’s Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, during a recent press briefing in Accra on June 19. China’s longstanding position as Africa’s leading trade partner for the sixteenth consecutive year reflects the strength of this economic alliance despite a longstanding structural imbalance. Surging Chinese Exports According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, exports from China to African…

Ethiopia Seeks Glory as East Africa’s FDI Champion In a strategic diplomatic maneuver, Ethiopia is poised to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) nearing $4 billion in 2024, as indicated by the latest World Investment Report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This forecast marks a significant 22% increase in FDI compared to previous years, positioning Ethiopia as East Africa’s frontrunner in attracting external capital. Strategic Reforms Fueling Investment Surge Ethiopia’s rise in the FDI league table can be primarily attributed to comprehensive reforms across various sectors. The government has embarked on transformative policies that liberalize the…

Rising Debt: A Pressing Concern for Senegal The Senegalese government is grappling with escalating public debt, intensified by a decrease in external financing and growing demands on public finances. This situation is causing widespread concern, with entities such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) closely monitoring developments. Official statistics reveal a significant uptick in public debt at the end of the first quarter of 2025. Debt service alone surged by 44.5% year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2024, amounting to 822.32 billion CFA francs (approximately 1.4 billion USD). This trend continued into the first quarter of 2025, with an additional…

The Perception Gap in African Economies In recent years, African economies have made significant strides in growth and modernization, yet a persistent narrative continues to overshadow these advancements. Often referred to as the ‘Africa risk premium,’ this narrative is less a reflection of current realities and more a product of outdated perceptions. The consequence is a formidable barrier to investment that sits not in tangible risks but rather within the realm of perspective distortions perpetuated by global media outlets. The Media’s Role in Shaping Economic Realities Global media platforms play a substantial role in shaping perceptions of Africa across international…

A Fiscal Catastrophe in the Making Africa’s debt dilemma presents a complex challenge that demands immediate attention. With burgeoning national debts exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, many African economies are precariously teetering on the brink of insolvency. The continent’s financial plight is compounded by rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and persistent poverty. It’s against this backdrop that the Stiglitz Report, spearheaded by Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz, provides a set of enlightened proposals aimed at transforming Africa’s fiscal landscape. The Stiglitz Report: A Vision for Debt Alleviation The report, commissioned by the Vatican, offers six pivotal proposals designed to tackle Africa’s…

Gemcorp’s Ambitious Expansion Plan Gemcorp Capital, under the leadership of Atanas Bostandjiev, has set its sights on extending its financial footprint well beyond its established base in Angola. Recognizing the potential for high returns on investment in the broader African continent, the private equity firm has embarked on an ambitious campaign to raise funds in the United States and the United Arab Emirates. The goal is to diversify its portfolio through strategic ventures in Southern and Eastern Africa, focusing on sectors such as mining, oil, agriculture, and renewable energies. Investment Destinations and Sectors With Africa’s natural resources attracting global interest,…

Diplomatic Skies Hovering Over Complex Negotiations The ongoing negotiations between Royal Air Maroc and Airbus have encountered an unforeseen obstacle. The crux of the issue stems from Royal Air Maroc’s current deliberations regarding their flight slots at Paris airports. These slots are essential for their European operations, yet they have, inadvertently, become a bargaining chip stalling a potentially lucrative deal between the Moroccan airline and the European aerospace giant. The deal, which involves an order of 20 aircraft, was anticipated to be formalized during the Paris Air Show held at Le Bourget. Paris Air Show: A Missed Opportunity Airbus, renowned…

Efako My Bouffe: An Unlikely Innovation in Benin In Benin, a captivating innovation has emerged, as Efako My Bouffe introduces a groundbreaking local production: a 100% locally manufactured food dispenser. Spearheaded by the visionary Prosper Kangnidé Mahunakpon, this project springs from the educational trenches and rises as a testament to local ingenuity. The endeavor highlights the potential harbored within academic circles to spawn real-world technological advancements. This landmark venture showcases a blend of human resolve and native intelligence, poised to alter prevailing consumer habits and stimulate local employment. The Tenacity Behind Efako My Bouffe The journey of Efako My Bouffe…