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South Africa leads Africa on the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 List, highlighting the country’s dominance in Africa’s corporate landscape. Naspers emerged as the top-ranked African firm, valued at $36 billion. [Photo Credit: File] South Africa leads Africa on the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 List, highlighting the country’s dominance in Africa’s corporate landscape. Published: June 15, 2025 at 4:57:29 PM Modified: June 15, 2025 at 5:07:59 PM South Africa has once again emerged as Africa’s corporate leader, with 17 companies making the 2025 Forbes Global 2000 list, a prestigious annual ranking of the world’s largest and most influential publicly traded firms. The list, which evaluates companies based on a composite score of revenue, profit, assets, and market value, reflects the relative strength of national economies through their top-tier enterprises. Of the African continent’s total representation, South Africa commands the lion’s share, reaffirming its place as Africa’s most diversified and industrialized economy. The country’s presence spans multiple sectors, including media, finance, mining, telecoms, and retail. The top-ranked African firm is Naspers, the Cape Town–based media and internet behemoth , valued at $36 billion, primarily driven by its investments in global tech firms, including Tencent in China. Naspers continues to dominate Africa’s corporate space due to its high market value and innovation-driven strategy. South Africa’s banking giants are also well-represented: FirstRand – Market value: $27.4 billion Standard Bank Group – Market value: $22.8 billion Capitec Bank – Market value: $19.3 billion Absa Group – Market value: $9.6 billion These financial institutions have consistently ranked high due to their regional influence, customer base, profitability, and Pan-African operations. Mining continues to be a pillar of South Africa’s economy. Notable mining companies on the list include: Gold Fields – $12.7 billion Anglo American Platinum – $9.76 billion Harmony Gold Mining – $6.67 billion Kumba Iron Ore – $6.65 billion In telecommunications, MTN Group ($9.81 billion) and Vodacom Group ($13.1 billion) maintain strong standings due to their expansive networks and growing subscriber bases across Africa and the Middle East. South Africa’s robust retail and services sector is represented by: Shoprite Holdings – Africa’s largest retailer, with a market value of $10.37 billion Bidvest Group – A diversified services and trading company valued at $8.6 billion Aspen Pharmacare – The continent’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer While South Africa leads, Morocco also secured a notable place on the Forbes Global 2000 with three major financial institutions: Attijariwafa Bank – Market value: $11.1 billion Banque Centrale Populaire Maroc Telecom Morocco’s consistent economic reforms, stable financial sector, and strategic trade agreements with Europe and Arab nations have enabled its corporate champions to grow beyond national borders. Egypt, although absent from the top performers in this edition, continues to produce mid-sized corporations that are expanding rapidly in sectors such as banking, construction, and energy. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy by GDP, remains underrepresented due to currency fluctuations, regulatory uncertainty, and listing preferences on foreign exchanges over local ones. According to Forbes and industry analysts, a company's appearance on the Global 2000 list signals not only business scale but also market resilience and global competitiveness. South Africa’s performance reflects: A maturing investment environment with a long history of public listings Diversified industry strength beyond commodities, spanning technology and finance Regulatory consistency that supports private-sector growth A 2024 McKinsey report noted that South Africa hosts more than 40% of Africa’s billion-dollar firms, out of an estimated 147 companies across the continent with revenues over $1 billion. These firms contribute significantly to employment, taxation, and GDP. The 2025 Forbes Global 2000 rankings serve as a barometer for Africa’s corporate trajectory . South Africa’s leadership underscores the importance of diversified economies and strong capital markets. Morocco’s emergence points to the value of regional integration and stable governance. Other African nations, particularly Nigeria, Kenya, and Egypt, are urged to improve the business climate and encourage more public listings to elevate their continental influence. With Africa poised to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the next decade may see a broader distribution of global corporate influence across the continent—if the right policies are in place. ADVERTISEMENT Morocco Morocco South Africa South Africa Egypt Egypt Keep Reading South Africa Emerges as Africa's Corporate Leader on 2025 Forbes Global 2000 List . A New Chapter in African Diplomacy emerges as Ghana supports Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara .

A new SGR rail link now connects DRC, Tanzania, and Burundi, boosting trade, stability, and regional integration under Africa's Agenda 2063. DRC - Tanzania - Burundi Launch Regional Rail Link A new SGR rail link now connects DRC, Tanzania, and Burundi, boosting trade, stability, and regional integration under Africa's Agenda 2063. Published: August 4, 2025 at 4:48:39 PM Modified: August 11, 2025 at 1:03:36 AM Written By | Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Dar es Salaam, Tanzania- August 2025; The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Tanzania have launched a transformative regional rail link that promises to redefine trade and connectivity across Central and East Africa. The new block train operating on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) now connects Dar es Salaam to Burundi and the DRC via Kindu, marking a milestone aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Representing President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communication Channels and Access, Mr. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, joined Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa at the official launch ceremony in Dar es Salaam. A Game-Changer for Regional Trade The new SGR route positions the DRC, with over 100 million consumers, as a central market in the region and a catalyst for interstate commerce. For Burundi, the link offers a breakthrough: access to steady supplies of fuel and essential goods, reinforcing economic stability and food security through the elimination of seasonal shortages. This tripartite rail integration promises: • Faster movement of goods • Lower logistics costs • Stronger regional supply chains • Enhanced market access for landlocked countries As part of the launch, Tanzania Railway Corporation officially handed over rehabilitated freight wagons, financed by the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (ASTUCE), where the DRC is a key member state. In his remarks, VPM Jean-Pierre Bemba highlighted ongoing plans to operationalize dry ports in Tanzania that will serve Congolese cargo. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, the DRC government is finalizing the selection of a private partner to build dry ports on 45 hectares in Kwala and 15 hectares in Katosho. These dry ports will serve as strategic transit hubs for Congolese freight via the Port of Dar es Salaam,” Bemba stated. Direct Economic Impact for the DRC According to Minister Bemba, the new infrastructure projects will deliver tangible benefits for the Congolese economy: • Increased foreign direct investment (FDI) • Stronger anti-fraud and anti-smuggling systems • Enhanced traceability of cargo • Job creation in both the DRC and Tanzania These benefits align with Congo’s broader infrastructure vision and economic diplomacy under President Tshisekedi. Interconnecting Africa: Congo at the Center This launch is just one piece of a larger integration strategy. The DRC and Congo-Brazzaville are also set to begin construction by December 2025 on the long-awaited ROAD & RAIL bridge linking Kinshasa and Brazzaville, the two closest capitals in the world. Once completed, the project will connect the DRC to a broader economic corridor, tying into Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Angola, and Gabon, and reinforcing Congo’s position as a trigger economy for Africa. At the close of the ceremony, VPM Bemba delivered a personal message from President Félix Tshisekedi to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, expressing his strong commitment to regional integration. President Tshisekedi also conveyed his intent to co-chair the official launch ceremony of the Congolese dry port projects, once contract signing and technical procedures, especially those related to Congolese public tender laws, are finalized. The DRC-Tanzania - Burundi SGR block train isn’t just a railway; it’s a symbol of a shifting Africa. With strategic dry ports, trade corridors, and regional bridges now in motion, the DRC is emerging not only as a major market but as a logistics hub and economic engine for the continent. ADVERTISEMENT DRC Economy DRC Economy DR.Congo DR.Congo Keep Reading Business & Investment Tshisekedi’s Grand Strategy at Davos 2026 Tshisekedi’s Grand Strategy: Inside His Bid to Redefine Africa’s Place in the Global Order . Business & Investment DRC Mines Ministry and AFA Partner to Mobilise Diaspora Investment DR Congo Mines Ministry Partners With Africans for Africa Initiative to Mobilise Diaspora Investment . Mining and Minerals DRC and Saudi Arabia Advance Strategic Mining Cooperation Ministers agree on a concrete roadmap to implement the mining MoU signed in 2024. . Business & Investment Tshisekedi Launches $12B Industrial City & Major Hospital in Kinshasa $12B industrial city and €133M hospital platform mark DRC's bold leap in jobs and health services .

Published: April 12, 2024 at 8:21:36 PM Modified: April 12, 2024 at 9:02:58 PM South sudan opposition leader Riek Machar handshaking President Salva Kiir. In a significant step towards maintaining peace and fairness in the forthcoming national elections, South Sudan's political parties have agreed on a Code of Conduct. This crucial development took place during a pivotal event on April 4th, hosted by the reconstituted Political Parties Council of South Sudan. The gathering brought together leaders from various political factions and representatives from civil society to endorse the new regulations that aim to guide their actions during the electoral process. United Efforts for a Peaceful Election Ismail Wais, the Special Envoy to South Sudan from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), emphasized the importance of the Code of Conduct. "The adoption of the Code of Conduct comes at a critical time," Wais stated. He highlighted its necessity as "an essential ingredient for peaceful elections," which will help clarify permissible behaviors and enforce accountability for any actions that deviate from the agreed standards. Support for the initiative was strong among international stakeholders, with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) playing a supportive role in the forum. Joram Biswaro, the ambassador of the African Union mission in South Sudan, acknowledged the encouragement from UNMISS and other entities. "UNMISS and the other stakeholders encourage us to support this process to the extent that we are here to see this Code of Conduct today being validated,” Biswaro remarked. Juba's Preparations for a Fair Electoral Process As the capital city, Juba is at the forefront of achieving peace benchmarks necessary for conducting the first national elections since the 2018 peace agreement. The city is focused on establishing the necessary technical, logistical, operational, and political frameworks to ensure a fair and equitable voting process. The Role of UNMISS and Regional Partners Consistent with its mandate, UNMISS, along with regional partners, regularly engages in consultations with political parties. These discussions aim to address unresolved issues and foster trust among the political entities, reinforcing the mission's ongoing commitment to support South Sudan’s peace processes. Importance of Public Participation The success of South Sudan's democratic journey heavily depends on broad public engagement in the peace processes and a vibrant, competitive political landscape. The establishment of a fair electoral system and adherence to the newly adopted Code of Conduct are seen as vital components in paving the way for a peaceful and democratic future. South Sudan stands at a crucial juncture, and the cooperation and commitment demonstrated by its political leaders and international supporters are hopeful signs of a peaceful electoral period ahead. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: June 15, 2024 at 9:34:37 AM Modified: June 15, 2024 at 9:45:09 AM A rare soft-power export from China is spreading across the African continent, capturing the imagination of many. Master Mfaume, who heads the largest kung fu temple in Tanzania, has become a social-media sensation. His short films, featuring himself and his students demonstrating their lightning-fast moves, have garnered 184,000 likes on TikTok. These videos, which showcase them scaling walls and confronting bullies in the suburbs of Dar es Salaam, highlight a growing interest in the sport. "People are starting to learn kung fu eagerly—and the number of students is going up a lot," says Master Mfaume. The introduction of kung fu to Africa dates back to the 1970s, credited to a mysterious Taiwanese figure known as Mr. Ming. He popularized Bruce Lee’s martial arts by screening films in rundown township cinemas in South Africa. These films, which conveyed a powerful message against white supremacy, resonated deeply with audiences who cheered as Lee's character smashed a sign in Shanghai that read “No Dogs and Chinese Allowed.” Since then, both audiences and filmmakers across the continent have embraced kung fu, transforming it into a unique African film genre. Nollywood, Nigeria’s prolific film industry, has produced numerous low-budget kung fu movies. Mayor Uguseba, also known as Mr. Fantastic, is a notable figure in this genre. He produced, directed, and acted in “A Very Kung Fu Nollywood Movie: The Revenge of Sobei,” which he created for less than 50,000 naira ($34). In a 2017 survey of Cameroonian cinephiles, 79% expressed an interest in kung fu, and 85% said that films had drawn them to the sport. This growing fascination has led to the establishment of kung fu clubs across Africa, from the Shaolin Kung Fu Institute in Cape Town to the Ten Tigers of Nile Chinese Wushu Kung-fu Training Club in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Zambia recently hosted the first African Shaolin Kung Fu Games, attracting more than 150 fighters from 23 countries. Additionally, last November, 107 African fighters signed up for the World Wushu Championship in Texas, although few were granted visas. While South Korea has successfully exported its pop culture to Africa, China has faced challenges in converting its hard power into soft power. However, the rise of kung fu in Africa signifies a cultural victory for China, showcasing its influence on the sporting and cultural front. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

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Explore Angola’s Namib Desert like a local in 2025: eco-tours, tribal encounters, stargazing, wild camping, and off-grid adventures from Namibe to Iona. A local guide navigates the rugged terrain of Iona National Park, where shifting dunes, dry riverbeds, and remote mountain ranges make local knowledge essential. How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) Explore Angola’s Namib Desert like a local in 2025: eco-tours, tribal encounters, stargazing, wild camping, and off-grid adventures from Namibe to Iona. Published: December 20, 2025 at 9:25:00 AM Modified: December 20, 2025 at 10:14:52 AM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga If you think Namibia has a monopoly on epic dunes and desert adventures, think again. Angola’s slice of the Namib Desert is the cool secret spot only the savviest locals know about. Stretching along Angola’s southwest coast, this ancient desert is an untouched gem where you can roam empty golden dunes, encounter nomadic tribes, and camp under a billion stars with zero light pollution. In fact, Angola is just now emerging on travelers’ radars as “Africa’s untouched gem” even CNN hopped on the bandwagon in 2025, highlighting how off-grid and special this place is . Touring the Namib Desert from the Angola side means adventure with an insider twist : you’ll do it the local way, with local people, and on local turf that few outsiders have seen. Ready to ditch the tourist convoy and become an eco-tourist explorer? Here’s how to experience Angola’s Namib like a true local (with a dash of comfort and plenty of wit). 1. Hire Local Guides to Unlock Iona’s Secrets The Iona National Park is Angola’s portion of the Namib Desert a sprawling wilderness of dunes, mountains, and surreal landscapes so remote that road signs basically say “good luck” . To truly unlock Iona’s secrets, team up with a local guide or community-run tour. Trust us: you’ll need a 4x4 . Local guides know the shifting sands like their backyard, from the safest river crossings to the hidden waterholes where desert oryx and springboks graze . They’ll help you find Lion’s Cave, track elusive desert elephants, and navigate by the stars if needed all while regaling you with local lore in Portuguese (with some laughs in between). “Iona, Angola… you are harsh but damn beautiful,” one overlander quipped after tackling the park’s trails, marveling at how much a knowledgeable guide can reveal. Price: Entry to Iona is about 5,000 Kz (~$6) per person plus 4,000 Kz (~$5) per vehicle a small price to pay for traversing a land that feels like Mars on Earth. Multi-day guided safaris aren’t cheap (an 8-day southern Angola adventure runs around $3,200 (≈2.6 million Kz) per person ), but every dollar supports local communities and makes your journey safer and richer. Local tip: Go with guides who grew up in Namibe province. They not only know every dune and coastal tide schedule, but often are part of desert communities themselves. In one 2025 journey, park manager Pedro Monterosso (a Namibe native) and driver Mauro expertly guided visitors across Iona’s tricky coastal flats and roaring dunes , timing the route with the rare low tides . That kind of desert savvy only comes from living there! Plus, local guides can translate when you meet villagers and ensure your visit respects local customs. Angola’s tourism is still very young “this is not a country prepared for tourism,” one traveler noted so having an insider by your side is priceless. You’ll get you to the coolest spots safely (and maybe even be invited to a home-brewed beer by your guide’s family afterward). In short, hiring a local expert turns a daunting desert into an open-air playground. Insider vibe: You’re not just a tourist; you’re a guest in their backyard, so listen and learn. By trip’s end, you’ll be swapping stories in broken Portuguese and high-fiving your guide as the Namib sun sets over the dunes agora somos família! (now we’re family). 2. Camp Where the Desert Meets the Atlantic Along Angola’s southwest coast, the Namib Desert spills directly into the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of Africa’s most dramatic and least explored camping landscapes. There’s roughing it, and then there’s camping on a beach where giant sand dunes plunge into the Atlantic Ocean Angolan style. Along the coast of Namibe province, the Namib Desert literally ends in the sea, creating a jaw-dropping collision of sand and surf. Locals and in-the-know adventurers love to set up camp here, falling asleep to ocean waves on one side and silent dunes on the other. One minute you’re sandboarding down a golden slope, the next you’re splashing in cold Atlantic waters talk about contrast! At spots like Baía dos Tigres, an eerie abandoned fishing village on an island cut off by shifting sands, you can wander ghost-town ruins and have a picnic where seagulls and jackals are your only company. And if you prefer a bit more structure, Flamingo Lodge is a legendary local hideaway on the desert coast: a rustic eco-lodge with nine bungalows and campsites perched above the beach. Here you’ll wake up to dolphins off the shore and flamingos in the lagoon, then enjoy fresh-caught fish for dinner on the porch as the sun sinks into the ocean. Price: Wild beach camping is blissfully free (just pack out everything!), but if you opt for Flamingo Lodge’s comfort, budget roughly $80 (≈65,000 Kz) per night for a bungalow with meals. Not bad for an unplugged paradise where your “front yard” is endless sand and sea. Local tip: Time your coastal adventures with the tides. Locals know that certain routes like the drive to Tigres Island or along remote beaches are only passable at low tide. They’ll deflate the 4x4’s tires (to float on soft sand) and follow the fishermen’s tracks. Tag along or hire a local driver if you’re unsure; getting stuck in quicksand-like salt flats is not on your to-do list. Also, bring layers! The Benguela Current makes desert nights chilly and foggy mornings common that means you might need a fleece after you’ve been sunbathing at noon. In the evening, crack open a cold Cuca beer (Angola’s favourite brew) or a ginguba (roasted peanut) snack around the campfire. There’s nothing like sipping a cerveja as the sky turns pink over the dunes as one traveler posted after a beach cookout, “You gotta love Angola! I call this lunch with a view Pro Max,” soaking in a scene of dunes meeting ocean on Instagram. Indeed, the serene beauty of Namibe’s desert meeting the waves will make you pinch yourself and probably inspire a poetic social media post of your own. Just remember to tag it #NoFilter because honestly, nature already did the filtering for you . 3. Experience Nomadic Life with Desert Tribes Communities such as the Mucubal and Himba continue to practice semi-nomadic traditions in southern Angola, maintaining deep cultural ties to the desert environment. Touring the Namib like a local isn’t just about landscapes it’s about the people who call this desert home. In the far southwest of Angola, you’ll encounter semi-nomadic tribes like the Mucubal (Mucubai) and Himba who have thrived here for centuries. Visiting a desert village is like stepping into a living museum (minus the glass cases): you’ll see Mucubal women wearing their traditional ompota headdresses and stunning ochre body paint, and Himba families tending cattle and cooking over open fires, much as their ancestors did. This isn’t a packaged “cultural show” it’s real life. In fact, north of the Cunene River (which separates Angola from Namibia), Himba communities are “hardly discovered” by tourism and remain incredibly authentic . You might arrive at a homestead at milking time or during a casual afternoon, and be welcomed with shy smiles, curious stares, and eventually warm laughter once ice is broken. Local guides are crucial here to translate and ensure both you and your hosts feel at ease. Don’t be surprised if a Himba matriarch sizes you up, then decides to smear a bit of red ochre paste on your arm a friendly blessing from a culture that sees beauty in rich earthy red. Price: Be prepared to pay a community visit fee (often about 3,000–5,000 Kz (~$4-6) per group) or bring small gifts like salt, sugar, or useful goods. It’s a respectful way to support the community and say obrigado for their time. Hiring a translator or local fixer may cost around $50 (≈41,000 Kz) for a day, but it’s worth every penny for an enriching cross-cultural encounter. Local tip: Respect and patience are the name of the game. Desert tribes may live far from modern cities, but they’re nobody’s tourist props they’re proud people with deep knowledge of the land. Approach with a learning mindset: ask before snapping photos (your guide can help ask in local dialect), and don’t be offended if not everyone is eager to meet you. Often, starting simple helps: try a few words of Portuguese (many locals speak some due to Angola’s official language) or even a local greeting (like “Moro” in Oshiwambo, spoken by some groups). Showing interest in their daily tasks whether it’s goat herding, crafting jewelry from ostrich eggshell, or styling that intricate ochre hairstyle will lead to more genuine interactions than treating it like a zoo. One traveler from 2025 recalled sharing millet porridge under a tree with a Mucawal clan, communicating through smiles and hand gestures a humble moment far richer than any staged tourist village. Also, be ready for surprises: you could end up dancing to a traditional desert rhythm or learning to grind maize on a stone. Roll with it! By evening, you might camp nearby and fall asleep to the distant sound of tribal singing under the stars. These human connections fleeting but heartfelt are what “touring like a local” is all about. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of how these communities flourish in such a harsh environment, and perhaps a new friend or two (plus a few handmade bracelets to remember them by). 4. Chase Ancient Wonders Hidden in the Sands When locals tour their own desert, they don’t rush from dune to dune they know the Namib is full of ancient wonders waiting quietly off the main track. Take some time to seek out the desert’s subtle but mind-blowing attractions that most tourists miss. One must-see is the Welwitschia mirabilis, a freaky-looking plant that’s basically a living fossil. With just two leaves that grow continuously and tangle upon themselves, welwitschias can live for well over 1,000 years in the Namib’s harsh climate . The Welwitschia mirabilis, a plant species found in the Namib Desert, can survive for over a thousand years, making it one of the world’s oldest living plants. Angolans are so proud of this resilient plant that they even named a sports arena after it! Spotting a giant welwitschia (some are 1.5 meters tall and over 3 meters wide) in Angola’s Namibe province is like meeting a wise old desert guardian. Ask your guide or a park ranger to show you a cluster – they’re often found in dry riverbeds or rocky plains. It’s humbling to stand next to a plant that germinated around the time of the Middle Ages and is still kicking today, thanks to fog and a “never say die” attitude. Local tip: Please don’t touch or trample these plants they’re endangered and slow-growing. Marvel from a respectful distance, and you’ll get all the good vibes knowing these green grandpas appreciate it. 5. Sleep Under a Million Stars for the Full Experience With virtually no light pollution, nights in Angola’s Namib Desert reveal expansive views of the Milky Way and some of the clearest night skies in southern Africa Finally, to tour the Namib Desert like a local, you must spend a night (or three) under its starry skies. City folk in Luanda will tell you: even they dream of escaping to the desert for the clearest Milky Way views and tranquil nights. When you camp out here, the silence is so deep you can hear your own heartbeat literally nothing but perhaps a faint desert breeze. ( “When’s the last time you heard… nothing?” one amazed adventurer marveled amid Angola’s Curoca Red Rocks .) As the sun sets, the sand cools and an absurd number of stars pop out. With zero light pollution, the Namib night sky looks like a planetarium on steroids you’ll see constellations you didn’t know existed. Locals often forego tents entirely on dry nights, preferring to lay a mat on a dune and sleep in the open, a practice called “dune bedding.” If you’re not keen on sharing your bedroll with beetles, by all means use a tent… but do step out in the middle of the night and look up. You might catch the Magellanic Clouds (dwarf galaxies visible in the Southern Hemisphere) or a shooting star zipping across Orion’s Belt. Price: Desert camping is typically low-cost or free. In Iona National Park, there are a few designated campsites where rangers might charge a token fee (say, 2,000–5,000 Kz, ~$3-6 per night). Otherwise, if wild camping on the fly, it’s just you and Mother Nature’s hotel the “million-star accommodation” as locals joke. Local tip: Be prepared for extreme conditions at night. The same desert that hits 40°C (104°F) by day can drop to below 10°C (50°F) by late night. Do as locals do: bring layers, a wool hat, and sip some caporoto (a homemade distilled spirit) for a bit of warmth if you’re feeling brave. Also, position your camp on high ground away from dry riverbeds flash floods are rare but not impossible if there were rains in distant mountains. Before you sleep, take a moment to absorb the surreal silence and the glow of the dunes under moonlight. It’s in these moments that the magic of the Namib really sinks in. You’ll understand why so many travelers come back from Angola absolutely enchanted . One influencer recently wrote, “UNBELIEVABLE… Angola deserves more recognition as a tourism destination!” and it’s on these starry nights that you’ll wholeheartedly agree. In the morning, you might even wake to tiny desert geckos skittering around your campsite or the soft footprints of an overnight jackal visitor. Rather than an alarm clock, it’s the first light of dawn painting the dunes that gently rouses you a natural wake-up call no five-star resort can match. Pack up your tent, shake the sand out of your shoes, and get ready for another day of desert adventure, local-style. Touring the Namib Desert from Angola’s side is about immersing yourself in an experience that’s equal parts rugged and soulful. You’ll return with red dust in your backpack, perhaps a sunburned nose, and definitely a changed outlook on what “travel” means. In Angola’s Namib, there are no tourist crowds or fancy gift shops just welcoming locals, ancient landscapes, and genuine encounters. Remember to greet people with a friendly “Olá” , support local businesses (that roadside grilled goat meat or bag of ginguba peanuts goes a long way), and leave every place as pristine as you found it. The desert has looked after the people here for millennia, and if you tour it with respect and curiosity, it will look after you too. As the Angolans say, “Quem come da terra, da terra tem vida” who eats from the earth, from the earth has life. Treat the Namib Desert like the life-giving wonder it is, and you’ll unlock travel moments that no algorithm or guidebook could ever dream up. Enjoy the journey, vá com Deus (go with God)… and don’t forget to brag to your friends that you experienced the Namib Desert the true local way barefoot, star-struck, and grinning from ear to ear. Safe travels and até à próxima (until next time)! ADVERTISEMENT Travel Blog Travel Blog Angola Angola Keep Reading Travel Tips 6 most known rivers of Angola and how to actually experience them From the Kwanza to the Zambezi, discover Angola’s most famous rivers and how to explore them . Travel Tips How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) Tour Angola’s wild side: desert tribes, starlit dunes, and eco-adventures few tourists ever reach. . 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Samia Suluhu Hassan | Elections Tanzania’s Samia Launches Inquiry Into Election Unrest President Samia launches an inquiry into Tanzania’s election unrest and calls for leniency, dialogue, .

Published: May 13, 2024 at 12:22:48 PM Modified: May 13, 2024 at 12:25:54 PM Qatar World Cup 2022, Emmanuel Macron, Kylian Mbappe, France Football In a recent statement, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his hopes for soccer sensation Kylian Mbappe to represent France at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. This comes in the wake of Mbappe's announcement that he will be leaving Paris Saint-Germain, amidst widespread speculation about his potential transfer to Real Madrid. "Beyond the anticipation of his club transfer, I am keenly hopeful that Real Madrid will allow Kylian the opportunity to join the French squad at the Olympics," Macron mentioned in a video on his X account. This public endorsement highlights the national importance of Mbappe's participation, not just as a sports figure but as a national icon. Kylian Mbappe, 25, has already marked his prowess on the international stage, notably scoring in the 2018 World Cup final which secured France the championship against Croatia. His performance there and in subsequent matches has cemented his status as one of football's premier talents. As the Paris Olympic Games approach, all eyes will be on Mbappe’s next moves—both on and off the field. The involvement of a high-profile athlete like Mbappe could significantly boost the host country's morale and global standing in the sport. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Download Cry (Shayo) by Majeeed ft. Lojay. An Afro-fusion anthem with smooth vibes and soulful vocals. Stream & get the MP3 now on XTRAfrica! ▶ MP3 ▷ Lyrics ▷ About Artist Artist Name: Majeeed ft. Lojay Song Name: Cry (Shayo) Date: September 6, 2025 Cry (Shayo) Majeeed ft. Lojay 00:00 / 02:51 Join Our Telegram Channel Download Cry (Shayo) MP3 Majeeed ft. Lojay Nigerian Afro-fusion star Majeeed teams up with Lojay on “Cry (Shayo),” a soulful 2025 anthem blending Afrobeats and R&B. The song dives into love, heartbreak, and healing, with “Shayo” symbolizing escape through drink and rhythm. Download MP3 & stream now on XTRAfrica. Nigerian Afro-fusion star Majeeed teams up with the smooth Lojay on “Cry (Shayo).” This 2025 banger blends soulful vocals with Afrobeat rhythms and a touch of R&B magic. Song Background Cry (Shayo) is a fresh Afro-fusion anthem where Majeeed and Lojay explore love, heartbreak, and escape through rhythm and melody. The title “Shayo” is Nigerian slang for alcohol or drinking, hinting at drowning sorrows while vibing. Sound & Distribution Released in 2025, the track showcases rich Afrobeat drums, airy synths, and smooth guitar riffs. Majeeed’s raw vocals pair seamlessly with Lojay’s silky delivery, making the collab stand out in today’s Afrobeat wave. Click here to download “Cry (Shayo)” MP3 Streaming Links Watch on YouTube Stream on Spotify Vocal Highlights Majeeed delivers with raw emotion and vulnerability, while Lojay brings a smooth, R&B-inspired tone. Together, their voices weave through the beat, with the production layered to highlight both contrast and harmony. Related Songs Malacosta – Mluusician, Ricky Lenyora & DJ Maphorisa MP3 Download Passport mp3 download DJ WIZKAY, KayRams & EnterTeddyment ft. Lusha Navigator ft mjolisi ushwebile mp3 download Fun Fact The collab between Majeeed and Lojay on “Cry (Shayo)” marks the first time the two Nigerian stars have teamed up, blending Majeeed’s Afro-fusion style with Lojay’s smooth R&B-inspired vocals for a unique sound fans didn’t see coming. Join Our Telegram Channel Afro-R&B Afrobeats Ghana Nigeria Trending Now Afada Daatey Daatey Gidigidi Stonebwoy Stonebwoy Cry (Shayo) Majeeed ft. Lojay Majeeed ft. Lojay Deeper Stonebwoy Stonebwoy Torcher Stonebwoy Stonebwoy It is finished kofi kinaata kofi kinaata

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Published: May 20, 2024 at 10:01:12 AM Modified: May 20, 2024 at 10:05:58 AM President Hakainde Hichilema joined President Antoine Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to inaugurate the Kasomeno-Kasenga-Chalwe-Kabila-Mwenda Road Controversy surrounds a $100 million project linking the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Zambia after the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) allegedly fired an analyst last August for raising concerns. The analyst warned that the project could displace nearly 10,000 people in the DRC, violating DFC’s policy against funding projects that displace over 5,000 people. Despite refusing to approve the project, the analyst was dismissed, according to the investigative firm Project on Government Oversight (Pogo). The project aims to connect cobalt mines in the Congo to the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. However, this dismissal is among several recent instances of alleged reprisals at the DFC. In December, Congress urged DFC to investigate and address these allegations, emphasizing the importance of respecting employees' rights. Emmanuel Umpula, executive director of African Resources Watch , expressed disbelief over the firing and stressed the need for development that minimizes adverse impacts on local communities. The DFC, which partners with the private sector to finance critical projects in developing countries, is now under scrutiny for balancing development goals with ethical considerations. ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Fikile Mbalula warns against South Africa being isolated from Africa, calls for unity, trade, and ANC renewal. Mbalula Warns Against the US Isolation of South Africa from Africa Fikile Mbalula warns against South Africa being isolated from Africa, calls for unity, trade, and ANC renewal. Published: December 18, 2025 at 3:31:29 AM Modified: December 18, 2025 at 3:43:09 AM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has warned against allowing the United States, under President Donald Trump, to isolate South Africa from the rest of the African continent, calling instead for collective resistance and stronger intra-African cooperation, according to News24. Addressing delegates on the final day of the 27th ANC Youth League (ANCYL) national congress at the University of Limpopo , Mbalula urged African countries to stand with South Africa rather than leaving it to confront geopolitical pressure alone. “South Africa must not fight alone. It must fight with the rest of the African continent. It must never accept to be isolated from the rest of the African continent,” Mbalula said. He added: “We must not allow Donald Trump to isolate us from the African continent. We must fight as the African continent for our own African Renaissance.” Mbalula emphasised that the African Renaissance remains a central political task, particularly for young leaders, and said it is inseparable from the expansion of intra-African trade. He called on African states to strengthen economic ties among themselves and reduce dependence on external powers. “African countries must trade among themselves. Africa must stop being beggars of others,” he said. “If we are so powerful, we will not be a walkover [for] the United States.” According to News24 , Mbalula also praised the ANCYL for successfully organising a peaceful and self-managed congress without direct assistance from the ANC, despite scepticism about its ability to do so. He said the congress demonstrated the league’s organisational maturity. He further commended the uncontested election of the youth league’s leadership, suggesting it offered lessons for the broader ANC as it works to overcome internal divisions. “Comrades, we wish you well, and we're very happy about this congress. It was a peaceful congress, not characterised by pettiness or factionalism, as we walk the path of renewal,” Mbalula said. “The path of renewal and ridding the ANC of factionalism and petty tendencies.” Mbalula urged ANCYL members to remain loyal to the organisation rather than individuals, cautioning against corruption and self-interest. “Protect your organisation from the parasites of corruption and self-interest. Your integrity is non-negotiable,” he said. “The youth league must never be an organisation of another leader or another member. It must be an organ of the African National Congress.” He encouraged the youth league to speak out forcefully within the party, describing its role as one that challenges complacency and accelerates transformation. “And that's what we expect from the youth. If we, in the ANC, move more slowly, you must make us move fast. That is your role as the youth,” he said, while warning against confusing militancy with recklessness. “You must never fear speaking out, but always do so from a correct disposition. You're militants, not rascals; radicals, not rabble-rousers.” Reflecting on generational differences within the ANC, Mbalula said younger members are less constrained by fear and should act decisively to safeguard the movement’s future. “As we grow older, fear drives us; we think of our kids and spouses. But as young people, your focus is on the future. No one can stop you,” he said. He concluded by aligning himself with ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa’s opening address to the congress, reiterating that the youth league is central to the party’s renewal and future electoral prospects. “We are not in this congress to accept that the African National Congress is done and dusted. The ANC will come back, comrades,” Mbalula said. “It will come back through its ANC Youth League, and comrade Malatji and his generation will carry that torch to the finishing line.” Source: News24 ADVERTISEMENT South Africa South Africa Keep Reading Justice & Crime Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel Deputy minister says five shot outside Joburg court after pre-trial; two killed, three hurt . Road Accidents Vanderbijlpark crash: Taxi driver held over 12 pupil deaths 22-year-old faces 12 culpable homicide counts after scholar taxi hit truck near N1 . Economic Reports SA Reserve Bank reviews prime rate used for mortgages and loans Central bank weighs changes to prime reference rate, but analysts see limited relief for borrowers. . Accident News SA classifies floods as national disaster across five provinces NDMC cites severe weather since late Nov 2025; CoGTA says national coordination now applies .