Latest news with #Sub-SaharanAfrican
Al-Ahram Weekly
5 days ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Israeli-Iranian conflict threatens Africa - Opinion
The impact of this escalation extended beyond the Middle East, reaching other regions, notably Africa, which quickly felt its repercussions on the economic, security, and geopolitical levels. The strikes disrupted global markets and triggered a spike in oil prices, which directly affected the Sub-Saharan African economies. Countries like Ghana and South Africa experienced currency fluctuations and surging fuel prices, intensifying inflationary pressures. These nations, heavily reliant on energy imports and vulnerable supply routes such as through the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, found themselves exposed to the ripple effects of the crisis. Tensions escalated in the Red Sea due to Iranian-backed Houthi attacks on commercial vessels, raising concerns among coastal African states about increased militarisation. Meanwhile, Africa's responses to the crisis were divided, revealing deep splits in foreign policy alignments. On the geopolitical front, the escalation intensified global competition for influence in Africa, making the continent more vulnerable than ever to the spillover of transnational conflicts and instability in the global order. Africa is experiencing rapidly escalating economic repercussions as a result of the ongoing escalation between Israel and Iran. It has triggered severe shocks in already fragile economies, and the global oil price surge, exceeding seven per cent, has pushed energy-importing African nations into renewed inflationary crises, particularly amid weak local currencies and waning market confidence. In Ghana, inflation fears have returned with force as the cost of fuel imports rises. Meanwhile, South Africa witnessed a sharp depreciation of the rand and a swift drop in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, exposing its financial fragility and dependency on global markets. Capital flight to safe havens such as gold and US bonds has further strained emerging African economies. With the ongoing tensions, African governments appear to have limited tools to absorb external shocks, especially as transport and basic goods prices climb, threatening societal stability already weakened by past crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The military escalation in the Gulf has further disrupted global oil markets, pushing crude prices close to $78 per barrel and exacerbating energy crises in African oil-importing countries. These nations now face mounting challenges to balance public budgets and protect people's purchasing power, amid widening current account deficits and slowing growth. The persistence of tensions also threatens food security and supply chains, especially in East Africa and the Sahel, due to the disruption of maritime navigation in the Red Sea caused by Houthi attacks. Countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia may struggle to import essential fuel and food supplies as insurance and shipping costs soar, potentially leading to a severe logistical crisis. The deeper issue lies in the accumulation of crises, which continue to overwhelm African economies without providing sufficient recovery time. Although Africa plays no direct role in these conflicts, it disproportionately bears the cost at a time when the continent urgently needs calm and recovery. The Iranian-Israeli escalation has extended to the Red Sea, one of the world's most important strategic maritime corridors, threatening its stability as a vital artery for the flow of food and energy to Africa. In Somalia, fears are growing over the emergence of covert alliances between the Houthis and Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda-affiliated group. This deepens security threats and turns the Somali coastline into an open arena for proxy confrontations between regional powers. Meanwhile, Somaliland also finds itself at a difficult crossroads, facing increasing pressure from regional actors such as Ethiopia, the UAE, and Russia competing for control over its ports. In Djibouti, the challenge is even more complex due to the presence of military bases belonging to rival global powers, including the United States, France, and China. In Sudan, the consequences are multifaceted and severe. A potential decline in Iranian support for the Sudanese Army especially in the domain of drones may shift the balance of power in favour of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). At the same time, increasing Sudanese accusations of Israeli support for rebel groups could internationalise the conflict through local proxies. The Iranian-Israeli escalation has sparked notable reactions from the African countries, which have expressed diverse positions reflecting their strategic interests and perspectives. Egypt and Tunisia strongly condemned the Israeli attacks on Iran, viewing them as a serious threat to regional security and a violation of international legitimacy. South Africa called for de-escalation and the activation of UN mechanisms, while Nigeria adopted a balanced stance, urging restraint and the prioritisation of dialogue. Kenya criticised the UN Security Council's failure to prevent the crisis and demanded structural reform. Ghana and Namibia voiced concerns over the economic fallout, particularly the rising energy prices and their impact on Africa's fragile economies. The preoccupation of the major powers with the Middle East crisis may also lead to a decline in international support for African security programmes, leaving the continent facing mounting challenges in combating terrorism and insurgencies. As a result, Africa risks becoming a battleground for external conflicts or bearing their cost without having any real influence over them. The writer is a researcher in African affairs. * A version of this article appears in print in the 3 July, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
African Manager
26-06-2025
- Business
- African Manager
Tunisia–Nigeria Business Council officially launched
The Tunisia–Nigeria Business Council (TNBC) was officially launched during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM), held from June 25 to 28, 2025, in Abuja (Nigeria), the Tunisia-Africa Business Council (TABC) announced on Wednesday. This is a strategic initiative led by TABC as part of its policy to strengthen economic ties with Sub-Saharan African markets. On this occasion, Chris Eruba was officially introduced as the president of the TNBC. The TNBC aims to become a key bilateral platform dedicated to structuring, enhancing, and promoting economic, industrial, commercial, and financial partnerships between Tunisia and Nigeria. TABC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tunisian companies in their expansion strategies across Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria, a country with over 220 million people and promising economic prospects. It also noted that Tunisian exports to Nigeria have quadrupled in one year, rising from 7 million dinars between January and April 2024 to 82 million dinars by the end of April 2025. Nigeria now ranks among the top Sub-Saharan destinations for Tunisian exports. Interested companies can register via the following link: [
Time Business News
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Time Business News
Whistleblower Day: How Civil Servants Risk It All for the Truth
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — As nations prepare to mark World Whistleblower Day on June 23, a sobering reality emerges: civil servants—the bureaucrats, analysts, auditors, and administrators who expose government abuse—often do so at a significant personal cost. While their courage underpins democratic accountability, their reward is often prosecution, dismissal, or exile. Amicus International Consulting honours these unsung heroes by releasing a global report that uncovers the sacrifices civil servants have made in the pursuit of truth. Through powerful case studies, the report highlights the legal, psychological, and societal retaliation faced by whistleblowers and explores why systemic reform remains elusive, even in countries that publicly champion transparency. Why Civil Servants Blow the Whistle Civil servants occupy unique roles within governments—they witness mismanagement, corruption, and unethical decisions firsthand. Their allegiance is supposed to be to the public, not to power. When institutional checks fail, they often become the last line of defence. 'They're the watchdogs no one sees—until they bark,' says a senior analyst at Amicus. 'And when they do, the system rarely pats them on the back.' Whistleblower Day serves not only as a tribute but also as a critical reminder that government insiders are punished for integrity more than they are protected for it. The Cost of Telling the Truth For civil servants, the decision to disclose misconduct often leads to: These retaliatory consequences are particularly pronounced in countries where political patronage is entrenched, state secrecy laws are ambiguous, and whistleblower protections are either weak or non-existent. Case Study: Kathryn Bolkovac – UN Peacekeeper Whistleblower A U.S. police officer hired by a private contractor for the UN peacekeeping mission in Bosnia, Kathryn Bolkovac, uncovered widespread human trafficking and sexual abuse involving UN personnel. When she reported her findings, she was fired. Though she later won a wrongful termination lawsuit in the U.K., she received no official apology or institutional redress. Her case is now a landmark in whistleblower history, underscoring how international organizations often lack explicit protections for internal whistleblowers. Whistleblower Day by the Numbers Based on Amicus International's 2025 Whistleblower Impact Index: Despite these odds, whistleblower disclosures have led to: Over $12.4 billion in recovered government funds globally since 2010 The fall of more than 40 corrupt ministers or agency heads The exposure of secret torture sites, illegal surveillance programs, and fraudulent procurement contracts Case Study: The African Tax Officer In 2021, a senior official in a Sub-Saharan African tax agency discovered that politically connected companies were receiving illegal tax exemptions. When he filed a complaint through internal channels, it was dismissed. When he leaked the data to a local journalist, he was arrested and charged with 'subverting state authority.' Amicus International intervened. With support from a regional human rights coalition, the officer was released on bail and later resettled with his family in Latin America under a new identity. His case exemplifies the dual role Amicus plays: both as a legal advocate and a relocation strategist. The Gap Between Law and Practice Many nations have whistleblower protection laws, but enforcement remains rare. Some key issues: 1. National Security Exclusions In the U.S., U.K., and India, whistleblower laws often exclude those working in defence or intelligence, even when reporting illegal activity. 2. Lack of Anonymity Guarantees Few jurisdictions provide secure, anonymous platforms for reporting, exposing whistleblowers to internal retaliation. 3. Retaliation Is Rarely Punished Even in democracies, government agencies are rarely penalized for retaliating against whistleblowers. 4. No Protection Abroad Whistleblower protections rarely extend beyond borders. Civil servants forced to flee often lose legal standing in their own countries. Psychological Toll on Civil Servants Amicus's 2025 psychological review shows: 84% of civil servant whistleblowers report PTSD symptoms. of civil servant whistleblowers report PTSD symptoms. 58% lose access to retirement pensions or state benefits. lose access to retirement pensions or state benefits. 43% experience suicidal ideation within the first year post-disclosure. experience suicidal ideation within the first year post-disclosure. 39% report their children face school or social exclusion. These figures reflect not just the cost of truth—but the systemic failure to support those who embody public service ethics. Case Study: The Indian Statistician Who Refused to Falsify Data A mid-level statistician in India's central statistics office was instructed to inflate GDP growth figures prior to national elections. Refusing, he anonymously submitted internal memos to an international economic journal. When his identity was discovered, he was transferred to a remote post, denied a promotion, and faced an internal disciplinary inquiry. Though no official charges were filed, he was forced into early retirement. He now lectures on ethics at a private university under a pseudonym. Amicus is currently assisting him with an international publication and digital protection measures. Amicus Support for Civil Servants in Crisis Amicus International Consulting provides civil servant whistleblowers with: Legal support : Domestic and international representation : Domestic and international representation Digital security : Encryption, secure communications, and metadata scrubbing : Encryption, secure communications, and metadata scrubbing Relocation and asylum planning : Especially for high-risk jurisdictions : Especially for high-risk jurisdictions Identity restructuring : Where legal persecution or blacklisting occurs : Where legal persecution or blacklisting occurs Post-disclosure reintegration: Psychological and professional reinvention support 'Most of our clients never wanted to be heroes,' said an Amicus advisor. 'They just refused to be complicit.' Whistleblower Day: A Time for Policy Renewal As the world observes Whistleblower Day, Amicus calls for: The adoption of international whistleblower protection standards , backed by enforcement mechanisms. , backed by enforcement mechanisms. A global emergency fund to support whistleblowers at risk of retaliation. to support whistleblowers at risk of retaliation. Inclusion of public sector disclosures in anti-corruption treaties. Whistleblower-specific asylum protections, modeled after journalist and activist frameworks. Until these steps are taken, whistleblowers will remain exposed, their truths buried by legal threats and bureaucratic silence. Case Study: The U.S. Federal Auditor Who Challenged Defense Contracts In 2020, an auditor at a U.S. federal agency identified that a defense contractor was overbilling the Pentagon by hundreds of millions of dollars. After filing an internal report, her findings were suppressed. After she went to Congress, her security clearance was revoked, and she was reassigned. Her attempts to sue under the Whistleblower Protection Act were dismissed due to jurisdictional loopholes. She left public service and now works with an NGO that trains future whistleblowers. Amicus continues to work with her legal team to explore international avenues for justice. The Ripple Effect of One Voice Whistleblowers don't just stop corruption—they often initiate reform. From public health to infrastructure procurement, their disclosures force systems to change. In South Korea, a whistleblower helped uncover a multi-billion dollar embezzlement scandal that led to corporate reforms. In Brazil, Operation Car Wash began with a single civil servant's report. In Canada, disclosures from within Revenue Canada led to investigations into offshore tax evasion that continue to this day. Final Thoughts: Honouring the Truth-Tellers Civil servant whistleblowers represent the very best of public service. Yet they face some of the worst institutional betrayals. On Whistleblower Day, Amicus urges governments, media, and civil society to go beyond rhetoric—by offering real protections, legal support, and public recognition. 'We must create a world where truth doesn't cost everything,' says an Amicus legal advisor. 'Until then, we'll keep helping whistleblowers find their voice—and their safety.' 📞 Contact InformationPhone: +1 (604) 200-5402Email: info@ Website:
IOL News
12-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
How the logistics industry is unlocking youth employment opportunities in SA
With South Africa's youth unemployment rate sitting at a staggering 62.4%, finding sustainable job opportunities for young people has become an urgent national priority. While many sectors are stagnating, logistics is booming – fueled by the rise of e-commerce, digital innovation and global trade – creating a new wave of career paths. Transnet plays a central role in the South African economy and the government's goal of inclusive growth. 'From supply chain analytics and IT systems integration to customer experience and compliance, logistics is evolving into a dynamic, tech-enabled industry that offers diverse professional avenues for South Africa's youth,' said Gregory Saffy, managing director for Sub-Saharan African Operations at FedEx. While traditional roles like drivers, packers and sorters will always be essential, they are increasingly supported by technology-driven processes. This shift creates additional opportunities for young people looking for more technology focused roles. 'Logistics isn't what it used to be. The real competitive advantage now lies in digital capability, especially in areas like data analytics and systems thinking. We're seeing more engineers and analysts in the business than ever before, guiding operations and enabling automation at scale,' said Saffy. Beyond data analytics and IT roles, compliance and customs clearance are also emerging as key growth areas for job creation. Saffy highlights the development of a formalised customs qualification as a major step forward for the industry. 'We're seeing progress in the creation of a national customs clearance certification that will give individuals a recognised qualification, including those with practical experience but no matric pass. This will create a clear career path and raise the overall standard of compliance across the industry,' he added. FedEx is already enrolling its customs clerks into newly developed courses in freight forwarding and customs compliance. In addition to formalising technical knowledge, these programmes also focus on future-ready skills like digital literacy, data analysis and critical thinking. For young people without access to formal education, FedEx offers a clear entry point through its Yes Learnerships. 'Our 12-month programme combines training, mentoring and practical work experience,' said Saffy. 'Since 2019, we've onboarded more than 150 unemployed youth through YES, with more than 60 going on to become permanent employees. It's a powerful model for bridging the gap between education and employment.' In parallel, FedEx runs a dedicated learnership programme for youth living with disabilities, offering an NQF Level 4 certificate in business administration. This includes coaching, blended learning and real-world operational experience – helping to build inclusive, work-ready skills pipelines. FedEx commitment to building inclusive talent pipelines is a powerful example of how private sector investment in skills development can help unlock opportunities and start turning the tide on youth unemployment. 'Logistics is a gateway to global trade. It's no longer just about moving parcels; it's about managing complexity in a fast-paced, tech-driven environment. With the right support and training, South Africa's youth can thrive in this space,' Saffy concluded.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kim Kardashian Robbery Spotlighted In BBC Three Doc; Canal+ & Netflix Partner In Sub-Saharan Africa; ‘Jaws' Documentary
Kim Kardashian Robbery Spotlighted In BBC Three Doc The BBC is to tell the story of Kim Kardashian's robbery and reveal new details. A BBC Three documentary, The Kim Kardashian Diamond Heist, will drop later this month, with new insight into what happened nearly a decade ago and following the story up to the reality superstar facing her robbers in court last month, where eight people were found guilty. Featuring interviews with friends of the family, police officers and journalists who have followed the case, the doc takes viewers back to that fateful night when she was robbed of millions of dollars' worth of jewellery in Paris at gunpoint. Nasfim Haque, Head of Content at BBC Three, said: 'This documentary offers an insight into one of the most publicised celebrity crimes of our time committed on one of the most famous women on the planet which will delve into the facts behind the gossip and explore the price of fame in the digital age.' The Kim Kardashian Diamond Heist is being produced by Firecracker Films. More from Deadline BBC Content Chief Latest: Race To Replace Charlotte Moore Nears Final Two, As Zai Bennett Drops Out & New Candidates Emerge Biden Blasts Trump Over "False" Claims That Aides Ran Country During His Presidency; Current POTUS Admits He Has No Proof For Allegation - Update BBC Condemns Israel After IDF Soldiers Strip-Searched & Detained Journalists At Gunpoint Canal+ & Netflix Partner In Sub-Saharan Africa Canal+ and Netflix have extended their partnership to Sub-Saharan Africa. Under the agreement, Canal+ said it will become the first operator to distribute Netflix as part of its offering across 24 Sub-Saharan African countries. The pair have had a partnership since 2019 in France and Poland and today's news represents a geographical extension. Pascale Chabert, Chief Content Acquisition Officer of Canal+, said: 'Our millions of African subscribers will benefit from a unique offer, bringing together the best of Canal+ and Netflix content in a joint package. This new agreement demonstrates Canal+'s ability to extend its unique super-aggregation model beyond the European continent.' The news comes with Canal+'s acquisition of African giant MultiChoice still making its way past the regulator. EXCLUSIVE: U.S. indie Leroy Street Films is behind Jaws-inspired doc The Farmer & the Shark, which will launch at the Martha's Vineyard Museum on Tuesday, August 19 at 4pm. The documentary explores the life of local Martha's Vineyard legend, Craig Kingsbury, and his impact on the production of Steven Spielberg's classic movie, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The documentary focuses on the influence Kingsbury had on the film, from both behind and in front of the camera, as the embodiment of Robert Shaw's iconic shark hunter, Quint. The doc features conversations with Craig Kingsbury's family members and interviews with local and Hollywood tradesmen and artisans who worked on the film, including production designer Joe Alves, cameraman Michael Chapman, Tom Joyner, Kevin Pike, Jonathan Filley, Jeffrey Kramer. Pic is produced by Leroy Street Films in association with Atomic Clock, Witter Entertainment, and Stage 3 Productions. Pic is directed by John Campopiano, written by Rick DiGregorio and John Campopiano, and co-written by Matthew Spry. Best of Deadline 2025 TV Cancellations: Photo Gallery 2025 TV Series Renewals: Photo Gallery 'Stick' Soundtrack: All The Songs You'll Hear In The Apple TV+ Golf Series
