This continent is home to some of the fastest growing economies of the world. This section reviews the economic trends pushing some growth in multiple sectors. Our stories glimpse the economic opportunities and challenges that different nations face, from oil and agriculture to software firms and digital banks. We feature stories about entrepreneurs, investment opportunities and economic trends that are transforming the business landscape. Learn more about partnerships that are fostering new opportunities and solutions that are fueling economic growth.

The continent’s growth rate depends on technology, which is driving transformation across sectors. We write pieces on game changing tech innovations, like fintech technologies that are disrupting banking and renewable energy development that is combating climate change. We spotlight the rise of tech clusters, the impact of mobile on healthcare and education, and the entrepreneurs fueling the digital revolution. Learn about how local, creative talent are leveraging technology to solve some of our most difficult problems and build a more connected tomorrow.

As health is of importance to the regions of the continent, this section provides information on the latest news, challenges and initiatives in the healthcare sector. Our coverage runs the gamut of the complicated health landscape, from infectious disease treatment to improving access to health care services. We highlight the work of regional and global organizations, the toll and positive side of public health regulations, and the experiences of medical professionals who are saving lives. Learn about breakthroughs in medical research, traditional medical practices, and wellness tips specific to address the needs of the region.

Cultural Heritage, Agricultural Growth, and Political Transformation in Africa

In our culture area, we celebrate the colorful customs and the rich cultural history of the continent. We examine the festivals, literature, music, art and fashion that shape the personality of the region. Our articles examine how culture influences everyday life, whether native languages can survive and customs can be revived. From the gastronomic experiences that best represent regional palates, to the fashion creators rocking it on the global runways, our stories bring you closer to the core of the continent.

To support local farmers, governments, NGOs, and private businesses are increasing their investments in sustainable farming practices, irrigation systems, and educational initiatives. Overcoming these challenges would not only enable Africa to achieve food security, but would also enable it to be a significant player in agricultural markets around the globe, which would substantially enhance the continent’s economic growth.

Africa’s political terrain is complex and divergent, with countries hewing to the line of stable democracy and others sliding into authoritarianism and different varieties of war. By contrast, most African nations have made great strides toward democracy in the past few decades, with peaceful transfers of power becoming more frequent.

Deteriorating conflicts in the East African region are increasingly placing heavy demands on its regional organizations (e.g. the African Union) to assume a growing role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and stabilization, and inter-state cooperation. The growing population of young people on the continent is also a reason to be hopeful for the future. Over sixty percent of Africa’s population, was under the age of twenty-five; one of the many reasons to consider this demographic a potential yardstick of Africa’s emergence, be it through innovation, entrepreneurship, or activism, it is a ground zero for the new, and the world knows it.

In fact, Africa is not only one of the fastest-growing economic regions on the planet, but some countries there even experienced a leap in their gross domestic product! This economic process is mainly driven by the mining industry, the oil and gas industry, agriculture, and, per recent developments, the internet economy. Mobile technology has been particularly responsible for the transformation of many African countries, allowing millions of people to have their first access to education, healthcare, and financial services.

Innovations like M-payment in Kenya redefined how people in rural/underprivileged areas traffic through financial services. Furthermore, many African Nations are investing in their infrastructure, their transport networks, and their energy sources to facilitate trade and encourage foreign investment.

There is much for travelers to admire in the continent, including remarkable eye-catching scenery and quirky animals. In this section are the must-see places, travel tips and conservation efforts saving the region’s natural treasury. Learn all about the National parks, pristine beaches, and hidden gems that make this continent a traveler’s haven. Read more about the towns that are safeguarding their natural jewels for future generations and about sustainable tourism initiatives.

As agriculture occupies approximately $60% of the total population of the continent and plays a big role in Africa’s apartheid gross domestic product, therefore, it is considered to be one of the essential pillars of Africa’s economics. Since so much of Earth’s fertile land lies within its borders, it has the potential to be a breadbasket for the entire planet. However, there are challenges such as climate change, limited availability of modern agricultural practices and infrastructural challenges that continue to limit agricultural production in the country despite the abundance of natural resources.

Rising Global Influence

Each of Africa’s regions have their own customs, musical styles, artistic expressions and languages, meaning the continent’s cultural make-up is just as varied as its physical landscape. Afrobeats, jazz, hip hop are among many genres of music with African roots. Africa has had so much impact to the culture of the world, particularly about music.

The Nigerian film industry, or Nollywood, has quickly become one of the largest film industries internationally, a further reason why filmmakers are getting noticed on a global front. African art is often praised for its depth, blending traditional and modern sources of inspiration. A glimpse of the continent’s glorious past — and the reality of the current day.

But there’s hope for, despite the challenges. The continent is working hard to boost its healthcare, education and government and, adopting an optimistic view of its assets, is addressing its shortcomings. In Africa, international partnerships, technological progress, and the energy of youth are driving towards being at centre on the world stage.

The continent’s incredible biodiversity is owed to its exceptionally diverse topography: mountain ranges, savannahs, deserts, rainforests. Its natural unique ecosystems that harbor various plant and animal species draw in both tourists and conservationists. Its increasingly urbanized and youthful population is driving innovation, creativity, economic development, and cross-cultural exchange. Bridging the gap towards international acceptance while still being rooted in feelings of home, lifestyle and culture, the dynamic personality of the region is evident.

The continent is a hub of creativity, resiliency and camaraderie. We chronicle the stories of individuals and institutions who are transforming the world, from entrepreneurs building and sustaining enduring businesses, to social advocates demanding change. Our human interest articles share insight into the struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives of people in the area. These stories show the spirit, creativity and vitality of the continent.