The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Africa

  • Climate change threatens Africa’s malaria-free goal by 2030

    Climate change threatens Africa’s malaria-free goal by 2030

    The ambition to eliminate malaria across Africa by 2030 faces serious setbacks, with experts warning that climate change, population growth, and declining funding are reversing progress made over the past decade.

    A new analysis has projected that an additional 554,000 people could die from malaria between 2030 and 2049, with Nigeria expected to be among the most severely affected.

    This warning was issued by health researchers and scientists under the Target Malaria consortium, citing a joint climate impact model by the Boston Consulting Group and the Malaria Atlas Project.

    The model projects future malaria burdens based on anticipated climate-related events, especially changes in rainfall, temperature, and population exposure.

    At the heart of the growing crisis is climate change, which is shifting malaria transmission zones. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are creating favourable conditions for mosquitoes to breed and spread the disease in areas previously considered low-risk.

    A leading entomologist at the Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS) and Field Entomology Coordinator at Target Malaria Burkina Faso, Dr. Patric Epopa said that,  “Shifting temperature and rainfall patterns are expanding and altering malaria risk zones, which will continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, especially children under five.”

    The climate model predicts that from 2030 to 2049, if current global temperatures continue to rise, malaria deaths in Africa will increase by 554,000, with 92% of those deaths linked directly to extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.

    Despite progress in some regions where transmission may decline, the net effect of climate change will be a significant increase in malaria risk for most parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

    The burden of this projected malaria surge is expected to fall most heavily on young children. According to the 2024 Africa Malaria Progress Report by the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounted for 95% of global malaria cases and 97% of deaths in 2023, with nearly 580,000 lives lost, the majority of them being children under the age of five.

    In countries like Burkina Faso, malaria remains the leading cause of death in young children, despite the widespread use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying, and artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs).

    “Extreme weather is one of the biggest drivers of malaria spikes,” Epopa explained. “Displaced communities are often left unprotected, without mosquito nets, indoor spraying, or access to early diagnosis and treatment.”

    Although current tools such as ITNs and ACTs have helped to reduce malaria cases and deaths over the years, the report notes that climate change is weakening their impact by up to 17%. Flooding, droughts, and rising temperatures often disrupt supply chains, healthcare services, and mosquito control efforts, making traditional tools less effective during emergencies.

    In 2023, Nigeria accounted for about 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of global malaria deaths, with over 24 million reported infections and more than 170,000 lives lost, mostly children under five, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

    There is also a growing problem of insecticide resistance, especially among Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary malaria vector in Africa. In many areas, mosquitoes have evolved resistance to commonly used insecticides, rendering nets and sprays less effective.

    Faced with these challenges, scientists and public health experts are increasingly looking toward new technologies to help fill the gaps. One of the most promising innovations is gene drive technology, a form of genetic engineering aimed at reducing the population of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes.

    Target Malaria, a non-profit research group supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Open Philanthropy, is spearheading efforts to develop gene drive solutions. The approach involves modifying the genes of Anopheles mosquitoes so that they produce fewer females, the mosquitoes responsible for biting and spreading malaria.

    Read Also: Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    “Gene drive isn’t a silver bullet, but we hope that it could dramatically cut transmission by reducing the number of female mosquitoes,” said Epopa.

    Mathematical modelling studies suggest that gene drive, when combined with existing tools, could lead to a sharp reduction in mosquito populations, especially in West Africa, and significantly slow down malaria transmission.

    Experts say that to succeed in the malaria fight, African governments must act boldly and swiftly. They are being urged to integrate malaria control into broader health and development strategies, including primary healthcare delivery, gender equality, environmental planning, and climate resilience programs.

    “Now more than ever, we need bold tools and local innovation to stay ahead of this disease,” Epopa added. “African governments must also embed malaria control into broader systems if we want a lasting impact.”

    Failure to act decisively, he warned, will result in the loss of thousands of lives and the derailment of the vision for a malaria-free Africa by 2030.

    Target Malaria is a non-profit research consortium that aims to develop and share innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable genetic technologies to combat malaria. Its core work focuses on the responsible development of gene drive technologies, and it operates in partnership with institutions across Africa, Europe, and North America. Its main institutional hub is located at Imperial College London.

  • ‘How Africa’s $100bn remittances will boost gender equality, local development’

    ‘How Africa’s $100bn remittances will boost gender equality, local development’

    As Africa attracts over $100 billion annually in remittances and billions more in philanthropic flows, a bold new vision is emerging—one that reimagines these financial flows not as acts of charity, but as strategic capital to fuel gender equality and inclusive development.

    From 2 to 3 June 2025, UN Women and the Ford Foundation co-hosted a landmark Regional Conference on Sustainable Philanthropy and Remittances for Gender Equality in Dakar.

    Bringing together over 150 thought leaders from philanthropy, finance, government, technology, and civil society, the event examined how to align Africa’s diverse funding streams with the urgent goal of empowering women and girls.

    From maternal health to agriculture and textile manufacturing, women-led businesses are building the backbone of African economies, yet access to capital remains a key constraint.

    Participants shared compelling examples of how remittances can unlock opportunity—when recognised as intentional, long-term investments rather than one-off transfers.

    Read Also: The intellectual sins of June 12: A reckoning with Nigeria’s democratic conscience

    “This is not about aid—it’s about shifting power and building systems,” said Dr. Catherine Chi-Chi Aniagolu, Ford Foundation Regional Director for West Africa.

    “We must build a new architecture of giving—one that centers African women’s voices and leadership.”

    Participants stressed that it is time to rethink how we engage with the African diaspora—not just as a source of remittances but as partners in development and source of knowledge —and to redesign diaspora flows in ways that foster transformative, gender-responsive outcomes.

    Many called for deeper investments in movement-building and narrative change to amplify African-led and diaspora-supported initiatives. They emphasized the need for rigorous tracking of remittance impacts on women and the creation of gender-responsive investment mechanisms.

    “Remittances are a quiet, perhaps surprising, success story,” said Kofi Appenteng, President of the African American Institute.

    “But any effort to scale them must stay grounded in the voices and needs of those sending and receiving—not just our theories of change. We must make African women and girls visible—not just as beneficiaries, but as architects of their own futures.”

  • Two Decades and A Dream: memoir of hope to Africa

    Two Decades and A Dream: memoir of hope to Africa

    A seasoned author, Mrs. Oremeyi Akah, in her 22 years career in Nigeria’s Fintech space has been able to send messages of hope to Africans in her book, Two Decades and A Dream. At the book Launch held at Four Point by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos, Mrs. Akah, described the book as “a call for every one of us to look within, to actually birth solutions that make real impact because I believe that it would take Africans to build Africa.

    ‘The book is a clarion call to every African—especially young women and aspiring leaders, urging them to lead, and to leave an indelible mark not only on one’s industry but on the continent itself.

    ‘The book is more than just my Memoir. It’s also a call to inspire. Africa has a lot of challenges and a lot of people just sit down and complain. In the book, I was able to share my dream of how I am the pioneer staff of Inter-switch. I have been able to work with the company to build solutions that solve problems,” she said.

    The book also shares light on her decades-long journey in the Fintech industry, while unravelling the vision required to grow a homegrown African company into a continental success. It traces the remarkable professional journey of the author.

    The Publisher of the book, who also doubled as her husband, Mr. Ejimofor Akah, described the author as a passionate optimist for Africa, who is deeply committed to unlocking the continent’s immense potential.

    Read Also: NASS to initiate Bill to swear-in President-elect in Legislative Chamber

    Mr. Akah described the book as one that would inspire anyone who has ever nurtured a dream to do something meaningful, to build, to innovate, to uplift, and to lead Africa into a future rich with hope and possibility.

    “This book is more than a memoir; it’s a masterclass in grit, grace, and growth. Through the pages, readers are drawn into the vibrant world of financial technology in Africa, seen through the eyes of a woman who dared to dream big and work tirelessly to bring those dreams to life.

    “Readers will take a lot of positivity from this book, understanding that there is a lot of hope in Nigeria and Africa. There is wealth in Africa. We Africans must open our eyes and take advantage of the potentials we have in Africa in order to build ourselves. Africa is ours. We have to build it. The book is available at Iwemi.com and Amazon,” he noted.

    A friend to the author, Mr. Ayodeji Adelagun, said: “Underpinning the writing of the book, it’s her passion to give back to society, have her experience documented and to also tell the story of how her drive to bring a solution to problem, has brought her to where she is today.  “This book, I’m sure is inspiring. It encourages people to impact Africa particularly. It’s about Africans bringing solutions to Africa. This is a documentary of how that is possible.”

  • Counsellors want recognition of African perspective

    Counsellors want recognition of African perspective

    Executive Director  of Institute of Counselling Nigeria (ICN), Dr. Tolulope  Oko-Igaire  has said  “Africa has much to offer on sexuality education, but it  lacks the enabling environment where people can express themselves.

    Her submission was among highlights at AASECT Conference in Las Vegas,  United States:  “Artistry x Science: Discovering and Enhancing the Application of Sexology & Sexual Wellness,” is a significant milestone where African voices took centre stage.

    Among the speakers was ICN President  and Founder of Intimacy Clinic, who noted the knowledge Africa possesses in sex and sexuality education.

    She said: ”That’s the work we are doing at ICN and Intimacy Clinic to create safe spaces for open dialogue.” She added “some practices we have are not known in the West, but they are effective. If people can express themselves without shame, I believe they will learn more from Africa.”

    Her remarks underscore a vital message: Africa’s cultural and traditional knowledge in sexuality can provide innovative solutions globally, provided that the environment encourages open conversation and acceptance.

    Dr. Oko-Igaire shared her emotional experience of representing Africa on an international platform for the first time.  “It wasn’t just about visibility; it was about validity. African voices in sex therapy are relevant and revolutionary.” Dr. Oko-Igaire is one of Africa’s leading sex therapists and mental health practitioners. She has played a pivotal role in transforming perceptions of mental health and sexuality in Nigeria and Africa.

    Her work covers depression treatment, PTSD counseling, human sexuality, dysfunctional behavioral therapy, and family dynamics.

    “I started in an environment where professional counseling was virtually nonexistent, and discussing mental and sexual health issues was taboo,” she explained. “I singlehandedly elevated mental health counseling and psychotherapy from traditional, backward approaches to a professional, ethical practice.”

    Read Also: Writers of African Origin in the Diaspora launches Abby Kesington’s debut poetry collection 

    As the immediate past President of the Association for Counseling & Psychotherapy of Nigeria (ACMPN), and now the President and Chief Executive Officer of The Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, Dr. Oko-Igaire continues to advocate for increased awareness, education, and support for mental health and sexuality issues. She believes Africa has a vital role in shaping global conversations around sex and mental health.

    “The world is listening. And Africa is no longer whispering. We’re speaking, teaching, and healing loudly and clearly,” she declared. Her leadership exemplifies the potential of African professionals to influence global discourse positively.

    A dedicated clinical counselor, sex therapist, and mental health advocate, Dr. Oko-Igaire remains committed to advancing counseling and sexuality education in Africa. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of therapists, educators, and advocates across the continent.

  • Africa’s $40b illicit financial flows affecting economic development

    Africa’s $40b illicit financial flows affecting economic development

    Africa is experiencing significant losses, estimated at around $40 billion annually, due to illicit financial flows (IFFs) in the extractive sector,the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA),Mr. Antonio Pedro,  has said.

     Pedro was a panelist at the High-Level Policy Dialogue (HLPD) held  recently  in New York, to draw the curtain on the month-long 2025 African Dialogue Series (ADS), on the theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”  It was organised by the UN Office of the Special Adviser on Africa, and the AU Permanent Observer Mission to the UN, in collaboration with various UN agencies, including the ECA. The Africa Dialogue Series (ADS) is an annual event that brings together global leaders to discuss pressing issues impacting Africa and its diaspora, focused on the AU theme of the year.

     He noted that such financial losses not only hinder developmental progress but also exacerbate economic injustices, depriving African populations of access to essential resources and underscoring the connection between IFFs and the pursuit of reparatory justice. He argued that IFFs in the extractive sector were one of the symptoms of a serious structural problem compounding Africa’s development, i.e. its excessive dependence on the export of raw materials, an extractivist model and construct inherited from colonial times. He  noted that exporting raw materials was exporting jobs, a luxury that the continent cannot afford given the need to create at least 20 millions jobs annually for the youth. As such, addressing IFFS and its root causes should be at the centre of Africa’s development policy and action.

    He underscored that addressing these critical challenges is essential for fostering Africa’s self-reliance and attaining sustainable development.

    He indicated that with the adoption of strategic frameworks such as the African Mining Vision and the African Green Minerals Strategy, which advocate for resource-driven industrialisation and value addition, the continent has the necessary instruments to guarantee that its abundant mineral resources promote economic emancipation, employment generation and benefit local communities. The focus should be in operationalising those frameworks.

    He emphasised that advancing local content and reforming the global financial and governance systems are crucial for mitigating IFFs and advancing African development goals. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of global collaboration and sustainable development. Consequently, he called upon African nations to unite  and build common voice and positions in order to advocate for their interests on the international platform effectively. He posited that to achieve transformational change, mineral, trade, industrial, energy, infrastructure development, and international relations policies should be implemented in an integrated and coherent manner.

    Read Also: Tuggar seeks stronger West African cooperation for economic integration

     Pedro stressed that it is a joint responsibility of governments, mining enterprises, local communities, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to bridge the gaps of perception on what constitutes benefits and work together to prioritise sustainable development in the extractive sector.

    He  commended the 2025 Africa Dialogue Series for providing a forum conducive to meaningful discourse on reparations and justice for Africans and people of African descent.

    “As we advance, prioritising sustainable development and tackling the systemic problems that perpetuate IFFs, along with reparatory measures, is a crucial step to achieving justice for Africa. In doing so, we have the potential to unlock Africa’s true capabilities and promote a more equitable global system,” he said.

  • FT and its high horse

    FT and its high horse

    The Western media treats developing countries condescendingly. It perceives Africa, especially, as backward, and so must be told how to run its affairs. The May 27 editorial of the Financial Times (FT) of London on Nigeria, as fair and objective as it may be, is a case in point. The paper rode the high horse in its attempt to make its point that Nigeria still needs to be spoonfed in leadership matters.

    Read Also: British Deputy High Commissioner visits Rugby School Nigeria

    Nigeria does not need the FT to give it a tutorial on leadership and how to govern itself. The country may decide to spend on a Presidential Jet, if it wishes so that its leaders do not fly in a coffin. But then, who are we as a country to get a gift of Presidential Jet from Qatar as the American president? If it was the other way round, FT and its ilk would have torn Nigeria and its president apart for receiving such a gift. FT has not deemed it fit to do an editorial on that. You see, what is sauce for them, is taboo for us! “Teacher, don’t teach me nonsense”, as Fela would say.

  • News Central, AFP partner to strengthen journalism across Africa

    News Central, AFP partner to strengthen journalism across Africa

    News Central, Africa’s leading pan-African news broadcaster, and Agence France-Presse (AFP), a global leader in news and digital verification, have held high level talks to explore partnership opportunities aimed at enhancing news coverage, content sharing, and innovation across Africa and beyond.

    During a recent meeting, senior executives from both organizations discussed a broad range of potential collaborations. The discussions focused on leveraging AFP’s extensive international news gathering network and digital expertise, together with News Central’s robust regional presence and commitment to fearless journalism, to deliver high-quality, factual, and timely news to diverse audiences. In attendance were the Executive Director for Africa, Pierre Ausseill and the Sales Director for Africa, Joaquin Iturralde, as well as other representatives of AFP.

    Read Also: Wanted: Nigeria’s sports calendar

    The Managing Director of News Central, Kayode Akintemi, received the guests at the headquarters in Lagos. He remarked that the meeting was “a significant step towards building a mutually beneficial relationship with AFP. We believe that by combining our strengths, we can set new standards for journalistic excellence and expand the reach of authentic African narratives.”

    Both parties expressed enthusiasm about the prospects of working together to strengthen news reporting, facilitate knowledge exchange, and drive innovation in multimedia content production. The leadership teams highlighted the importance of media partnerships in promoting transparency, fostering informed public discourse, and amplifying African stories on the global stage

    The meeting concluded with both organizations agreeing to establish a working group to identify specific areas for collaboration, including content syndication, joint multimedia projects, and professional development initiatives.

  • Coy champions generational wealth at Africa CEO Forum

    Coy champions generational wealth at Africa CEO Forum

    The Coronation Group has reinforced its commitment to Africa’s economic transformation as a Gold Sponsor of the Africa CEO Forum 2025, in Abidjan.

    The prestigious event brought together over 2,000 business leaders, policymakers and investors, including Heads of States H.E. Alassane Ouattara (Côte d’Ivoire), H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa), H.E. Paul Kagame (Rwanda), H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), and H.E. John Dramani Mahama (Ghana).

    Leading Coronation’s delegation, Group Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede delivered a keynote address titled, “How Can African Family-Owned Businesses Shift from Survival to Legacy and Build Generational Champions?”

    Read Also: Serious reforms in FCT transportation sector coming – Wike

    It was moderated by McKinsey Africa chairman, Acha Leke; and the conversation addressed governance models, succession planning, and the evolving role of philanthropy in shaping long-term legacies.

    “Legacy is not merely about handing down assets,” Aig-Imoukhuede said, “it is about transmitting values, vision, and a sense of responsibility. Succession should be a deliberate act, not an accidental one. Beyond managing wealth, we must cultivate character, discipline, and a commitment to nation-building. Philanthropy must be strategic—it should go beyond charity and be embedded in Africa’s development architecture.”

    He emphasised that sustainable transformation in Africa requires a leadership class grounded in humility, vision, and a deep sense of duty to the continent.

    Coronation Merchant Bank’s Acting CEO, Paul Abiagam, participated in a high-level panel on “Cost of Capital Crisis: How to Navigate a Disrupted Global Financial Order,” alongside representatives from Moody’s, Skykapital, and Bank of America.

    Abiagam spoke on de-risking financial structures and promoting access to long-term capital.

    “Affordable capital is a persistent structural challenge for African businesses,” he noted. “At Coronation, we support clients through long-term blended financing models, with a strong focus on credit quality and transparency. Our goal is to strengthen Africa’s capital markets from fragile to formidable.”

    Ngozi Akinyele, Chief Brand Officer of Coronation Group, contributed to the Forum’s central theme: “Can a New Deal Between the State and the Private Sector Deliver?” She emphasised the critical need for genuine collaboration.

    Coronation Group’s presence at the Africa CEO Forum 2025 underscored its mission to champion financial innovation, foster generational wealth, and help shape a prosperous future for Africa.

  • Five strongest currencies in Africa as of May 2025

    Five strongest currencies in Africa as of May 2025

    As of May 2025, several African countries have maintained strong currencies against the U.S. dollar, reflecting various degrees of fiscal discipline, monetary policy effectiveness, and economic structure.

    Currency strength remains a vital indicator of a country’s economic stability and overall financial health.

    According to the Forbes currency calculator, the following are the strongest currencies in Africa.

    1. Tunisia – Tunisian Dinar (TND)

    Exchange Rate: 2.97 TND per USD
    Tunisia continues to lead as the African country with the strongest currency. The Tunisian Dinar’s strength is largely supported by strict exchange control measures and inflation management, even amid ongoing political and economic challenges.

    2. Libya – Libyan Dinar (LYD)

    Exchange Rate: 5.43 LYD per USD
    Despite years of political unrest, the Libyan Dinar remains notably strong. This resilience is primarily due to Libya’s abundant oil reserves, which generate substantial foreign exchange revenue.

    3. Morocco – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

    Exchange Rate: 9.17 MAD per USD
    The Moroccan Dirham benefits from the country’s stable macroeconomic policies, economic diversification, and prudent monetary governance. Morocco’s growing appeal to foreign investors, especially in the renewable energy sector, also bolsters its currency.

    Read Also: Akpabio urges media outlets to uphold standards in coverage of National Assembly

    4. Ghana – Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

    Exchange Rate: 13.20 GHS per USD
    While the Ghanaian Cedi has experienced volatility, recent economic reforms and support from the IMF have introduced a measure of stability. Government initiatives to rein in inflation and manage public debt are beginning to yield positive outcomes.

    5. Botswana – Botswana Pula (BWP)

    Exchange Rate: 13.38 BWP per USD
    The Botswana Pula stands out as one of the strongest currencies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Sound governance, effective fiscal policies, and a balanced reliance on diamond exports have helped maintain its strength.

  • 13 Nigerians ranked among 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025

    13 Nigerians ranked among 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025

    A distinguished group of African changemakers, including several prominent Nigerians, have been named among the 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, an annual list honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to peacebuilding, humanitarian service, and social development across the continent.

    Among the notable Nigerian honourees are Grammy-winning music star Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, and business magnate Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group. Their names were announced during the ‘Peacebuilding Roll Call’ at the Unveiling News Conference held on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Other Nigerians recognised on the list include influential pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of COZA Global; philanthropists Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola; footballer Victor Osimhen; Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State; and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

    Here are Nigerians ranked among the 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025:

    1. Damini Ogulu (Burna Boy) – Grammy-winning music superstar

    2. Aliko Dangote – President, Dangote Group

    3. Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo – COZA Global

    4. Tony Elumelu – Businessman and philanthropist

    5. Femi Otedola – Businessman

    6. Victor Osimhen – Footballer

    7. Gov. Umar Namadi – Governor of Jigawa State

    8. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Director-General, WTO

    9. Nduka Obaigbena – Media mogul

    Read Also: Mouka rewards partners with South African trip

    10. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede – Chairman, Access Holdings

    11. Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Governor of Lagos State

    12. Zainab Nasir-Idris – Wife of Kebbi State Governor

    13. Huriyya Dauda-Lawal – Wife of Zamfara State Governor

    Other Africans Listed:

    1. Mohammed Salah – Egyptian footballer

    2. Dr. Abdelhak Najib – Morocco

    3. Dr. Imane Kendili – Morocco

    4. Prof. Mthuli Ncube – Minister of Finance, Zimbabwe

    5. Munyakazi Sadate – CEO, Karame Rwanda Group