On the future of the Southern African Customs Union
Tensions over the future of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and trade relations with the European Union (EU) are rising, as recently reflected on these pages. Unfortunately they are so complex that they defy simple categorisation.
Russian President Medvedev’s Visit to Africa, June 2009
In a short period of less than a month, Russia has sought to assert its role in international forums as a leading player in a multipolar world.
Malawi at 45: More than Madonna’s Hunting Ground
Malawi has been in the headlines, following pop-star Madonna’s battles to adopt a second child from this tiny, landlocked southern African state.
Looking Beyond Conflict and Economic Crisis in the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on 30 June was one year short of its 50th anniversary of independence.
Protesting in 140 keystrokes: Twitter and the Iranian Unrest
When Twitter – the world’s latest social networking phenomenon – made the cover of Time Magazine’s 15 June edition, journalist Steve Johnson mused ‘Just 140 characters?
APRM Forum in Libya: Few Surprises, Unanswered Questions
A day ahead of this year’s African Union summit in Libya, the 11th meeting of the forum of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) took place in the sweltering seaside town of Sirte.
Rwanda on Independence Day: Not Quite Free?
As Rwanda celebrates its independence on Wednesday, it stands as one of those African countries which appears on the face of it to be working well, despite pursuing a homegrown style of democracy which has attracted international criticism for being authoritarian.
National Perspectives on Global Leadership: South Africa
The South African economy is heading for its first recession since 1992, after 16 years of uninterrupted, albeit somewhat anemic, growth.
From Fatigues to Three-Piece Suits: East African Guerrillas in Power
Since decolonisation in African countries ethno-political differences have led to guerrilla warfare. Through these movements, authoritarian regimes have been created.
The African Peer Review Mechanism – Progress and Prospects
On 30 June 2009, as African leaders gather on the sweltering, dusty shores of the Mediterranean in Sirte, the hometown of Libyan President Muammar al-Gaddafi, for the 13th Summit of the African Union, some early birds will attend another vital meeting on the fringes.