Opinions

COP presidencies tend to seek fresh agreements and ambitious initiatives, but when the celebrations are over, implementation often falls short. That is why Brazil’s COP30 presidency must eschew flashy results in favor of pragmatic pathways to deliver on past agreements. The landmark Paris climate agreement set the ambitious but necessary goal of…

In a fracturing world economy, regional solidarity has taken on new importance. To chart a new path toward inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth, North African countries must forge stronger economic ties with partners in Sub-Saharan Africa, which will require fully committing to the African Continental Free Trade Area. Rising tariffs,…

High borrowing costs mean that African governments often must choose between making debt payments and investing in health. This November’s G20 summit – the first to be held in Africa, and the second with the African Union as a permanent member – represents a critical opportunity to create better options.…

By helping Africa address the energy and debt crises standing in the way of its development, BRICS+ members could advance their vision of a world where all countries are respected and work together to solve common problems. The ten current BRICS+ members, more than most countries, can empathize with the…

Debt across the Global South has grown twice as fast as in the North, with rising borrowing costs trapping developing countries in a vicious cycle of debt distress; hence, the upcoming Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development is an ideal opportunity to begin repairing a dysfunctional financial architecture. Amid…

Instead of relying on limited reforms to a misaligned global financial system, Africa should prioritize strengthening regional and continental institutions that mobilize its own capital to meet its development needs. Carlos Lopes, Member of the UN International Commission of Experts for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. Like…

Overseas Development Assistance is not the solution to Africa’s development challenges; the future of Africa’s development financing lies in strengthening the continent’s ability to raise resources internally, i.e, Domestic Resource Mobilisation (DRM). A decade after the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, a measly 17% of the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, are…

By making strategic investments and implementing targeted reforms, African governments can harness Africa’s rapidly expanding creative industries – fueled by digital innovation and a young, growing middle class – to advance economic, social, and development goals. In February, Afrobeats singer Tems won the Grammy for Best African Music Performance. Her achievement underscores…

Despite its bold promises, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is being quietly undermined by logistical realities. The agreement, which aims to boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs and harmonising regulatory standards, assumes that goods and people can move freely across borders. It should not cost over $1,000 to…