Nelson Mandela passed away on December 5 2013. A decade on, what has changed.



Today marks a decade since the loss of Nelson Mandela, South Africa&#8217;s emblematic hero, anti-apartheid champion, and a figure of global reverence. Mandela&#8217;s passing, a moment of profound national and international mourning, has become a pivotal point of reflection, particularly as his envisioned ‘Rainbow Nation’ South Africa remains elusive as the country grapples with severe socioeconomic and political challenges.



Professor Jonathan Jansen, Professor of Education at Stellenbosch University and a respected political columnist, reflects on this shift: &#8220;While Nelson Mandela is held in high esteem across the country, it&#8217;s true that with time, the intensity of commemoration fades. This is true for everyone, not just for the great man himself.&#8221;



Mandela&#8217;s contested legacy surfaces in the Nelson Mandela Foundation&#8217;s bold initiative – an interactive exhibition titled Mandela is Dead hosted in collaboration with The Forge and Stellenbosch University at the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory in Houghton, Johannesburg.



The show encapsulates the growing debate over whether it&#8217;s time to reevaluate Mandela&#8217;s enduring influence on South African society and politics. The exhibition, which launched on the eve of December, attempts to nuance the legacy of the iconic leader.



&#8220;In the past few years, there has been a lot of contention around the meaning of Mandela&#8217;s legacy. Students and intellectuals are debating whether he was truly a &#8216;miracle maker.&#8217; Some criticize him for giving too much to F.W. de Klerk and the apartheid government [during the transition to democracy]. Others represent a more intellectual view, similar to that expressed by someone like [historian] Colin Bundy, which acknowledges his great impact despite his own challenges,&#8221; Jansen observes.



A symbol of resistance and reconciliation, Mandela led the African National Congress (ANC) through the darkest days of apartheid and shepherded the nation into a democratic era – notably, without a major civil conflict that much of the world saw as a foregone conclusion. His vision was of a non-racial, prosperous, and democratic South Africa, ideals that now face scrutiny amid the country&#8217;s lingering socio-economic crises.



&#8220;There is no longer an unconditional celebration of Mandela. His legacy is now viewed through both cynical and pragmatic lenses, considering all his complexities, including his weaknesses. With the current challenges the country faces, it&#8217;s hard to conjure up an image of a flawless leader, especially when basic services are lacking, and there are ongoing issues like loadshedding, children dying due to poor sanitation. This contrasts sharply with the spirit of the first decade following liberation, which was about moving from liberation to survival,&#8221; Jansen adds.



South Africa today wrestles with profound challenges: state capture, frequent power outages and rampant unemployment plague the nation. These issues starkly contrast with Mandela’s dream, spotlighting the gaps between his aspirations and the current realities. In his own desire to ensure a non-violent transition to democracy in South Africa, Mandela made accommodations that some see as allowing the structures of inequality under apartheid to continue to exist.



&#8220;His legacy has done nothing but keep the poor poor and the rich rich, freedom is not free,” reads one message written by a university student on a message board that formed part of the Mandela Is Dead exhibition, which provided a canvas for the reflections of South Africa’s youth, revealing a deepening rift between Mandela’s vision and the contemporary South African experience.



Further emphasizing this disconnect, the lack of significant commemorative events on the anniversary of Mandela&#8217;s death is telling. While Robben Island, Mandela&#8217;s long-term prison home, commemorated his legacy with a running event, the broader national observance was muted, highlighted only by a solidarity march for Palestinians in Pretoria. At the time of publishing, neither the ANC nor the Presidency of Cyril Ramaphosa had issued a commemoration of the day.



Mandela&#8217;s ANC, once the unchallenged political force in South Africa, faces the prospect of losing majorities in key provinces in the upcoming general election. This potential shift signals a transformation in public sentiment and perhaps a reevaluation of Mandela’s influence in contemporary South African politics.



&#8220;I&#8217;ve noticed a sentiment among my comrades, who are saying that the country has strayed far from its path. They question the point of celebrating the achievements of great men from 30 years ago,” continues Jansen. “Even people who were cabinet ministers under Mandela feel this way. The public mood has shifted. The unfettered celebration of Mandela as a great man isn&#8217;t as common anymore, except in smaller, more insular communities.”



As South Africa confronts these realities, the Mandela is Dead exhibition is a call to action, echoing his granddaughter Ndileka Mandela&#8217;s words at the exhibition launch, “South Africa belongs to all who live in it. Let us reclaim it.”



The muted commemorations and critical voices emerging from the youth seem to signal a growing disillusionment with the current state of affairs. The Mandela is Dead exhibition serves as a stark reminder of the work still required. Mandela&#8217;s dream for a prosperous, equal South Africa continues to be a distant aspiration.

A group of American and South African students, aged from 11 to 19, met with Nelson Mandela at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg, on 2 June 2009. This is part of a series of activities ahead of Mandela Day on 18 July.

Nelson Mandela: Reflections On The 10th Anniversary Of The Former South African President’s Passing

In South Africa, a revolutionary method for dark matter search that is setting a new trajectory for future explorations.



The quest to unravel the mysteries of dark matter has taken a significant turn with the latest research from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa. Spearheaded by Professor Deepak Kar and his former PhD student, now postdoctoral researcher Sukanya Sinha, this study is published in Physics Letters B and marks a pivotal shift from traditional approaches in dark matter exploration.



Dark matter, invisible yet comprising about a quarter of the universe&#8217;s mass, has long puzzled scientists. Traditional searches have focused on weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs), but to date, these efforts have not yielded concrete evidence of its existence. The Wits team, working at the ATLAS experiment at CERN (a center for scientific research in Switzerland), ventured into uncharted territory by investigating semi-visible jets, a novel concept in Dark Matter searches.



Kan, in an interview with FORBES AFRICA, sheds light on the significance of this new approach: &#8220;We looked for a very specific signature of dark matter, which no one has ever looked at, and we didn&#8217;t find it. So what does it tell us? That the dark matter probably doesn&#8217;t exist in that form, or even if it does, the fraction is probably much, much smaller.&#8221; This discovery informs and directs future research, eliminating certain possibilities in the elusive search for dark matter.



Kan further elaborates on the practical implications of their findings: &#8220;Future research in the exploration of dark matter would be informed by this&#8230; Our study is the most prominent result because it&#8217;s an experimental research.&#8221; He also notes the broader impact of their work: &#8220;Our research informs new ways we can look for dark matter in, say, visible jets and beyond. It tells us what is not there, reducing the possibilities.&#8221;



Discussing the relevance of dark matter research to daily life, Kan states: &#8220;It&#8217;s not something which helps in everyday lives directly&#8230; but it might lead to the development of technologies and techniques which can be used in more practical research.&#8221;



He highlights the long-term potential of such fundamental research, drawing parallels with the development of the World Wide Web and advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, which originated from similar scientific endeavors.



This research by the Wits University team not only propels the scientific community closer to understanding one of the universe&#8217;s greatest mysteries but also exemplifies the profound impact of fundamental research on technological and practical advancements. As the quest for dark matter continues, this novel method introduced by the Wits team stands as a beacon of innovation in the expansive field of astrophysics.

Researchers Prof Deepak Kar and Sukanya Sinha; Image supplied1

Wits University’s New Direction In Understanding One Of The Universe’s Greatest Mysteries

South Africa&#8217;s National Assembly has voted in favor of suspending diplomatic relations with Israel, including closing its embassy, in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This significant political move reflects escalating tensions and calls for a ceasefire and peace negotiations.



South Africa’s National Assembly voted yesterday to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel, as well as the closure of the Israeli embassy within the country, due to Israel’s continued war against Hamas in Palestine. The vote, which came hours after Israel recalled its ambassador to South Africa, passed with 248 votes in favor and 91 against. However, the vote is not binding unless enforced by President Cyril Ramaphosa.



The vote, initiated by opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and supported by the ruling African National Congress (ANC), called for a suspension of all diplomatic ties with Israel until a ceasefire is reached. Earlier this week during a virtual summit of the BRICS nations, chaired by President Ramaphosa, it issued a statement condemning attacks on civilians in Palestine.



The move was welcomed by the South African branch of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. “There is no role for diplomacy with a settler-colonial apartheid state that is guilty of genocide against a population that it occupies,” said SA BDS Coordinator Roshan Dadoo to FORBES AFRICA. “South Africa should not be having relations with a state that perpetrates war crimes with impunity, and treats the United Nations, international law, and the rest of the world with utter disdain.”



However, the National Assembly’s vote was not appreciated by all parties. The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) condemned the vote as pointless in light of Israel’s withdrawal of its ambassador for consultations, and condemned the chanting of “from the river to the sea” by some members of parliament “a chant which calls for the destruction of the only Jewish state, makes a mockery of the ANC’s stated position of supporting a two-state solution,” said Professor Karen Milner of the SAJBD in a statement.



Both the Israeli ambassadors’ recall as well as the National Assembly vote indicate a further breakdown in diplomatic relations between Israel and South Africa, which has historically had strong political, historical, and ideological ties to Palestinians. The ANC-led government has long condemned the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and the treatment of Palestinians in Gaza, and it remains to be seen how this recent development will impact the already strained relations.



The resolution, titled ‘Closure of the Israel Embassy in South Africa and suspension of all diplomatic relations with Israel’, was presented by Julius Malema of the EFF. This parliamentary decision, while symbolic, reflects a long-standing stance of the South African government since Nelson Mandela&#8217;s presidency, likening the Palestinian struggle to the country’s own fight against apartheid. The ANC&#8217;s chief whip, Pemmy Majodina, emphasized the resolution&#8217;s call for a ceasefire and commitment to United Nations-facilitated peace negotiations.



President Ramaphosa has been vocally critical of Israel&#8217;s military actions in Gaza, urging the International Criminal Court to investigate potential war crimes.



This recent parliamentary vote, amidst the backdrop of escalating violence in Gaza and Israel&#8217;s strategic military campaign against Hamas, marks a pivotal moment in South Africa&#8217;s foreign policy, mirroring its historical commitment to human rights and international law. As the world watches, the actions of Ramaphosa&#8217;s administration in the coming days will be crucial in shaping the future of South Africa-Israel relations and, possibly, the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

Israeli attacks continue on the 47th day in Gaza

South Africa Votes to Suspend Diplomatic Ties with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

In a gripping encounter that had cricket fans worldwide at the edge of their seats, South Africa&#8217;s spirited performance wasn&#8217;t enough to secure victory over a determined Australian side in the World Cup clash.



Kolkata&#8217;s iconic Eden Gardens played host to an enthralling battle of cricketing titans as South Africa squared off against Australia in a contest that promised high drama and delivered in spades. Despite a gallant effort from the Proteas, it was Australia who emerged victorious in this World Cup thriller, marking yet another chapter in South Africa&#8217;s history of heart-wrenching near-misses on the global stage.



As the sun set over Kolkata, casting long shadows across the pitch, the air was thick with anticipation. The Proteas, known for their resilience, faced an Australian team brimming with confidence and tactical acumen. The match unfolded as a narrative of twists and turns, echoing the unpredictability of the sport itself.



South Africa, batting first under the commanding presence of captain Temba Bavuma, started cautiously. The early overs were a testament to Australia&#8217;s bowling prowess, with Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood exploiting the conditions masterfully. The Proteas&#8217; top order wobbled under the relentless pressure, losing crucial wickets in quick succession. The specter of past collapses loomed large as murmurs of &#8216;chokers&#8217; began to surface among the crowd.



However, the tide turned with the arrival of David Miller at the crease. In a display of sheer will and skill, Miller anchored the innings with a magnificent century, resurrecting South Africa&#8217;s hopes. His 101 off 116 deliveries, punctuated with powerful strokes and calculated risks, became the backbone of the Proteas&#8217; fightback. The Eden Gardens crowd, always appreciative of cricketing brilliance, rallied behind his effort, creating an electrifying atmosphere.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="675" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/GettyImages-1796971064.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60256" style="width:818px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/GettyImages-1796971064.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/GettyImages-1796971064-300x198.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/GettyImages-1796971064-768x506.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> Temba Bavuma of South Africa looks dejected while walking on the field following defeat in the ICC Men&#8217;s Cricket World Cup India 2023 Semi Final match between South Africa and Australia at Eden Gardens on November 16, 2023 in Kolkata, India. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure></div>


Australia&#8217;s chase, in response, was a rollercoaster ride. The Proteas&#8217; bowlers, fueled by Miller&#8217;s heroics, struck with purpose. Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj bowled with heart, keeping the Australians in check. The match teetered on a knife-edge as each team vied for dominance.



Travis Head and David Warner provided the initial impetus for Australia, forging a partnership that threatened to take the game away. But just when the momentum seemed to be shifting, South Africa&#8217;s bowlers struck back, reining in the Australian charge. The match ebbed and flowed, with each over adding a new layer of intrigue.



In the end, Australia&#8217;s depth and experience shone through. Despite a valiant effort in the field, South Africa couldn&#8217;t hold back the Australian tide. The match concluded with Australia securing victory, leaving the Proteas to reflect on what could have been.



As the players shook hands and the crowds began to disperse, the Proteas&#8217; journey in this World Cup came to an end, not with a whimper, but with a display of cricketing tenacity that will be remembered by fans and players alike. For Australia, the road to glory continues, their eyes set firmly on the prize. In the aftermath of the clash, both teams can hold their heads high. Australia, for their unwavering pursuit of victory, and South Africa, for a performance that, despite the outcome, spoke volumes of their character and skill.

South Africa v Australia: Semi Final – ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023

South Africa’s Valiant Effort Falls Short Against Resilient Australia In Thrilling World Cup Showdown

South Africa intensifies its critique of Israel, recalling diplomats and slamming actions in Gaza as war crimes. As international condemnation grows, the government contemplates further sanctions amid widespread protests and calls for a decisive international response.



South Africa has recalled its diplomatic corps from Israel for consultation, with the country&#8217;s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, issuing a strong critique of Israel&#8217;s ground invasion of Gaza. Pandor stated that the killing of children in the Palestinian region is a &#8220;war crime&#8221;.



Pandor was responding to questions she received after the Cabinet announcement today, withdrawing South Africa&#8217;s diplomats from Tel Aviv.



The African National Congress (ANC)-led South African government has long shown solidarity with the Palestinian cause, with Palestinian resistance movements providing social and military aid in the fight against apartheid in South Africa.



Israel&#8217;s response to the attacks of Hamas on October 7, which, at the time of writing, have seen at least 10,000 casualties among Palestinians in Gaza, was strongly condemned by the South African government.



&#8220;We believe the nature of the response by Israel has become one of collective punishment,&#8221; continued Pandor, &#8220;which falls outside the practices of international humanitarian and international human rights law.&#8221;



South Africans themselves have demonstrated in vast numbers in the major cities of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, with protests occurring almost weekly outside the United States Embassy and Consulate.



South Africa is not the only country to have instituted diplomatic responses to Israel in recent weeks, with Chad also recalling its ambassador earlier today. Several South American governments, such as Colombia, Chile, and Bolivia, had earlier done the same.



The South African branch of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement welcomed the decision by the government but also critiqued the time taken to make such an action.



&#8220;The SA BDS Coalition welcomes our government’s Cabinet statement condemning Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people,&#8221; said Roshan Dadoo, spokesperson for the BDS, to FORBES AFRICA. &#8220;However, it took more than 10,000 Palestinians to be killed by the apartheid Israeli state before our government recalled all South African diplomatic staff for consultations.&#8221;



South Africa might take even further action following the last three weeks of conflict, with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stating in today&#8217;s post-Cabinet briefing that Israeli Ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky&#8217;s position was &#8220;very untenable&#8221;.



Belotsercovsky has been directly critiqued by both the Cabinet and Pandor for his remarks in South African media as of late, with Minister Ntshaveni also stating that President Cyril Ramaphosa had instructed the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to chastise him for &#8220;disparaging remarks&#8230;about those who are opposing the atrocities and the genocide of the Israeli government.&#8221;



&#8220;A genocide under the watch of the international community cannot be tolerated,&#8221; said Ntshaveni, sparing no words. &#8220;Another holocaust in the history of humanity cannot be tolerated.&#8221;



The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) spokesperson Charisse Zeifert said in a statement to FORBES AFRICA that the organization is seeking an urgent meeting with President Ramaphosa regarding today&#8217;s Cabinet decision, stating, &#8220;Severing ties would be a decision contrary to everything that the government claims it stands for, that is, talking to both sides of the conflict. And the only people who will stand to lose are South African citizens.&#8221;



Both the South African Jewish community and the Palestinian diaspora have deep ties within the country, with tensions unlikely to abate without a greater resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine itself.



&#8220;The South African people demand our government act in multilateral fora towards an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance for people trapped in Gaza with UN protection, for the reinstatement of the UN anti-apartheid mechanisms towards international sanctions and an arms embargo, and a swift investigation and prosecutions by the International Criminal Court into war crimes, crimes against humanity including the crime of genocide and apartheid,&#8221; concluded the statement by BDS.

Encircled By Israel, Gaza Faces Catastrophe As Death Toll Soars

Escalating Tensions: South Africa’s Diplomatic Withdrawal From Israel

The recent AGOA summit in Johannesburg beckoned calls for its extension beyond September 2025. With a backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and US-Africa relations at a delicate juncture, the summit explored the potential reshaping of trade norms, eyeing a more balanced economic relationship.



The annual African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) summit was held in Johannesburg, South Africa last week, amidst landmark changes, with calls for its renewal beyond the current expiry in September 2025. It was also announced that four African countries would be removed from the act.



AGOA, which allows African member states preferential access to United States (US) markets, has long been an economic boon to the continent, but the current summit took place against a backdrop of tension due to recent diplomatic spats between the US and South Africa, as well as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.



AGOA, first established by the US Congress in 2000, provides duty-free exports to the US for many goods from member countries. As of last year, exports to the US under the act were valued at $16.5 billion, with South Africa taking the lion&#8217;s share. With the current iteration of the act set to expire in 2025, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa made clear his desire to see the trade deal renewed.



“We would like you to consider the extension and renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period,” said Ramaphosa on the last day of the summit.



His proposal of a renewal was matched by a statement issued by US lawmakers released on Friday, with House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Michael McCaul stating, “Africa is on the precipice of an unprecedented demographic boom. The timely reauthorization of AGOA is important to provide business certainty and show the United States’ continued support towards Africa’s economic growth.”



However, Ramaphosa was also at pains to shift the balance of focus of the act moving forward, with historical trade, which often involves exporting raw materials to the US and importing manufactured goods into Africa – a relationship he would like to shift, highlighting the automotive sector in South Africa as one of note. “As we can already see, they have great use on the continent to produce the finished complete products such as vehicles and a whole number of others…”



Other notable changes of this year&#8217;s summit are the inclusion of labor union and civil society members, with representatives from some of South Africa’s largest trade unions being present.



“A renewed AGOA needs to include provisions to support compliance with good labor practices and penalize employers who flout labor laws,” said the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in a statement on Friday. “[We are] heartened by the positive support we have received from the US labor movement which has a long history of solidarity with South African working-class struggles.”



The calls for renewal come amidst recent tensions between both South Africa and the US, as well as other African countries. AGOA membership, vetted by the US President, saw President Joe Biden announce that four countries would be removed from the act due to “non-compliance with AGOA eligibility criteria”; the Central African Republic (CAR), Uganda, Gabon, and Niger.



Over the last year, US-South Africa diplomatic relations were also strained by the secretive reported docking of the Russian vessel Lady R in December 2022, as well as more recent comments last month expressing solidarity with Palestine following Israel&#8217;s retaliation for the Hamas attacks on October 7. However, both of these challenges appeared to have been smoothed over diplomatically, with both countries on track for a renewal of the AGOA pact.



“When we say that AGOA is the cornerstone of our economic partnership we do not mean that in the abstract,” said United States Trade Envoy Katherine Tai in her closing remarks of the summit. “It has been a bedrock for improving the livelihoods of so many people across Africa… and it has the potential to do so much more.”

The African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum

Beyond 2025: The AGOA Summit’s Bid For Extended Economic Ties On The Continent

In an electrifying match that had the world on the edge of its seat, South Africa&#8217;s Springboks made history by clinching their fourth Rugby World Cup title. Defeating the formidable New Zealand All Blacks 12-11, the Springboks claimed the Web Ellis Cup for the fourth time.



On October 28, 2023, the Springboks etched their names into the annals of rugby history. For the first time ever, a team hoisted the coveted Webb Ellis Cup four times. The moment was profound, and its ripple effect was felt far beyond the walls of Paris&#8217;s Stade de France. South Africa defeated New Zealand 12-11 in a nail-biting battle for rugby supremacy, marking their fourth win in the history of the Rugby World Cup.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="700" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762438181.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60048" style="aspect-ratio:1.4628571428571429;width:654px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762438181.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762438181-300x205.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762438181-768x525.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Julian Finney &#8211; World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure></div>


In 80 tense minutes that could have gone either way, South Africa displayed a level of intensity that was palpable from the get-go. Leading 6-0 just 13 minutes into the game thanks to two penalty goals from flyhalf Handre Pollard, the Springboks signaled their intent early. The All Blacks notched their own penalty goal in the 17th minute, but Pollard&#8217;s third penalty four minutes later kept South Africa ahead; by halftime, the Boks led 12-6.



The New Zealand All Blacks left no room for complacency. Despite being a man down for much of the game due to red cards and injuries, they nearly clinched it. Their first try was disallowed due to a clear knock-on, but when Beauden Barrett scored the first valid try of the match, the tension was almost unbearable.



However, South Africa managed to hold their lead during the All Blacks&#8217; sensational second-half performance, driving the Springboks constantly back toward the try-line but never quite managing to cross it again. By the final bell, South Africa had clinched the victory by a single point.



South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa was on the sidelines of the match itself and joined the team to hoist the Webb Ellis Cup. His office congratulated the team in a statement: &#8220;Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country, continent, and the world. Sport has the power to transform lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.&#8221; The President also extended his congratulations to New Zealand for a hard-fought campaign, calling them &#8220;deserving finalists.&#8221;



In South Africa, fans swarmed public venues like the Durban International Conference Centre and Montecasino, many of which reached full capacity hours before kickoff. &#8220;Tonight, Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired, and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our flag even higher,&#8221; President Ramaphosa added.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762113459.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60050" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762113459.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762113459-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762113459-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, with Springboks. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure></div>


This win has lifted the gloom of a nation plagued by corruption, power outages, and social strife, allowing South Africans, for a moment, to dare to dream again. &#8220;We found a way,&#8221; said Springbok Captain Kolisi in the post-match interview, still breathless from the game. &#8220;Honestly, I don’t think people not from South Africa understand what this means for our country… Our country goes through a lot, and we are that glimmer of hope that they have.&#8221;


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="724" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762435141.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60047" style="aspect-ratio:1.4143646408839778;width:462px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762435141.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762435141-300x212.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1762435141-768x543.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Photo by Julian Finney &#8211; World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure></div>


As the dust settles on this monumental victory, one thing is abundantly clear: the Springboks have done more than win a tournament; they&#8217;ve won the hearts of a nation desperate for unity and triumph. And that, perhaps, is the greatest victory of all.

New Zealand v South Africa: Final – Rugby World Cup France 2023

South Africa’s Springboks Make History with Fourth Rugby World Cup Win: A Nation Rejoices

The World Bank&#8217;s recent $1 billion loan to South Africa aims to reform the nation&#8217;s struggling energy sector and facilitate a green transition. While the initiative promises substantial change, the historical challenges and complexities surrounding South Africa&#8217;s energy landscape call for a critical evaluation of the loan&#8217;s long-term impact.



In a move that combines financial boldness with climate urgency, the World Bank recently approved a $1 billion loan to give a much-needed boost to South Africa&#8217;s struggling energy sector. Announced on October 25, the loan aims to reform the state-owned power firm Eskom and transition the country to a low-carbon economy. While the funding comes as a sigh of relief for many, it raises critical questions: Will it truly revolutionize the energy landscape or simply serve as another fiscal Band-Aid?



Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, the World Bank&#8217;s director for South Africa, said the loan would &#8220;benefit the people of South Africa &#8211; particularly the most vulnerable households &#8211; the economy, the environment, and advance the energy transition&#8221; in a statement. However, the bank&#8217;s financial intervention doesn&#8217;t erase Eskom&#8217;s problematic history. Frequent breakdowns at its coal-fired power stations have led to daily outages lasting up to 10 hours. A Reuters analysis earlier this year even revealed that several plants had violated government emissions standards.



Dawie Roodt, founder, Director and Chief Economist of the Efficient Group, offers a more optimistic perspective. &#8220;The loan by the World Bank is a significant relief. South Africa has a huge shortage of investable funds and electricity. I&#8217;m not too concerned about it being a dollar loan; our foreign-denominated loans are actually quite low, and we can afford to increase our loans from abroad,&#8221; said Roodt.



The South African government has had its eyes set on reforming Eskom since 2019, pledging to divide it into three specialized segments: transmission, generation, and distribution. Yet, as of February 2023, the government also agreed to shoulder 254 billion rand ($13.3 billion) of Eskom’s debt—over half of its total liability and dangerously close to default



According to the World Bank, the loan will contribute to a &#8220;gradual reduction in water and air pollution&#8221; by shifting away from coal dependency. But there&#8217;s another layer to consider. The bank intends to open South Africa&#8217;s power market to private investment in renewable energy, including from households and small businesses, and to strengthen carbon pricing instruments (World Bank Statement). It&#8217;s a noble cause but one fraught with the complexities of political agendas and social challenges unique to South Africa.



Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, National Treasury&#8217;s deputy-director general for asset and liability management, emphasized that the loan would offer &#8220;much needed fiscal and technical support&#8221; in a statement issued yesterday. This underlines that the loan isn&#8217;t just a fiscal mechanism; it also aims to bring in technical expertise—an often-overlooked facet in sweeping reforms.



The World Bank&#8217;s $1 billion commitment to South Africa offers more than just financial backing; it presents a litmus test for the viability of large-scale energy reforms in challenging landscapes. The intricate dynamics of South Africa&#8217;s energy sector, riddled with both political and historical complexities, make it crucial to scrutinize this high-stakes financial venture. As developments unfold, this loan might either signal a turning point in South Africa&#8217;s energy narrative or serve as a case study in the limitations of even well-funded initiatives.

Silhouette Skyscrapers Against Orange Sky

World Bank’s $1 Billion Commitment: Can It Help Reform South Africa’s Challenged Energy Sector? 

In a dramatic Rugby World Cup semi-final, the Springboks edged out England 16-15. Fueled by unity and last-minute heroics from Handré Pollard, the South African team are now gearing up for a highly-anticipated final against their arch-rivals, the New Zealand All Blacks.



In a stunning display of resilience, skill, and unity, the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, clinched a nail-biting victory over England in the Rugby World Cup semi-final on October 21, 2023. Thanks to a last-minute penalty kick from Handré Pollard, the Springboks demonstrated that their journey to the final was far from a fluke. Their 16-15 win over England was a nerve-wracking affair, with Pollard&#8217;s kick ensuring the Springboks&#8217; entry into the final.



&#8220;In a tournament that began back in September, the dedication and unity of the Springboks have been nothing short of extraordinary. The path you’ve walked is not a sprint but a steady and relentless race. You have faced the world’s best with unparalleled speed, tenacity, and power,&#8221; said Herbert Mensah, the newly-elected President of Rugby Africa, in a message addressed to Mark Alexander, President of the South Africa Rugby Union (SARU).


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1749831086.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-59974" style="aspect-ratio:1.499267935578331;width:634px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1749831086.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1749831086-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/GettyImages-1749831086-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> (Photo by Michael Steele &#8211; World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure></div>


The Springboks had an arduous journey to the semi-finals, squaring off against some of the world&#8217;s top teams. Their performance was &#8220;extraordinary,&#8221; Mensah noted, emphasizing how the team &#8220;moves as one, whether on the field with seven, fifteen, or twenty-three players, or behind the scenes with the dedicated staff and medics.&#8221; This unity was not just apparent in their play, but also in how the players perceived their collective achievement.



Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi, discussing the match, reiterated that everyone involved in the team contributed to the victory. &#8220;In this team, we remind each other that if we are successful, we will say that South Africa won, not just the 23 who played,&#8221; he said in a post-match interview.



A key part of the Springboks&#8217; strategy was rotating their forwards and introducing crucial substitutes early into the second half. Ox Nche, Vincent Koch, and Bongi Mbonambi were standout performers, tipping the balance in favor of South Africa, particularly during scrums. These tactical adjustments allowed South Africa to mount a comeback after trailing England early on.



The final moments of the match were fraught with tension. With both teams performing at their peak, it was a touch kick that set the stage for RG Snyman&#8217;s 69th-minute try, leveling the playing field for the Springboks. This pivotal moment allowed Handré Pollard to make history with his match-winning penalty kick, reprising his heroics from the 2019 World Cup.



As the Springboks gear up for the final showdown against their old rivals, the New Zealand All Blacks, Herbert Mensah&#8217;s words resonate more than ever: &#8220;From the very beginning to the end, it is the enduring spirit of positivity that will see us through.&#8221;



The Springboks are set to face New Zealand’s All Blacks in the Rugby World Cup final on October 28th.

England v South Africa: Semi-Final – Rugby World Cup France 2023

Springboks’ Last-Minute Triumph Sends Them to Rugby World Cup Final

Inflation in South Africa spikes to 5.4% year-on-year, intensifying economic pressures. As food and fuel prices soar, the Reserve Bank considers interest rate adjustments, potentially deepening consumer debt. Dawie Roodt, renowned economist, breaks down the challenges and offers insights into the nation&#8217;s economic trajectory.



South Africa, a nation already grappling with economic challenges, now confronts another hurdle: an accelerated inflation rate, as announced by the government’s Statistics South Africa yesterday. This month&#8217;s inflation rate has spiked to 5.4%, marking a surge when compared to the same month a year ago. But what does this increase truly mean for the average South African and the broader economic landscape?



The Inflation Breakdown



Inflation&#8217;s abstract nature often masks its tangible impact on everyday lives. When economists say that the inflation rate has risen by 5.4% year-on-year for the same month, they&#8217;re indicating that the average price of goods and services is now 5.4% higher than what it was precisely a year ago in the same month.



According to Dawie Roodt, founder, Director, and Chief Economist of the Efficient Group, two main culprits are responsible for driving this acceleration: food prices and transport costs. &#8220;Certain prices continued to go up, food prices and transport costs being some of the reasons why [there&#8217;s an] acceleration,&#8221; notes Roodt to FORBES AFRICA. An additional driver of these costs is what Roodt terms ‘base reasons’, namely that the rate of inflation rate increases is hastening. “A year ago, inflation was going up, but at a lower rate, now we see that this is accelerating.&#8221;



Food and Fuel



South Africans, especially those from lower-income households, are feeling the most hard-hit, with basic food goods and fuel price increases some of the hardest hit. The soaring food prices are partially dictated by international markets, says Roodt, and also strongly affected by a weakening rand, which he accounts for due to a lack of investor confidence within South Africa.



Fuel costs, intertwined with global oil prices and domestic taxation, further amplify the inflationary pressure. As transport costs rise, the effects ripple through the economy, affecting everything from the price of daily commodities to the operational costs of businesses.



Reserve Bank&#8217;s Potential Response



The South African Reserve Bank (SARB), which governs the regulation of interest rates, is currently attempting to maintain inflation between 3% and 6%. With the current rate at 5.4%, it&#8217;s hovering just below the upper limit, which could prompt a response from SARB.



&#8220;The Reserve Bank might increase rates again” says Roodt. “The reason being, inflation is the price of the economy, and if prices keep rising, increasing rates can slow down demand,&#8221; By making borrowing more expensive and saving more attractive, interest rate hikes aim to temper inflation.



A Debt-Driven Dilemma



However, for many South Africans, an interest rate hike can exacerbate already challenging financial situations. Roodt highlights a troubling trend: &#8220;Many households are quite deep in debt, and you have to pay interest on that debt.&#8221; With increased rates, the burden of servicing this debt becomes even heavier, inevitably impacting the standard of living, particularly for those who are already struggling. Roodt notes that over the last three years, and indeed the last decade, South Africans have become markedly poorer in terms of the practical buying power they have.



Forecasting the Future



The recent spike in inflation underscores South Africa&#8217;s intricate economic challenges, with food and fuel prices playing a pivotal role in the everyday struggles of its citizens. As SARB contemplates interest rate adjustments, consumers, especially those burdened with debt, face the prospect of heavier financial strains. As Roodt points out, while potential solutions exist to alleviate these pressures, political complexities render their implementation challenging. Amidst these economic tremors, the road ahead for South African consumers seems fraught with further obstacles, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive solutions.

Shopping, basket and woman in supermarket aisle with products in retail store on sale, inflation or discount. Customer, grocery and shelf in shop, choice and. searching for item or groceries to buy

South Africa’s 5.4% Inflation Surge: Consumers Continue To Feel The Pinch

Amazon announces its expansion with Amazon.co.za next year, focusing on emerging markets.



In a move highlighting their growing focus on emerging markets, Amazon recently announced its plans to launch Amazon.co.za in South Africa in 2024, sending ripples through the online retail and software space in the country.



&#8220;We look forward to launching Amazon.co.za in South Africa, providing local sellers, brand owners, and entrepreneurs — small and large — the opportunity to grow their business with Amazon,&#8221; said Robert Koen, General Manager of the sub-Saharan Africa region for Amazon, in a press release today.



This expansion into South Africa underscores the company&#8217;s belief in the untapped retail potential of the region and the developing world more broadly, announcing in 2022 its plans to also launch in Belgium, Chile, Colombia, and Nigeria. The South African launch has not been without its challenges.



The company reportedly faced legal challenges to its development of the Amazon Development Centre in Cape Town by indigenous peoples but was greenlit late last year.



As a pioneer in e-commerce, Amazon&#8217;s entry is an endorsement of South Africa&#8217;s growing online retail space. With more than 60% of Amazon’s global store sales coming from independent sellers, the platform aims to empower South Africa’s small and medium-sized businesses by providing a variety of tools, educational resources, and a vast consumer base.



Local companies like African Mamas Crafts and Reader&#8217;s Warehouse are already excited about leveraging Amazon&#8217;s platform for growth. This suggests that Amazon sees South Africa as more than just a market — it&#8217;s a landscape ripe for collaborations and partnerships.



However, Amazon&#8217;s journey to launch in South Africa hasn&#8217;t been a cakewalk. The company now faces competition from established local online retailers like Takealot.com, as well as challenges related to South Africa&#8217;s infrastructure, employment issues, and economic landscape.



In terms of leveraging local resources, Amazon is not entirely a newcomer to South Africa. Through its Amazon Web Services (AWS) subsidiary, the tech giant already has a significant presence in the country, including development and support centers in Cape Town. AWS recently launched the first international AWS Skills Center in Cape Town, providing cloud computing education. These initiatives could serve as foundational blocks for Amazon’s e-commerce operations, helping the company better understand and serve the local market.



Amazon&#8217;s South African entry could also pave the way for the introduction of ancillary services and products. According to reports, the company plans to offer its popular Prime loyalty program, featuring expedited delivery and access to Prime Video and Twitch. Given that Prime has been a major driver of customer loyalty and engagement in other markets, its introduction could significantly alter the competitive dynamics of the South African e-commerce landscape. Leveraging its existing AWS infrastructure and partnerships with local businesses, Amazon is positioning itself not just as a retailer but as a significant contributor to South Africa&#8217;s digital ecosystem. As Koen emphasized, the launch aims to provide &#8220;great value and a convenient shopping experience&#8221; while opening new avenues for local businesses to flourish.

Amazon Fulfilment Centre Tilbury

Online Retail Giant Amazon Confirms 2024 Launch In South Africa, Also Aiming To Grow SMEs

The UNICEF has secured a four-year supply of the newly WHO-approved R21/Matrix-M vaccine that could revolutionize malaria prevention, especially in Africa where 90% of fatalities occur.



Malaria, one of the most widely-known parasitic diseases to mankind, takes the life of a child every minute according to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, with almost 620,000 deaths per year. A staggering 241 million people contract the disease annually, illustrating the global scope of this public health crisis.



Now, a new vaccine has joined the world in the fight against the disease, having obtained WHO approval earlier this month. The United Nations Children&#8217;s Fund (UNICEF) has entered into an agreement to procure a four-year supply of the newly approved R21/Matrix-M vaccine from mid-2024.



The new vaccine is a product of over 35 years of vaccine research, a collaboration between the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India, notable in that it is only the second malaria vaccine approved for public use. The first, known as RTS,S, initiated the ground-breaking work in this field but was less efficacious.



Dubbed R21/Matrix-M, it is the first to surpass a 75% efficacy rate, providing protection of up to two years against symptomatic malaria with a single booster – which could be a ground-breaking shift in the fight to eradicate the disease, particularly on the African continent, where some 90% of the fatalities from the illness occur.



&#8220;It is heartbreaking and unacceptable that almost half a million children die of malaria every year. This agreement is a critical step towards protecting more children from this deadly disease,&#8221; said Director of UNICEF Supply Division Leila Pakkala in a press statement announcing the signing of UNICEF&#8217;s supply agreement.



The obtaining of the WHO&#8217;s endorsement earlier this month was critical to allow international bodies such as UNICEF to begin procuring the vaccines, with WHO having vetted the safety profile and efficacy of R21/Matrix-M.



Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, commemorated the WHO endorsement in a press release: &#8220;For far too long, malaria has threatened the lives of billions of people across the globe, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable amongst us. This is why the WHO recommendation and approval of the R21/Matrix-MTM vaccine marks a huge milestone on our journey to combat this life-threatening disease.&#8221;



The Serum Institute of India has already begun to prepare the production capability to deliver up to 100 million doses per year, to be doubled in the coming two years.



Cost and Delivery



Critically, for a vaccine that aims to prevent severe disease primarily in lower-income countries, the R21/Matrix-M is expected to cost only between $2 and $4 per dose, with an initial regimen consisting of one dose every month for three months, and one booster within the next 12 months – meaning that a full treatment protocol offering high levels of protection for almost two years costs less than $16.



Countries have already begun to factor in the new vaccine into their epidemiological planning, with both Ghana and Nigeria having obtained approval for the vaccine&#8217;s use – Ghana too has begun establishing a vaccine factory in Accra for this purpose in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India.



The Path Forward



Despite the leaps in vaccine development, challenges persist. While vaccines like R21/Matrix-M are revolutionary, they are not the final answer to a disease as complex and historically persistent as malaria. In the interim, nations continue to deploy traditional methods like insecticides, improved housing, and swamp drainage, especially in regions where malaria remains prevalent. It&#8217;s also worth mentioning that mRNA technology, catalyzed by COVID-19 research, holds the promise of even more effective vaccines in the future.



Global efforts have already made significant strides; the WHO reports a 90% decline in malaria mortality rates in the 20th century, but with many in the world still suffering under high rates of the disease, the new vaccine could be key in reducing fatalities in the years to come.

R21-Vaccination (11 of 20); image credit University of Oxford, Tom Wilkinson

The Vaccine That Could Turn The Tide On Malaria In Africa, Where The Disease Is One Of The Biggest Killers

South Africa has descended in rankings in the Organized Crime Index (OCI), published by the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) this week. The latest OCI rankings place South Africa as the seventh most vulnerable nation to organized crime globally, a steep fall from its 19th position as of the last report in 2021.



The report employs a dual-metric system, evaluating countries based on their Criminality and Resilience scores. South Africa&#8217;s metrics indicate a rise in criminal activity and a decline in resilience, placing it in global rankings between Nigeria and Iraq.



In the African context, the Southern African Region fares relatively well in the OCI, making South Africa&#8217;s decline even more glaring. Julian Rademeyer, a GI-TOC Director, notes to FORBES AFRICAthat the country has historically shown a robust ability to counter organized crime, despite its high levels of violent crime.



&#8220;We&#8217;re at a critical juncture,&#8221; warns Rademeyer. “We need to act… and if we are going to act we need to act now.” He emphasizes that the nation&#8217;s democracy and populace are under siege from escalating organized criminal activities.



The report sheds light on the multifaceted nature of organized crime in South Africa. While human trafficking and drug trade are noted as salient issues, the data reveals an unsettling rise in environmental crimes like illegal logging and wildlife poaching.



The report highlights the failure of law enforcement to respond adequately to these challenges as being crucial in South Africa’s rankings. While arrests for high visibility challenges are common, Rademeyer makes it clear that a lack of cohesive strategic intent and disruption of higher levels of organized criminal structures are preventing greater progress.



“What I think is necessary to have here is a targeted focus” says Rademeyer. “Police are running around and putting out fires, but not really getting control of the blaze that’s burning.”



The report also highlights a concerning lack of leadership, and that this is magnified by the current economic crisis. The highly publicized scandals surrounding political officials have deepened a sense of mistrust in both the public sector and those that lead them, the report states.



While the report makes clear that significant obstacles exist to positive change in the battle against organized crime, it too highlights the uniqueness of South Africa’s resilience in the face of these challenges, with the independence of the judiciary, comprehensive legislation and strength of both civil society as well as whistleblower action noted as playing a significant role.



“If you can deal with the leadership issues, and you get the direction and strategy right… the knock-on effect could be quite big,” continues Rademeyer.



South Africa&#8217;s OCI ranking calls for urgent, strategic action. The country&#8217;s historical resilience offers a glimmer of hope, but reclaiming that legacy will require a concerted effort from all sectors of society. The data is clear: it&#8217;s time for South Africa to confront its organized crime crisis head-on.



“I think what the relatively high resilience says is that there’s something worth struggling for here,” says Rademeyer.

Large-scale police operation in Johannesburg

‘At A Critical Juncture’: South Africa’s Decline In Global Rankings And Battle Against Organized Crime

South Africa remains resolute in hosting the AGOA summit despite prior tensions with the US. The upcoming event, slated for November, signifies renewed commitment to strengthen trade ties. South Africa&#8217;s call for a decade-long AGOA extension underscores the pivotal role this partnership plays in fostering economic growth and cooperation.



South Africa is set to host the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Summit later this year, despite recent diplomatic tensions between the country and the United States (US). In June this year, US legislators called for the relocation of the summit due to controversy surrounding alleged arms shipments to Russia by South Africa. Cleared of any wrongdoing by an internal judicial panel, the US has reaffirmed its commitment to shared growth with South Africa.



“The AGOA Forum is an opportunity for the United States to build upon the success of the Africa Leaders’ Summit and further our economic partnership with AGOA countries,” stated US Ambassador Katherine Tai in a statement announcing this year&#8217;s summit from Washington.



South African President Cyril Ramaphosa not only celebrated the country&#8217;s hosting of the summit but also called for the renewal of the agreement for another decade. The current format of AGOA is set to expire in 2025. Emphasizing the importance of South Africa-US relations, Ramaphosa declared: &#8220;The US remains a very important economic partner in trade and investment, with great potential to further expand economic ties,&#8221; in a press release.



AGOA currently benefits eligible sub-Saharan countries by providing access to US markets for several thousand products, including duty-free access for some exports. South Africa continues to be the largest exporter in the agreement, generating approximately $2.7 billion in revenue for the country as of 2021, primarily from vehicles, jewelry, and metals.



The controversy surrounding the visit of a Russian ship, the Lady R, docking at a South African military base in December 2022, led to the politicization of the AGOA agreement by bipartisan representatives in the US. However, a subsequent South African investigation cleared the country of exporting arms to Russia as part of the incident, resulting in a restored commitment by representatives of both countries to mend strained relations.



The AGOA summit, scheduled for early November in South Africa, will bring together key delegations from all member countries, regional economic entities, as well as representatives from the private and public sectors. The goal is to strengthen trade and economic ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa.



The summit will also feature a ‘Made in Africa’ exhibition, specifically focused on demonstrating regional value chains on the continent.



“AGOA has helped promote the export of African goods to the United States, and we believe there is scope to deepen its impact on African industrialization,&#8221; said South Africa&#8217;s Minister of Trade and Industry, Ebrahim Patel, reaffirming Ramaphosa&#8217;s commitment to extending the deal. &#8220;Extending it beyond 2025 will promote inward investment in Africa and support our efforts to increase growth through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which will cover 54 countries and 1.4 billion people.”

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Renewed Commitment: South Africa To Host AGOA Summit Amid Calls for Extension

A new wave of innovation is rising on the African continent, where startups are leveraging AI to address local challenges, fueling sustainable growth, and forging a path for others to follow. The AI industry on the continent is expanding rapidly, with reportedly over 2,400 companies specializing in the industry as of this year.



Spending on AI innovation in Africa and the Middle East is likely to see the fastest growth in AI spending in the world, hitting $3 billion this year and over $6 billion by 2026 per the International Data Corporation (IDC). This innovation is both locally and internationally-driven, with organic AI-based startups across the continent, as well as collaborative initiatives such as Google’s first AI research center in Ghana, launched in 2018.



In the heart of Cameroon, in the capital city of Yaoundé, resides Agrix Tech — a startup committed to aiding smallscale farmers in their battle against plant diseases and pests. These threats, exacerbated by the ongoing climate crisis, pose a critical challenge to agriculture. Agrix Tech&#8217;s innovative solution is a mobile app that empowers farmers to scan their plants&#8217; leaves. Leveraging AI, the app identifies any ailments and suggests appropriate interventions.



What sets Agrix Tech apart is its dedication to inclusivity. The app&#8217;s features are available regardless of location or internet connectivity — crucial for remote farmers. &#8220;The app can work offline as the AI model is embedded into the mobile app,&#8221; states founder and CEO Adamou Nchange Kouotou to FORBES AFRICA. “This allows farmers with no internet connection to still use it. The app can also be set in many local African languages.&#8221; By extending its AI library to other developers, Agrix Tech is broadening the reach of its crop and disease detection capabilities.



In Nairobi, Kenya, is another groundbreaking company making use of AI. Since its inception in 2012, SunCulture has made significant strides in equipping farmers with precision irrigation solutions.



Starting with solar-powered irrigation and pay-as-you-go financing, the company has expanded its reach from Kenya to Ethiopia, Uganda, Zambia, and the Ivory Coast, among others.



“It’s a viable business idea,” says SunCulture CEO Samir Ibrahim.



Approximately 90% of smallholding farms on the continent rely on rainfall for irrigation. As a result, the timing of planting, fertilizing, and harvesting is critically dependent on weather forecasts, which are often too broad or inaccurate. SunCulture&#8217;s solution — a trailblazing amalgamation of technologies called AgOptimized — addresses this issue head-on. The app gathers local soil and weather data, integrates it with meteorological and satellite data, and analyzes it alongside historical trends using AI. The result? Detailed, localized weather forecasts and recommendations on irrigation, fertilizing, and pest control, designed to lower costs and maximize farming yields.



Further south in Johannesburg is an AI startup that aims to meet their bold slogan of ‘AI for Africans, By Africans, Solving African Problems’. Lelapa has crafted an AI-based language- model-as-a-service named Vulavula.



Linguistic diversity is the heartbeat of Africa, and nowhere is this more evident than in South Africa, a country that proudly recognizes 12 official languages. Yet, the digital space often falls short in catering to this richness. That&#8217;s where Vulavula steps in, carving out a unique niche in the landscape of AI applications.



“We tackle the challenges of language diversity through very careful data creation and curation with the help of sociolinguists who understand the nuances of dialects,” says Jade Abbott, Director at Lelapa AI. “Our vision is for Vulavula to be used across education, healthcare, government. 



Children learn maths best when taught in their home language, people die because doctors do not speak the same languages as their patients, and many people can’t participate in government because majority of the resources are available in English or Afrikaans.” 



Vulavula harnesses the power of AI to provide real-time translation and transcription services, enabling businesses to communicate with their customers in their own language seamlessly. 



Ubenwa, a Nigerian-owned AI startup, is making significant strides in the realm of neonatal health. Named after the Igbo term for &#8216;baby&#8217;s cry&#8217;, Ubenwa has developed an AI system that deciphers infants&#8217; cries to detect early signs of neurological issues. It specifically targets birth asphyxia — one of the leading causes of infant mortality in sub-Saharan Africa — by analyzing frequency, pitch, and other key acoustic features in a baby&#8217;s cry. This AI- powered approach provides a low-cost, non-invasive diagnostic tool for early intervention, potentially saving many young lives.



What sets Ubenwa apart is its commitment to accessibility. Their AI solution operates independently of internet connectivity, a pivotal feature ensuring its usability in Africa&#8217;s remote areas. Bymeeting this challenge head-on, Ubenwa exemplifies how AI can be harnessed to tackle region-specific healthcare issues, paving the way for other AI startups to make impactful strides in their domains.



On a broader scale, Ubenwa underscores the transformative potential of AI in healthcare, particularly in settings with limited resources. Their innovative approach is a powerful testament to the potential of AI in Africa, spotlighting the profound societal impact of locally-sourced solutions to local challenges.

Author: Yeshiel Panchia

FORBES AFRICA SOCIAL MEDIA