Changing the narrative on Africa.
Africa exports up to 98% of its raw cotton, yet its designers and manufacturers struggle to source materials and expand production. At CANEX in Lagos, Nigeria, industry voices and the newly launched Africa Made It campaign highlighted what it would take to keep more manufacturing, jobs and income on the continent.
Across Africa, many people struggle to access affordable legal information and professional advice. Podus AI, founded by Nigerian lawyer Nelson Olanipekun, uses artificial intelligence to help people understand legal information and navigate their options.
Visionary creators, including Charlemagne Andoche Amoussou, founder of the Lolo Andoche brand, are giving the traditional Beninese Kanvô cloth new uses in fashion and interiors. Once associated with the royal court of Abomey, the handwoven textile is reaching contemporary wardrobes as designers turn cultural heritage into local economic opportunity.
Africa needs more climate finance — and greater accountability for the capital already at work. Just Share executive director Nicole Martens argues that banks, investors and pension funds must turn climate commitments into measurable changes in what they finance, backed by stronger regulation and scrutiny.
Negotiators from the continent say the real contest at the UN climate talks is over money, minerals and who gets to profit from the energy transition. But before African negotiators can argue over climate finance at COP31, they must first fight for the right to discuss it.
Benin is seeking investment to turn more of its cotton, cashews, shea and soybeans into finished products. Discussions at an investment forum in Cotonou highlighted what that expansion will require: reliable electricity, stronger African trading networks and support for local businesses to attract funding.
Natural dyes, weaving, beads, and traditional designs have all been passed down through centuries in Africa, influencing how communities develop, wear, and preserve their cultural identity.
African cities are reclaiming degraded land, restoring wetlands and turning waste into resources to improve urban life. As populations grow, these efforts offer ways to build more liveable, resilient cities.
Africa’s urban growth offers a chance to build stronger economies, better infrastructure and more inclusive cities. Ahead of World Cities Day on 31 October, Hastings Chikoko argues that realising this potential will require smarter planning, credible investment projects and local governments with the authority and resources to deliver.
Shared water and power are easing factory setup costs as Africa’s textile hubs expand into cotton processing.