In Depth Africa’s natural gas loophole Across Africa, the energy majors, such as Total, Shell and ENI have prioritised their gas developments. While they remain reluctant to take on new oil projects, they have not entirely abandoned hydrocarbons altogether, with natural gas experiencing an upswing. 4 articles
In Depth João Lourenço’s Angola Angolas President João Lourenço, who took over from José Eduardo dos Santos in 2017, has only one year left before he faces upcoming general elections. In this series, we examine the strengths and weaknesses of this ambitious head of state with a Herculean task ahead of him. 6 articles
In Depth GERD: The dam of discord As Ethiopia vows to fill the GERD for a second time this July, Egypt is no longer mincing its words when it comes to actions it is willing to take to mitigate any loss of access to the Nile. In this series, we examine the personalities of the leaders involved, the stakes for the Nile basin countries, and the way in which Egypt and Ethiopia alike have turned the issue into a matter of national survival. 5 articles
In Depth Chad: The end of an era The sudden death of Idriss Déby Itno, the man who managed to outwit earlier attempts on his life, was a shock to many. But more worrying now is what role Chad will have in this new era. Déby was key in managing N’Djamena's participation in the regional fight against Islamist terrorists. Will his absence open up the region to greater instability? 10 articles
In Depth Beny Steinmetz: ‘Africa, Soros and me’ Beny Steinmetz, the discreet mining and real estate tycoon, friend of African and other international power brokers, and Israeli patriot convicted of bribery, is as multi-faceted as the diamonds he once traded. But who is the man behind the myth and what brought him to do business in Africa? Adapted from an exclusive interview with Steinmetz, our latest series offers insight into these questions. 3 articles
In Depth Algeria – Morocco: crisis loading The hostility between Algeria and Morocco has taken on a new dimension in recent months, particularly on the Western Sahara issue. Could it spiral into an open conflict? We take a look at the increasingly tense relationship between the neighbours. 5 articles
In Depth Inside the rise of Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman In the space of a few years, Saudi Arabia’s crown prince – virtually unheard of prior to 2015 – has become one of the most powerful leaders in the Arab world. We trace the beginnings of his career and examines the unstoppable rise of Mohammed bin Salman. 6 articles
In Depth Tracking the great gold rush As demand for gold skyrockets, artisanal mining and smuggling ramps up, financing conflict and corrupt politicians, risking human lives and destroying the environment. The Africa Report tracks the precious mineral on its journey from rebel-controlled areas to jewellery stores across the world. 5 articles
In Depth Best of 2020 A look back at our top 5 moments across the continent through our reports, series and podcasts, marking a very memorable and trying 2020. 4 articles
In Depth In search of new African leadership As time goes on, the names of the great leaders from before fade away. But the Africa of today is facing increasingly complex challenges. Who are the visionary and courageous leaders who will carry the torch of the Mandelas, Senghors, Sankaras as before? 6 articles
