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The Legacy of Johnny Clegg: A Harmonious Tribute Amidst Cultural Tensions A few weeks following the winter solstice, on the afternoon of July 17, 2019, around an hour before sunset, the haunting sound of isiZulu chanting echoed throughout the Jewish section of Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg. A intimate group of fewer than 30 mourners gathered beside a freshly dug grave, where the late afternoon sun filtered through the poplar trees, casting light on a plain pine casket—a fitting tribute to the pragmatic life lived by Jonathan Paul Clegg, OBE, OIS. As the ceremony unfolded, Sipho Mchunu, Johnny’s long-term musical partner,…

In 2025, coal continued to be the cornerstone of South Africa’s mining sector, with production volumes reaching approximately 236 million tons (Mt). Even as global pressure mounts to transition from fossil fuels, coal remains crucial for the nation’s energy stability and industrial strength. Bituminous coal constituted 99% of total production, while anthracite, introduced in 2013, made up the remaining 1%, serving as a premium resource for smelting and steel manufacturing. Domestic Demand Drives Production The South African coal industry is characterized by its substantial dependence on local consumption. In 2025, the primary driver of coal demand was electricity generation, with…

South Africa’s chrome industry is at a pivotal moment where conventional policy tools may not suffice to meet beneficiation goals. The complexity of the ferrochrome value chain involves various interdependencies concerning resource ownership, processing capacity, energy supply, and global market influences. To fully grasp these interconnected dynamics, a shift from straightforward regulatory measures to expansive frameworks addressing structural competitiveness is essential. The trajectory of chrome beneficiation must align with South Africa’s broader industrial development strategy while simultaneously acknowledging the harsh realities of global competition and technological demands. Compounding these challenges are the pressing energy transition challenges that could dictate the…

Tony Elumelu: Shaping Africa’s Economic Future Through Entrepreneurship Tony O. Elumelu stands out among African business leaders as a transformative figure in the continent’s economic landscape. As a respected investor, banker, and philanthropist, Elumelu champions the belief that Africa’s growth relies not on aid, but on fostering entrepreneurship, private-sector leadership, and sustained investment. Heirs Holdings: A Catalyst for Economic Development As the Founder and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Elumelu manages a diverse investment portfolio that spans multiple sectors, including financial services, power, hospitality, energy, technology, and healthcare. Under his guidance, Heirs Holdings has emerged as a significant player in promoting…

Paving the Way for Nigeria’s Green Economy Understanding Nigeria’s Green Economy Nigeria is witnessing a transformative shift towards a green economy, where sustainability is not merely optional but rather a critical economic necessity. At the forefront of this evolution is Lande Abudu, a seasoned expert in energy and sustainability. Her extensive experience encompasses policy advocacy and hands-on implementation in various roles, including her time as CEO of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) and as Component Lead for the World Bank-funded Nigeria Electrification Project. The Role of Renewable Energy Bridging the Energy and Digital Gap A significant challenge in…

In a captivating new exhibition titled “A Poem for Deep Thinkers,” artist Rashid Johnson explores themes of identity, vulnerability, and connection over nearly three decades of creative work. Currently hosted at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the exhibition invites visitors to step closer to the art, fostering a unique interaction between the viewer and the pieces on display. One highlight of the exhibition is a striking painting called Anxious Men. This deep, earthy red artwork is characterized by dense, looping strokes that evoke a sense of urgency and introspection. Johnson encourages visitors to engage with this piece by…

The Link Between Wastewater Treatment and Antibiotic Resistance in South Africa Understanding Antibiotic Resistance Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health crisis, threatening to claim up to 10 million lives annually by 2050. AMR occurs when microorganisms, like bacteria, evolve to survive treatments that were once effective in treating infections. The implications of this phenomenon extend well beyond individual health, affecting entire ecosystems and public health systems. Wastewater Treatment Plants: Potential Super Spreaders of Resistance A recent study conducted by scientists at Stellenbosch University in South Africa highlights a concerning relationship between wastewater treatment plants and the propagation of…

Strengthening Food Safety in Africa: Dakar Workshop to Boost INFOSAN Network Dakar is taking center stage in addressing a critical public health issue as it hosts a high-level workshop aimed at enhancing the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN). Running through April 1, this initiative responds to the pressing challenge of foodborne illnesses that plague the continent, with an alarming estimate of 91 million cases reported annually. The Growing Crisis of Foodborne Illnesses Foodborne risks are a continent-wide challenge that does not respect national boundaries. Recent incidents, such as mass mayonnaise poisoning in Senegal and international alerts regarding contaminated infant…

Africa We Build Summit 2026: Empowering Infrastructure Development In an unprecedented gathering, Africa’s leading infrastructure financiers, fund managers, investors, and industry experts will assemble in Nairobi to unlock domestic capital, transforming the continent’s industrial aspirations into real, job-creating initiatives. The inaugural Africa We Build Summit, hosted by the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, is scheduled for April 23-24, 2026. Theme and Goals of the Summit Under the theme “Infrastructure as the Engine of Industrialisation,” the Summit aims to gather decision-makers to conceptualize and initiate bankable projects, bolster regional integration, and accelerate Africa’s industrial growth.…

Understanding Geopolitics: Origins, Theories, and India’s Role Geopolitics is a term that has gained significant attention in contemporary discussions about global affairs. Despite its frequent usage, many might wonder about its origins and implications. This article delves into the historical foundations of geopolitics, its development through strategic theories, and India’s current geopolitical significance. What is Geopolitics? Geopolitics examines the interplay between geography, politics, and international relations. It highlights how geographical factors—such as location, resources, and territorial borders—shape the actions and behaviors of nations. The Birth of the Term Before the concept was formally articulated, thinkers had already recognized the relationship…