Harbinger Standard
Insight Africa
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Addis Ababa
August 21, 2026
Along Nigeria’s ‘spiritual highway’, prayer camps create a new urban future
Africa

Along Nigeria’s ‘spiritual highway’, prayer camps create a new urban future

Refugees, lost trade and security costs: how conflict in one African country drives up debt for its neighbours
Geopolitics

Refugees, lost trade and security costs: how conflict in one African country drives up debt for its neighbours

Nigeria’s border closure failed to stop smuggling. Here’s why
Politics

Nigeria’s border closure failed to stop smuggling. Here’s why

Africa

Human traffickers are using football dreams to lure young Ghanaian men to Nigeria – how to stop it?

Suleman Lazarus , London School of Economics and Political Science For a young man growing up in Ghana or Nigeria, few d

Human traffickers are using football dreams to lure young Ghanaian men to Nigeria – how to stop it?
Culture

Traditional Tuareg Culture Thrives in Modern-Day Niger

Azawad, a term that resonates deeply with the Tuareg people, encapsulates their rich heritage and deep connection to the

Traditional Tuareg Culture Thrives in Modern-Day Niger
Human traffickers are using football dreams to lure young Ghanaian men to Nigeria – how to stop it?
Africa

Human traffickers are using football dreams to lure young Ghanaian men to Nigeria – how to stop it?

Suleman Lazarus , London School of Economics and Political Science For a young m

Traditional Tuareg Culture Thrives in Modern-Day Niger
Culture

Traditional Tuareg Culture Thrives in Modern-Day Niger

Azawad, a term that resonates deeply with the Tuareg people, encapsulates their

11 million Nigerian children are going hungry: how this hurts their health and what needs to be done
Africa

11 million Nigerian children are going hungry: how this hurts their health and what needs to be done

Blessing Akombi-Inyang , UNSW Sydney Unicef, the UN agency for children, reporte

Tanzania: President Samia Hassan’s grip on power has been shaken by unprecedented protests
Politics

Tanzania: President Samia Hassan’s grip on power has been shaken by unprecedented protests

Dan Paget , University of Sussex - In Tanzania, something snapped this year. Pro

Traditional Poetry and Music Highlight the Culture of Somalia
Culture

Traditional Poetry and Music Highlight the Culture of Somalia

You may not realize it, but the cultural heritage of Somalia is profoundly rich,

Culinary

Rich Flavors Define the Unique Cuisine of Somalia

Just imagine the moment you take your first bite of Somali cuisine, where every dish tells a story woven with history, c

Rich Flavors Define the Unique Cuisine of Somalia
Africa

Local Markets in Maputo Celebrate Art, Food, and Culture

You are about to launch on an extraordinary journey through the vibrant local markets of Maputo, the capital of Mozambiq

Local Markets in Maputo Celebrate Art, Food, and Culture

Africa

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Relax in a Traditional Hammam for a True Moroccan Experience

Relax in a Traditional Hammam for a True Moroccan Experience

There's a unique ritual waiting for you in Morocco that embodies centuries of culture and community—visiting a traditional hammam. This is not just about cleanliness; it's an experience that allows you to connect with Moroccan heritage while revitali

Along Nigeria’s ‘spiritual highway’, prayer camps create a new urban future

Along Nigeria’s ‘spiritual highway’, prayer camps create a new urban future

The vast prayer camps challenge stereotypes of Nigerian cities as chaotic, dysfunctional, and driven by religious tension.

Handcrafted Art Keeps Sudan’s Artistic Traditions Alive

Handcrafted Art Keeps Sudan’s Artistic Traditions Alive

It's fascinating how art can act as a bridge between the past and the present, especially when it comes to the handcrafted traditions of Sudan. As you probe into the world of Sudanese artistry, you'll discover that these age-old techniques are much m

Trek with Gorillas in Rwanda’s Stunning Volcanoes National Park

Trek with Gorillas in Rwanda’s Stunning Volcanoes National Park

Many travelers dream of engaging with wildlife in its natural habitat, and there is no experience quite like trekking with gorillas in Rwanda's breathtaking Volcanoes National Park. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this destination is not only rich

Politics

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Edson Sithole: new book uncovers the work of a thinker, lawyer and Zimbabwean freedom fighter who ‘disappeared’

Edson Sithole: new book uncovers the work of a thinker, lawyer and Zimbabwean freedom fighter who ‘disappeared’

Brooks Marmon, University of Pretoria - Edson Sithole was born in what was then Southern Rhodesia in 1935. He was the first black person in southern Africa to obtain a Doctor of Laws degree. He was the second black person in the country (which became

Burundi's Political Trajectory: Institutional Fragility and Regional Implications

Burundi's Political Trajectory: Institutional Fragility and Regional Implications

Burundi occupies a precarious position within East Africa's political landscape, marked by structural instability, contested institutional legitimacy, and patterns of governance that shape both domestic and regional security. The country's political

Violence against women and children is deeply connected. Three ways to break the patterns

Violence against women and children is deeply connected. Three ways to break the patterns

Phiwe Babalo Nota , University of Cape Town and Wiedaad Slemming , University of Cape Town In South Africa, intimate partner violence is the most common form of violence against women, and it is pervasive. According to the National Gender-Based Viole

South Africa–Botswana Partnership: Anchoring Stability and Growth in Southern Africa

South Africa–Botswana Partnership: Anchoring Stability and Growth in Southern Africa

On the dusty expanse of the Trans-Kalahari Highway, trucks rumble steadily between Johannesburg and Gaborone, carrying goods that speak to more than commerce. Each shipment is a small expression of a deeper relationship—one built on decades of trust,

Economy

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Will El Niño drought hit food prices in South Africa? Earlier rains and grain stocks offer hope

Will El Niño drought hit food prices in South Africa? Earlier rains and grain stocks offer hope

Previous rains and grain stocks could reduce the impact of the expected drought.

China is funding African farmers but not food processing and storage: why it’s a problem

China is funding African farmers but not food processing and storage: why it’s a problem

Chinese lenders have invested billions in African agriculture. But new research shows the money often misses what’s needed to modernise the sector.

Cross-Border Collaboration: Botswana’s Growing Role in South Africa’s Economic Recovery

Cross-Border Collaboration: Botswana’s Growing Role in South Africa’s Economic Recovery

Along the long, sun-baked roads linking Gaborone to Pretoria, trucks haul goods that symbolize more than trade—they represent a strengthening partnership aimed at lifting an entire region’s economic prospects. In Southern Africa, where economic turbu

The world has changed. African countries must rethink how they grow their economies

The world has changed. African countries must rethink how they grow their economies

Africa still needs millions of better-paying jobs and higher productivity to reduce poverty. What has changed is the route to achieving those goals.

Business

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South Africa’s small sugar farms are producing less than they could: study finds ways to boost them

South Africa’s small sugar farms are producing less than they could: study finds ways to boost them

Isolated interventions are unlikely to help small sugarcane growers. Improving productivity requires integrated support systems.

Geopolitics

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Lithium in the Sahel: how armed groups are exploiting the global scramble for the critical mineral

Lithium in the Sahel: how armed groups are exploiting the global scramble for the critical mineral

Armed groups in the Sahel are finding new ways to profit from the rapidly expanding lithium trade.

European Parliament Adopts Three Resolutions Condemning Human Rights Violations in Sudan, Nigeria and Pakistan

European Parliament Adopts Three Resolutions Condemning Human Rights Violations in Sudan, Nigeria and Pakistan

The European Parliament has adopted resolutions strongly condemning war crimes in Sudan, the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and the forced conversion and child marriage of a 13-year-old Pakistani girl. MEPs are calling for sanctions, independent investigations, strengthened judicial frameworks and intensified counter-terrorism efforts across all three cases.

Refugees, lost trade and security costs: how conflict in one African country drives up debt for its neighbours

Refugees, lost trade and security costs: how conflict in one African country drives up debt for its neighbours

African governments need to strengthen regional cooperation on peace and security because regional stability is essential for sustainable debt.

Travel

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Warm Hospitality Welcomes Travelers Across Zambia

Warm Hospitality Welcomes Travelers Across Zambia

With a vibrant culture and welcoming spirit, Zambia offers a unique experience for every traveler. From the moment you set foot in this beautiful landlocked country, you will feel the warmth of the Zambian people who take pride in their hospitality.

Ancient Ruins and Desert Landscapes Define Tunisia’s Unique Tourism

Ancient Ruins and Desert Landscapes Define Tunisia’s Unique Tourism

You will find that tourism in Tunisia offers a remarkable blend of ancient history and stunning desert landscapes that create an unforgettable experience. As you explore this North African gem, you will be captivated by its rich cultural heritage and

Wildlife Safaris in Zimbabwe Offer Unforgettable Adventures

Wildlife Safaris in Zimbabwe Offer Unforgettable Adventures

Many travelers seek unique experiences that immerse them in the heart of nature, and Zimbabwe provides that in abundance with its spectacular wildlife safaris. Your adventure begins in this diverse African nation, where the stunning landscapes, rich

Craftsmanship Thrives Through Tunisia’s Pottery and Textiles

Craftsmanship Thrives Through Tunisia’s Pottery and Textiles

It's fascinating how Tunisia's rich heritage of craftsmanship continues to flourish, particularly in the realms of pottery and textiles. As you explore this vibrant North African nation, you will find that these art forms are not just a mode of expre

Culinary

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Tunisia’s Cuisine Blends Mediterranean Flavors With North African Spice

Tunisia’s Cuisine Blends Mediterranean Flavors With North African Spice

Most food lovers will find Tunisia's cuisine to be a delightful medley of Mediterranean freshness and North African zest, creating a unique culinary experience that is both aromatic and robust. If you have a penchant for vibrant flavors, then explori

Uganda’s Local Dishes Bring Rich Flavor to Every Table

Uganda’s Local Dishes Bring Rich Flavor to Every Table

It's not every day that you come across a cuisine that is as vibrant and diverse as Uganda's. If you're someone who enjoys exploring food culture, Uganda offers a plethora of local dishes that can tantalize your taste buds and bring a burst of flavor

South Sudan’s Local Dishes Celebrate Community and Flavor

South Sudan’s Local Dishes Celebrate Community and Flavor

Dishes from South Sudan are more than mere sustenance; they are a tapestry woven from the rich cultural heritage and communal bonds that define this young nation. Exploring South Sudanese cuisine offers you the opportunity to experience a unique blen

Taste the Bold Flavors of Authentic Namibian Cuisine

Taste the Bold Flavors of Authentic Namibian Cuisine

Cuisine is often a reflection of a country's culture and heritage, and Namibian cuisine is no exception. When you explore the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of Namibia, you commence on a flavorful journey that showcases the rich traditions an

Culture

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Historic Medina Streets Reflect Tunisia’s Rich Cultural Past

Historic Medina Streets Reflect Tunisia’s Rich Cultural Past

Most visitors to Tunisia often find themselves enchanted by the historic Medina streets that tell the story of a vibrant, culturally-rich past. As you wander through the narrow, winding alleyways, you will encounter a blend of architectural styles, c

Festivals Across South Africa Celebrate Heritage, Music, and Community

Festivals Across South Africa Celebrate Heritage, Music, and Community

Over the years, you may have heard about the vibrant festivals that take place across South Africa, each offering a unique glimpse into the nation's rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. These festivals are not merely events; they are

Zambia’s Storytelling Traditions Keep History Alive for New Generations

Zambia’s Storytelling Traditions Keep History Alive for New Generations

Zambia is a nation rich in culture and traditions, where storytelling serves as a powerful medium for sharing history and life lessons. You may find it fascinating that oral storytelling has been a key aspect of Zambian culture for generations, bridg

Discover Rwanda’s Cultural Heritage Through Dance and Music

Discover Rwanda’s Cultural Heritage Through Dance and Music

Rwanda, a country rich in history and vibrant culture, offers you an extraordinary opportunity to explore its cultural heritage through the expressive mediums of dance and music. These elements are not just forms of entertainment; they are living, br

Science

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Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries

Nasa’s new space telescope will tackle some of the universe’s biggest mysteries

The Nancy Grace Roman telescope will probe dark energy and discover exoplanets.

Africa's Digital Leap Reshapes the Continent

Africa's Digital Leap Reshapes the Continent

Across Africa, a quiet but profound revolution is unfolding. From the highlands of East Africa to the coastal megacities of West Africa, digital technology is no longer a distant aspiration — it is an active, daily reality reshaping how people work, learn, trade, and govern. More and more, the continent is being recognized not merely as a recipient of global technology trends, but as a generator of homegrown innovation tailored to its own complex needs.

A new class of metals could transform Africa’s clean energy economy – scientists explain

A new class of metals could transform Africa’s clean energy economy – scientists explain

Storing hydrogen in metallic materials is a promising avenue for extracting value from Africa’s minerals.

30 years since Dolly the sheep was born, where is cloning technology at now?

30 years since Dolly the sheep was born, where is cloning technology at now?

Today, cloning is not a technology that can simply “copy and paste” living things. But it’s brought advances in several fields of science.