Harbinger Standard

South Africa is going digital on VAT: what it can learn from the rest of Africa

Success in collecting VAT requires detecting under-reporting while making compliance easier and paying legitimate refunds promptly.

Amina Ebrahim

October 20, 2026

Science

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.

August 2, 2026

Politics

Tanzania’s green gold rush: how avocado waste is hurting farmers and what should be done

Jonas Cromwell , University of Leeds - Avocados have been grown in Tanzania since the early 1890s. The global appetite for the creamy fruit, also known as green…

February 28, 2026

Economy

AU Leaders Warn of Funding Gap Threatening Agenda 2063

The African Union Commission has warned that it operates with only 30% of required staffing and approximately 25% of its global budget, as leaders gathered in A…

Naledi Ashcourt

October 7, 2026

Africa

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Most travelers eagerly seek destinations that offer a blend of exquisite flavors, rich history, and breathtaking scenery…

Travel

Local Markets in Tunisia Offer Colorful Crafts and Daily Life Scenes

Just think about strolling through a vibrant local market in Tunisia, where you can immerse yourself in a tapestry of co…

Travel

Lake Victoria Adds Natural Beauty and Adventure to Uganda’s Tourism

With its stunning landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, Lake Victoria elevates your travel experience in Uganda to new heights. As one of the largest lakes in the world, it spans the borders of Uganda, K…

Culture

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Most travelers eagerly seek destinations that offer a blend of exquisite flavors…

Travel

Local Markets in Tunisia Offer Colorful Crafts and Daily Life Scenes

Just think about strolling through a vibrant local market in Tunisia, where you …

Travel

Lake Victoria Adds Natural Beauty and Adventure to Uganda’s Tourism

With its stunning landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, Lake Victoria elevates your…

Culture

Sacred Sites and Shrines Tell the Spiritual Story of Togo

There's a profound connection between the spiritual and the terrestrial in Togo,…

Culture

Festivals in Somalia Celebrate Community and Tradition

Somalia is a country rich in cultural heritage, and its festivals are a vibrant …

Culture

Johannesburg’s Markets Reflect the Soul of South African Daily Life

Most visitors to Johannesburg quickly discover that the city's vibrant markets are more than just places to shop; they a…

Africa

Local Markets in Nigeria Offer Crafts, Spices, and Street Food

There's a vibrant world waiting for you in the local markets of Nigeria, where the rich tapestry of culture, flavor, and…

Africa

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Wildlife Safaris Offer Unmatched Adventure in South Africa’s National Parks

You are about to commence on one of the most exhilarating adventures in the world: a wildlife safari in South Africa's renowned national parks. This country, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, serves as an extraordinary backdrop for an unfor

DR Congo’s riverboat economy – how a floating transport system tells the country’s story

Baleinières, handmade wooden cargo ships, are floating microcosms of life in the DR Congo.

Onyeka Onwenu remembered: Nigerian pop star, activist and voice of national unity

Onyeka Onwenu remembered: Nigerian pop star, activist and voice of national unity Austin Emielu , University of Ghana - The news of the death of Nigerian musician Onyeka Onwenu on 30 July 2024 hit me, as a musician and popular music scholar , li

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Most travelers eagerly seek destinations that offer a blend of exquisite flavors, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, and South Africa's wine regions fit the bill perfectly. As you explore this captivating country, you will discover that the wine

Politics

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Tanzania's Digital Governance Revolution Transforms Citizen Services

Tanzania has positioned itself at the forefront of Africa's digital governance transformation, implementing comprehensive reforms that are revolutionizing how citizens interact with public institutions and participate in democratic processes.

Taxing Africa’s informal economies: technology’s promise and pitfalls

Abel Gwaindepi , Danish Institute for International Studies Changes in the development finance world – especially the sharp drop in foreign aid and fewer cheap loans for low-income countries – have pushed taxation back into the spotlight . Africa has

Ugandan women work in the Middle East even though they face abuse. They told us why

The power dynamics of labour migration to the Middle East are complex.

African Political Landscape Shifts as Democratic Transitions Face Military Coups and Constitutional Crises

Africa's political trajectory continues to face significant turbulence as military interventions challenge democratic institutions across the Sahel region while several nations grapple with contested elections and constitutional reforms. The continen

Economy

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Botswana and South Africa Deepen Economic and Tourism Ties

Along the wide, sunlit stretch of highway between Gaborone and Pretoria, buses and freight trucks pass in steady procession, carrying goods, workers, and tourists. The route, a lifeline between two of Southern Africa’s most dynamic economies, may soo

Uganda’s sugarcane boom leaves families hungry: what needs to change

Women in Uganda’s sugarcane-growing Busoga region must feed their families but have little control over land or income. Fairer contracts could help change this.

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.

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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Refinery rivalry: billion-dollar oil projects expose East Africa’s long-running regional tensions

Rivalry has not disappeared from east Africa. It has simply been repackaged as competing ‘regional’ projects.

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.

Ghana’s businesses don’t always need costly tech. How to build on what’s already been done

Going circular doesn’t have to mean buying expensive technology. African manufacturers can innovate by learning from what already exists.

Geopolitics

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Africans migrate for jobs mostly within the continent: why regional skills partnerships are needed

Effective migration policy is not about imposing new patterns of movement, but about making existing ones safer, fairer, and more beneficial for all.

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.

Sudan’s military is accused of using chlorine bombs: here’s how they work and what the law says

The use of chemical weapons has been outlawed for nearly a century.

China and the EU could turn Morocco into a surprise global hub for electric vehicles

The north African country has attracted huge amounts of investment.

Travel

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Ancient Ruins Tell the Story of Zimbabwe’s Great Past

Zimbabwe is a country steeped in history, where ancient ruins whisper tales of a fascinating and complex past. As you explore the ruins scattered across this beautiful land, you will uncover the stories of civilizations that flourished long before mo

Colorful Markets Offer a Glimpse Into Daily Life in Uganda

It's an exhilarating experience wandering through the vibrant markets of Uganda, where the heart and soul of daily life come alive in a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors. As you step into these bustling hubs, you are granted a unique opport

Victoria Falls Makes Zambia a Must-Visit for Nature Lovers

There's a magic about Zambia that draws nature lovers from all corners of the globe, and at the heart of this allure lies the breathtaking Victoria Falls. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates to "The Smoke That Thunders," this grand natur

Craft Markets in Zambia Highlight Handmade Art and Local Talent

Many visitors to Zambia find themselves captivated by the vibrant craft markets that showcase the nation's rich culture and artistic talent. If you are planning a visit, you are in for a treat as these markets offer a unique opportunity to experience

Culinary

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Taste the Unique Flavors of Authentic Nigerien Cuisine

With a rich tapestry of cultures, Nigerien cuisine represents a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and colors that invite you to commence on a culinary journey like no other. As you explore this West African gem, you will discover dishes that are

Seswaa: Botswana's Beloved Pounded Beef

There is a sound that echoes through the cattle posts and family compounds of Botswana on Sundays and holidays alike — the rhythmic, hollow thud of wooden pestles striking softened meat in a great black pot. This is the sound of seswaa being made, a ritual as old as the nation's cattle culture itself, and one that announces, more surely than any calendar, that something worth gathering for is about to happen.

African Grilling Traditions Transform Modern Kitchens

Traditional African grilling techniques are reshaping culinary practices across the continent and beyond, with ancient methods gaining recognition among professional chefs and home cooks. The art of preparing perfectly grilled chicken using indigenous spices and time-honored techniques has evolved i

Taste Traditional São Tomé Dishes Made with Fresh, Local Ingredients

You will find that São Tomé and Príncipe, an archipelago off the western coast of Africa, is a treasure trove of unique flavors and culinary traditions. As you explore the vibrant culture of these islands, your palate will be treated to traditional d

Health

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Good gut bacteria vs bad: what we learnt about antibiotic resistance from a community in Nairobi

Healthy microbes spread easily through everyday interactions like handshakes and sharing food or water. Disease-causing agents spread in a similar way.

79 deaths a day: South Africa’s diabetes crisis needs a new strategy

Diabetes is manageable. With timely support, people can lead long, healthy lives free from preventable complications.

Blood pressure rising: over 50% of Nigerians we tested had hypertension and over 65% didn’t know it

Millions of Nigerians are living with hypertension without knowing it – and the gaps in diagnosis and care run deep.

Culture

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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

Festivals in Togo Celebrate Heritage, Music, and Unity

Unity is a powerful theme that resonates deeply through the vibrant festivals of Togo, a West African nation rich in culture and tradition. When you experience these celebrations, you immerse yourself in the shared heritage that connects the people o

Visit Historic Sites Like the Ancient City of Benin and Zuma Rock

Ancient civilizations have left indelible marks on the landscapes of the world, and as a traveler, you have the unique opportunity to explore these historic sites that narrate stories of resilience, culture, and artistry. Among the most compelling de

Handcrafted Art in Togo Highlights Local Talent and Tradition

You may find yourself captivated by the vibrant and diverse world of handcrafted art in Togo, a West African nation known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic expression. Here, artisans skillfully incorporate traditional techniques and local m

Lifestyle

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Inside Africa's Open-Air Markets: Trade, Craft, Culture

Across sub-Saharan Africa, open-air markets serve as far more than commercial spaces — they are living records of regional identity, agricultural practice, and artisan craft. From the sprawling stalls of Kumasi's Kejetia Market in Ghana to the spice corridors of Stone Town's Darajani Market in Zanzibar, these hubs sustain both livelihoods and cultural continuity.

Urban Rhythms and Rural Retreats Across Africa

Africa's major cities offer distinct urban identities shaped by commerce, culture, and history, while surrounding landscapes provide accessible escapes for residents and visitors alike. The continent's diversity means that the gap between city center and wilderness is often measured in hours, not days.

Africa's Food Culture: Street Stalls to Sacred Family Pots

Across the African continent, food functions as both daily sustenance and cultural memory, connecting generations through shared ingredients and cooking traditions. From West African roadside kitchens to East African home hearths, the flavors of everyday life tell a story no menu can fully capture.

How Hot Drinks Became Africa's Common Ground

Across the African continent, tea and coffee serve purposes far beyond refreshment, functioning as social currencies that shape daily rituals, hospitality customs, and community bonds. From highland coffee ceremonies to roadside chai stalls, the cup has long been a gathering point.

Urban Rhythms and Rural Retreats Across Africa

South Africa is going digital on VAT: what it can learn from the rest of Africa

Africa's Food Culture: Street Stalls to Sacred Family Pots

South Africa is going digital on VAT: what it can learn from the rest of Africa

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

Tanzania’s green gold rush: how avocado waste is hurting farmers and what should be done

AU Leaders Warn of Funding Gap Threatening Agenda 2063

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Local Markets in Tunisia Offer Colorful Crafts and Daily Life Scenes

Lake Victoria Adds Natural Beauty and Adventure to Uganda’s Tourism

Sacred Sites and Shrines Tell the Spiritual Story of Togo

Festivals in Somalia Celebrate Community and Tradition

Kenya's Rich Family Culture: The Heartbeat of a Nation

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Local Markets in Tunisia Offer Colorful Crafts and Daily Life Scenes

Lake Victoria Adds Natural Beauty and Adventure to Uganda’s Tourism

Sacred Sites and Shrines Tell the Spiritual Story of Togo

Festivals in Somalia Celebrate Community and Tradition

Johannesburg’s Markets Reflect the Soul of South African Daily Life

Local Markets in Nigeria Offer Crafts, Spices, and Street Food

Africa

Wildlife Safaris Offer Unmatched Adventure in South Africa’s National Parks

DR Congo’s riverboat economy – how a floating transport system tells the country’s story

Onyeka Onwenu remembered: Nigerian pop star, activist and voice of national unity

South Africa’s Wine Regions Combine Flavor, History, and Scenic Beauty

Politics

Tanzania's Digital Governance Revolution Transforms Citizen Services

Taxing Africa’s informal economies: technology’s promise and pitfalls

Ugandan women work in the Middle East even though they face abuse. They told us why

African Political Landscape Shifts as Democratic Transitions Face Military Coups and Constitutional Crises

Economy

Botswana and South Africa Deepen Economic and Tourism Ties

Uganda’s sugarcane boom leaves families hungry: what needs to change

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

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

Business

Refinery rivalry: billion-dollar oil projects expose East Africa’s long-running regional tensions

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

Ghana’s businesses don’t always need costly tech. How to build on what’s already been done

Geopolitics

Africans migrate for jobs mostly within the continent: why regional skills partnerships are needed

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

Sudan’s military is accused of using chlorine bombs: here’s how they work and what the law says

China and the EU could turn Morocco into a surprise global hub for electric vehicles

Travel

Ancient Ruins Tell the Story of Zimbabwe’s Great Past

Colorful Markets Offer a Glimpse Into Daily Life in Uganda

Victoria Falls Makes Zambia a Must-Visit for Nature Lovers

Craft Markets in Zambia Highlight Handmade Art and Local Talent

Culinary

Taste the Unique Flavors of Authentic Nigerien Cuisine

Seswaa: Botswana's Beloved Pounded Beef

African Grilling Traditions Transform Modern Kitchens

Taste Traditional São Tomé Dishes Made with Fresh, Local Ingredients

Health

Good gut bacteria vs bad: what we learnt about antibiotic resistance from a community in Nairobi

79 deaths a day: South Africa’s diabetes crisis needs a new strategy

Blood pressure rising: over 50% of Nigerians we tested had hypertension and over 65% didn’t know it

Culture

Festivals Across South Africa Celebrate Heritage, Music, and Community

Festivals in Togo Celebrate Heritage, Music, and Unity

Visit Historic Sites Like the Ancient City of Benin and Zuma Rock

Handcrafted Art in Togo Highlights Local Talent and Tradition

Lifestyle

Inside Africa's Open-Air Markets: Trade, Craft, Culture

Urban Rhythms and Rural Retreats Across Africa

Africa's Food Culture: Street Stalls to Sacred Family Pots

How Hot Drinks Became Africa's Common Ground

Science

Africa’s rocks hold ancient stories. We need better ways to document and protect them

Spekboom is nutritious, water-wise and edible – so why aren’t more South Africans eating it?

Ocean, desert rainfall and a parasitic disease: researchers connect patterns

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