Naledi Ashcourt
Writes on African economy, business, and trade for Harbinger Standard.
ECOWAS Moves to Draw Private Capital Into Industry
The ECOWAS Business Council has unveiled an initiative to mobilise private sector investment for regional industrialisation across West Africa. The announcement comes as the bloc pursues a broader agenda of economic integration and sustainable development.
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 Addis Ababa called for greater solidarity and resource mobilisation to keep Agenda 2063 on track. The 52nd Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives' Committee opened on 3 June 2026 amid a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, macroeconomic instability, and ongoing health and security emergencies across the continent.
Africa Unveils Agricultural Adaptation Roadmap to 2036
A landmark continent-wide assessment presented at FAO headquarters sets out Africa's pathway for sustainable and resilient agriculture, identifying at least $80 billion in agricultural adaptation needs. The report, marking ten years of the AAA Initiative, calls for stronger financing and capacity support through existing institutions.