Adekunle Agbetiloye

<ul><li>Senegalese President Macky Sall has expressed his readiness to step down after his second term on April 2.</li><li>Earlier this month, President Macky Sall postponed the election originally scheduled for February 25 to December 15.</li><li>Senegal's highest court has dismissed President Macky Sall's attempt to postpone elections and extend his term by nearly a year.</li></ul>

This assurance may help alleviate concerns about a potential constitutional crisis that could pose a threat to the country's democracy,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/senegal-leader-says-he-s-ready-to-step-down-when-term-ends-april-2-1.2038154#:~:text=(Bloomberg)%20%2D%2D%20Senegalese%20President%20Macky,might%20threaten%20the%20country's%20democracy.">Bloomberg</a>&nbsp;reported.

According to Sall in an interview on state-owned Radiodiffusion Television Senegalaise on Thursday,&nbsp;“It was never a question of overstaying my mandate. It will ultimately be up to the Constitutional Council to say what needs to be done and everyone will have to agree on that. Now it’s clear that the country cannot stay without a president. This is where the dialogue comes in.”

<h3>Election postponement</h3>

Sall sparked a constitutional crisis when he called for the <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/senegal-lawmakers-extend-presidential-vote-delay-by-ten-months/87wmw7n">country’s presidential vote to be postponed</a> to December 15 to allow for an inquiry into the process of selecting candidates that could stand in the polls earlier slated for Feb. 25.

The postponement implies that President Macky Sall, whose second and final term was set to conclude on April 2, will remain in office until his successor assumes power.

Opposition leaders denounced the election postponement as a "constitutional coup," and further challenged the delay at the Supreme Court.

Last week, Senegal's highest court&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/senegals-top-court-blocks-presidents-effort-to-postpone-elections/n92z7hb">dismissed President Macky Sall's attempt to postpone elections</a>&nbsp;and extend his term by nearly a year.

Senegal’s constitution stipulates that in the event of a presidential vacancy, the office passes to the parliamentary speaker, and fresh elections must be conducted within 90 days.

Sall did not specify a new date for the vote. According to Senegalese law, the election campaign should last for 21 days, and the vote should take place at least one month before the president's term expires.

The election delay, a first in the country's history, spurred protests in the country and led to the restriction of&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/senegal-shuts-down-internet-amidst-election-postponement-protests/efpw0qk">mobile internet access</a>&nbsp;to prevent “threats and disturbances to public order.”

Analysts express concern that the election crisis could heighten instability in&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/what-exit-of-mali-burkina-faso-niger-from-ecowas-mean-for-nigerians/0yjk1xk">West Africa</a>, especially given the region's ongoing challenges with an increase in coups and threats to democratic institutions.

Senegalese President Macky Sall [21stcenturychronicle]

Senegalese President Macky Sall has expressed his readiness to step down after his second term on April 2.

Senegalese President says he is ready to leave office in April

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents African countries hit hardest by food inflation in February.</li><li>Domestic food price inflation remains high with the most affected countries in Africa.</li><li>This list is courtesy of the World Bank.</li></ul>

Several factors contribute to this issue, including climate change, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. Additionally, challenges such as&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/top-10-african-countries-with-the-weakest-currency-exchange-rates-in-2023/mk9j9tn">currency fluctuations</a>&nbsp;and geopolitical tensions, exemplified by events like the Russian-Ukraine war, have affected the global supply chain of agricultural produce and inputs.

With the continent's population booming, the delicate dance of supply and demand is under even more pressure. More people translate to more mouths to feed, adding stress to an already stretched-out system.

According to the World Bank's<a href="https://thedocs.worldbank.org/en/doc/40ebbf38f5a6b68bfc11e5273e1405d4-0090012022/related/Food-Security-Update-C-February-15-24.pdf">&nbsp;Food Security Update report by the World Bank</a>&nbsp;for February, domestic food price inflation remains high in low, middle, and high-income countries on the continent.

The report reveals that it will continue to rise in the coming months, driven by the intensifying disruption of market functionality and trade flows, anticipation of below-average harvests, and high fuel and transportation costs.

<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/african-countries-hit-hardest-by-food-inflation-in-2023/1gdtpm7">Food inflation</a> for each country is based on the latest month from October 2023 to January 2024 for which the food component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and overall CPI data are available. Real food inflation is defined as food inflation minus overall inflation.

<h3>Below are the African countries hit hardest by food inflation in February:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">% year on year</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Zimbabwe</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">26%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Egypt</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">18%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Malawi</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Guinea</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6%</td></tr></table>

African countries hit hardest by food inflation according to the World Bank

Business Insider Africa presents African countries hit hardest by food inflation in  February.

<ul><li>South Africa is set to conduct national and provincial elections on May 29</li><li>Almost 370 parties are eligible to participate in the election.</li><li>President Ramaphosa, seeking a second term, has struggled to lift the country's economic growth since assuming the presidency in 2018.</li></ul>

These elections are expected to be the most fiercely contested since the abolition of the apartheid system.&nbsp;

Almost 370 parties are eligible to participate in the election, which will be the first in which independent candidates can compete for national and provincial office after parliament amended the electoral laws.&nbsp;

“Beyond the fulfilment of our constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of our democratic journey and a determination of the future that we all desire,”

“I call on all South Africans to exercise their democratic right to vote and for those who will be campaigning to do so peacefully, within the full observance of the law,” he said.&nbsp;

President Ramaphosa, seeking a second term, has struggled to lift economic growth since assuming the presidency in 2018, succeeding Jacob Zuma.

Political observers widely forecast that the African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party, is likely to experience a loss of its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994.&nbsp;

Voter grievances, including persistent power cuts, inadequate service delivery, and elevated unemployment rates, contribute to this prediction.&nbsp;

South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world and is ranked by the Thomas Piketty-backed World Inequality Lab as the most unequal country in the world for which data is available.

South Africa is set to conduct national and provincial elections on May 29, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa's office on Tuesday.

South Africa's general election set for May 29

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents 10 African countries with the highest unemployment rate.</li><li>In 2024, the youth unemployment rate in Africa is projected at around 11 per cent,</li><li>The list is courtesy of Statista.</li></ul>

Getting a job in Africa can be tough. There are just not enough opportunities to go around. The struggling African <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/10-largest-economies-in-africa-and-their-inflation-rates/4e1y58q">economy</a> makes it even harder.

Despite the implementation of several initiatives by African governments to combat the issue, their impact has been limited amidst a ballooning population. The severity of the problem led African leaders to adopt a seven-point declaration in Dar es Salaam last year to&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/african-leaders-unite-to-tackle-unemployment/k456hnq">tackle unemployment</a>.

In Africa, like the rest of the world, the younger population is at a higher risk of unemployment in many regions globally. In 2024, the youth unemployment rate in Africa is projected at around 11 per cent, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1286939/unemployment-rate-in-africa-by-country/">Statista</a>.

There are also peculiarities, men find it easier to secure jobs compared to women, even when they possess similar skills and experience. In Africa, the&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/careers/5-ways-african-female-entrepreneurs-can-overcome-the-funding-gap/40p3rr6">female unemployment</a>&nbsp;rate was eight per cent in 2023, while it was 6.6 per cent among men.

Africa's unemployment problem is hitting both big and small economies. As of today,&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/south-africa-prepares-to-launch-digital-nomad-visa-for-international-remote-workers/tjejgqm">South Africa</a>&nbsp;hit an unemployment rate of 32.1%, making it the country with the highest unemployment rate on the continent in 2024.

Djibouti and Eswatini follow closely, with unemployment rates reaching approximately 28 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively.

<h3>Below are 10 African countries with the highest unemployment rate in 2024:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Unemployment rate</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">32.1%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Djibouti</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">27.9%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Eswatini</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">24.65%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Gabon</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">21.35%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Congo</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">21.3%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Botswana</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">20.72%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Somalia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">20.53%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Namibia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">20.37%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Libya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">20.07%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Sudan</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">18.05%</td></tr></table>

10 African countries with the highest unemployment rate in 2024

Business Insider Africa presents 10 African countries with the highest unemployment rate.

Africa is all in on the AI wave. Over the past years, its development has been steadily picking up pace, and It's not slowing down anytime soon.

In the next decade, AI is expected to add&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/data-and-analytics/publications/artificial-intelligence-study.html">$15.7 trillion</a>&nbsp;to the global GDP. About $6.6 trillion is estimated to come from boosted productivity, while $9.1 trillion is expected from the effects on consumption.

Just like everyone else around the world, Africa is all in on the AI wave. Over the past years, its development has been steadily picking up pace, and It's not slowing down anytime soon.

Multiple signs point to this growth, ranging from increased participation of Africans&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/meet-the-11-africans-named-among-the-100-most-influential-people-in-ai-2023/t7z4tqp">in the global AI ecosystem</a>&nbsp;to the establishment of AI startups and companies on the continent.

Even African governments are getting in on the action with the tech of the future. Just a few weeks ago, the Tanzanian government announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence into its e-government platforms to strengthen Tanzania's digital data reservoir, enhance e-related services, and improve the efficiency and transparency of government processes.

While AI holds so many promising benefits for the continent, it also comes with vulnerabilities, especially concerning issues like deepfakes, data bias, privacy concerns, and more. The Bank of Uganda recently conceded that it&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/the-bank-of-uganda-concedes-that-it-cannot-stop-ai-fraud/z7r5jj3">cannot stop AI fraud</a>.

To discuss the prospects of AI in Africa, Business Insider Africa spoke with Ashley Immanuel, co-founder and COO of Semicolon, and Anu Oyeleye, Senior Product Manager at Herconomy on the sideline of the 2024 Lagos Tech Fest (4th edition.)

Ashley Immanuel, co-founder and COO of Semicolon

Ashley Immanuel, co-founder and CEO of Semicolon

<h3>BI Africa: What can be done to increase data access and quality in African economies for AI developments?</h3>

Ashley Immanuel:&nbsp;Even if you have amazing technology today, people do not know how many farmers are in Jigawa state, for instance, because nobody has gone out to digitize that raw data. Everybody wants data, but people don't want to pay for it. There is a little bit of rethinking that we need to do in the ecosystem.

In Africa, businesses should consider biodata and explore collaborations with industries to facilitate primary data collection. For example, the financial sector could collaborate to digitize currently untouched data and leverage it to its advantage. Ultimately, success lies in the ecosystem working together. Sometimes it could be the effort can also help.

The more we push out solutions that are desirable, affordable, and relevant for people presently not using digital solutions, the more data that will be generated.

Bi Africa: What strategies can Africa employ to ensure that AI adoption leads to job creation rather than job loss?

Ashley Immanuel:&nbsp;The fear of job loss has been happening before AI; computers were automating work done manually.

My company, Semicolon, is building the next generation of tech-focused talent and leaders. We are not looking at the skills they need today but the ones they need in the future. And it tends to be those skills around thinking, innovation, creativity, and understanding people and systems.

By 2040, half of the working-age population will be in Africa, and it will only continue to expand. So, I think if the future workforce is here. There are a lot of opportunities to innovate, create companies, and create new jobs around making our lives easier. And AI can drive some of those new companies.

Anu Oyeleye, Senior Product Manager at Herconomy

Anu Oyeleye:&nbsp;First, you need to embrace the fact that AI is here to stay. Then you have to look for the different skills that will enhance your knowledge of AI. We have a lot of skills like data analytics, software engineering etcetera. AI is going to be relevant across all industries. Using the upcoming skills can help you up your employment game and easily transition.

BI Africa: When talking about AI in Africa, what steps can be taken to deal with the scarcity of data?

Anu Oyeleye:&nbsp;Africa at large is a data landmine. We have a lot of data. Governments of each country need to facilitate a framework for efficient data mining. We know we have a lot of raw data that people need to get access to. It is there, but people do not know where to get the data from. Similarly, industries have valuable data, but the absence of a centralized data centre creates challenges in data distribution. Governments of each African country need to create an enabling environment to help people have access to data, and this can be done through partnerships.

BI Africa: How can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria leverage AI technologies to enhance their competitiveness and create job opportunities?

Anu Oyeleye:&nbsp;AI is very broad, and it can fall into the wrong hands because it uses data. You need data, and also, invariably, you need AI to enhance your job or business. And the only way to do this is to have access to data first of all. You need data to make better business decisions. However, caution is required in AI utilization due to data protection, privacy, and policies. Misuse of data, even without AI, can result in consequences. Additionally, consider which aspect of AI you wish to employ: cognitive or generative.

What AI means for jobs in Africa in the next decade

To discuss the prospects of AI in Africa, Business Insider Africa sat with Ashley Immanuel, co-founder and COO of Semicolon, and Anu Oyeleye, Senior Product Manager at Herconomy.

Exclusive: What AI will mean for jobs in Africa in the next decade

<ul><li>The bank predicts accelerated growth in all regions except for central Africa in 2024.</li><li>15 African countries achieved economic growth exceeding 5% last year.</li><li>Nigeria, the largest economy in West Africa, is expected to experience a growth of 2.9% in 2024.</li></ul>

The AfDB attributed the economic challenges to political instability, China's economic slowdown, and the impact of COVID-19 and Russia's war in Ukraine.

The final data for 2023 fell short of the 3.4% growth forecast by the AfDB in November. The bank also revised its regional growth projections for central and north Africa, citing a recession in the oil-producing Equatorial Guinea and the aftermath of severe flooding in Libya.

"The shocks buffeting African economies since 2020 have damaged growth, with long-term implications," the bank said in a report.

Despite the challenges, the AfDB said that 15 African countries achieved economic growth exceeding 5% last year, including <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/ethiopia-in-3-minutes-what-kind-of-country-is-ethiopia/esbe0yz">Ethiopia</a>, currently undergoing external debt restructuring, as well as Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mauritius, and Rwanda.

The bank predicts accelerated growth in all regions except for central Africa in 2024, with southern Africa seen as remaining the laggard at 2.2% compared with 5.7% in east Africa.

Southern Africa's "sluggish performance reflects the continued economic stagnation in South Africa," the bank said, with the region's largest economy, which holds national elections this year, predicted to grow 1.1% in 2024, up from 0.8% last year.

"This underwhelming economic situation has aggravated the country's persistently high unemployment, poverty, and inequality and prevented it from reaping democratic dividends in the 30 years since the end of White minority rule,"&nbsp;AfDB said.

<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/nigerias-economic-crisis-intensifies-imf-reports/5lkz0hh">Nigeria</a>, the largest economy in West Africa, is expected to experience a growth of 2.9% in 2024, a 0.4 percentage point increase from the previous year.

Meanwhile, in <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/egypt-announces-50-minimum-wage-increase-to-address-cost-of-living-crisis/phlz8d7">Egypt</a>, high inflation and foreign exchange shortages are forecast to drag growth down to 3.7% this year, versus 4% in 2023.

The African Development Bank has reported a decline in Africa's economic growth from 4.1% in 2022 to 3.2% last year. However, the regional institution expects increased growth this year for all regions except central Africa.

Africa's economic growth slides to 3.2% in 2023 - AfDB

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents 10 African countries with the highest defence budget in 2024.</li><li>In Africa, Algeria has the highest defence budget rankings for 2024.</li><li>The list is courtesy of Global Firepower.</li></ul>

Undeniably, economic progress is nearly impossible in a state of insecurity. In the face of this security void, the need to spend big on security/defence has never been more imperative for many African governments.

In a previous article, we explored the military strength of <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/10-african-countries-with-the-strongest-military-power-in-2024/rfgehk2">10 African countries in 2024</a> based on Global Firepower's assessment. The index ranks 145 nations' militaries, weighing various factors like the volume of sophistication of its equipment, finances, geography, and resources.&nbsp;

However, the assessment of countries goes beyond military strength alone. Global Firepower also monitors the <a href="https://www.globalfirepower.com/defense-spending-budget.php">annual defence spending</a> of each country.&nbsp;

This includes funds allocated by governments to cover various aspects of a standing fighting force namely procurement, maintenance/support, and pensions. Data presented on the list is through 2024.&nbsp;

In Africa, Algeria has the highest defence budget rankings for 2024, holding the 22nd position globally. Morocco and Egypt closely follow, securing the 29th and 35th positions on the global scale.

<h3>Below are the 10 African countries with the highest defence budget in 2024:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Global Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Defence budget</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Algeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">22</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 21,600,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Morocco</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">29</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 12,088,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Egypt</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">35</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 9,400,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">56</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 4,000,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Libya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">59</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 3,400,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">64</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 2,695,346,150</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Kenya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">70</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 2,200,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Tanzania</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">73</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 1,870,000,000</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Botswana</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">74</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 1,642,009,600</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Angola</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">75</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">$ 1,623,000,000</td></tr></table>

10 African countries with the highest defence budget in 2024

From North Africa to the western part of the continent, African countries face various security challenges, ranging from internal conflicts and terrorism to regional geopolitical dynamics.

<ul><li>Visa restrictions were lifted for citizens from the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, France, and others.</li><li>The exemption extends to nations that do not impose visa requirements on Malawian citizens.</li><li>Under the new visa regulations, multiple entry visas in Malawi now have a validity period of up to 12 months.</li></ul>

Homeland Security Minister Ken Zikhałe announced the amendment of immigration regulations, revealing that visa restrictions were lifted for citizens from the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, France, and others,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-africa-67977510">BBC</a>&nbsp;reported.

The Malawian government has identified these countries as crucial source markets for international tourism and business travellers in a bid to alleviate the current scarcity of foreign currency.

Citizens from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) are also free from visa requirements.

The exemption extends to nations that do not impose visa requirements on Malawian citizens.

The revisions also include exceptions for specific groups, including diplomats and government officials, and countries that have mutual exchange agreements for multiple entry visas with Malawi.

Under the new visa regulations, multiple entry visas in Malawi now have a validity period of up to 12 months.

“This monumental decision isn’t just about visas; it’s about unleashing the untapped potential of our beloved Malawi and inviting the world to experience its wonders first-hand," Tourism Minister Vera Kamtukule told local media.

The British embassy in Malawi encouraged its nationals to seize the opportunity of the eased visa restrictions and explore a variety of popular tourist attractions in the southern African country.

<h3>Visa-free Africa</h3>

Countries throughout Africa are recognizing the importance of removing longstanding obstacles such as trade tariffs and visa bans that have hindered interactions within the continent.

Malawi now joins the growing list of countries that are easing visa restrictions in the continent. Last month,&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/ghana-to-initiate-visa-free-travel-for-africans-in-2024/xq8cjdn">Ghana</a>&nbsp;announced plans to implement a policy enabling&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/list-of-african-countries-every-african-can-visit-without-a-visa/gem5yr6">visa-free entry</a>&nbsp;for all African visitors to the country by the close of 2024.

While 48 African countries grant visa-free travel to the citizens of at least one other African nation, only&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/list-of-african-countries-every-african-can-visit-without-a-visa/gem5yr6">5 of 52 African countries</a>&nbsp;can boast of complete visa-free entry.

Currently, Seychelles, Gambia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Benin are the only countries where every African can visit without a visa.

Malawi lifts visa restrictions for 79 countries to boost tourism

In a bid to boost tourism and trade in the country, Malawi has removed visa restrictions for travellers from 79 countries.

<ul><li>The repayment is expected to address concerns about Kenya's mounting debt, currency depreciation, and financial market access.</li><li>Funds from the&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/10-african-countries-with-the-highest-economic-forecast-in-2024-world-bank/wxvvxqs">World Bank</a>, various multilateral institutions, and&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/afdb-supports-kenya-with-euro73-million-loan-to-boost-economic-recovery/n0j8zwv">regional banks</a>&nbsp;is expected to fulfill the bond repayment.</li><li>Kenya is also exploring a potential&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/kenya-considers-debt-for-nature-swap-as-dollar2-billion-debt-deadline-looms/dexl5jr">debt swap strategy</a>&nbsp;to strengthen its financial position ahead of the critical repayment deadline.</li></ul>

The repayment is expected to contribute to the recovery of the shilling from its historic lows, addressing concerns about Kenya's mounting debt, currency depreciation, and financial market access,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/kenya-central-bank-governor-gdp-growth-be-slightly-faster-2024-2024-02-07/">Reuters</a>&nbsp;reported.

Thugge said that funds from the&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/10-african-countries-with-the-highest-economic-forecast-in-2024-world-bank/wxvvxqs">World Bank</a>, various multilateral institutions, and&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/afdb-supports-kenya-with-euro73-million-loan-to-boost-economic-recovery/n0j8zwv">regional banks</a>&nbsp;would be enough to fulfill the bond repayment.

Last month, the east Africa country secured&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/kenya-secures-dollar6847-million-loan-from-imf-ahead-of-eurobond-deadline/hpltelt">$684.7 million loan</a>&nbsp;from IMF ahead of Eurobond deadline. Kenya is also exploring a potential&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/kenya-considers-debt-for-nature-swap-as-dollar2-billion-debt-deadline-looms/dexl5jr">debt swap strategy</a>&nbsp;to strengthen its financial position ahead of the critical repayment deadline.

"This risk of the Eurobond will in my view be completely eliminated. And that should also contribute to a strengthening of the shilling," he told reporters.

"It is my view now that the exchange rate has overshot the equilibrium rate. So there could be scope for central bank to support the exchange rate going forward,"&nbsp;Thugge said.

The Central Bank of Kenya has stressed its stance of not having a preferred exchange rate for the shilling, intervening only to address volatility. Governor Kamau Thugge noted that the shilling might find support from inflows provided by overseas lenders and increased interest rates.

Kenya has received disbursements totalling just over $1 billion in the last two months and expects to get another $1.5 billion from the World Bank between March and May, he said.

He added that the economy was forecast to grow 5.7% this year versus 5.6% last year. In December, the central bank predicted growth in 2024 of 5.9%.

The Central Bank of Kenya recently raised borrowing costs to their highest level since 2012 as risks to inflation remain elevated.

Kenya confident about repaying $2 billion international bond

Kenya will be able to repay a $2 billion international bond set to mature in June, according to the country's central bank governor, Kamau Thugge.

<ul><li>Starlink submitted its application to launch in May 2023, but the regulator found that the company did not provide all the necessary information</li><li>To operate in Botswana, entities like Starlink are required to pay an application fee of P5,600, an annual license fee of up to P386,000 (~$28,500).</li><li><a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/three-african-countries-where-elon-musks-starlink-is-illegal/wffrml6">Starlink's operation in Africa</a>&nbsp;has not been all rosy as it is facing regulatory challenges on the continent.</li></ul>

Starlink submitted its application to launch in May 2023, but the regulator found that the company did not provide all the necessary information,&nbsp;<a href="https://techcabal.com/2024/02/02/starlink-application-botswana/">Techcabal</a> reported.

An insider from Botswana’s Communication Authority revealed, “There were issues regarding missing requirements with the application, which were identified and pointed out. They are yet to respond to the issues.”

To operate in Botswana, entities like Starlink are required to pay an application fee of P5,600, an annual license fee of up to P386,000 (~$28,500), and 3% of annual operating revenue.

<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/three-african-countries-where-elon-musks-starlink-is-illegal/wffrml6">Starlink's operation in Africa</a>&nbsp;has not been all rosy as it is facing regulatory challenges on the continent, where only 40% of its over 1.3 billion population have access to the internet, the lowest rate in the world.

Starlink is banned in South Africa for non-compliance with a legal requirement outlined in the Electronics Communications Act (ECA), which mandates that historically disadvantaged groups (HDGs) must own 30% of a company before it can get the necessary telecoms licences to operate a broadband service locally.

Zimbabwean legislators also rejected Starlink's application, citing an EU investigation into X, Elon Musk's social media platform. Despite this setback, Starlink holds licenses in Zambia, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Malawi.

SpaceX said it lost 40 satellites to solar flares.

In February 2022, SpaceX announced that 40 of 49 Starlink satellites launched into orbit were knocked out of commission. The culprit? A massive solar storm caused by a solar eruption called a coronal mass ejection. According to SpaceX, the interaction ...

Botswana has denied approval for Elon Musk's Starlink to operate in the country, a decision that comes just before its planned launch in Q4 2024.

Botswana rejects Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet bid

<ul><li>William Ruto gave his approval to <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/italy-reveals-euro55-billion-investment-plan-to-boost-italian-african-ties/6lrnmsj">Italy's plan</a> for enhanced collaboration with Africa.</li><li>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni revealed an investment plan (Mattei Plan) of over <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/italy-reveals-euro55-billion-investment-plan-to-boost-italian-african-ties/6lrnmsj">€5.5 billion</a> ($5.9 billion) to fortify Italian ties with Africa.</li><li>Some critics derided the small scale of projects.</li></ul>

On Monday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni revealed an investment plan (Mattei Plan) of over <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/italy-reveals-euro55-billion-investment-plan-to-boost-italian-african-ties/6lrnmsj">€5.5 billion</a> ($5.9 billion) to fortify Italian ties with Africa.

“The basis of the Mattei Plan is a new approach: non-predatory, non-paternalistic, but also not charitable. It’s an approach of equals, to grow together,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1751942256720826719?s=20">Meloni said in a post on X</a>.

The Italian plan will be developed across five main policy pillars: energy, education and professional training, health, agriculture, and water.

However, some critics scoffed at the small scale of many of the projects, while the chairman of the African Union Commission reprimanded Meloni for not engaging in broader consultations on the priorities beforehand.

“African countries would have liked to have been consulted before Italy rolled out its plan,” he said during his address on Monday. “We cannot be happy with promises that are never maintained.”

He also said any agreement needed to be made on liberty and consensus with no party imposing anything on the other.

However, Kenyan President William Ruto told Reuters that the plan, known as the Mattei plan and named after the late founder of Italian energy giant Eni, was a positive beginning.

"Every journey begins with one simple step. And I think that the most important step has been made, that we are recalibrating our relationship with Italy as a continent,"&nbsp;Ruto said.

The Kenyan leader said it was especially relevant particularly as Italy held the rotating chair of the Group of Seven (G7) major Western powers. He expressed confidence in Prime Minister Meloni's commitment to advancing African interests during her presidency.

"The narrative around Africa was conflict, disease, war. Now it's changing. It is opportunity, investment, market and solutions,"&nbsp;he said, dismissing any concerns about the financial stability of Kenya.

President Ruto affirms support for Italy's Africa plan despite funding backlash

Kenya's president gave his approval to Italy's initiative for enhanced collaboration with Africa on Tuesday, citing it as a demonstration of Europe's sincere interest in the continent, even amid concerns about the initially restricted funding.

President Ruto supports Italy's Africa plan despite funding backlash

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents the 10 African ID documents with the highest fraud rates.</li><li>The list is courtesy of Smile ID</li><li>Central and East Africa experienced the highest identity fraud rates, reaching peaks of 29% and 30%, respectively.</li></ul>

Smile ID, a leading identity verification startup in West Africa, published its&nbsp;<a href="https://usesmileid.com/2024-digital-identity-fraud-africa-report">2024 Digital Identity Fraud in Africa Report</a>, offering insights into&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/10-african-cities-with-the-highest-crime-index-at-the-start-of-2024/ywhq0yx">fraudulent</a>&nbsp;verification attempts on the continent. Since its establishment in 2017, the company has conducted over 100 million checks in Africa.

According to the report, in the last two years, an overwhelming number of fraud attacks were directed at National ID cards, which accounted for 80% of all document fraud attacks.

Central and East Africa experienced the highest identity fraud rates, reaching peaks of 29% and 30%, respectively. Southern Africa reached a peak of 23%, while West Africa recorded the lowest fraud rate, peaking at 20%.

South Africa's national ID topped the list with the highest fraud attempts at 38%. Tanzania secured the second spot with 32%, followed by Kenya at 26%, and Uganda ranked fourth with 25%.

The report stressed that, while regulatory compliance is fundamental, businesses must surpass regulatory requirements to safeguard the integrity of their products.

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Document type</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Attempted fraud rate</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Green Book (National ID)</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">34%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">National ID </td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Tanzania, United Republic of</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">32%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">National ID </td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Kenya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">26%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">National ID </td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Uganda</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">25%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Passport</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Democratic Republic of Congo</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">23%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">SSNIT (National Insurance)</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Ghana</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">20%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Passport</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Malawi</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">19%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Passport</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Ghana</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">19%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">National ID</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">18%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Ghana card (National ID)</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Ghana</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">16%</td></tr></table>

Business Insider Africa presents the 10 African ID documents with high fraud rates.

10 African ID documents with the highest fraud rates

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents the 10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024</li><li>This list is obtained from the data platform Numbeo.&nbsp;</li><li>Some&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/10-african-cities-with-the-highest-crime-levels-and-where-they-rank-on-a-global-scale/rslr246">cities in Africa</a>&nbsp;are considered very dangerous as the crime rate is high due to the problems relating to drugs, kidnappings, and even armed conflicts.</li></ul>

Poverty, lack of access to education, and economic inequality create conditions where individuals may turn to illicit activities as a means of survival.

Some&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/10-african-cities-with-the-highest-crime-levels-and-where-they-rank-on-a-global-scale/rslr246">cities in Africa</a>&nbsp;are considered very dangerous as the crime rate is high due to the problems relating to drugs, kidnappings, and even armed conflicts.

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.numbeo.com/crime/rankings_current.jsp">Numbeo</a>&nbsp;in its updated crime index, crime rates in cities vary, with higher frequencies observed in densely populated regions compared to rural or suburban areas.

Per the index, the number of crimes committed in a certain area during a given period, often per capita per year, is measured as the crime rate in that area. And it is sometimes expressed as the number of criminal offences or events per 100,000 persons.

Numbeo indicated that crime levels between 40 and 60 are moderate, those between 60 and 80 are classified as high, and crime levels exceeding 80 are deemed very high.

<h3>Below are the&nbsp;10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">City</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Crime Index</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Global rank</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Pretoria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">81.8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2nd</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Durban</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null"> South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">80.9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3rd</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Johannesburg</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">80.7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Port Elizabeth</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">77.0</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Cape Town</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">73.5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">16th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Lagos</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">68.0</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">27th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Windhoek</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Namibia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">67.6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">30th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Harare</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null"> Zimbabwe</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">61.0</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">57th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nairobi</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null"> Kenya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">59.1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">67th</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Casablanca</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Morocco</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">54.4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">93rd</td></tr></table>

10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024

Business Insider Africa presents the 10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents African countries with the worst traffic congestion in 2024.</li><li>As populations in countries continue to grow, the surge in traffic is outpacing the roads and bridges they need.</li><li>This list is courtesy of Numbeo. </li></ul>

As populations in countries continue to grow and individuals pursue economic opportunities, the surge in traffic is outpacing the roads and bridges they need. The result? A mess for&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/here-are-7-african-cities-with-the-worst-traffic-congestion/pz23z90">urban mobility</a>, overall&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/5-african-countries-with-the-best-quality-of-life-index/xv5epzv">quality of life</a>, and economic productivity. For example, Lagos, the commercial nerve of Nigeria, loses a staggering&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/lagos-nigerias-commercial-hub-loses-n4tn-annually-to-traffic-congestion/lk8z5hq#:~:text=Lagos%2C%20Nigeria's%20commercial%20hub%20loses%20a%20staggering%20N4tn%20annually,attributed%20to%20profound%20traffic%20congestion.">N4 trillion annually</a>, according to the Danne Institute for Research.

To shed light on the extent of this issue, Numbeo, a platform that provides up-to-date information about the cost of living, quality of life, and various socio-economic factors across cities and countries worldwide, has recently updated its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.numbeo.com/traffic/rankings_by_country.jsp?title=2024&amp;region=002">Traffic Index for 2024</a>.

The index considered factors such as commute time, dissatisfaction with time spent in traffic, CO2 emissions, and overall traffic system inefficiencies.

<h3>Below are&nbsp;African countries with the worst traffic congestion in 2024:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Traffic index</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Time index (in minutes)</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1.</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">304.8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">61.7</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2.</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Kenya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">239.8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">51.2</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3.</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Egypt</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">229.5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">48.1</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4.</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">188.0</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">38.8</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5.</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Morocco</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">135.4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">36.6</td></tr></table>

Business Insider Africa presents African countries with the worst traffic congestion in 2024.

African countries with the worst traffic congestion in 2024

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents 10 most racially diverse countries in Africa.</li><li>Liberia is the world's most diverse country with a racial diversity of 88.9%.</li><li>This list is courtesy of Wisevoter.</li></ul>

The racial diversity of a country can be determined by the percentage of the population belonging to different racial groups. Different factors like history, immigration, and social rules decide how diverse a country is.

This diversity has propelled Africa into a prominent global position. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://wisevoter.com/country-rankings/most-racially-diverse-countries/#source">Wisevoter</a>, Liberia is the world's most diverse country with a racial diversity of 88.9%. This distinction is attributed to its history of colonization and the settlement of freed slaves from the United States.

<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/economic-surge-projected-in-uganda-by-the-world-bank-despite-sanctions-from-the-west/5nsstrf">Uganda</a> follows closely behind, with a racial diversity of 88.3%. Togo is the third most diverse country, with a racial diversity of 88%.

Per Wisevoter, the data used for the report is from the Historical Index of Ethnic Fractionalization Dataset&nbsp;(HIEF), a <a href="https://dataverse.harvard.edu/dataset.xhtml?persistentId=doi:10.7910/DVN/4JQRCL">dataset</a> that provides measures of ethnic fractionalization for 165 countries.

<h3>Below are the 10 most racially diverse countries in Africa:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Racial diversity</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Liberia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">88.9%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Uganda</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">88.3%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Togo</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">88%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">85.6%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Chad</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">85.5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Kenya</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">85.5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Mali</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">85.2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">85%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Guinea-Bissau</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">80.8%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Sierra Leone</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">80.1%</td></tr></table>

10 most racially diverse countries in Africa:

Business Insider Africa presents 10 most racially diverse countries in Africa.

10 most racially diverse countries in Africa

<ul><li>Business Insider Africa presents 10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024.</li><li>Egypt is ranked the most powerful military force in Africa and 15th globally. </li><li>The list is courtesy of Global Firepower.</li></ul>

A recent index by Global Firepower's shows the military strength of some countries globally. The index ranks 145 nations' militaries, weighing various factors like the volume of sophistication of its equipment, finances, geography, and resources.

In an earlier report on&nbsp;<a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/top-african-military-powers-in-2023-according-to-global-firepower/d9nlxv7">military ranking in Africa</a>, we noted that while the GFP can give us a good idea of the African countries with the strongest military power, it's key to know that a country's military scene can be shaped by alliances, diplomatic ties, and tech advancements.

According to the index, Egypt is ranked the most powerful military force in Africa and 15th globally. Algeria and South Africa follow closely in second and third positions, securing the 26th and 33rd positions globally.

<h3>Below are the 10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024:</h3>

<table><tr><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Country</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">Global Rank</th><th colspan="null" rowspan="null">PwrIndx Score</th></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Egypt</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">15th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.2283</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">2</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Algeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">26th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.3589</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">3</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">South Africa</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">33rd</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.4632</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">4</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Nigeria</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">39th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.5619</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">5</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Ethiopia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">49th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.7938</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">6</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Angola</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">55th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">0.8702</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">7</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Morocco</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">61st</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1.0081</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">8</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Democratic Republic of the Congo</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">73rd</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1.2491</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">9</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Tunisia</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">74th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1.2881</td></tr><tr><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">10</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">Sudan</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">76th</td><td colspan="null" rowspan="null">1.4119</td></tr></table>

10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024

Business Insider Africa presents 10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024.

<ul><li>The value of transactions in the country increased to 7.95 trillion shillings ($49 billion) in 2023.</li><li>The number of mobile wallets also saw a 6% rise, reaching 77.3 million by the end of 2023.</li><li>The 0.5% growth in the value of transactions in 2023 represents the slowest pace since the introduction of the service in March 2007. </li></ul>

Over the years, mobile money platforms have become the preferred choice for citizens due to their faster, easier, and more cost-effective operational model.

Kenya is the <a href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/kenyas-mobile-money-transactions-surge-by-63-in-2021-report/tmkw1rn">second-leading mobile money economy</a> in the world after China, and major mobile money providers in the country include Safaricom's M-Pesa and Airtel Money.

In 2023, value of transactions in the country increased to 7.95 trillion shillings ($49 billion), compared to 7.91 trillion shillings the previous year, as per the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centralbank.go.ke/national-payments-system/mobile-payments/">data from the Central Bank of Kenya</a>.

The number of mobile wallets also saw a 6% rise, reaching 77.3 million by the end of 2023.

The 0.5% growth in the value of transactions in 2023 represents the slowest pace since the introduction of the service in March 2007. This deceleration is a result of the increase in excise duty on transaction fees, which rose to 15% last year from the previous 12%, as reported by the Kenya Revenue Authority.