Africa’s new Transformative African Leadership (TAL) programme argues that the continent’s biggest development challenge is not policy creation, but implementation. Backed by leading African universities and governance institutions, TAL focuses on building leadership models rooted in Ubuntu, Agenda 2063 and African institutional realities. The programme aims to equip leaders across government, business and civil society to improve policy execution, regional integration and cross-border collaboration under frameworks such as AfCFTA.
Author: Africa Business
From AI to capital expenditure reality: Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2026 brings procurement-ready tech to Africa’s hospitality sector
Africa’s hospitality sector is accelerating investment in AI, automation and smart infrastructure as hotels prioritize procurement-ready technology with measurable ROI. The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2026 in Cape Town will connect over 5,000 hospitality professionals with suppliers offering energy management systems, property management platforms, RFID security, automation tools and foodservice solutions designed to improve operational efficiency, sustainability and guest experience.
Climate action key to affordable housing, but buildings decarbonisation stalls
A new report from the United Nations Environment Programme and Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction warns that global buildings decarbonisation is slowing despite rising climate risks and housing affordability pressures. Buildings and construction now account for 37% of global emissions and 28% of energy consumption. The report calls for faster energy-efficiency upgrades, stronger building codes, expanded renewable energy use, and USD 5.9 trillion in investment by 2030 to keep the sector aligned with net-zero climate goals.
Perion, Mediamark and McSorely Media Launch Exclusive AI Advertising Partnership Across Africa
Perion Network, McSorely Media, and Mediamark have launched an exclusive AI advertising partnership across Africa, bringing Perion’s Outmax AI-native execution platform to agencies and brands throughout the continent. The collaboration aims to improve programmatic advertising performance, transparency, and measurable outcomes as Africa’s digital advertising market continues rapid growth.
Naked launches world-first ChatGPT app for final car insurance quotes
Naked Insurance has launched what it says is the world’s first ChatGPT app capable of delivering final, binding car insurance quotes directly within the AI platform. The South African insurtech company believes AI assistants will transform how consumers compare, manage and purchase financial products in the future.
China’s zero-tariff offer is a test of Africa’s export readiness
China’s new zero-tariff policy for imports from 53 African countries could reshape Africa-China trade, but tariff-free access alone will not guarantee export success. The article examines whether African economies are prepared to meet China’s market demands through stronger logistics, standards compliance, value addition, and regional supply chains under AfCFTA. It argues that Africa’s long-term gains will depend on moving beyond raw commodity exports toward competitive, value-added production that can strengthen industrial growth, jobs, and trade resilience.
Why Brands Must Humanise the AI Narrative to Preserve Consumer Trust
As artificial intelligence transforms industries, brands face growing pressure to manage not only AI adoption but also public perception. Mandy Davis, Managing Director at Penquin, explains why transparency, ethical AI practices, and human-centred storytelling are essential for maintaining consumer trust. The article explores how brands can address concerns around privacy, misinformation, and job displacement while using AI responsibly to strengthen credibility and customer relationships.
Africa’s cement industry and the push for energy security
Africa’s cement industry is expanding rapidly as urbanisation, infrastructure projects and housing demand accelerate across the continent. However, unreliable electricity supply and rising energy costs continue to challenge cement manufacturers. In this op-ed, Krzysztof Lokaj, Africa Development Manager at Wärtsilä Energy
, explains why flexible engine-based power plants are emerging as a practical solution for cement producers seeking energy security, operational reliability and long-term efficiency. The article explores the advantages of reciprocating gas engines over gas turbines and coal-fired plants, particularly in supporting hybrid renewable energy systems across Africa.
Club Med South Africa Signals New Era for Tourism, Investment and Global Travel Demand
Club Med South Africa is set to transform KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism landscape with a major new Beach & Safari Resort expected to boost international travel demand, create jobs, attract investment and strengthen South Africa’s position as a leading global tourism destination. Backed by strong government and private sector collaboration, the development is already generating significant global interest ahead of its official opening.
West Africa Infrastructure Expo and HVACR Nigeria draw over 2,800 industry professionals at inaugural editions in Lagos
West Africa Infrastructure Expo and HVACR Nigeria successfully concluded their inaugural editions in Lagos, attracting more than 2,800 industry professionals from across Nigeria’s infrastructure, construction, engineering and HVACR sectors. The events featured high-level discussions on infrastructure financing, smart project delivery, BIM and GIS integration, sustainability, and logistics development, while connecting global suppliers with key decision-makers. Organizers confirmed both events will return in April 2027 alongside the launch of the new West Africa Warehousing & Logistics Expo.