As Africa stands at a pivotal moment, this newsletter brings you analysis and voices on critical topics: from the silent banking crisis brewing in the WAEMU region ; where money is becoming scarcer and more expensive ; to the opportunities and risks in global partnerships, lessons from regional economic integration, and the imperative to power the continent’s future sustainably. Join us in unpacking the challenges and solutions driving Africa’s progress.
 

AFRICA IN FOCUS

China’s growing presence in Africa is reshaping the continent through major investments in infrastructure, trade, and development. While these partnerships offer new opportunities, they also raise questions about debt, influence, and local impact. An expert guest shares diverse perspectives on the benefits and challenges, weighing whether China is a reliable long-term partner for Africa.

THOUGHTS FROM THE NEW SOUTH

Asian Economic Integration Led by Trade Liberalization: A Lesson for Other Regions

 

Otaviano Canuto, Hung Q. Tran

 

In a time of global trade tensions, regional integration offers a strategic path for developing countries. Asia’s experience shows how trade liberalization and regional cooperation can drive growth, resilience, and global competitiveness ; offering valuable lessons for regions like Africa and Latin America... Read more

(FR) The looming banking crisis in the WAEMU region : money is expensive and increasingly scarce

 

Seydina Alioune Ndiaye

 

Despite strong macro indicators, the BCEAO is quietly tightening liquidity. Banks are hoarding cash and reducing lending, while public debt markets show growing fragmentation. A clearer monetary strategy is urgently needed... Read more

(FR) "Facing the Shock of Reality": The Policy Center for the New South's Analysis

 

Karim El Aynaoui

 

Europe-Africa cooperation needs a more political and strategic approach. With stronger domestic resilience, African countries can better seize global opportunities. Redirecting European investment toward long-term infrastructure could lay the foundation for more balanced and sustainable partnerships... Read more

Morocco’s Rising Star and Africa’s Energy Future: New Rules for a New Game

 

Mehmet Öğütçü

 

Africa has vast energy potential but many lack access to electricity. Amid global competition, the continent must chart its own path, focusing on strong institutions, regional cooperation, and local skills ; following Morocco’s example of successful energy transformation... Read more

VOICES OF THE NEW SOUTH

Security–Development Nexus in Fragile States

 

Poverty, inequality, and climate change are driving insecurity and pushing fragile states toward militarization. Even stable nations are prioritizing defense over welfare, raising concerns about social strain. This episode questions the global rise in military spending and the role of weakened international institutions in protecting vulnerable countries...Listen

(AR) Tuesday Talk : Assessing the Free Trade Agreement between Morocco and Turkey"

 

Morocco’s trade deficit with Turkey has surpassed $3 billion in 2024, despite a revised Free Trade Agreement in 2020. This episode explores the causes of this imbalance and ways to build a more balanced partnership, with insights from Professors Larabi Jaidi and Abdelkhalek Touhami... Watch
 

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