Two days, three leaders and a tricky transition for Burkina Faso

In 48 hours, Burkina Faso went through three leaders following Blaise Compaore’s ouster, including rival claims to power by two military men for a few hours. In the end, the junior officer won. But can he steer the country on the road to democracy?

Two Religions under One Roof: Pointers for the Central African Republic

The Burkina Faso blueprint bears keeping in mind as the CAR looks to peace and reconciliation.

Embracing a New Transatlantic Narrative on Africa

A young, increasingly educated, and innovative generation is seeking to change traditional patterns of economic and social development.

Who's the most attractive partner for Africa? All of them.

In whatever state Europe eventually emerges from its credit crisis, its constituents will need to realign themselves with the parts of the world that are growing. Increasingly, that’s Africa.

US Senate Committee hearing on China in Africa

The US and other western powers should stop worrying about whether the Chinese model is fair. That is up to Africa to decide. African success over the past decade should be the focus of attention.

China and the west work best together in Africa

Western criticisms of China’s engagement are becoming increasingly tired as African governments, and even western multinationals queue up to work with China

The bumpy road ahead...

Each month, this blog will feature examples of the continuing threat to press freedom around the world as well as stories from the African continent.

Market Forces

While traders and journalists complain that Chinese goods are bad for Africa, it seems the African consumer simply doesn’t agree.

Pet Hates, Dragons and Bio-fuel

Henry Hall explains his aversion to the rhetoric of the dragon in Africa, and why land grabs aren't just a Chinese phenomena.

Clinton's Comments Explained

There has been a great deal of comment in Africa about Hilary Clinton’s statement made in Nairobi regarding China’s role on the continent. Here I explain why she doesn't really mean it.