Why Pan-African investment corridors are needed?

The world is changing – and so fast that it is not waiting for Africa. In the past decade, leading economies in the West quietly shifted their global focus from the ideals of economic integration and soft power diplomacy to policies anchored on technological sovereignty, national security, and internal economic resilience.
The transition from the post-Cold War 'peace dividend' to a 'defence dividend' mindset signals a more fragmented, competitive and militarised global economy. These developments represent both a risk and opportunity for Africa.
The unfolding changes present great investment opportunities for Africa, such as emerging and old powers restructuring supply chains, looking out for new markets and sources of critical minerals and input.
The continent's abundant resources, growing markets, and youthful population position it as a promising region for long-term investors.
Multinational companies keen to reduce dependence on single-source suppliers in Asia and Europe will find Africa as an additional and strategic option.
The continent will remain a central pole in the emerging multipolar world as the global race for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and rare earths gains pace to power new technologies and energy value chains.
Despite optimism, Africa stands at a critical crossroads. Major power reorientation intersects with ongoing economic fragilities, budget cuts, increased debt challenges and political uncertainties.
Read: Will Africa's financial stability fund rise to the debt challenge?African economies already behind in the digital divide risk further marginalisation as major powers accelerate economic nationalism and seek to hoard strategic technologies.
The European Union's Green Deal Industrial Plan favours its own industries through provision of predictable regulatory framework and grant subsidies to facilitate green transition.
On the other hand, the United States of America's Inflation Reduction Act aims to bring home critical supply chains to outcompete external actors. Africa is ill prepared to prop up its own domestic industries, to navigate the raising barriers for exports from the continent.
The militarisation of the global economy is likely to motivate capital away from start-ups and Small and Medium Sized Enterprises that were power solutions for Africa to security related initiatives. It is a wakeup call for Africa.
Time is ripe for the continent to accelerate its brilliant plans developed over decades. The plans include the Lagos Plan of Action, The New Economic Partnership for African Development (Nepad) and the African Union Agenda 2063 to drive economic development.
The African Continental Free Trade Area promises to create one of the world's largest markets of over 1.4 billion people. Africa must rethink its development models away from aid dependency to catalysing productivity and domestic revenue mobilisation.
The continent must strengthen regional economic blocks as strategic building nodes for the continental free trade area. An intentional and deliberate investment in the youthful demographics to gain access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, local innovation hubs and participate in research and development.
Read: Future of business in Africa will be shaped by partnershipsAfrica's future growth is closely tied to its ability to integrate markets by leveraging the regional economic communities such as Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), Southern African Development Community (SADC), East African Community (EAC) and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa).
The African Union (AU) should create pan-African investment corridors rather than the current individual nation-state approaches. The region should articulate a continental doctrine for security engagement based on a pan-African security strategy to resist fragmented bilateral defence deals.
As global investors reallocate capital to the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aligned portfolios, Africa offers compelling opportunity in its renewable assets. Africa's wakeup call is an invitation to investors both local and international who are willing and ready to take a long-term view to build partnerships, as well as align with the continent's ambitions to tap into demographic growth, resource abundance, digital transformation and regional integration. For this to work, Africa must initiate a multipolar balancing act that leverages competition for maximum benefit.
© Copyright 2022 Nation Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

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Dubai real estate: How to buy property for $545

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The Dubai Land Department (DLD) issues Property Token Ownership Certificates, linking the digital shares to official land records and ensuring legal recognition. 'The process is surprisingly straightforward,' P.P. Varghese, Head of Professional Services at Cushman & Wakefield Core told Arabian Business. The process includes: Access the platform: Visit with a valid UAE ID Browse properties: Investors can access comprehensive property details, ranging from pricing, risk factors, and technical specifications to the minimum investment required Make investment: Purchase tokenized shares starting from just AED 2,000 ($545) Complete transaction: All transactions are carried out exclusively in UAE Dirhams, with no use of cryptocurrencies during the pilot phase Receive tokens: Title deeds are tokenized on the XRP Ledger network, with direct integration to Dubai's land registry However, ownership is recorded through two layers: blockchain-based digital wallets provided by the platform, and legal documentation issued by the DLD. 'Buyers hold their tokens in digital wallets provided by the licensed platform. At the same time, the DLD steps in to make the ownership official ensuring that ownership is both securely recorded online and legally protected offline,' Zacky Sajjad, Director of Business Development at Cavendish Maxwell said. This ensures that token holders' rights are enforceable under Dubai law, and that the digital record is always backed by a legally recognised title deed. Why was Dubai real estate tokenization launched? The initiative was developed by VARA, the DLD, the UAE Central Bank, and the Dubai Future Foundation. 'Dubai's launch of the first licensed tokenised real estate project in the MENA region marks a pivotal moment,' Adela Mues, Partner at Reed Smith said. 'This initiative is not simply a technological experiment; it is a comprehensive reimagining of how real estate can be accessed, traded, and governed.' VARA oversees all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) across most of Dubai, excluding DIFC. These providers must comply with strict KYC and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards. 'VARA enforces a stringent compliance framework,' Sajjad explained, adding that licensed VASPs conduct due diligence, identify beneficial owners, monitor transactions, and report suspicious activity. VASPs must also retain transaction records for at least eight years, ensuring transparency and regulatory oversight, he said. However, the entry point is a key feature. 'In Dubai's expensive property market where average villa prices hit AED 6 million ($1.6 million), the AED 2,000 ($545) minimum investment represents a 99.97 per cent reduction in entry costs' Varghese said, adding that his opens premium real estate to investors previously priced out of the market. 'The structure appeals primarily to smaller retail investors,' he explained. 'Tokenization democratizes access, allowing middle-class or retail investors to own fractions of premium properties.' According to Sajjad, this model targets investors who are either unable or unwilling to purchase properties outright. Ownership per individual is capped at 20 per cent of any single property. Mues further outlined several advantages of tokenised investment compared to traditional buying. 'One of the most transformative benefits of tokenised real estate is the ability to split property into fractional shares, greatly improving liquidity in a traditionally illiquid market,' she said, adding that these tokens can be traded on secondary markets, offering flexibility in exiting positions. Additionally, lower capital requirements are another major advantage. This approach allow younger generations to 'get on the property ladder' in a very different and more accessible way than their parents, Mues said. Moreover, transaction speed is also improved. 'Smart contracts and digital workflows used on tokenised real estate platforms to automate verification and execution of deals do away with the need for involving numerous intermediaries in the real estate transaction process,' she noted. Another advantage is that transparency and security are built into the blockchain infrastructure. 'Every token transaction is recorded on an immutable distributed ledger, bringing a level of transparency and security to real estate deals that traditional methods have struggled to match,' Mues said, adding that blockchain's cryptographic protocols address fraud risks and create a single, verifiable 'source of truth.' How much does it cost to invest in tokenized Dubai property? Investing in tokenised property comes with defined costs. According to Sajjad, investors pay a 2 per cent fee on the amount invested, a 1 per cent exit fee when selling, and a 0.5 per cent annual management fee. 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'Dubai's pilot represents a critical first step, but mainstream adoption requires addressing the fundamental liquidity challenges that have plagued tokenized real estate platforms, alongside continued regulatory support, technological improvements, and broader market education globally,' he said. Mues believes the long-term implications could be far-reaching. 'Dubai is clearly positioning itself at the forefront of integrating crypto and blockchain technology into the real estate sector. It is not hard to imagine a future Dubai where the majority, If not all real estate transactions will occur on secure blockchain systems, involving the use of smart contracts and digital land registries, alongside tokenisation of title (whether fractionalised or not),' she said, adding that legal changes will likely define how smart contracts can constitute binding agreements. Echoing the sentiment, Sajjad said: 'Dubai and the UAE is always at the forefront of embracing cutting-edge technologies and with a dynamic, multinational and growing population, this is likely to be a significant segment of the market in the future.' 'While still in its early stages, Dubai's strategic positioning, openness to digital innovation, and investor-friendly climate suggest that real estate tokenistion has the potential to become a major investment channel in the region, for both local and international retail investors,' he concluded.

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GROUNDED LEADERSHIP Coventry made it clear that her leadership will not be rooted in authority, but in consensus and a collaborative, human-centred vision: 'In both my personal and professional career, I've always had incredible people around me to keep me grounded and humble; those are people whom I will continue to keep around me.' She added: 'Values are at the core of our daily business, they're incredibly important in today's communities, and I hold this very close to my heart.' WHY IOC FORUMS MATTER Replying to a question from Japan's Wakako Yuki on the role of IOC Forums in attribute Conventry's vision as president, "I have a vision that I would like to see, but I want to do it in a collaborative way. The Athletes Forum, eSport, Olympism365, the two ASOIF and WOF General Assemblies have been great platforms to listen to people, to hear topics that are important to them." 2ND MEDIA ROUNDTABLE IN SIGHT Coventry announced that immediately following the IOC Session on June 23-24, she has invited members to stay for a two-day 'pause and reflect' workshop, an opportunity for honest dialogue about the IOC's challenges and future direction: "I've invited the IOC members to stay two extra days so that I can hear what is on their mind and what they see as our opportunities and what they may see as our challenges, as we move into the future and come up with different ideas. This is the first point in a longer consultation process with all stakeholders, including yourselves as media, where we'll create another round table where I'll get to ask you all a bunch of questions. That will strengthen the Olympic movement in a collaborative way." VALUES CARRIED TO IOC PRESIDENCY Nadine Hassan from Jordan asked Kirsty, looking back on her journey, from Olympic champion to minister and now IOC President, which moments off the podium had the greatest impact in shaping the person she is today? "I'll need a moment to properly reflect on this. I think I'd have to go back to my roots. Growing up in Zimbabwe played a huge role. It's a small community in many ways. We're a big country geographically, but we're just 15 million people, and we lean on each other. "I think that kind of upbringing, maybe a bit more sheltered, surrounded by strong values and close-knit support, helped me understand the importance of having grounded, humble, genuine people around me. And it's those people who've consistently reminded me of where I come from. That's been one of the most powerful influences throughout my journey. CHALLENGES, AND DIFFICULT MEN.. New York Times reporter Tariq Panja referenced Coventry's previous remarks about dealing with 'difficult men.' She smiled knowingly and recounted the pressures she faced as a young Olympic medallist representing Zimbabwe during politically turbulent times: "As athletes, we had a lot of pressure coming from different government officials in Zimbabwe, and you know, it was hard. To look at others and trying to say, I'm an athlete, I don't believe in the politics in sport. I want to just focus on performing well," She said, without names mentioned, 'Looking back now, it taught me a lot about how to work with people, how to be respectful of differing opinions and still move forward on a shared agenda." WOMEN SUPPORT WOMEN USA's Rachel Axon asked, How has your career been shaped by other women at various career points, adding the gender equality initiatives to your role as female IOC President. Conventry highlighted the women who shaped her path, from her mother and grandmother to her university head swim coach, even Olympic trailblazers like Donna de Varona: She said,"My grandfather passed away when Mom was in her late teens. And so my grandmother was a single mom for most of her life, with three kids, and both were just incredibly strong women who raised families, and I think my mom's pretty great, and my uncle and aunt. She did a great job, but she also had a successful career in fashion. My mum got to see her doing that, so she was always an incredible role model for my sister and I." She adds: "My swim coach, Kim, who became a Division I coach while her husband was deployed overseas, with two very young kids, watching how she balanced that was inspiring. When we were preparing for the 2004 Olympics, her eldest came to Athens as a baby.. Again, I've been fortunate in my life to have very strong women around me who have shown me that it's possible. It's not always easy, but it's possible," noting her hope to pay that inspiration forward, especially for her two daughters. AFRICAN HERITAGE A question from China's Mandan Zhu touched on Coventry's rich international background and the impact of her African heritage, coming from Harare to Lausanne as a little girl with big dreams,"I can remember exactly where I was standing in my parents' living room. I was still in my swimsuit, feeling cold after swimming in the pool, only to stand in front of the TV and watch divers compete. I would say that there's never a dream too big. "You know, where there is a will to achieve, there's a way. And don't let someone talk you out of having that dream of what could be the best thing that happens to you. It's quite powerful." WEIGHT OF BEING 'FIRST' British journalist Jamie Gardner asked Coventry about the significance of becoming the IOC's first female president at this particular moment in history. While she admitted it wasn't something she initially focused on, the outpouring of messages from women around the world has since left a powerful mark: 'I had a coworker tell me that his mum said, 'Never in my lifetime did I think I'd see a woman lead the movement you work for.'' That moment, she admitted, hit her deeply. 'It's not just an exciting day, it's a day with a lot of responsibility.' FROM SYDNEY TO BRISBANE Australia, particularly the Sydney 2000 Games, remains a defining touchstone for Coventry's Olympic journey. Asked about her journey coming full circle, from a wide-eyed young swimmer at Sydney 2000 to President for Brisbane 2032, Coventry shared a funny tale about struggling to put on her first Speedo sharkskin suit, helped up by none other than Australian legend Susie O'Neill: 'When we arrived in Sydney, I went into the changing room to try my Speedo suit on, and it turned into a total disaster. I had one leg in, was struggling to get the other in, lost my balance completely, and toppled over. Mortifying. Then this amazing person next to me leans down to help, and as I look up, I realise… It's Susie. I never forget that moment because she was a role model to me, those Games, changed everything for me,' she recalled. 'Now I hope Brisbane will show the world the warmth and passion of Australia, and inspire the next generations like Sydney did for me.' LIFTING VOICES As the media roundtable with IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry progressed, her clarity of purpose sharpened further. In a movement often shaped by the world's most powerful nations, Coventry made a point of bringing attention to her roots, and how they shape her priorities: 'I come from a much smaller NOC, a developing country,' she said of Zimbabwe. 'And I understand the challenges our athletes face. How do we close that gap? How do we ensure that athletes from all walks of life, if not with the same opportunities, at least have equal opportunities?' Coventry affirms that she intends to elevate voices often left on the margins. Her presidency, she hinted, will focus as much on inclusion as it will on innovation. LEARNING FROM YOUNG GENERATIONS Perhaps the most poignant reminder of who Coventry is, and who she intends to be as IOC President, came when she spoke about her own children. 'They're a daily reminder of our responsibility to keep sport relevant, and to listen, really listen, to what young people think is important. Kids are honest,' she said with a smile. 'And sometimes that's a very good thing.' Her two young daughters, she explained, are constant reminders that sport must remain relevant and engaging for younger generations. Despite the gravity of her new role, Coventry remains adamant about keeping her family grounded: 'We won't be staying in the Lausanne Palace. I want my kids to grow up doing the same things I did, making their beds, doing house chores, and just being kids.' ROAD AHEAD As Kirsty Coventry prepares to officially assume the role on June 23, her message is one of optimism, inclusivity, and integrity. With the weight of history on her shoulders and the wind of lived experience at her back, she is poised not just to lead the Olympic Movement but to reshape it for the modern age, starting by one athlete, one story, one honest conversation at a time. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Sports Press Association (AIPS).

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10 hours ago

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UAE real estate: 6 major hotspots to invest in right now, delivering 9% returns

The UAE's real estate sector recorded transactions worth over AED 239 billion (approximately $65 billion) in the first quarter of 2024, according to official figures. Property consultancy Whitewill has identified six locations drawing investor attention during the summer period. According to the analysis, the market favours projects combining lifestyle, location, and financial returns. 1. Dubai Creek Harbour Dubai Creek Harbour continues to generate demand from buyers seeking waterfront properties with access to Downtown Dubai. The development features master-planned waterfront living with green spaces and views of the Dubai Creek Tower. Waterfront apartments in the area start at AED1.45 million, whilst luxury villas exceed AED5 million. The location delivers rental yields between 6 per cent and 6.8 per cent with consistent appreciation rates. The Albero at Green Gate development by AHAD represents a low-rise project within the high-rise zone, offering landscaped privacy and smart layouts designed for end-users. 2. Al Marjan Island Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah has experienced increased demand, particularly ahead of the upcoming Wynn Resort development. The resort will transform the area into a hospitality hub with gaming and entertainment facilities. Property prices begin at AED585,000 for apartments, with ultra-luxury homes reaching AED30 million and above. The location provides rental yields of 8 per cent to 9 per cent and above, with some areas recording over 20 per cent year-on-year appreciation. SORA by AARK exemplifies current developments with hotel-style amenities, sea views, and curated interiors. 3. Business Bay Business Bay continues attracting buyers focused on income-generating assets in central Dubai. The area combines proximity to the Dubai International Financial Centre and Downtown Dubai with access to the Dubai Canal. Studios and one to two-bedroom apartments average AED1.4 million, delivering yields between 6 per cent and 7 per cent with strong resale demand. The Waldorf Astoria Residences provides a branded address combining high-end services with practical living standards. 4. Abu Dhabi Yas Island Yas Island in Abu Dhabi draws buyers seeking leisure amenities alongside family appeal and short-stay rental opportunities. The island features theme parks, golf courses, marinas, and cultural attractions within a planned residential setting. Villas average AED 4.5 million, with apartments priced between AED1.2 million and AED3.8 million. Yields remain steady at 6.5 per cent to 7 per cent. The Waldorf Astoria Yas Island offers waterfront living backed by a hospitality brand. 5. Dubai South Dubai South attracts investors seeking affordability aligned with UAE infrastructure development. The location sits near the planned Al Maktoum Airport International Airport expansion, logistics hubs, and Expo 2020 legacy infrastructure. Off-plan units start at AED 800,000, with projected value growth of 15 per cent to 25 per cent by 2030 and rental returns between 6 per cent and 8 per cent. Al Waha in Expo City features a wellness-focused, car-free community design in the innovation hub. 6. Jumeirah Village Circle Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) remains popular with buyers seeking strong yields without compromising lifestyle elements. The area provides rental income and resident satisfaction. Apartments begin at AED 650,000 and entry-level villas at AED 1.6 million, offering yields between 7 per cent and 8.6 per cent. Consistent rental demand makes the district suitable for first-time investors. Havelock Heights by HMB delivers boutique living with rooftop amenities and rental potential. 'While each area is unique, Al Marjan Island and Dubai South hold exceptional long-term promise. The former is becoming the UAE's entertainment capital with hospitality-led growth, while the latter is powered by airport expansion, creating a foundation for sustained capital growth and end-user migration. Both represent early-stage opportunities in rapidly maturing ecosystems—a perfect fit for investors with vision. While Dubai Creek Harbour and Yas Island remain strong lifestyle markets, the real long-term multiplier effect will come from assets in these high-conviction, underpenetrated districts where supply is still limited and strategic government investment is ongoing,' Whitewill said in a statement.