
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="619" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762-820x619.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-446347" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762-820x619.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762-300x226.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762-119x90.jpg 119w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762-768x580.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GettyImages-1258264762.jpg 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">KIGALI, RWANDA &#8211; MAY 27: Michael Fakuade (L) of Al Ahly and Matthew Bryan-Amaning (R) of AS Douanes compete during 2023 Basketball Africa League Championship match between AS Douanes and Al Ahly at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda on May 27, 2023. (Photo by Cyrile Ndegeya/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<p>In 2024, Africa&#8217;s sports calendar is marked by an array of prominent tournaments, reflecting the continent&#8217;s enduring commitment to sports. These events, spanning various disciplines, not only highlight the athletic skill and competitive spirit prevalent across Africa but also emphasize the cultural significance of sports within the continent. Each tournament, with its unique history and contemporary relevance, contributes to a broader narrative that intertwines sports with cultural identity and regional unity.</p>



<p>In the heart of the continent&#8217;s football passion, the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), rescheduled to January 13-February 11, in the Ivory Coast, stands as a beacon of football excellence. Originating in 1957, AFCON has evolved from a modest three-team tournament to a grand stage featuring 24 countries. Its 34th edition in Ivory Coast promises a vibrant celebration of football, where careers are forged, and continental pride soars.</p>



<p>The 13th African Games, set to be held in Ghana from March 8-23 marks a milestone in the continent&#8217;s multi-sport showcase. Spanning across Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast, this event, originating in 1965, symbolizes the diversity and growth of African sports. The inclusion of sports such as squash, cricket, and rugby union in this edition reflects the evolving nature of the Games and the continent&#8217;s expanding sporting horizon.</p>



<p>Nigeria&#8217;s National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sport event for athletes from its 36 states, epitomizes the spirit of unity and cultural exchange. Established in 1973 as a post-civil war unifying force, the festival, known as the &#8216;Gateway Games,&#8217; continues to foster national unity and serves as a development platform for athletes. The dates for the 2024 edition are yet to be announced.</p>



<p>The 23rd African Men’s Handball Cup of Nations, to be hosted by Egypt from January 19-29, stands as a testament to the continent&#8217;s handball prowess. Established in 1974, this championship not only crowns the African champions but also serves as a qualifier for global tournaments, underscoring the sport&#8217;s significance and Egypt&#8217;s dominant role in it.</p>



<p>The Basketball Africa League (BAL) 2024 season, set to commence on March 9, illustrates the rising prominence of basketball in Africa. Expanding to 48 games across four countries, including South Africa, Egypt, Senegal, and Rwanda, this season reflects the sport&#8217;s evolution and the continent&#8217;s commitment to nurturing professional basketball.</p>



<p>Each of these events mirrors the diverse and dynamic essence of African sports. Far from mere athletic contests, they represent a confluence of cultural unity and competitive spirit across the continent.</p>



<p>From the lush football fields of Ivory Coast to the handball courts of Egypt, these tournaments in 2024 are more than showcases of physical prowess; they are platforms for celebrating the rich tapestry of African sportsmanship and its evolving role in the global sporting community.</p>


2023 Basketball Africa League Championship – Al Ahly v AS Douanes

The African Sporting Landscape: 2024’s Panorama Of Competitions

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<p>Bag Innovation, a Rwandan ed-tech start-up since 2017, is addressing the rising youth unemployment by enhancing education outcomes. With over 50 employees, it is aspiring to become Africa&#8217;s top job simulation platform.</p>


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Game Changers: Bag Innovation: The gateway to curbing unemployment in Rwanda

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<p>Following this week’s OMO and Treasury bills auction, the T-Bills market is trading bullish sentiments as unmet demand from the auction trickled into the market. For the bond space, the secondary market was mostly bullish for a greater part of the week with active demands seen across securities. Chuka Nwachukwu, Head of ALM and Balance Sheet Management at UBA joins CNBC Africa for more market updates.</p>


UBA: Bond market to remain bullish next week

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<p>CNBC Africa will be bringing you updates from the World Economic Forum&#8217;s 54th Annual Meetings, themed &#8220;Rebuilding Trust&#8221;, from 15-19 January 2024, live from Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.</p>
<p>Join Godfrey Mutizwa, Fifi Peters, and Kenneth Igbomor, daily for all the latest developments!<br />
Only on #cnbcafrica! #FirstInBusinessWorldWide </p>
<p>Tune into #DStv410, or www.cnbcafrica.com/live.</p>
<p>Proudly brought to you by Standard Bank Group.</p>
<p>#Wef24 #RebuildingTrust #WefBizNews</p>


54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum: We’ll See You in Davos!

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<p>The naira is losing more grounds against other global currencies with forecasts the naira will trade about 1,000 naira to the U.S. dollar at the official window for the most part of this year.  How can Nigeria stem the free fall of the naira? Dipo Ajayi, Head of Fixed Income and FX at Chapel Hill Denham joins CNBC Africa to discuss outlook for currency trading and more.</p>


What’s Nigeria’s rescue plan for the naira?

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<p>The Nigerian equities market has locked in some rounds of gain so far this year up 11.3 per cent as at the last trading. Can the market sustain this uptick in the long term and how quickly will a market correction set in? Oluwaseun Dosunmu, Head of Investment Research at Parthian Securities joins CNBC Africa for more on these.</p>


Can Nigeria’s equity market sustain rounds of gains?

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<p>Following the raise of new domestic borrowing of 7.04 trillion naira through Nigeria’s debt capital market in 2023, we take a look at Nigeria’s strategy to reduce its debt service costs. Chuka Nwachukwu, Head of ALM and Balance Sheet Management at UBA joins CNBC Africa to discuss first quarter projections and investors’ leanings at the fixed income and forex market.</p>


Harnessing Nigeria’s debt market

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<p>Saudi Arabia cut the February price of its flagship Arab Light crude to Asian customers this week following concerns about supply overhang. Meanwhile, oil is giving up some gains as Middle East supply concerns from the Israel-Hamas war weigh heavy. Kola Karim, Chairman of Shoreline Group joins CNBC Africa to discuss production and pricing dynamics at play as well as shifts in global oil architecture.</p>


Unpacking 2024 oil pricing & production dynamics

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<p>CNBC Africa puts the spotlight on tech brands that are dominating emerging markets and are showcasing their support for football through their collaborations with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). TECNO, an innovative tech brand, has been revolutionising the digital experience with its smartphones in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Africa. Its holding company is Transsion Holdings. Zanele Morrison&#8217;s three guests joined her from Singapore, Shanghai, and Cairo to speak about their role in the official sponsorship of CAF.</p>


Tech & Football: Collaborating football and technology

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<p>Rwandan-owned Akagera Medicines and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) entered a new partnership of $1.46 million to improve vaccine delivery and accessibility in Africa. The partnership will see CEPI provide the financial and technical support to demonstrate the pre-clinical proof of concept of Akagera Medicine’s innovative lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and modified mRNA for the development of a multivalent influenza vaccine.<br />
In this panel discussion, Regis Rugemanshuro, CEO of the Rwanda Social Security Board, the majority owner of Akagera Medicines and Michael Fairbanks, Chairman of the Board of Akagera Medicines explain what this milestone means for Rwanda and the continent.</p>


How Rwanda could become vaccine hub for Africa

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<p>Its the first Primary Market Auction of the year in Nigeria and T-bills investors have their attention fixed on the 56.5-billion-naira auction today. Traders at Access Bank expect market activities to remain subdued as investors adopt a wait-and-see approach. Uzor Anakebe, Treasury Team Member at Access Bank joins CNBC Africa  for more.</p>


DMO conducts ₦56.5bn T-bills auction

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<p>At the 2023 Africa Investment Forum Market days in Marrakech, participants explored ways to unlock Africa’s value chains. Join CNBC Africa on the side-lines to get some exciting insight from the founding partners and other key players working to close high-impact deals at the boardrooms of the Africa Investment Forum.</p>


2023 Africa Investment Forum Market Days: Highlights Special

Tune in tomorrow at 13h30 CAT when we connect innovation & Football! #DSTV410 #TECNOAFCON2023

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<p>Analysts at EDC Securities expect the Nigerian Exchange All Share Index to remain positive for much of the first quarter of this year as full year earnings should continue to make investors hold on to some of their positions. Solomon Ogene, Portfolio Manager at EDC Securities joins CNBC Africa to discuss investors’ sentiments and the outlook for the equities market.</p>


EDC: NGX ASI to remain positive in Q1’24


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied-800x800.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-443202" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied-800x800.jpg 800w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied-90x90.jpg 90w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Obudu-Mountain-Resort-is-in-Southern-Nigeria_-image-supplied.jpg 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p>Embarking on a journey through West Africa unveils narratives intertwined with threads of history and cultural diversity.</p>



<p>West Africa bears a historical legacy evident in countries marked by reminders of the transatlantic slave trade. Cobblestone streets and colonial architecture serve as storytellers, whispering tales of a bygone era and offering visitors an educational journey through time. This depth adds layers to the present, creating a link where each tale connects to a significant chapter in the region&#8217;s past.</p>



<p>In this exploration, CNBC Africa profiles some of the notable destinations that illuminate the charm and significance of West Africa.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-ghana-s-natural-gem-kakum-national-park"><strong>Discovering Ghana&#8217;s Natural Gem: Kakum National Park</strong></h2>



<p>Situated approximately a four-hour drive from Ghana&#8217;s capital, Accra, Kakum National Park, within the Assin Attandanso Reserve, offers a blend of scenery and wildlife experiences, making it one of the country&#8217;s most sought-after attractions.</p>



<p>&#8220;The park’s best-known feature is undoubtedly its seven suspension bridges which form a 333-meter long canopy walkway, suspended up to 27 meters above the forest floor from trees that are over 300 years old,&#8221; says the Ministry of Tourism.</p>



<p>These bridges provide an adventurous experience, offering panoramic views of the lush surroundings from trees that have stood for centuries.</p>



<p>&#8220;The canopy walk is only one of Kakum’s many delights. There are a variety of trails and guided walks that allow visitors to experience the solitude of the rainforest. It’s also a premier site for bird watchers, with over 300 species including eight species of global conservation concern. Mammals include forest elephant, leopard, bongo, bushbuck and many primates, but game viewing is difficult. Also, more than 600 butterfly species have been recorded,&#8221; adds the Ministry.</p>



<p>The park also comes alive at night with wildlife sightings, guided by professional guides.</p>



<p>To cater to families, the management has added a children&#8217;s park with a mini canopy walkway, swings, and play areas.</p>



<p>Other activities include guided forest walks to learn about medicinal plants, evening drumming and dancing by local cultural groups, and an evening concert by the local Nyamebekyere Kukyekukyeku Orchestra, which performs with bamboo wind instruments.</p>



<p>As the rainforest can surprise with rain at any time, tourists are advised to come prepared with a raincoat and sturdy shoes.</p>



<p>For those seeking an immersive stay, Kakum offers treehouse accommodations.</p>



<p>Tourists can recharge at the cafes in the visitor center, offering basic food, snacks, and fresh juices. Before departure, tourists can browse the gift shop, capturing the essence of Kakum to take home.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elevated-escapes-in-nigeria-obudu-mountain-resort"><strong>Elevated Escapes In Nigeria: Obudu Mountain Resort</strong></h2>



<p>In Southern Nigeria lies the Obudu Mountain Resort, also known as Obudu Cattle Ranch, situated on the Obudu Plateau near the Cameroon border in the northeastern part of Cross River State. Offering a blend of adventure and tranquility, it has gained popularity due to its picturesque views, rich vegetation, and temperate climate. The plateau is known to a habitat of rare species of birds.</p>



<p>Opened in 1951 by M. McCaughley, the resort features a winding intestinal road that provides zig-zag views, leading to spots such as Angel’s View — a V-shaped valley between the helipad and Presidential Villa. Another attraction is the Becheve Nature Reserve, a conservation forest with diverse flora and fauna, and the Grotto, a modified mini waterfall with a deep pool.</p>



<p>The resort boasts a canopy walkway, a 100-meter swinging bridge above the forest, and the option to reach the resort at 1,576 meters above sea level via an 11-kilometer winding road or a six-minute cable car ride.</p>



<p>For fitness enthusiasts, there is a gym to aid physical fitness. An in-house restaurant provides a three-course à-la-carte dinner with local wine or beer.</p>



<p>Additionally, there is a spa service where body and mind find balance.</p>



<p>The resort is also known for hosting the annual Obudu Ranch International Mountain Race, hailed the &#8216;World’s Richest Mountain Race&#8217;, in late November, with reportedly the largest total prize money available of any mountain race.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-living-archive-of-human-resilience-in-senegal-island-of-goree"><strong>A Living Archive Of Human Resilience In Senegal: Island Of Goreé</strong></h2>



<p>In the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, just 3.5 kilometer off the Senegalese coast, lies a 28-hectare expanse known as Gorée Island. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization&#8217;s (UNESCO) designation of this small island as a World Heritage Site in 1978 is not merely a recognition of architectural remnants; it&#8217;s a testament to an unparalleled human experience etched in the annals of history.</p>



<p>&#8220;The Island of Goree was designated a historic site in 1944, with safeguarding measures in 1951 (under the colonial era). It was subsequently inscribed on the national heritage list in 1975 (Order No. 012771 of 17 November 1975) and on the World Heritage List in 1978,&#8221; says UNESCO.</p>



<p>Gorée&#8217;s haunting past as the largest slave-trading center from the 15th to the 19th century is vividly echoed in the stark contrast between the grim slave-quarters and the elegant houses of the traders.</p>



<p>&#8220;This &#8216;memory island&#8217; is the symbol of the slave trade with its cortege of suffering, tears, and death.&#8221; The echoes of suffering reverberate through the tangible elements — the Castle, a rocky plateau with fortifications; the Relais de l’Espadon, former residence of the French governor. These are not just structures; they are storytellers narrating the history of Gorée.</p>



<p>Today, Gorée stands as a living archive, a pilgrimage destination for the African diaspora. The island&#8217;s insularity, bolstered by a natural buffer zone provided by the vast Atlantic, preserves its physical integrity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-liberia-s-largest-protected-rainforest-sapo-national-park"><strong>Liberia&#8217;s Largest Protected Rainforest: Sapo National Park</strong></h2>



<p>Sapo National Park, located in Sinoe County, Liberia, stands as the country&#8217;s largest protected rainforest area and holds the distinction of being the first national park.</p>



<p>According to the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the park boasts &#8220;centuries-old trees within whose branches over seven different species of primates, like the endangered Diana monkey, the Upper Guinea Red Colobus and Western Chimpanzee, find sanctuary.&#8221;</p>



<p>As the second-largest primary tropical rainforest in West Africa, enveloping over 90% of its expanse, the Sapo National Park supports one of the country&#8217;s most diverse floral ecosystems. This includes many endemic species, notably hosting the largest pygmy hippopotamus populations in Liberia.</p>



<p>The park is home to a plethora of bird species, featuring rare gems like the White-breasted Guineafowl and White-necked Rockfowl. With a total of 590 different species, including the African Fish Eagle, Great Blue Turaco, Specklethroated Otter, bee-eaters, kingfishers, rollers, and sunbirds, Sapo offers a haven for bird enthusiasts.</p>



<p>For avid botanists, the park presents opportunity for exploration in the ecosystem. New plant species continue to be discovered within the sanctuary of Sapo. Expert rangers accompany visitors, sharing their knowledge about local plant life and revealing some of their medicinal uses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benin-s-time-capsule-the-royal-palaces-of-abomey"><strong>Benin&#8217;s Time Capsule: The Royal Palaces Of Abomey</strong></h2>



<p>In the heart of Benin lies a silent testament to a bygone era – the Royal Palaces of Abomey. From 1625 to 1900, 12 monarchs ruled over the Kingdom of Abomey, leaving behind an architectural marvel that echoes tales of power, culture, and resistance.</p>



<p>&#8220;The kingdom shall always be made greater,&#8221; declared Wegbaja, the founder of Dahomey, setting the stage for a legacy etched in cob walls and vibrant bas-reliefs. Within the 47-hectare expanse, 12 palaces stand as sentinels of history, each a meticulous blend of Aja-Fon culture and strategic design.</p>



<p>Through the labyrinth of courtyards, portals, and fortifications, the air resonates with the stories of kings who shaped the destiny of the western coast of Africa. The palaces, once vibrant hubs of governance and craftsmanship, now house the Historical Museum of Abomey, preserving the spirit of independence and resistance against colonial forces.</p>



<p>UNESCO recognizes the Royal Palaces of Abomey for their cultural and historical significance. They are not mere structures; they are living witnesses to a glorious past that unfolded from the 17th to the 20th century. The property&#8217;s integrity stands safeguarded by a defined buffer zone, ensuring the continuity of this architectural legacy.</p>



<p>Authenticity is not lost amidst the ages; it thrives in the continuous functionality of the palaces. Traditional ceremonies and rehabilitation work resonate with the echoes of the past, sustaining the authenticity of sacred places like Djexo (hut that houses the spirit of the king) and Adoxo (tomb of the king).</p>


West Africa Unbound: The Top Travel Destinations Across The Region

Connecting Innovation & Football

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<p>For investors looking to participate in Nigeria&#8217;s debt capital markets in 2024, what are some of the key factors to consider? Dipo Ajayi, Head of Fixed Income and FX at Chapel Hill Denham Securities, joins CNBC Africa to discuss this and more.</p>


CNBC Africa

The African Sporting Landscape: 2024’s Panorama Of Competitions

Game Changers: Bag Innovation: The gateway to curbing unemployment in Rwanda

UBA: Bond market to remain bullish next week

54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum: We’ll See You in Davos!

What’s Nigeria’s rescue plan for the naira?

Can Nigeria’s equity market sustain rounds of gains?

Harnessing Nigeria’s debt market

Unpacking 2024 oil pricing & production dynamics

Tech & Football: Collaborating football and technology

How Rwanda could become vaccine hub for Africa

DMO conducts ₦56.5bn T-bills auction

2023 Africa Investment Forum Market Days: Highlights Special

Tune in tomorrow at 13h30 CAT when we connect innovation & Football! #DSTV410 #TECNOAFCON2023

EDC: NGX ASI to remain positive in Q1’24

West Africa Unbound: The Top Travel Destinations Across The Region

Connecting Innovation & Football

What’s the investment playbook for Nigeria’s debt capital market in 2024?

News Tips

Advertise With Us

CNBC Africa

The African Sporting Landscape: 2024’s Panorama Of Competitions

Game Changers: Bag Innovation: The gateway to curbing unemployment in Rwanda

UBA: Bond market to remain bullish next week

54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum: We’ll See You in Davos!

What’s Nigeria’s rescue plan for the naira?

Can Nigeria’s equity market sustain rounds of gains?

Harnessing Nigeria’s debt market

Unpacking 2024 oil pricing & production dynamics

Tech & Football: Collaborating football and technology

How Rwanda could become vaccine hub for Africa

DMO conducts ₦56.5bn T-bills auction

2023 Africa Investment Forum Market Days: Highlights Special

Tune in tomorrow at 13h30 CAT when we connect innovation & Football! #DSTV410 #TECNOAFCON2023

EDC: NGX ASI to remain positive in Q1’24

West Africa Unbound: The Top Travel Destinations Across The Region

Connecting Innovation & Football

What’s the investment playbook for Nigeria’s debt capital market in 2024?

News Tips

Advertise With Us

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