Business
African Business and Human Rights Forum Pushes for Accountability
The 4th African Business and Human Rights Forum, held in Lusaka, Zambia (7–9 October), brought together governments, civil society, and corporate leaders to advance responsible business conduct. Discussions focused on remedy and reparations frameworks, corporate accountability, and aligning African markets with international human rights and environmental standards africa.unglobalcompact.org OHCHR. The forum underscored the need for businesses to integrate sustainability and transparency into their operations as Africa’s regulatory landscape evolves.
Technology
Digital Infrastructure and AI Expansion
Across the continent, governments are prioritizing digital transformation to boost competitiveness. Analysts highlight that AI adoption, fintech growth, and renewable‑powered data centers are reshaping Africa’s tech ecosystem. With global investors increasingly targeting African digital infrastructure, the challenge remains ensuring affordable access and data sovereignty for local populations Africa Practice.
Human Rights
Press Freedom and Corporate Responsibility
Human rights advocates continue to spotlight press freedom and journalist safety, particularly in countries facing political instability. The Lusaka forum also emphasized the role of businesses in upholding human rights due diligence and supporting workers’ rights. Meanwhile, civil society groups are pressing for stronger protections for journalists, activists, and marginalized communities, warning that impunity for abuses undermines democratic governance africa.unglobalcompact.org OHCHR.
Geopolitics
Youth Movements and Political Change
A new analysis highlights the growing influence of Africa’s Gen Z, who make up nearly half of the continent’s population. Youth‑led protests across sub‑Saharan Africa are increasingly challenging entrenched leadership, signaling a potential reshaping of political landscapes well before 2050. Analysts warn that without meaningful economic opportunities, disillusioned youth could either drive democratic reform or fuel instability Foreign Policy Research Institute.
At the same time, African states are exercising greater geopolitical agency, leveraging platforms such as BRICS and the G20 to amplify their voice in global governance. The South African presidency of the G20 in 2025 is expected to further highlight African priorities on climate, trade, and energy transition Africa Practice.
Security
UN Warns of Rising Conflict Risks
The United Nations has cautioned that Africa faces unprecedented security threats, with conflicts exacerbated by weak state authority, violent extremism, and climate‑related pressures. Speaking at the UN Security Council, Parfait Onanga‑Anyanga, the UN Special Representative to the African Union, stressed that military solutions alone cannot resolve conflicts, urging a preventive and cooperative approach between the UN and AU UN News.
Outlook
Africa’s trajectory in 2025 reflects both immense opportunity and pressing challenges. Economic growth, digital innovation, and rising youth activism are reshaping the continent’s future, while conflict prevention, human rights protections, and governance reforms remain urgent priorities.
Sources: UN News UN News; UN Global Compact africa.unglobalcompact.org; OHCHR OHCHR; Foreign Policy Research Institute Foreign Policy Research Institute; Africa Practice Africa Practice.
