Tag: Africa

The African tech landscape is preparing for a landmark moment as the Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2025 comes to Kigali, Rwanda, from November 7 to 9, 2025. Billed as the continent’s first major festival merging artificial intelligence (AI innovation in Africa) and blockchain startups and innovation, the event is designed to shift Africa’s role in global technology from consumer to innovator.

Africa’s Tech Future

Hosted at the Kigali Convention Centre, the festival carries the theme: “Africa’s AI innovation in Africa & Blockchain Renaissance: From Tech Consumers to Global Innovators.” With Rwanda championing digital transformation, the government’s endorsement of ABF underscores its vision of positioning the country as a leading African hub for innovation and fintech development.

High-Profile Speakers and Global Voices

The festival will feature a diverse lineup of policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. Confirmed speakers include:

• Paula Ingabire – Rwanda’s Minister of ICT
• Dr. Emomotimi Agama – Director General, Nigeria’s SEC
• Alex Ntale – CEO of Rwanda ICT Chamber
• Michelle Chivunga – Founder of Global Policy House
• Fisayo Fosudo – Nigerian tech creator
• Delppy – Ghanaian digital voice
• Shameera Akbar & Ayesha Bayat – Co-founders of DigiYouth Africa, South Africa

Africa Blockchain Festival 2025

• Conference & Exhibition: Over 5,000 developers, investors, policymakers, and innovators will gather for panels, demos, and product showcases.
• Startup Pitch Competitions: Emerging African blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa startups will compete for visibility and funding.
• Hackathons & Workshops: Developers and students will engage in hands-on sessions exploring practical applications of AI innovation in Africa and blockchain startups and innovation.
• Creative Industry Track: Dedicated panels on how blockchain startups and innovation can revolutionize music, film, art, and intellectual property.
• Networking & Cultural Events: Deal rooms, VIP lounges, innovation tours, and a closing gala to connect innovators across borders.

RwandAir is partnering with the festival to offer flight discounts of 20% on business class and 15% on economy for attendees across Africa.

The Africa Blockchain Festival 2025 (Kigali blockchain startups and innovation event) represents more than a gathering, it is a defining moment for Africa’s digital economy. By merging blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa discussions under one roof, it sets the stage for policies, partnerships, and innovations that could shape the continent’s future in fintech, governance, and creative industries.

The South African Music Awards 2025 (SAMA31) have officially unveiled their nominations, spotlighting the best in South African music across genres such as amapiano, afro pop, hip hop, jazz, gospel, rock, and traditional music. Scheduled for November 2025, the awards will recognize both established stars and rising voices, while also celebrating African artists through the Rest of Africa Award.

The Rest of Africa Award brings continental powerhouses into the mix, including Wizkid, Tems, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy DML.

These nominations emphasize the diversity and global influence of South African music, while also aligning the SAMAs as a continental benchmark for excellence.

Full List of SAMA 2025 Nominees

Best Adult Contemporary Album

• Just 6 – uKhisimusi – An African Christmas
• Melanie Scholtz – Seven
• Tony Drake – Room For Everyone
• Nue Sam – Nonyezi
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best African Adult Contemporary Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Zoe Modiga – Nomthandazo
• Ndu Shezi – Isibusiso Sami
• Mthuthu – Indumiso YabeNguni

Best Afro Pop Album

• Nomfundo Moh – Twenty Four
• Malik – Malik
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Sjava – Inkanyezi (Live)
• Dalom Kids – Collaborations With Friends

Best Alternative Album

• Yoav & Jabulile Majola – Unyazi
• Zādok – Perspective: Black
• Francis Soal – Hindsight 2020
• Th&o – Emlotheni
• Spoegwolf – Berge

Best Amapiano Album

• Vigro Deep – Your Piano Is Not My Piano
• Kelvin Momo – Sewe
• Kelvin Momo – Ntsako
• Mellow & Sleazy – Midnight in Sunnyside
• Zee Nxumalo – Inja Ye Game

Best Classical/Instrumental Album

• John Lundun – In the Morning
• Chris Vale, Eugene Joubert, Franco Prinsloo, MarlizeHattingh – By Alle Skone Dinge
• Derek Gripper – Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper
• Vox Chamber Choir & Franco Prinsloo – A Season in Paradise
• Orecchiette – Awake for 22 Hours

Best Collaboration

• Kelvin Momo – Waze Wamuhle
• Black Motion – Takala
• Kususa – Ematshwaleni
• Matt Davies – Stay With Me
• Mas Musiq, Lawd Weezy & DJ Maphorisa ft TO Starquality, Chley & Kabza De Small – Amalanga

Best Dance Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Dlala Thukzin – FINALLY FAMOUS TOO
• MÖRDA – Cr4zy!!..
• Shimza – Dreaming
• Caiiro – Caiiro

Best Engineered Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Keenan Meyer – Reawakening
• Jeremy Loops – Feathers & Stone

Best Gqom Album

• Mr Thela – Tronics Land 3
• DJ Lag – The Rebellion
• Goldmax – Play At Your Own Risk
• DJ Sandiso – NANDE 3.0
• Lelowhatsgood – Next Level

Best Hip Hop Album

• Blxckie – See U Soon Delux
• Tony Dayimane – Red October: Induction
• Loatinover Pounds – Pray 4 Pitori
• Sizwe Alakine – Audio 2D; Dear Darkie
• 25K – Loyal To The Plug: The Life & Times of Don Kilograms

Best Jazz Album

• Nduduzo Makhathini – uNomkhubulwane
• Nick Ford – Terra Solus
• Nomfundo Xaluva – Ndilapha
• Last – Hope Dies Last
• Ncesh Nonxishi – Apho Kungenje

Best Maskandi Album

• Umafikizolo – Ngathi Nguye
• Phuzekhemisi – iPolotiki
• Khuzani – Angidlali Nezingane
• Ntencane – Alingeni
• Imithente – Amathambo Kagogo

Best Produced Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Qü – Reprise on 2nd Avenue
• Linda Sikhakhane – iLadi

Best Produced Music Video

• Soa Mattrix – Umbuzo
• MaWhoo & Mthandeni SK – Gucci
• TitoM & Yuppe – Tshwala Bam (Remix)
• Blxckie – South
• Shekhinah ft Moliy – Risk

Best R&B/Soul Album

• Mikhalé Jones – Too Many Promises
• Elaine – Stone Cold Heart
• Filah Lah Lah – On Air
• Clxrity – It’s Clear To See
• The Big Hash – Heartbreak Hotel (Deluxe)

Best Reggae Album

• Dread Lloyd – Mekwei
• Anela Jahmena – The Rise
• Dimahr – Flaws in Frame
• LUWE DA LION – After All
• Botanist – Area Code

Best Rock Album

• Bloumoord – VIR MEKAAR
• MaxX & Love – These Blues Might Get You Too
• Prime Circle – The World We Know
• The Man Motels – Old Wounds
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best Traditional Faith Music Album

• Betusile – Uyinqaba Yam (Jehovah Nissi)
• David Tebogo – The Journey (Part 1)
• Malusi Mbokazi – The Full Circle Revival
• Rofhiwa Manyaga – Rofhiwa Dzina
• Ayanda Ntanzi – According to Grace, A One Man Show

Best Traditional Music Album

• Keitumetse Mangate Production – moleele
• MmaAusi – Mmakgodu
• Makhadzi Entertainment – Miracle Child (Deluxe)
• Sabu Jiyana – Kwanomthandazo
• Pleasure Tsa Manyalo – Bakokota (EP)

Beste Kontemporêre Musiek Album

• Pietman Geldenhuys – Vaalsand
• Ampie – Niemandsland
• Spoegwolf – Eindbestemming
• Neil Sandilands – Land & Sand
• Majo – Geraamtes

Remix of the Year

• TitoM – Tshwala Bam
• Woodblock DJs – Skuta Baba
• Jnr SA – Mngani
• Tycoon – Iza Mawala
• Mpho.Wav – Hlala

Rest of Africa Award

• Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21
• Bensoul – The Party & After Party
• Wizkid – Morayo
• Tems – Born In The Wild
• Fireboy DML – Adedamola

Best African Indigenous Faith Album

• Wacha Mkhukhu Wachumlilo – Re Kgoeletsa Magodimong
• JTG Gospel Choir – Morena Re Ya Leboga
• House Of Mercy – Busa Jeso
• Barongoa Ba Morena – Ikutana
• Di Bruin Gospel Projects – Nkapese Ka Maatla

Best Contemporary Faith Music Album

• SbuNoah – Heavenly Psalms – Level 2 (Live at Goshen City Church 2023)
• Nontokozo Mkhize – Lindiwe
• Mmangaliso – Living Word
• Jabu Hlongwane – Crosspower Experience 4
• Takie Ndou – The Glory

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2025 nominations are out, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With 343 nominees across 40 categories, this year’s edition highlights Africa’s biggest icons, rising talents, and diaspora voices shaping global music culture.

AFRIMA 2025 made history with 10,717 entries, the highest in its 12-year existence. After a rigorous 10-day screening by a 13-member international jury, the final nominees list was unveiled, representing all five African regions and the diaspora. The award ceremony will run from November 25 to 30, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, culminating in the main event on November 30. Fans will also have their say when public voting opens on September 10 via the official AFRIMA website.

Artists with the Most Nominations

Five Nominations Each

• Burna Boy (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (No Sign of Weakness), Song of the Year, Artiste of the Year
• Davido (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (5ive), Best Collaboration, Song of the Year
• DJ Maphorisa (South Africa) – Key nods in production and collaboration categories
• El Grande Toto (Morocco) – Album of the Year (Salgoat), Best Male Artist North Africa
• Mia Guissé (Senegal)
• Moliy (Ghana) – Leading the female Afropop charge

Four Nominations

• Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for “Laho”
• Amr Diab (Egypt)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Tyla (South Africa) – Riding global fame with Amapiano fusion
• Uncle Waffles (Eswatini) – Reinforcing female dominance in the DJ scene

Three Nominations

• Ipupa (DRC)
• Ferre Gola (DRC)
• Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Eboloko (Gabon)
• Emma’a (Gabon)
• Jaylann (Morocco)
• Juma Jux (Tanzania) – Song of the Year for “Ololufe mi”
• Mawhoo (South Africa)
• Nasty C (South Africa)
• Rema (Nigeria) – Also contending for Artiste of the Year

Two Nominations

• Ayra Starr (Nigeria) – Facing Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema in the Artiste of the Year category

AFRIMA 2025 extends beyond the continent, celebrating African talent abroad. Notable nominees include:

Male: DJ Snake, Niska, Tayc, Tiakola, Odeal
Female: Aya Nakamura, Darkoo, Deborah Lukalu, Faouzia, Ronisia

The 2025 AFRIMA nominations prove once again that African music is not just thriving, it’s leading global soundscapes. With icons like Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema battling it out alongside rising stars like Shallipopi, Moliy, and Ayra Starr, this year’s awards promise unforgettable moments. As voting begins on September 10, fans will play a crucial role in deciding who takes home Africa’s biggest music honors.

Open TikTok anytime and chances are you’ll come across Nigerian-related content. Jump into the comment section of a non-Nigerian creator and you’re likely to find Nigerians there too, dropping jokes, slang, and reactions that sometimes outshine the video itself.
Nigeria has quietly become one of TikTok’s most influential hubs, not just in Africa but worldwide. And now, people from across the globe are deliberately leaning on Nigerian culture and audiences to boost their own visibility.

TikTok has become the world’s stage for creativity, and few countries have embraced the platform as vibrantly as Nigeria. From dance challenges to comedy skits, Nigerian creators have not only captured local audiences but also shaped global trends. Yet behind the virality lies a curious dynamic: people from other parts of the world are deliberately targeting Nigerian users to farm engagement.

Nigeria’s Rise on TikTok

Nigeria stands out as one of TikTok’s fastest-growing markets in Africa. With more than 60% of its population under the age of 25, the country provides a young, digitally active audience hungry for content. Afrobeats, Nigeria’s most popular cultural export, has become a global soundtrack on the app, pulling millions into dances and remixes that often begin on Nigerian soil.

For TikTok’s algorithm, which favors quick and heavy interaction, Nigerian activity is gold. The country’s users comment, share, and like at strikingly high rates, boosting the visibility of videos in record time. This engagement has turned Nigeria into an unlikely hub for creators around the world who want fast traction on their content.

Farming Engagement: How Global Creators Tap In

Across continents, creators are increasingly tailoring content with Nigerians in mind. The methods vary:

1. Using Afrobeats tracks to ride viral sound trends.
2. Recreating Nigerian dance steps or comedy skits for global audiences.
3. Hashtag targeting, where foreign creators push their content under Nigerian-related tags.

The result is often predictable, Nigerian users engagement is massive, pushing these creators’ videos higher in TikTok’s discovery feed and sometimes to worldwide visibility.

This dynamic has sparked debate: is the global adoption of Nigerian content a form of cultural appreciation, or is it another example of extraction where others profit off creativity without acknowledgment?

Nigerians are not just participants in the TikTok ecosystem; they are the spark that powers it. Our creativity has fueled global trends, soundtracked millions of videos, and reshaped how audiences interact with short-form content.

When African nations began gaining independence in the mid-20th century, many saw renaming as an important act of reclaiming identity. Countries such as the Gold Coast became Ghana (1957), Upper Volta became Burkina Faso (1984), and French Sudan became Mali (1960), all in a bid to restore indigenous pride.

However, not all states chose to abandon their colonial names. Some retained them due to global recognition, deep geographical links, or because the names were already widely accepted. Below is a look at African countries that kept their colonial-era names, with details on their independence year and colonial rulers.

Nigeria

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, was a key British colony in West Africa. Its name, however, was coined by a British journalist rather than drawn from indigenous origins.

Colonial Name: Nigeria (from ‘Niger Area,’ coined by Flora Shaw in 1897)
Colonizer: Britain
Independence: October 1, 1960

Kenya

Kenya, home to rich wildlife reserves and diverse ethnic groups, was a British colony that became a central hub of East Africa. Its name is tied to its highest peak, Mount Kenya.

Colonial Name: Kenya (derived from Mount Kenya, from Kikuyu ‘Kirinyaga’)
Colonizer: Britain
Independence: December 12, 1963

Uganda

Uganda, often called the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ was named after the Buganda Kingdom, one of its most influential pre-colonial states. The British mispronounced Buganda as Uganda, and the name stuck.

Colonial Name: Uganda (from Buganda Kingdom)
Colonizer: Britain
Independence: October 9, 1962

Cameroon

Cameroon’s name dates back to Portuguese explorers who discovered a river teeming with prawns and named it Rio dos Camarões. The territory later passed through German, French, and British control.

Colonial Name: Cameroon (from Portuguese ‘Rio dos Camarões’ – River of Prawns)
Colonizer: Germany, Britain & France
Independence: 1 January, 1960/ 1 October, 1961 

Gabon

Gabon, situated along the Atlantic coast of Central Africa, derived its name from the Portuguese word for cloak, describing the estuary’s shape. It remained a French colony until independence.

Colonial Name: Gabon (from Portuguese ‘Gabão’ – cloak-shaped estuary)
Colonizer: France
Independence: August 17, 1960

Senegal

Senegal, with its strategic location on the Atlantic coast, was a major French colonial center. Its name comes from the Senegal River, a lifeline for the country’s people.

Colonial Name: Senegal (from Senegal River, Wolof origin, adapted by traders)
Colonizer: France
Independence: April 4, 1960

Chad

Chad, a landlocked nation in Central Africa, took its name from Lake Chad, one of Africa’s largest freshwater bodies. The French adopted the local Kanuri term ‘Tshad,’ meaning lake.

Colonial Name: Chad (from Lake Chad, ‘Tshad’ meaning ‘lake’ in Kanuri)
Colonizer: France
Independence: August 11, 1960

Niger

Niger, a Sahelian country named after the Niger River, was under French control until 1960. Like Nigeria, its colonial name was based on a major waterway.

Colonial Name: Niger (from River Niger, adopted by French)
Colonizer: France
Independence: August 3, 1960

Togo

Togo, a narrow stretch of land along the Gulf of Guinea, derived its name from a Ewe expression meaning ‘water shore.’ The Germans first adopted it during colonization, followed later by the French.

Colonial Name: Togo (from Ewe ‘to’ = water, ‘go’ = shore, adapted by Germans/French)
Colonizer: Germany, France
Independence: April 27, 1960

Tanzania

Tanzania emerged as a union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar in 1964. Both territories had colonial histories under Germany, Britain, and Oman. Their merger created a new name, but one built from colonial terms.

Colonial Name: Tanganyika (German/British), Zanzibar (Arab/British). Union formed Tanzania.
Colonizer: Germany, Britain, Oman
Independence: 1961/1963; Union 1964

Some Reasons Why These Countries Might Have Their Colonial Names

1. Geographical Recognition: Names tied to rivers, lakes, or mountains (Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Senegal, Kenya) felt neutral and descriptive rather than foreign impositions.
2. International Acceptance: By the 1960s, these names were already established in diplomacy, trade, and maps.
3. National Unity: Some leaders feared that changing names could reignite ethnic divisions, so they kept the colonial label to maintain cohesion.

While renaming was a powerful act of reclaiming African identity, not every country felt it necessary. For nations like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon, retaining colonial names was more about continuity, unity, and global recognition. These names, though European in origin, have since been indigenized and now carry African meaning and pride.

One of the biggest travel headaches for Nigerians is the visa application process — long queues, embassy drama, hidden costs, and, sometimes, heartbreaking rejections. But guess what? Things are changing fast, and for the better.

In 2025, a growing number of African countries are throwing their borders wide open for fellow Africans. If you’ve got your green passport, there are now over 20 African countries you can visit without needing a visa beforehand.

From vibrant cities to scenic coastlines, here’s your ultimate guide to where you can go visa-free, hassle-free, and full of vibes.

Kenya

Kenya made a bold move at the start of 2024 by scrapping visa requirements for all African citizens. For Nigerians, this means all you need is an online Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and you’re good to go.

What to expect? From watching lions in Maasai Mara to sipping cocktails on Diani Beach, Kenya is full of jaw-dropping experiences. Nairobi gives Lagos a run for its money when it comes to nightlife and culture.

Travel tip: Apply for your eTA at least 3–5 days before your flight. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity left.

Rwanda

Rwanda joined the visa-free league in early 2024, opening its gates to all African nationals. So yes, your Nigerian passport works just fine.

Why visit? Kigali is believed to be one of the cleanest cities in Africa. It’s a great spot to unwind, with beautiful hills, art galleries, and calm vibes. Go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Stay duration: You can stay for up to 90 days without stress.

Ghana

Ghana officially removed visa requirements for African citizens in April 2025, and Nigeria’s ECOWAS connection already gives us visa-free access for up to 90 days.

What’s hot? Accra is a vibe! Art, fashion, music, food — it’s got it all. Visit historic places like the Cape Coast Castle, walk the Kakum canopy bridge, or just enjoy beach parties.

The Gambia

As of January 1, 2025, The Gambia allows visa-free entry to all African Union citizens — including Nigerians.

What to do there? This tiny West African country is full of surprises. Chill by the Atlantic, take a river cruise, or explore traditional villages.

Heads-up: There’s a small entry fee (around $20), even though it’s visa-free. So keep some cash handy.

Senegal

Senegal offers visa-free access to Nigerians for up to 90 days — thanks to ECOWAS. Dakar is where Afrobeats meets mbalax, and the energy is unmatched.

Don’t miss: The stunning Pink Lake (Lac Rose), the historic slave-trade site at Gorée Island, and bustling local markets.

Cameroon

Cameroon is another ECOWAS member that welcomes Nigerians for 90 days visa-free.

What’s popping? From the buzzing city of Douala to hiking Mount Cameroon and chilling in Limbe — there’s nature, nightlife, and culture wrapped in one.

Bonus: It’s one of the cheapest international trips you can take from Nigeria.

Other ECOWAS Countries: No Visa, Just Vibes

Thanks to the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, Nigerians can travel visa-free for up to 90 days in:
– Togo
– Sierra Leone
– Liberia
– Senegal
– Guinea
– Mali
– Burkina Faso
– Côte d’Ivoire
– Niger
– Cape Verde
– Chad
– Guinea-Bissau
Each destination has its own story to tell — from cultural festivals to natural wonders and beach getaways.

Seychelles: Island Bliss

Seychelles offers Nigerians visa-free entry for up to 30 days (you’ll be issued a visitor’s permit on arrival).

What to love? Think white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and peaceful island life. It’s perfect for couples’ vacation or solo recharge trips.

Be aware: There have been mixed reports about Nigerian travelers facing entry restrictions. Check with the airline or Seychelles immigration before booking.

Before You Pack…

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
• Some countries might ask for proof of accommodation or return tickets.
• Even visa-free doesn’t always mean free — you might need to pay small entry or airport fees.
• Double-check with each country’s embassy or official travel site before booking — just to be sure.

This movement is bigger than tourism. It’s about Pan-African unity, and economic empowerment. So, if you’ve been itching to travel, 2025 might just be your year.

Africa is a continent renowned for its cultural and linguistic diversity, with over 2,000 languages spoken across its 54 countries. These languages are not just modes of communication but also carriers of history, culture, and identity. While some are spoken by millions across multiple nations, others are specific to individual communities. In this article, we delve into the 10 most spoken languages in Africa, their origins, significance, and the regions where they dominate.  

Swahili (Kiswahili)

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is the most widely spoken language in Africa, with over 200 million speakers. It is a Bantu language with significant Arabic influence due to historical trade connections between East Africa and the Arab world. Swahili is recognized as a lingua franca in many East African countries and is one of the official languages of the African Union (AU).  

Primary Regions: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Mozambique, Comoros  

Significance: Swahili is not only a means of communication but also a unifying language in East Africa, used in politics, education, and media.  

Example Phrase: “Hakuna Matata” (No worries).  

Arabic

Arabic is one of the most influential languages in Africa, spoken by over 150 million people. It is a Semitic language that serves as the official language in many North African countries. Arabic’s influence extends to religion, as it is the language of the Quran and central to Islamic practices.  

Primary Regions: Egypt, Sudan, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania  

Significance: Beyond communication, Arabic is integral to cultural, religious, and historical narratives across North Africa.  

Example Phrase: “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you).  

Hausa

Hausa is one of the most spoken indigenous languages in Africa, with over 50 million native speakers and an additional 30 million using it as a second language. It is a Chadic language that has become a lingua franca in West Africa, especially in trade and communication.  

Primary Regions: Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, Cameroon, Chad  

Significance: Hausa is widely used in Islamic education and is a major language in African media, including international broadcasters like BBC Hausa.  

Example Phrase: “Sannu” (Hello).  

Yoruba

Yoruba is a tonal Niger-Congo language spoken by over 40 million people, primarily in Nigeria. It is also used in parts of Benin and Togo. Yoruba has a rich literary tradition and is central to the culture, religion, and identity of the Yoruba people.  

Primary Regions: Nigeria, Benin, Togo  

Significance: Yoruba is deeply tied to traditional beliefs and practices, including Ifá divination, which has influenced cultures in the Americas, especially in Brazil and Cuba.  

Example Phrase: “Bawo ni?” (How are you?).  

Igbo

Igbo, another major Niger-Congo language, is spoken by over 30 million people in south-eastern Nigeria and beyond. Known for its complex tonal system, Igbo plays a vital role in the cultural and economic life of the Igbo people.  

Primary Regions: Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea  

Significance: Igbo is associated with entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, and it has a rich oral and written tradition.  

Example Phrase: “Kedu?” (How are you?).  

Amharic

Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia, is spoken by over 30 million people. It is a Semitic language with its own unique script, Ge’ez, which is one of the oldest writing systems in the world.  

Primary Regions: Ethiopia  

Significance: Amharic is central to Ethiopian identity, culture, and governance, serving as the working language of the federal government.  

Example Phrase: “Selam” (Hello).  

Zulu (isiZulu)

Zulu is one of South Africa’s 11 official languages and is spoken by over 28 million people, with 12 million being native speakers. It is a Bantu language known for its rich oral traditions and expressive tones.  

Primary Regions: South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini  

Significance: Zulu is central to the cultural and political life of South Africa, with a strong presence in media and education.  

Example Phrase: “Sawubona” (Hello).  

Shona

Shona is the most widely spoken language in Zimbabwe, with over 15 million speakers. It belongs to the Bantu family and is known for its rich vocabulary and vibrant cultural expressions.  

Primary Regions: Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana  

Significance: Shona is used in education, literature, and traditional ceremonies, and it plays a key role in preserving Zimbabwean culture.  

Example Phrase: “Mangwanani” (Good morning).  

Xhosa (isiXhosa)

Xhosa, another official language of South Africa, is spoken by about 19 million people. It is notable for its click consonants, which make it phonetically unique. Xhosa is closely related to Zulu but remains distinct.  

Primary Regions: South Africa  

Significance: Xhosa has a strong literary tradition and is one of the cultural cornerstones of South Africa, with notable speakers like Nelson Mandela.  

Example Phrase: “Molo” (Hello).  

Berber (Tamazight)

Berber, or Tamazight, is a collection of closely related languages spoken by the Berber people in North Africa. It has millions of speakers across the Maghreb and is an official language in Morocco and Algeria.  

Primary Regions: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, Niger  

Significance: Berber has gained recognition in recent years, symbolizing the cultural and political resurgence of the Berber identity.  

Example Phrase: “Azul” (Hello).  

Africa’s linguistic landscape reflects its rich history and cultural diversity. These top 10 languages are not just tools for communication but also vital elements of identity and heritage for millions of people. While some languages, like Swahili and Arabic, unite multiple nations, others, like Zulu and Yoruba, reinforce ethnic pride and cultural continuity. As Africa continues to grow and develop, these languages remain at the heart of its vibrant societies.

Connecting point A to point B can be extremely difficult, especially if these two points are intercities. Say all you want about Africa, but you can’t deny its beauty, especially in infrastructure.

Bridges affect our daily lives, directly or indirectly. The goods you bought are from the other side of a bridge. They help boost trade, connections, and relationships within and outside countries.

In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 longest bridges in Africa, but first, let’s appreciate the innovative designs and hard work of all involved.

10. Katima Mulilo Bridge – 900m

9. Mkapa Bridge, 970m

8. Wouri Bridge, 1.8 km

7. Qasr Al-Nil Bridge, 1.93 Km

6. Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge, 2.37 Km

5. Dona Ana Bridge, 3.67Km

4. Mozambique Island Bridge, 3.8 Km

3. Suez Canal Bridge, 3.9 Km

2. Third Mainland Bridge, 11.8 Km

1. 6th October Bridge, 20.5 Km