africa month

One of the big 5 are drawing more than just tourists to the African bush. Elephant dung is now being used to create paper in Africa and flavour artisanal coffee in Thailand.

Four South African innovations have made it on to this year's list of 10 nominees for the Innovation Prize for Africa. Its aim is to encourage local solutions to challenges and inspire continued growth on the continent. The winner will be announced in a ceremony in June in Botswana.

Since the inaugural Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in 2003, speakers have been notable global leaders in their field – be it politics, human rights or economics. This year will be no different. Microsoft co-founder and global philanthropist Bill Gates will deliver the 14th annual lecture on the eve of Mandela Day.

There are thousands of African women creating successful businesses, leaving inspiration and change in their wake, and in a small way helping to uplift Africa's narrative. The five women below are making massive strides in their respective business sectors, changing their industries and improving business for other women in Africa.

South Africa is an integral part of the African continent. Our national interest is intrinsically linked to continental stability, unity and prosperity - the development, upliftment and celebration of all African people.