Latest news with #BusinessInsiderAfrica
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
African students studying in U.S. advised against traveling amid Trump's new immigration policy
The Trump administration's revised immigration policy is raising alarm among African students in the United States, following the introduction of stricter visa conditions that could prevent them from leaving the country until after graduation. The Trump administration's revised immigration policy imposes stricter visa conditions on African students in the U.S. Many students and families express concerns about re-entry difficulties during emergencies or holidays. Students are advised to remain in the U.S. until completing their studies to avoid visa complications. Under the new rules, international students on F-1 visas, particularly those from Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Cameroon, will now receive single-entry visas valid for only three months. African students who make up a growing share of international enrolments are among the hardest hit. In 2023, over 50,000 students from sub-Saharan Africa studied in the U.S., an 18% jump from the previous year This development has triggered concern among students and families about the implications for travel flexibility during emergencies, holidays, or internships abroad. This means students must enter the U.S. within that period, but once inside, they are permitted to remain for the full duration of their academic program. However, if they leave the U.S. before graduation, they risk being unable to return without undergoing a fresh and potentially delayed visa application process. The new visa framework, introduced by the U.S. State Department and effective from July 8, 2025, significantly tightens restrictions for most nonimmigrant and non-official visa categories. For Nigerian applicants, the policy shift is a sharp break from previous norms that allowed multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years. . With the fall semester approaching, many international students now face added pressure to navigate the evolving U.S. immigration landscape, one that may increasingly require them to choose between staying the course or risking denial of re-entry. Experts clarify new U.S. visa rules, dispel misinformation Business Insider Africa reached out to Sasha Ramani, Head of Corporate Strategy at MPOWER Financing, a U.S.-based lender that supports international students, for clarification following rising concern over the new U.S. visa policy, which has caused anxiety among prospective African students and their families. While the policy change has sparked widespread worry on social media and in the press, Ramani says the practical impact on students' academic plans is minimal. ' Nothing significant should change with regard to their educational plans, ' Ramani said. ' The process of obtaining a student visa remains the same. Once students enter the U.S., they are allowed to stay for the full duration of their studies.' Ramani explained that the new visa regulation mirrors rules long applied to countries like Vietnam and stems from the principle of reciprocity —where the U.S. adjusts visa conditions to reflect how its own citizens are treated abroad. Still, he acknowledged the emotional toll of restricted mobility. ' We recommend that students affected by this policy not leave the U.S. until after graduation, ' he added. ' Admittedly, we understand this may limit their ability to see family or attend to other personal priorities during their studies.' In response, MPOWER is expanding its student support efforts, offering free visa preparation courses, mock interviews with former U.S. visa officers, and tailored webinars to help international students navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. ' Many students rely on agents or online forums that may not always provide accurate guidance,' Ramani noted. ' Our goal is to equip students with clear, expert-backed information so they can make informed decisions and stay focused on their academic goals.' He also stressed that fears of travel bans or blanket disqualifications are misplaced. ' We've spoken with students who incorrectly believe their country is now subject to a travel ban. That's simply not true,' he said. 'What's needed now is clarity—not panic.' Ultimately, affected students are advised to enter the U.S. within the three-month visa validity window and remain there until their studies are completed. While this may limit holiday travel, Ramani notes it could also reduce travel costs and help with long-term budgeting. 'The United States continues to welcome talented international students,' he emphasized. ' And with the right preparation, these recent policy adjustments shouldn't stand in the way of anyone's educational dreams. ' While the new visa policy introduces tighter travel restrictions, it should not discourage African students or aspiring travelers from pursuing their educational goals in the United States.
Business Insider
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Dangote refinery takes delivery of 4,000 CNG trucks to drive fuel delivery nationwide
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced the arrival of 4,000 brand-new compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks, a significant move aimed at enhancing the company's fuel distribution capabilities across Nigeria. Dangote Petroleum Refinery has introduced 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to enhance fuel distribution efficiency in Nigeria. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions, operational costs, and reliance on diesel-powered logistics. The trucks are part of a broader strategy costing N720bn, including the establishment of CNG stations across the nation. The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced the arrival of 4,000 brand-new compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks, a significant move aimed at enhancing the company's fuel distribution capabilities across Nigeria and reducing the country's reliance on diesel-powered logistics. According to the company, the trucks are part of a broader logistics overhaul designed to reduce carbon emissions, lower operational costs, and improve fuel delivery efficiency. In a post shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the company stated: 'We are delighted to receive 4,000 brand-new CNG trucks as part of our bold distribution initiative, championing cleaner energy and more efficient transportation across Nigeria and beyond.' Bold push to meet Nigeria's energy needs Business Insider Africa previously reported that the company said the initiative is aimed at meeting Nigeria's daily demand of 65 million litres of refined petroleum products. ' This includes 45 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit, 15 million litres of diesel, and 5 million litres of aviation fuel,' it stated. 'With the average logistics cost estimated at N45 per litre, the refinery will cover over N1.07tn annually in free distribution expenses. Dangote Group is investing N720bn in the acquisition of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks as well as the establishment of nationwide CNG 'mother and daughter' stations, among other infrastructure to implement the free distribution initiative,' the statement added. According to the company, the new CNG fleet will be deployed starting August 15, 2025. Dangote's refinery is currently operating at approximately 85% of its 650,000 barrels-per-day capacity, ranking it among the world's largest single-train refining facilities, a scale that drives down production costs per barrel. The recent deployment of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks, about 40% more cost-efficient than traditional diesel tankers, is set to slash logistics expenses.
Business Insider
6 days ago
- Business Insider
South Africa, Botswana ranked among the best countries on earth
South Africa has been named the fourth-best country in the world for travel in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, emerging as the highest-ranked African nation on the list. Business Insider Africa present the African countries ranked among the best on earth. The list is courtesy of Telegraph Travel Awards. South Africa's enduring popularity was highlighted by its diverse and magnetic tourism offerings. South Africa has been named the fourth-best country in the world for travel in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, emerging as the highest-ranked African nation on the list. The award cements the country's reputation as a global tourism powerhouse and marks its continued presence in the top 10 for more than a decade. The annual awards, voted for by tens of thousands of Telegraph readers, celebrate the world's most beloved destinations. South Africa's enduring popularity was highlighted by its diverse and magnetic tourism offerings, from the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town to the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park, and the scenic Garden Route. Cape Town, in particular, was recognised not only for its striking landscape and culture but also ranked highly in the Telegraph's city-specific polls. In a separate accolade, Cape Town was also named one of the world's 20 best cities for nightlife in the Times' 2025 global nightlife rankings. The South African city was celebrated for its eclectic after-dark energy, combining gritty warehouse raves, glamorous rooftop lounges, and a signature soundtrack of Afro-house and amapiano beats that keep both locals and visitors dancing until sunrise. Meanwhile, Botswana earned the 10th spot on the Telegraph's list, reinforcing its standing as one of the continent's most timeless and awe-inspiring travel destinations. While the country hasn't moved up the rankings, its steady position reflects a consistent global admiration for its unspoiled wilderness and conservation-driven tourism. At the heart of Botswana's appeal is the Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its spectacular biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, the delta draws nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers year after year. These are the top 10 countries in the world, according to The Telegraph New Zealand Japan India South Africa Greece Australia Peru The Maldives Costa Rica Botswana
Business Insider
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Top 10 countries with the lowest reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2025
A nation's gold and foreign exchange reserves are more than just accounting numbers in the linked global economy of today; they are a crucial indicator of its strategic capacity and economic resilience. Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 countries with the lowest reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2025. This list is courtesy of Global Firepower. Somalia ranks number 1 on the list. A number of vulnerabilities are present in nations with inadequate reserves, and these difficulties are particularly noticeable in many African countries that are struggling with debt, inflation, and currency instability. In times of crisis, a government's capacity to act in the currency market to maintain its national currency is limited by low gold and foreign exchange reserves. A country that lacks an adequate buffer is vulnerable to severe currency depreciation, which raises the price of everything from gasoline and food to machinery and medications. This increases societal dissatisfaction and reduces consumer purchasing power. Furthermore, low reserves reduce investor trust. International investors regard countries with limited reserves as high-risk, resulting in capital flight and a substantial drop in foreign direct investment. Credit rating agencies may downgrade such nations, raising borrowing costs and further straining governmental budgets. It creates a vicious cycle: low reserves contribute to negative investor sentiment, which fuels further economic instability. Low reserves also hinder a country's capacity to repay foreign debt, increasing its reliance on international rescues such as the IMF. While such bailouts may provide temporary respite, they are sometimes accompanied with stringent restrictions, like austerity measures, which can be politically unpopular and socially disruptive. This reliance reduces a country's budgetary sovereignty and limits its ability to establish economic policies. Furthermore, low reserves limit a country's ability to import crucial commodities and services, such as electricity and food, potentially leading to shortages and increased civil discontent. For some African countries, whose economies rely significantly on imports, this poses a direct danger to national security and progress. In the context of global power rankings such as Global Firepower, a low level of reserves indicates a deeper weakness in economic preparation. Top 10 countries with the lowest reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2025 Rank Country Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold by Country (2025) 1. Somalia $16,747,500 2. Burkina Faso $47,138,000 3. Zimbabwe $115,530,000 4. South Sudan $183,615,000 5. Sudan $206,763,700 6. Chad $211,591,000 7. Eritrea $225,014,976 8. Syria $341,962,500 9. Central Africa Republic $374,405,000 10. Beliz $473,729,000
Business Insider
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
African cities ranked among world's 20 best for nightlife
In Time Out 's newly released list of the 20 best cities for nightlife around the world, four African cities earned well-deserved spots. Business Insider Africa presents the African cities ranked among world's 20 best for nightlife. The list is courtesy of TimeOut. Cape Town leads Africa's nightlife contenders. In some African cities, sundown signals the start of something electric. Rooftop bars light up, music spills into the streets, and crowds gather in cafes, lounges, and back-alley venues where the beats are loud and the laughter louder. Here, nightlife isn't just entertainment, it's a way of life. That unmistakable energy hasn't gone unnoticed. In Time Out 's newly released list of the 20 best cities for nightlife around the world, four African cities earned well-deserved spots. 1. Cape Town (South Africa) Coming in at 11, Cape Town leads Africa's nightlife contenders with its eclectic mix of gritty warehouse parties, glamorous rooftop lounges, and infectious house beats. The city's nightlife is a hit with its residents, 77% of Capetonians rated it as 'good' or 'amazing,' and it's also the third-cheapest city on the global list for a night out. From amapiano and gqom to deep house and dancehall, Cape Town keeps the beat going well into the early hours. 2. Lagos (Nigeria) Ranking 14, Nigeria's cultural capital, Lagos, is home to a nightlife scene that's constantly evolving. Once dominated by exclusive lounges, the city is now embracing more inclusive underground spaces like SweatItOutLagos and Our Group Therapy, where creativity and community thrive. An impressive 79% of locals describe Lagos nightlife as 'good' or 'amazing', and they're also the most likely on the list to call their city 'lively.' Cairo (Egypt) Cairo Hot on Lagos' heels is Cairo at 15, where 79% of locals also praised the city's after-hours buzz. While Egypt's nightlife leans more toward cafés, shisha lounges, and caffeine-fueled hangouts, cocktail culture is starting to make its mark, especially in expat-friendly neighbourhoods. Even better, 72% of locals say a night out in Cairo is either 'cheap,' 'free,' or 'affordable, ' ranking it among the most budget-friendly cities on the list. Marrakech (Morocco) Marrakech At 19, Morocco's Marrakech is steadily climbing the nightlife ranks as tourism booms. The Medina offers colourful rooftop bars like El Fenn and Kabana, with panoramic views of the Koutoubia Mosque. With 72% of locals rating nightlife quality positively, and more than half saying it's affordable, Marrakech also ranks as the third-safest city on the list for a night out.
