PR Times Africa

Day: November 10, 2025

Bank of Africa and IFC Join Forces to Empower Businesses in Central Africa.

Bank of Africa and IFC Join Forces to Empower Businesses in Central Africa

By Keziah Biya

In a strategic move set to reshape the business landscape across Central Africa, Bank of Africa (BOA) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have joined forces to strengthen financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth, empowering entrepreneurs, and stimulating sustainable economic development.

The partnership, announced this week, focuses on expanding access to finance for businesses that form the backbone of Central Africa’s economies — particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. With SMEs accounting for over 80% of jobs in many African nations, this initiative arrives at a critical moment, as entrepreneurs continue to recover from the economic aftershocks of global disruptions and regional market challenges.

“Our partnership with IFC is about creating real impact,” said a representative from Bank of Africa. “SMEs are the heartbeat of our economies, yet access to financing remains one of their biggest obstacles. Together with IFC, we aim to bridge that gap and empower business owners to grow, innovate, and compete on a regional and international scale.”

The IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is recognized globally for its investment and advisory work in emerging markets. Through this partnership, IFC will provide both financial support and technical expertise to enhance BOA’s lending capacity and strengthen its risk management systems. This includes training programs for SME clients, digital transformation support, and the introduction of innovative financial products tailored to local needs.

“Unlocking capital for SMEs is key to driving economic resilience,” said an IFC spokesperson. “This collaboration with Bank of Africa represents our shared vision of an inclusive financial system that enables entrepreneurs — especially women-led and youth-led enterprises — to thrive.”

Beyond finance, the partnership aims to promote sustainability and green business growth by encouraging investments in climate-friendly projects. By aligning with global sustainability goals, both institutions hope to support environmentally responsible innovation that contributes to long-term prosperity in the region.

Analysts view this partnership as a milestone for Central Africa’s private sector development. It is expected to not only expand SME financing but also strengthen investor confidence in the region’s economic potential.

With operations in more than 30 countries, Bank of Africa has steadily positioned itself as a pan-African leader in inclusive banking, while the IFC continues to be a cornerstone of development financing across emerging markets. Together, they are setting the stage for a new era of collaboration — one that places African entrepreneurship at the center of sustainable growth.

As the partnership takes shape, businesses across Central Africa can look forward to improved access to credit, stronger institutional support, and renewed optimism for the future of enterprise on the continent.

November 10, 2025
Phupho Gumede: The Art, the Journey, and the Lessons Behind the Looks.

Phupho Gumede: The Art, the Journey, and the Lessons Behind the Looks.

By Keziah Biya

When you think of style that tells a story that blend of confidence, culture, and creative risk — the name Phupho Gumede naturally comes to mind. Over the past few years, Gumede has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated celebrity stylists, known not just for dressing stars, but for defining what it means to wear confidence.

But behind the glamour, there’s a story of determination, lessons, and growth — one that Gumede now reflects on with both gratitude and pride.

“I started out with a dream and a vision,” he shares thoughtfully. “I didn’t have the resources or network that many stylists today are fortunate to have. But I had passion — and I believed that fashion could be a form of storytelling.”

From the red carpets of major award shows to the covers of glossy magazines, Gumede’s work has become instantly recognizable. His style approach — bold, structured, and unapologetically expressive — often draws inspiration from African heritage while embracing contemporary design elements. “For me, fashion is cultural communication,” he explains. “Every look should have a voice, a message, a heartbeat.”

Yet, his journey was far from effortless. Like many creative professionals, Gumede faced challenges breaking into an industry known for its competitiveness and exclusivity. “There were times I questioned myself,” he admits. “But I learned that authenticity is your greatest asset. When you stay true to who you are, the right people and opportunities will align.”

Those lessons have shaped his philosophy today — one centered on purpose, mentorship, and empowerment. Gumede has become a voice for young stylists trying to find their footing, encouraging them to embrace their individuality rather than chasing trends. “We live in a world that celebrates sameness,” he says. “But real impact comes from being different — from showing the world your own version of beauty.”

Looking back, Gumede says each milestone — from his first major client to his most high-profile shoots — has been part of a bigger journey of self-discovery. “Fashion opened doors for me,” he reflects. “But it also taught me discipline, humility, and patience. Every setback prepared me for something greater.”

As he looks to the future, Gumede hints at new ventures that blend fashion, storytelling, and mentorship — projects designed to inspire and nurture emerging talent across Africa. His goal? To continue using his platform to celebrate creativity in all its forms.

“Every piece I style, every person I work with — it’s a reflection of love for the craft,” Gumede says with a smile. “If my journey teaches anything, it’s that purpose will always take you where passion begins.”

November 10, 2025
Ayra Starr, Tyla, Burna Boy & More Nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards

Ayra Starr, Tyla, Burna Boy & More Nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards

Los Angeles, CA – The Recording Academy has officially announced the nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards, celebrating excellence in global music. Among the most talked-about names are Ayra Starr, Tyla, and Burna Boy, who continue to showcase the global rise and influence of African music on the world stage.

The nominations, unveiled earlier today in Los Angeles, highlight the growing dominance of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African pop in international music. Nigerian stars Ayra Starr and Burna Boy secured multiple nominations across major categories, while South African sensation Tyla earned nods following her international breakthrough year.

Ayra Starr, who has had an impressive year with chart-topping singles and international tours, earned nominations for Best Global Music Performance and Best African Music Album for her sophomore project “The Year I Turned 21.”

“It’s such an honor to be recognized alongside so many incredible artists,” said Ayra Starr. “This nomination means so much—not just to me, but to every young African girl chasing her dreams.”

Tyla, the South African pop and R&B powerhouse behind the global hit “Water,” continues her winning streak with nominations for Best New Artist and Record of the Year.

“This is beyond my wildest dreams,” Tyla said in an interview after the announcement. “I’m proud to represent Africa at such a massive platform. It’s proof that our sound has no boundaries.”

Burna Boy, a Grammy winner and one of Africa’s most influential artists, returned with nominations for Album of the Year, Best Global Music Album, and Best African Music Performance. His latest album “I Told Them…” has been praised for blending Afro-fusion with hip-hop and reggae influences.

Other notable African nominees include Tems, recognized for her collaboration on “Free Mind,” and Davido, who continues to expand his global footprint after last year’s Grammy nods.

The inclusion of the Best African Music Performance category, introduced in 2024, has further cemented the Grammy Awards’ commitment to recognizing diverse global sounds. The Recording Academy emphasized that African artists have played a significant role in shaping contemporary world music, inspiring a new wave of international collaborations.

“This year’s nominations reflect the global reach and cultural impact of African music,” said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “We’re proud to see artists from across the continent sharing their stories and rhythms with the world.”

The 66th Annual Grammy Awards will take place on February 8, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, and will be broadcast live worldwide. Fans and industry professionals alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be one of the most diverse and globally representative Grammy ceremonies in history.

November 10, 2025