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Top 5 Innovative Countries In Africa

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Countries in Africa are becoming innovative by the day, with these innovations driving their economic growth and development.

The continent is full of creativity, with several nations leading in technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

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According to the Global Innovation Index from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Nigeria ranks 113th in the world and 12th in Africa, with a score of 17.1.

The country does well in human capital and research (78th), creative outputs (87th), and business sophistication (107th). However, Nigeria struggles with infrastructure (127th), institutions (125th), and market sophistication, knowledge, and technology outputs (121st).

READ ALSO: Top 10 Countries With The Most Billionaires In 2024

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Here are the top 5 most innovative countries in Africa:

​​1. Mauritius — Global Rank: 55
Mauritius is known as the most innovative country in Africa thanks to its strong education system, friendly business environment, and smart economic reforms. It has become a go-to hub for technology and financial services. The island is buzzing with a growing ICT sector, a rising fintech industry, and forward-thinking policies that encourage entrepreneurship.

2. South Africa — Global Rank: 59
South Africa has a reputation as a leader in innovation, especially in science, technology, and manufacturing. The country has a solid network of universities and research centres, and is also home to a lively startup culture that attracts global investors. South Africa’s innovations touch various areas, from healthcare to finance and green technology. Even though it faces some economic challenges, it remains a place for creative ideas and tech advancements.

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3. Botswana — Global Rank: 87

READ ALSO: Top 10 Countries In Africa Where Workers Earn Highest Salaries

Botswana is making great strides in innovation, thanks to its government’s focus on diversifying the economy. While it’s traditionally known for diamond mining, Botswana is investing heavily in education, research, and digital technologies. The government has rolled out several initiatives to boost entrepreneurship, especially in fintech, agribusiness, and ICT. These efforts are helping Botswana move towards a knowledge-based economy.

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4. Cabo Verde — Global Rank: 90
Cabo Verde, a small island nation off the coast of West Africa, is quietly shining in the innovation arena. Its focus on digital transformation and tourism is really paying off as the government is working hard to improve ICT infrastructure and is committed to renewable energy and sustainable development. Cabo Verde’s creativity shows in its efforts to combat climate change, enhance healthcare, and improve education for its people.

5. Senegal — Global Rank: 92

Senegal is stepping up as a key player in West Africa’s innovation scene. The government is making ICT development and entrepreneurship a priority with initiatives like the Digital Senegal Strategy. Dakar, the capital, is turning into a tech hub, with many startups in fintech and e-commerce gaining momentum.

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26-year-old Nigerian Fatally Stabbed In London

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Two individuals have been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 26-year-old Nigerian, Ayowale Aladejana, in New Cross, southeast London.

The Metropolitan Police reports that detectives investigating the fatal stabbing of Ayowale charged a man and woman with murder.

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Ben Wazabanga, 23 (24.10.2001) of Fairfax Road, Bedford was charged with murder and possession of a knife on Monday, 4 August. He was remanded in custody and will appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 4 August.

“Ronique Belfon, 23 (10.05.2002) of Morinsbury Road, Bedford was charged with murder on Monday, 4 August. She was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 4 August,” the report read.

READ ALSO:US Will Send Ukraine Patriot Air Defense Systems

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Speaking on the incident, Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who is leading the investigation, was quoted as saying, “Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“I understand this incident will be concerning and we are carrying out a fast-paced and thorough investigation to establish the circumstances. I would encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to us.”

The investigation was reportedly launched after officers were called to reports of a man with stab wounds at a residential address in Monson Road, New Cross, at 19:26hrs on Saturday, August 2.

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READ ALSO:UK Opens Application For Chevening Scholarships

The officers were said to have responded alongside the London Ambulance Service and medics from London’s Air Ambulance, however, Ayowale died at the scene despite efforts to save him.

The report added that a post-mortem examination conducted on Sunday gave a preliminary cause of death as stab wound to the chest.

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Ayowale’s family are also reportedly being supported by specially trained officers.

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Trump Threatens 250% Tariffs On Foreign Pharmaceuticals

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US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that upcoming tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals could reach 250 percent, after starting at a lower level, while adding he plans to also unveil fresh duties on foreign semiconductors.

We’ll be putting (an) initially small tariff on pharmaceuticals, but in one year, one-and-a-half years, maximum, it’s going to go to 150 percent,” Trump said in an interview on CNBC.

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“And then it’s going to go to 250 percent because we want pharmaceuticals made in our country,” he added.

READ ALSO:Corporation For Public Broadcasting To Shut Down Following Trump’s Funding Cuts

In the same interview, Trump said he expects to raise the US tariff on Indian imports “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to the country’s purchases of Russian oil.

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While Trump has aimed at products from different countries with varying tariff rates after imposing a 10-percent levy on almost all trading partners in April, these have excluded certain products he planned to target separately.

These sector-specific tariffs have generally come after government investigations that look into the national security concerns surrounding certain imports.

READ ALSO:Immigration Issues Travel Advisory To Nigerians On US Visas

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After earlier embarking on probes on imported semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, the Trump administration has signaled plans to wrap up these studies, which could lead to new tariffs.

Already, Trump has slapped steep tariffs of 50 percent on imported steel and aluminum, and also rolled out a separate but lower duty on autos and parts.

AFP

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UK Opens Application For Chevening Scholarships

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The United Kingdom on Tuesday announced that applications for its Chevening Scholarships are officially open, with prospective scholars encouraged to apply between August 5 and October 7, 2025.

The Chevening programme offers fully funded one-year master’s degrees at UK universities to individuals with demonstrated leadership potential and a strong commitment to driving positive change in their home countries and globally.

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In a statement released by the British High Commission in Abuja, the Head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Emma Hennessey, described the programme as highly competitive, selecting only the most outstanding candidates from across the world.

Chevening’s highly competitive selection process ensures that those chosen to become Chevening Scholars or Fellows represent the brightest and most driven individuals from around the world.

READ ALSO:US To Revoke Student Visas For Those Who Skip Classes, Programmes

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Chevening Alumni use their world-class education, global networks, and confidence gained in the UK to create meaningful, lasting change when they return home, whether by tackling global challenges or making a tangible impact in their own communities.

“If you can clearly demonstrate the skills needed to join them — outstanding leadership, influence, and networking skills — I strongly encourage you to apply.

“If you’re not quite there yet, I encourage you to take the time to build the experience that will make your application competitive,” Hennessey noted.

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According to the statement, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, urged Nigerians with leadership potential to take advantage of the opportunity.

READ ALSO:Immigration Issues Travel Advisory To Nigerians On US Visas

Chevening is more than a scholarship — it is a gateway to a global network of leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” he said.

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Whether your aspirations lie in shaping public policy, launching a business, or addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, the Chevening Scholarship offers a unique opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in the United Kingdom to advance your knowledge and skills.

“While there is no ‘typical’ scholar, we seek individuals with the passion, ideas, and influence to drive meaningful change in Nigeria and beyond.

“Our alumni network includes dynamic professionals across diverse sectors who are making significant contributions in their fields.

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READ ALSO:We’ll Deny You Visa If You’re Traveling To Give Birth, US Tells Nigerians

If you have the potential to lead positive change in your community, Nigeria, or globally, I encourage you to submit your application before the 7 October 2025 deadline.

“Apply today and take the first step toward this life-changing experience,” he said.

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Applications must be submitted online via chevening.org/apply.

READ ALSO:9 Most-requested Documents For Work Visas

Interested applicants are also encouraged to review available guidance at chevening.org/guidance to determine their readiness for the competitive application process.

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Since its launch in 1983, the Chevening programme has supported over 60,000 professionals from over 160 countries and territories.

The scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations.

 

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