Marketplace Africa

Marketplace Africa is an innovative and in-depth weekly business show, spotlighting the continent's most diverse and dynamic markets - directly from the heart of Africa. The show has been at the forefront of business news coverage as part of CNN's commitment to showcase the vibrant business and economic environment of the continent. And 2019 was no different, as the series continued to uphold its commitment to provide viewers with comprehensive analysis about the biggest topics impacting Africa's economy, companies and industries.

Hosted by CNN's Zain Asher, the 2019 season focused on addressing issues related to the economic potential of Africa, providing exclusive coverage of market trends, economic challenges, technological advancements, and untapped business opportunities within the region. Marketplace Africa covered a vast range of subjects, from the rise of startups to the development of sustainable energy resources, from Africa’s tourism potential to infrastructure projects, from agricultural expansion to the growing digital revolution. All these reports were balanced with interviews from industry experts, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and policy makers who provided insights into the business climate of Africa.

One of the main characteristics of Marketplace Africa is its ability to present complex economic issues in a discernible and engaging way, enlightening viewers about the opportunities and challenges facing business in Africa. The show provides a cross-sectoral representation of Africa’s diverse economic landscape, showcasing success stories to inspire African entrepreneurs, while bringing to light key areas of growth potential in the continent.

In 2019, each episode examined the factors fuelling Africa's growing prominence in the world. It included segments on policies transforming local economies and sectors leveraging growth. The series pointed out the changes made in areas such as governance, digitization, trade, and investment that are helping African nations to develop their economic potential and increase their global competitiveness.

The show also pushes the boundaries of traditional business shows by giving voice to those who are often underrepresented. It engages with local workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses in these sectors, uncovering the true innovators and newsmakers who are driving change in their industries and communities. The show takes the viewers on a journey through bustling markets, manufacturing hubs, tech startups, and agricultural initiatives, making it a genuine reflection of Africa's entrepreneurial spirit.

Marketplace Africa is adept in highlighting themes that are central to Africa's economic development agenda such as technological innovation, economic diversification, and sustainable development. In 2019, the show was a platform for news and opinions related to the 'African Continental Free Trade Area' - an agreement aimed at creating a single market for goods and services in Africa, among other relevant stories. The 2019 season also shed light on how innovation is helping to improve Africa's agriculture sector, decentralize power structures through the use of renewable energy, and provide solutions to Africa's growing need for affordable and accessible healthcare.

Moreover, the show doesn't just stop at identifying and understanding Africa's economic trends. It also examines and analyses the global context in which these trends occur. The series acknowledges that Africa's economic growth is tied intrinsically to global markets, and therefore, it includes coverage of the continent's relationships with major economies, international trade issues, as well as the socio-political context that impacts economic decision-making.

In conclusion, the 2019 season of Marketplace Africa kept up with the global trends as it remained committed to promoting a more inclusive and representative image of Africa's rapidly evolving economies. The excellent journalism, authentic storytelling, and Zain Asher's dynamic hosting have made it a must-watch for those who are interested in understanding the business and economic environment of modern Africa. The series continues to tackle head-on the stories that matter most to Africa, and humanizes them for audiences across the globe, making Marketplace Africa a truly unique and valuable resource in today’s complex global economic landscape.