Short Takes on 2015: Tony Elumelu

The key for Africa, says businessman and philanthropist Tony Elumelu, is by nurturing young entrepreneurs and not relying on government entirely to advance nations across the continent.  He does so via Heirs Holdings and The Tony Elumelu Foundation.  It's a two-part message I've heard in different segments of my research and work, such as from Naomi Klein in talking about climate change. 

Short Takes on 2015 from Mexico City

Oh my, there is a decided dour outlook among Mexican residents, having to do with economics, politics and security.  I can only imagine what fear and dread must course quietly in their veins, as impunity, scarcity, and perhaps even privatization underpin a sense of lawlessness. 

Short Takes on 2015 from Hong Kong

Hong Kong residents, from different walks of life, seem generally hopeful in their outlook for 2015.  At the heels of the lengthy, but recently concluded, Occupy movement, there is some expectation that democracy will continue to blossom and freedom of speech will remain.  This blossoming ought not hurt the economy, as residents expect things to get back to normal.

Short Takes on 2015 from Kiev

What delightful news forthcoming for newlyweds Alexey and Eugenia and their families and friends: a baby in 2015.  While it is possible Russia will encroach further into the Ukraine, there is hope that that war will end. 

Short Takes on 2015 from Lagos

University study Linda Chukwura takes a refreshingly honest and simple outlook: that life for her in 2015 will be as it was in 2014.  For the sake of Nigeria, I do hope that it becomes more stable and peaceful and that its citizens benefit from its being such a huge market.

Short Takes on 2015 from Madrid

Citizens from Madrid range from optimistic and fanciful, to guarded and pessimistic, as far as 2015 is concerned.  Two percent is modest growth, but at the heels of a worldwide recession, that ain't bad at all.