Emerging fund managers are employing unconventional strategies and innovative approaches to stand out in a challenging fundraising environment. Industry experts discuss the importance of differentiating strategies, such as focusing on climatetech, and the need for emerging managers to be relevant by aligning with market trends. They also emphasize the entrepreneurial aspects of fund management, the importance of building a skilled team, and the challenges of raising capital. Strategies for success include offering favorable economics to investors, engaging in deal-by-deal arrangements, and ensuring GP-investor alignment. The discussion also covers operational challenges, the importance of risk management, and the need for emerging managers to maintain a clear and compelling value proposition to attract capital.

In a roundtable discussion moderated by Taku Dzimwasha, private equity professionals from various firms discussed the current dealmaking environment and strategies for getting deals done despite challenging market conditions. Participants included Adam Philippsohn from BGF, Ali Al Alaf from Riverside Europe, Andrew Priest from Inflexion, David Chapman from Palatine, Kate Gribbon from Investec, James Hales from NorthEdge, James MacLeay from WestBridge, Neil Patel from ThinCats, Phillip McCreanor from Lincoln International, and Valentina Vitali from Limerston Capital. They shared insights on the importance of self-origination, building relationships, adapting to credit market changes, and leveraging technology for deal origination. The discussion also touched on the impact of the current geopolitical and economic climate on deal structures, valuations, and exit strategies.

African leaders, including Liberia's President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, have called for giving US President-elect Donald Trump the benefit of the doubt despite concerns over his anti-globalization stance. Sirleaf expressed hope that trade deals with the US would remain unaffected, while other leaders like Rwanda's Paul Kagame and Nigeria's Muhammadu Buhari welcomed Trump's victory. There are fears that Trump might revoke the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which could harm African economies. However, some see potential for Africa to reduce reliance on exports and focus on local economies.

The article discusses the plight of migrants, particularly children, in the border town of Musina, South Africa. Many of these migrants come from Zimbabwe, seeking a better life but often fall victim to exploitation, abuse, and forced labor. The story of Precious, a 16-year-old girl who faced sexual violence and forced labor, highlights the broader issue of migrants' vulnerability. Organizations like Musasa Project and International Organisation for Migration (IOM) are mentioned as working to support victims. The article also touches on the role of malaishas (smugglers), the exploitation of migrants in the workforce, and the dangers of illegal border crossing, including high rates of rape as reported by Médecins Sans Frontières. Despite efforts by the South African government to improve migrant rights, many are still unaware of these changes and continue to risk illegal entry due to the unchanged dire situations in their home countries.

The article discusses the distribution of US aid funding in Haiti, highlighting that a significant portion is allocated to American companies and NGOs, with a smaller percentage going to local Haitian organizations. Chemonics International, a Washington-based company, received over $58 million from USAid for various projects. The practice of donors using their own country's organizations is criticized for undermining local self-sufficiency. The Center for Global Development advocates for more engagement with Haitian groups to support long-term development. USAid acknowledges the need for improvement and aims to partner more with Haitian entities, despite challenges. The article also touches on the broader context of USAid spending in other regions and the agency's reform efforts to increase direct contracts with local institutions. The Council of International Development Companies (CIDC) has formed to represent private development contractors and questions USAid's local spending targets.

Zimbabwe is preparing for elections on 31 July, with the main contest between President Robert Mugabe and Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai. The country has seen economic growth since the last violent elections in 2008, but faces challenges such as high unemployment and a struggling education system. Mugabe's Zanu-PF and Tsvangirai's MDC-T have different visions for the country, with Mugabe pushing for 'indigenous' control of foreign companies and Tsvangirai seeking foreign investment. Concerns about the fairness of the upcoming elections are raised due to issues with the electoral roll and lack of time for reforms. Despite a decline in popularity, Tsvangirai's party claims credit for economic improvements. However, a Mugabe victory is seen as likely, and there are fears of military intervention if he loses, similar to events in Egypt.