By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
Cable News Network (CNN) International has named Nigerian journalist Adefemi Akinsanya as the host of its new flagship multiplatform series, Africa Inc., a programme set to spotlight the companies, entrepreneurs, and innovators driving Africa’s emergence as a major force in the global economy.
The appointment, announced on 5 August 2026, marks a significant new chapter in Akinsanya’s broadcasting career as she joins CNN to tell the stories behind Africa’s fastest-growing businesses and their expansion onto the world stage.
Beginning with short-form segments airing immediately, Africa Inc. will premiere as a full 30-minute programme on 29 August 2026, with episodes scheduled to continue through 2027 and beyond.
The series will also feature bi-monthly reports and digital-first content across CNN.com and the network’s social media platforms.
With a focus on innovation, investment, and economic transformation, Africa Inc. will showcase how African companies are breaking new ground, competing internationally, and redefining the continent’s role in the global marketplace.
Akinsanya’s move to CNN represents a major milestone in African journalism, placing one of the continent’s prominent broadcast voices at the forefront of a global platform dedicated to telling Africa’s business story.
Akinsanya, who joins from Arise News, will anchor the series from Lagos. The show is sponsored by Dangote Industries Limited.
Responding, Akinsanya described the role as timely. “I’m thrilled to be joining CNN to launch Africa Inc. at such an exciting time for Africa’s international story.
Across the continent, we’re seeing innovation, resilience, and ambition transforming industries and creating opportunities with global impact. I’m looking forward to bringing these stories to CNN’s audience”, she said.
Newstracktoday reports that Akinsanya has previously worked for Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News and TRT World.
She reported from the frontlines of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, covered Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests and the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and was a 2023 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University.
CNN International Group Senior Vice President and Global Head of Productions Ellana Lee said the network welcomed the addition.
“We are delighted to welcome Adefemi to CNN. As Africa continues to play an increasingly influential role in the global economy, Adefemi’s impactful storytelling will ensure that Africa Inc. provides insightful coverage across CNN’s TV, digital, and social platforms,” Lee said.
The series will focus on technology, manufacturing, hospitality and entertainment.
Production teams are already filming across multiple African cities.
The first short segment aired on 5 August, with the half-hour debut scheduled for 29 August.
Newstracktoday also reports that Cable News Network (CNN) is a global television news organization founded in 1980 that broadcasts news and current events.
