Adefemi Akinsanya Joins CNN International to Host New Africa Inc. Series

 Adefemi Akinsanya Joins CNN International to Host New Africa Inc. Series

British-born Nigerian journalist, Adefemi Akinsanya, has joined CNN International as the host of its new multiplatform feature series, Africa Inc., which will spotlight African companies making their mark on the global stage.

The half-hour programme will examine the growth and global competitiveness of African businesses across sectors including technology, hospitality, manufacturing and entertainment, positioning the continent as an increasingly influential force in global commerce, innovation and consumer trends.

Africa Inc. will premiere on CNN International on August 29, 2026, with four additional episodes scheduled throughout 2026 and into 2027. Bespoke segments from the series will also air twice monthly across CNN International, supported by digital and social media content on CNN.com.

Akinsanya joins CNN from Arise News, where she served as an International Correspondent and Anchor based in Lagos. She has previously worked with Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News and TRT World.

A 2023 Fellow of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University, Akinsanya holds a BA in International Politics from King's College London.

Her journalism career has taken her to major global news events and conflict zones. She reported from the frontline of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, covering the refugee crisis and the role of race in the evacuation of people during the early stages of the war.

She has also covered Nigeria's #EndSARS anti-police brutality protests, the 2024 United States presidential election, the World Economic Forum in Davos and the 2026 G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains.

Akinsanya, who will be based in Lagos, said she was excited to join CNN at a significant moment in Africa's international narrative.

“I’m thrilled to be joining CNN to launch Africa Inc. at such an exciting time for Africa’s international story,” she said. “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.”

CNN International Group Senior Vice President and Global Head of Productions, Ellana Lee, welcomed Akinsanya to the network, saying her storytelling would strengthen the programme's coverage across CNN's television, digital and social platforms.

“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.

Africa Inc. is sponsored by Dangote Industries Limited.

Segments from the series began airing on CNN International on August 5, ahead of the premiere of the full half-hour programme on August 29.