For much of the past decade, venture capital was seen as the default pathway for startup success. Large funding rounds, rapid expansion, and aggressive user acquisition defined ambition.
Digital sovereignty has rapidly moved from abstract policy debate to concrete national strategy. Across India, China, the Middle East, and Africa, governments are asserting greater control over data, platforms, and digital infrastructure that now underpin economic growth, security, and competitiveness.
Africa’s digital economy is accelerating faster than most analysts predicted. Across the continent, governments and private firms are investing heavily in data infrastructure
AAN | 27:12:2025
India has been confirmed as the Chair of the Kimberley Process for the year 2026, bringing closure to an extended impasse over leadership within the global diamond certification body. The decision was reached by consensus among participating members, following months of negotiations after earlier bids failed to gain unanimous support. India will formally assume the chairmanship from January 1, 2026, after serving briefly as Vice-Chair in late 2025.
The Kimberley Process is a tripartite initiative involving governments, the diamond industry, and civil society, aimed at preventing the trade in conflict diamonds. India’s appointment marks its third tenure as Chair, underscoring its growing influence in the global diamond value chain. During its chairmanship, India is expected to prioritise governance reforms, strengthen compliance mechanisms, and advance discussions on transparency and traceability within the Kimberley Process framework.