CNN Names Adefemi Akinsanya Host of Africa Inc.

Speaking on her appointment, Akinsanya described the launch of Africa Inc. as an opportunity to tell a new chapter of Africa's economic story.

British-born Nigerian journalist Adefemi Akinsanya has joined CNN International as the host of its new multiplatform business programme, Africa Inc., a series focused on the continent's growing influence in global commerce, innovation and industry.

The half-hour programme, scheduled to premiere in August, will spotlight African companies making an impact across sectors including technology, hospitality, manufacturing and entertainment. Four additional episodes will air through 2026 and into 2027, alongside bi-monthly feature segments on CNN International and digital content across CNN's online and social media platforms.

Akinsanya joins CNN from Arise News, where she served as an international correspondent and anchor in Lagos. Her journalism career also includes roles at Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News and TRT World. She is a 2023 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University's Nieman Foundation for Journalism and holds a degree in International Politics from King's College London.

Over the years, Akinsanya has reported from the frontlines of Russia's war in Ukraine, covering the refugee crisis and issues surrounding race during the early evacuation efforts. Her reporting portfolio also includes Nigeria's #EndSARS protests, the 2024 US presidential election, the World Economic Forum in Davos and the 2026 G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains.

She will be based in Lagos.

Speaking on her appointment, Akinsanya described the launch of Africa Inc. as an opportunity to tell a new chapter of Africa's economic story.

"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.

Ellana Lee, CNN International Group's Senior Vice President and Global Head of Productions, said Akinsanya's experience and storytelling would strengthen the network's coverage of Africa's expanding role in the global economy.

"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.