Edward Paice argues that an effective and sustainable solution to the issue of Somali remittances will require concerted political will and an appreciation of the unique nature of the Somali financial market.

A vaccination for malaria might become a reality; and it’s not all about China. Jonathan Bhalla lists 10 things you should consider when thinking about Africa in 2014.

Hannah Gibson interviewed Irene Karanja who heads a Kenya-based federation of slum-dwellers. They discussed the anti-eviction movement in Kenya and the federation’s partnership with the University of Nairobi.

Steve Ouma offers a historical insight into the growth of Kenya’s urban centres and argues that policies have been defined by colonial legacies, state-sanctioned slum evictions and a refusal to acknowledge the rights of the poor.

Kieran Holmes, Commissioner General of the Burundi Revenue Authority – explains how the organisation is funded and sets out its priorities for the coming years.

Mick Moore explains why Anglophone countries have led the way in reforming tax administration in Africa and argues that property tax remains the number one unexploited revenue source on the continent.

Edward Paice highlights some of the key topics of discussion and debate at the 2014 OECD Africa Forum in Paris. Economic models, jobs and regional integration were all on the agenda.

Edward Paice explains that while higher tax revenues will be critical for the health of the public purse in Burundi, well-judged deployment of public funds will be equally essential for social cohesion and stability.

Jonathan Bhalla and Edward Paice argue that the starting point for a discussion about China-Africa relations should be “China is neither good nor bad”.

Jonathan Bhalla seeks to understand why ZANU-PF remains broadly popular in Zimbabwe.

Edward Paice talked to Abdirashid Duale, chief executive of Dahabshiil, about the crucial importance of remittances to the Somali region and the potential impact if money transfers are reduced.

Rhoda Mofya-Mukuka spoke to Jonathan Bhalla about why agricultural subsidies in Zambia have not had the desired impact on poverty reduction, smallholder farmer productivity and commercialisation of agriculture.

In conversation with Hannah Gibson, Victoria de Menil argues that a greater role can – and should – be played by community-based providers to address mental health needs in Kenya.

Piotr Cieplak asks whether a raft of new land legislation in South Africa is evidence of renewed vigour from the ANC and whether greater financial commitment will follow.

Hannah Gibson acknowledges the invaluable mediation role of the Guurti in Somaliland, but argues that for it to be effective in the future it must regain moral authority and public trust.

In this interview with Jonathan Bhalla, Morten Jerven suggests ways in which more accurate data about Africa’s economic performance can be gathered and used.