Global news agency Reuters has announced the launch of a new commercial website tailored to the needs African business leaders.
Reuters Africa aims to focus its news towards metals, mining, energy, oil and agricultural commodities, which are vital to the African economy.
Novel features on the site include an interactive map that allows users to access local Reuters journalists across the continent and a number of country-specific blogs through the GlobalVoices network, coordinated by Harvard University.
John Chiahemen, once Africa correspondent, now editor of Reuters Africa, said: "Reuters Africa will be an essential source for news as Africa becomes more integrated into the global economy.
"As multinational corporations continue to expand their presence on the continent, they increasingly need up-to-date and reliable commodities, economic, political and general news."
Geert Linnebank, chairman of the Reuters foundation, added: "Reuters journalists have chronicled Africa since the late 19th century, reporting news first hand.
"Now, Reuters' comprehensive coverage of the continent can be found on a dedicated site along with a forum for readers and local bloggers to contribute to the discussion as well."
In 2005, the news provider made global revenues of £2.4 billion.
