East Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — A new chapter in maritime security has begun as Spain officially takes charge of the European Union’s long-standing counter-piracy operation off the coast of Somalia. On June 12, a formal ceremony witnessed Rear Admiral Francisco Javier Vázquez Sanz stepping into his new role as the commander of Operation Atalanta. Held aboard the Italian frigate, ITS Rizzo, stationed in Djibouti, this event marked not just a leadership change, but also a significant milestone in international collaboration to ensure…

Ethiopia Raises Concerns Over Egyptian Military Presence in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — Tensions in the Horn of Africa are escalating as Ethiopia’s chief military officer recently raised alarms regarding an increased military presence from Egypt in Somalia. This situation poses what Ethiopia considers a substantial threat to its national security, drawing attention from both regional observers and the international community. During a parliamentary briefing in Addis Ababa, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, the Chief of…

Denmark’s Bold Initiative: A Gateway for African Students Denmark is embarking on an ambitious journey to enrich cultural and diplomatic relations by welcoming 230 African students annually over the next eight years. This initiative, as reported by LocalDenmark, aims not just to enhance education but to forge deeper connections that will serve both Denmark and the African continent. It's a remarkable vision, but what does it mean for the individuals…

South Africa's Military Withdrawal from the DRC: A Moment of Reflection In a recent announcement reported by Sputnik Afrique, South Africa’s Defence Minister, Angie Motshekga, warmly welcomed a contingent of 249 soldiers returning from duty in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Her words resonated with both pride and poignancy as she extolled their “unwavering patriotism” in one of the African continent’s most tumultuous zones. It brings to mind the dual nature of military service—intense duty and the…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent development that has raised eyebrows within diplomatic circles, former Somali Foreign Minister, Ambassador Ahmed Isse Awad, has voiced strong opposition to a letter issued by the Somali government. The letter calls for the dissolution of the C6+ international coordination framework, a move that Awad has critically labeled as both diplomatically irresponsible and detrimental to Somalia’s standing on the global stage. During an engaging televised debate on Universal Somali TV this past Saturday,…

Recently, during an online briefing filled with engaged participants and stakeholders, Troy Fitrell, the U.S. State Department's leading official for African affairs, shared some important insights regarding the ongoing negotiations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The dynamics between these two nations are delicate, entangled in a historical tapestry woven with conflict and mistrust. As of now, the stakes are incredibly high. Fitrell emphasized the immediacy of the situation when he…

Recent revelations from a leaked memo reviewed by The Washington Post indicate a potential expansion of the controversial travel ban first introduced in 2017. This move could see several African nations added to the existing list of restricted countries, which raises significant concerns. According to the details of the memo, the proposed restrictions are tied to several factors, notably visa overstay rates and perceived deficiencies in national security vetting systems. These criteria have become pivotal in…

In a crucial address to Parliament on Thursday, Kenya's Treasury Cabinet Secretary, John Mbadi, unveiled budget estimates that revealed a staggering decline in funding for HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria. The funding has plummeted from KSh 28.7 billion in this fiscal year to a mere KSh 17.3 billion for the next—news that has sent shockwaves through the health sector. This significant reduction in budget comes on the heels of the withdrawal of financial support from the United States…

Protests Erupt Over Death of Kenyan Blogger Albert Ojwang In a tragic turn of events, the voice of political dissent has resonated loudly across the streets of Nairobi. The recent death of Kenyan blogger Albert Ojwang, while in police custody, has ignited a wave of protests that speak to the heart of persistent issues surrounding police brutality in the nation. As demonstrators clash with police amidst burning vehicles, this incident serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences faced by those who dare to criticize…

Weather Alert: Prepare for Strong Winds and Large Waves A dramatic scene unfolds as strong winds whip through the landscape on a rainy day, captured in a recent footage report from Weather Today. Reflecting this chaotic beauty, the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a crucial weather advisory that urges citizens to brace for intense winds and towering waves over the next six days. The message, released on Friday, June 13, is not just mere meteorological jargon; it carries the weight of severe implications for both…