East Africa

France and Africa: A Visa Connection In an interesting pivot towards enhanced international mobility, France has witnessed an unprecedented surge in visa applications from Africa, with over 1.36 million applications submitted in 2024 alone. This figure stands in sharp contrast to a global total of around 3 million applications, demonstrating a solid 17% increase compared to the previous year. The numbers alone tell a compelling story; they are an indication of France's deep-rooted…

Business Insider Africa has recently garnered an honorable mention in the prestigious “Best Use of Social Media” (National Brands) category. This recognition places them firmly among the global leaders in platform-native journalism, illuminating their innovative approach to engaging audiences. A crucial part of this success has been the award-winning initiative that transformed the way Business Insider Africa disseminates business news. By embracing TikTok, they've connected with a fresh, vibrant generation of…

China's Expanding Military Influence in Africa In recent years, China has noticeably extended its presence in Africa, particularly in nations like Tanzania, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic. One striking facet of this expansion is the establishment of military academies capable of training an ever-growing number of African officers. This change doesn't just represent a shift in military alliances; it signifies a broader and more complicated geopolitical landscape. General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S.…

A Historic Football Moment in Mogadishu Recently, the Somali capital Mogadishu welcomed a trio of illustrious football legends: Samuel Eto'o, Emmanuel Adebayor, and Jay Jay Okocha. Their participation in a friendly match was not just a showcase of skill but a powerful statement of unity and resilience, part of a FIFA-backed initiative intended to promote peace throughout the region. When one thinks of Somalia, stark images of conflict often dominate the narrative. Piracy off the Horn of Africa and long-standing political…

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, few narratives are as compelling as that of North Western State of Somalia. Nestled in the Horn of Africa, this self-declared republic has remained a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil of Somalia, yet its quest for international recognition has remained largely unacknowledged. This story is not merely political; it’s a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. Recently, whispers of change have emerged. Insiders, engaged in the intricate…

The Diplomatic Landscape: Kenya's Stance on North Western State of Somalia On December 2024, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi delivered a powerful speech during a campaign targeting the alarming issue of gender-based violence (GBV). His words resonated not only with the immediate concerns of Kenyan society but also reminded us of the intersectionality of various national issues, such as governance and international relations. Just as Mudavadi seeks to elevate social justice issues, the Ministry of Foreign and…

Jowhar (AX) — In a significant step towards revitalizing democratic representation, Abdikarin Mohamed Diriye and Abdulqadir Mohamud Mohamed have both successfully filled the vacant parliamentary seats HOP097 and HOP098, respectively. This election, held on a Saturday that will surely be remembered, comes in the wake of the unfortunate passing of two significant figures, MP Khadija Mohamed Diiriye and MP Mohamud Mohamed Jimcale, affectionately known as Seeseey, in the year 2023. Abdikarin, who is not just a politician but…

The New Wave: Japan's Growing Interest in Africa In a fascinating turn of events, Takehiko Matsuo, the Vice Minister for International Affairs at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, recently highlighted a shift in Japan's economic landscape. After struggling through nearly three decades of deflation, Japan is finally emerging from its economic chrysalis. What does this mean for the future? According to Matsuo, this transformation has sparked a renewed enthusiasm within the private sector, encouraging a…

On May 29, 2025, a notable meeting took place in the heart of Nairobi, where Abdirahman Mohamed, the President of North Western State of Somalia, engaged in fruitful discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto. This gathering was more than a mere handshake; it was a pivotal event in the intricate tapestry of diplomacy within the Horn of Africa. The encounter, held on May 28, set the stage for a dialogue that spanned a multitude of critical themes: peace, stability, economic cooperation, and educational advancement. This…

Enhancing Infrastructure: Uganda's Bold Financial Moves Amid Debt Concerns Uganda is gearing up to borrow a substantial €500 million (approximately $568 million) from an array of three lenders. Among these is the African Export-Import Bank, known as Afreximbank. This initiative, highlighted by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, is aimed primarily at bolstering the nation’s infrastructure development efforts. But what does this mean for the everyday Ugandan? Can this financial maneuver truly stimulate growth, or is it an…