East Africa

Zimbabwe finds itself at a crucial crossroads, grappling with an enormous $21 billion debt—a burden that has effectively locked the country out of global financial markets since it defaulted way back in 1999. This predicament is not just a financial quagmire; it's a pressing issue that affects the very fabric of the nation. So, what does the future hold for a country seeking assistance from ten different nations? In a recent move to ameliorate its financial strife, Zimbabwe's Finance Minister, Mthuli Ncube,…

As the rains pour down across various regions, Nairobi residents are navigating flooded streets, a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability—and perhaps, a call to action. Images of people wading through waters in the CBD and scenes from Parklands certainly evoke a blend of concern and resilience, reminding us how weather can significantly alter daily life. In this vein, the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning, indicating that we should brace ourselves for continued rainfall over the coming…

A Somber Reflection: The Sentencing of Ahmed Awga and Its Implications for Press Freedom in Ethiopia In the realm of journalism, where the pursuit of truth often collides with authority, the story of Ahmed Awga emerges as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in many parts of the world. Ahmed, the founder of Ethiopia’s Jigjiga Television Network, recently found himself on the receiving end of a two-year prison sentence, a punishment that resonates deeply with the ongoing struggle for press freedom. The…

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…