East Africa

African Union peacekeepers from Uganda stand vigilant, ensuring the safety of Somali lawmakers as they approach the Halane military camp in Mogadishu to cast their crucial votes in the presidential election on May 15, 2022. This moment encapsulates the shared hope for stability and progress in a nation long plagued by conflict. (AP file photo) NAIROBI: The unfolding narrative of the African peacekeeping mission in Somalia reveals an urgent need for reinforcements. A statement from military heads of troop-contributing…

The Future of U.S. Foreign Aid in Malawi: A Tipping Point for Infrastructure and Development Recently, a significant shift has occurred in U.S. foreign aid that has sent shockwaves through Malawi and beyond. The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a prominent U.S. foreign aid agency, is in the process of winding down its operations. This decision has resulted in the abrupt cancellation of Malawi’s $350 million Transport and Land Compact. Tragically, only a handful of other projects across the globe will see their…

Tanzania Lifts Trade Ban: A Step Towards Collaboration In a significant move towards restoring trade relations, Tanzania has lifted its ban on agricultural imports from South Africa and Malawi. This decision arises from a complex backdrop of pre-existing trade restrictions that had been imposed by these neighboring nations on Tanzanian agricultural products. The dynamics of international trade can often resemble a delicate dance; one misstep, and the rhythm is off. Recent developments, however, suggest…

TORONTO, Canada (AX) — In the vibrant tapestry of Canadian politics, the name Sayid Ahmed is emerging as a crucial thread. Ahmed is one of three candidates of Somali descent contending for seats in Canada's Parliament, a significant development amidst an election marked by pressing economic challenges and rising political tensions with the United States. Standing under the banner of the Conservative Party in Edmonton Centre, Ahmed aspires to make history as the first Somali Canadian elected from his party. His…

Somalia’s Warm Reception of the DRC-Rwanda Declaration: A Step Towards Regional Harmony In an encouraging turn of events, Somalia has expressed its approval of the recent Declaration of Principles signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. This agreement marks a potentially transformative moment for the Great Lakes region, offering a renewed hope for peace, stability, and collaborative engagement. Issued on a Sunday, a statement from…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a recent reflection on his presidency, Somalia's leader, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, shared insights that reveal a nuanced approach to governance. As the countdown to the 2026 presidential election begins, he finds himself at a crucial crossroads. The question on everyone's mind is simple yet profound: Will he seek a third term? While president Mohamud remains noncommittal, his emphasis lies in the here and now—a focus tightly wound around national security, economic revitalization, and the promise of…

Egypt's Commitment to Somalia and the AUSSOM Initiative On April 25, 2025, in the serene surroundings of Entebbe, Uganda, a significant gathering took place—the Extraordinary Summit of the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Egypt's delegation joined hands with international partners to address pressing challenges in Somalia, a nation that has faced decades of turmoil and strife.…

This striking photograph, captured on May 9, 2024, offers a window into the vibrant dynamics of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) in Nairobi, Kenya. This event, notable for its role in fostering economic ties, was bustling with energy, drawing attention from people across the continent and beyond. Recently, Nairobi buzzed with anticipation as it hosted a promotional conference for the upcoming fourth edition of CAETE, scheduled for 2025. This gathering brought together an impressive array of participants:…

The Resurgence of Al-Shabaab: A Call for Reinforced Efforts The shocking news recently emerged that Al-Shabaab terrorists have reclaimed territory in Somalia's Middle and Lower Shabelle regions—areas previously held secure by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other international forces. This unsettling development underscores the complex and volatile landscape of security in the region. In a world beset by rapid transformation, how should nations respond to the ever-evolving tactics of organized groups like…

A Commitment to Peace: Reflections from the Extraordinary Summit on Somalia In a crucial gathering that epitomizes the dedication to peace in the Horn of Africa, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki of Kenya stood shoulder to shoulder with Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This meeting took place during the Extraordinary Summit of the troop-contributing countries to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), held at the serene locale of State House in Entebbe, Uganda. The atmosphere was…