East Africa

Transformative Changes in Kenya's Military Leadership On May 31, 2024, during a ceremonious commissioning parade held at the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet, President William Ruto signaled a pivotal shift in the country’s military hierarchy. The atmosphere was charged with pride and commitment as cadets took their oaths, and little did we know that this would be a prelude to significant changes in the military's leadership structure. On June 27, the Ministry of Defence formally announced sweeping…

After a prolonged hiatus, Starlink—the cutting-edge satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX—has resumed new subscriber activations not only in Nigeria but across several other African nations. This significant development comes as a much-needed remedy for the continent's ongoing digital challenges, where connectivity can often feel like a distant dream for many. To set the stage, let’s rewind to November 2024. Starlink’s expansion efforts in Nigeria came to an abrupt halt due to capacity issues…

Analysis of Recent Agreement Between DRC and Rwanda On a pivotal Friday, an agreement was finalized, bringing the foreign ministers of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda together, alongside representatives from the United States and Qatar. This gathering marked a hopeful moment in a historically tumultuous relationship. Yet, as we delve deeper, the complexities surrounding the terms of this agreement reveal both promise and concern. Although the complete text of the agreement remains…

In a striking case that highlights the complexities of the asylum process in the UK, an African asylum seeker has secured the opportunity to stay after an immigration judge made a bewildering series of mistakes, including mistakenly equating his Somali clan with the island of Hawaii. This mix-up, while amusing at first glance, sheds light on serious lapses in the judicial decision-making that can have life-altering consequences for individuals seeking refuge. This recent ruling is a stark reminder of the human errors that…

The Uncertain Fate of Death Row Inmates in Saudi Arabia Khalid Mohammed Ibrahim, a man whose life hangs by a thread, can be seen on the right with his family before his unfortunate arrest—a moment captured long before the shadows of legal turmoil descended upon him. Recent reports reveal that dozens of individuals from the Horn of Africa, currently on death row in Saudi Arabia, are facing an agonizing uncertainty. Inmates and their worried families have disclosed to Middle East Eye that their executions could transpire…

The IMF's Recent Disbursement to Tanzania: A Testament to Sound Economic Policies Recently, Tanzania received a significant financial boost from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The disbursement of approximately $448.4 million marks a milestone in the ongoing partnership between Tanzania and the IMF. This funding is a direct outcome of successful reviews under two pivotal lending programs. It's not just a number on a balance sheet; it's a sign of trust. The IMF's decision underscores their confidence…

Celebrating Djibouti: 48 Years of Independence Djibouti (AX) — On a vibrant Thursday, President Ismail Omar Guelleh gathered not just with government officials, but with hundreds of enthusiastic citizens, all to celebrate a significant milestone—the 48th anniversary of Djibouti's liberation from French colonial rule. The air was filled with excitement and pride, encapsulating a journey marked by struggle, resilience, and unity. The national celebration, observed on June 27 each year, serves as a poignant…

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform Africa's agricultural landscape. Recently, he announced plans to significantly expand the $2.5 billion Dangote Fertilizer Plant, a move that aligns with a broader vision to foster industrial transformation across the continent. This initiative is not merely business; it’s a strategic step toward self-sufficiency for African farmers, who have long faced challenges stemming from dependency on imported fertilizers. The forthcoming…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a heartwarming gesture that echoes the spirit of unity, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently extended his heartfelt congratulations to the government and citizens of Djibouti as they celebrated the 47th anniversary of their independence. This occasion, which marks a significant milestone in Djibouti's history, was met with a message that went beyond mere pleasantries; it was a commitment to continue fostering bilateral cooperation between the two nations. In a thoughtful statement issued on…

The Turmoil of Protests in Kenya: A Call for Reflection and Justice In the heart of Nairobi, a scene unfolded that encapsulated the complex tapestry of human emotion and socio-political strife. Bystanders and commuters converged in a commercial area recently ravaged by flames and vandalism, a stark reminder of the violent protests marking the anniversary of the anti-tax demonstrations from a year prior. The chaos that erupted on the streets serves not just as a narrative of sorrow and loss but as a poignant reflection of…