East Africa

Addis Ababa (AX) — On a brisk Friday morning in the heart of Ethiopia's capital, General Michael Langley, the esteemed commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), engaged in critical discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Their meeting was not merely a formality; it emerged as a significant dialogue addressing the pressing security challenges that plague the region. In a succinct statement shared via the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, it was revealed that their conversation primarily revolved around collaborative…

Kenya's Weekend Weather Forecast: What to Expect in Your Region Amidst the lush landscapes of Kenya, heavy rainfall has begun to make its presence felt, particularly in Nairobi. Just last week, the Kenya Meteorological Department made headlines with its forecast, pinpointing the capital and several other regions as the focus of upcoming showers. As the Met's director, David Gikungu, aptly stated, “Weather has a way of bringing us together or sometimes throwing us apart.” So, what does this weekend hold in store for you?…

In a significant ruling on Thursday, a Kenyan court delivered a stern sentence of 30 years each to two men involved in financing and enabling the harrowing attack on the DusitD2 luxury hotel complex in Nairobi back in 2019. This tragic incident, which claimed the lives of 21 individuals, serves as a painful reminder of ongoing threats in the region and the relentless struggle against terrorism. Hussein Mohamed Abdille Ali and Mohamed Abdi Ali, both citizens of Kenya, were found guilty of facilitating this brutal assault…

The Complex Landscape of Heineken's Operations in Eastern DRC In a move highlighting the stark realities of operating in a conflict zone, Heineken has officially withdrawn its staff from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Dutch brewing giant announced this decision on Friday, effectively relinquishing operational control of its facilities in a region beleaguered by strife. Back in February, Heineken had already taken precautionary measures by suspending operations in three key cities following…

Kenya's 2025 Finance Law: A Complex Balancing Act On Thursday, Kenya's parliament took a significant step by voting in favor of this year's proposed finance law. This decision, echoing the echoes of past turmoil, reflects both cautious optimism and a commitment to safeguarding the privacy of taxpayers. The crux of the debate is not solely about numbers and fiscal policies; it's a matter of trust and transparency. Lawmakers strongly denied the Kenya Revenue Authority's (KRA) request for unrestricted access to personal…

In a notable warning, law enforcement officials have called on religious leaders across the nation to refrain from making predictions regarding the outcome of the upcoming presidential election set for September. During a recent assembly aimed at fostering a spirit of peaceful electoral participation, police representatives expressed that such "prophecies" could act as a volatile "recipe for chaos." Superintendent Martin Mwanyongo highlighted a growing concern when he stated, "The authority of the police has been…

Resilience and Despair: Families Fleeing Conflict in Southern Somalia In the heart of Jubaland state, Somalia, families are caught in a harrowing struggle for survival. Rising from the ashes of destruction, hundreds have fled the agonizing conflict in the Luq district, seeking refuge in small, rural towns along the Ethiopian border. Many, like Nimo Omar Ahmed, find themselves grappling with the unimaginable: making a home out of shattered dreams and unyielding uncertainty. Take Abdihakim Warsame Kiro, for instance. A…

Navigating the Skies: Tanzania's Response to the EU Ban In an effort to foster stability in the wake of a recent ban imposed by the European Union, Tanzania has established an interim measure, effective for six months. This initiative aims to bridge the gap left by the restrictions, ensuring that travel, tourism, and trade remain uninterrupted. But what does this all mean for travelers, businesses, and the overall economy? Let’s delve deeper into the details. The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA)…

In recent years, Africa’s aviation landscape has transformed remarkably. Airlines across the continent are not merely upgrading their fleets; they’re revolutionizing connectivity, enhancing customer service, and striving to meet—and even surpass—global standards. This dynamic shift marks a significant chapter in Africa's aviation story, filled with growth, innovation, and a touch of daring ambition. The impact of this transformation is palpable, and it hasn't gone unnoticed on the international stage. The…

In a disheartening turn of events, a Kenyan police officer has been arrested following the shooting of an unarmed face mask vendor during intense protests in Nairobi on Tuesday. The National Police Service (NPS) provided this confirmation as the situation unfolded. The incident, which took place amid demonstrations sparked by the tragic death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody, has ignited widespread outrage across the nation. Eyewitnesses recorded shocking footage of a masked police officer discharging his…