East Africa

As we move deeper into 2025, an increasing number of African nations find themselves grappling with the weight of their financial commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The road toward fiscal stability seems to be riddled with challenges that threaten both economic and social progress. In countries such as Ghana and Malawi, the solutions offered through IMF-supported programs have often manifested in painful austerity measures. These measures, while intended to stabilize economies in the long run, tend to…

Image source Somalia has reached a remarkable epoch in its economic narrative. On December 13, 2023, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank confirmed that Somalia had reached the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) completion point. This milestone facilitated a dramatic reduction of external debt, from a staggering 64 percent of GDP in 2018 to below 6 percent by the end of 2023—an accomplishment that translates to an impressive $4.5 billion in debt relief. The momentum didn't stop there. In early 2024,…

The protests that erupted in March 2023 in Mozambique signified a pivotal moment in the nation’s ongoing struggle against corruption and authoritarianism. The voice of Azagaia, a beloved rapper known for his poignant critiques of power, resonates deeply within the hearts of countless young people. It seems that his music, laden with evocative words and raw emotion, inspired a wave of courage in a generation that had once been marked by fear and resignation. As crowds gathered, it was not just a reaction to the current…

Africa's Defense Spending: A Strategic Imperative The necessity of enhancing defense budgets in African nations is becoming increasingly evident. Such investments will empower countries to bolster their military capabilities, safeguard national sovereignty, protect vital infrastructure, and uphold internal stability. In a continent grappling with numerous threats, both external and internal, the conversation around defense spending is not merely a fiscal one; it’s fundamentally tied to survival and resilience.…

The Strategic Shake-Up: What the Potential Closure of the Strait of Hormuz Means for Global Energy and Africa As we await a pivotal decision from Iran's Supreme National Security Council regarding the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one thing is clear: the discussions are reverberating across the globe. Iranian state broadcaster Press TV has confirmed that a parliamentary vote favoring this closure has already passed. But what does this mean for the world, and specifically for Africa? This…

Calls for Justice: The Tragic Death of Albert Ojwang In a poignant demonstration of civil society’s strength and resolve, activists gathered in Mombasa, Kenya on June 17, 2025, bearing placards that demanded justice for the late political blogger, Albert Ojwang. His untimely death while in police custody has ignited a firestorm of protests, stirring the hearts and minds of citizens across the nation. Standing amidst the sea of voices and banners, one could almost feel the pulse of the community—a mixture of sorrow and…

In recent years, there has been a growing conversation about the economic landscape of African nations, particularly those with low diesel prices. While this could easily seem like a matter reserved for economists or policy analysts, the implications stretch far beyond the fuel gauge. Low diesel prices offer a multitude of economic and social benefits that ripple across industries, affecting daily life, commerce, and even food security. One might wonder: how does a dip in diesel prices translate to tangible…

The U.S. Steps Up in Africa: Investment in the Lobito Corridor Project The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is on the brink of finalizing a remarkable financing agreement exceeding $500 million for the Lobito Corridor. This ambitious railway initiative aims to facilitate the transportation of vital minerals from Central Africa's renowned copper belt to Angola's bustling Atlantic coast. It’s not just another infrastructure project; it represents a strategic avenue for growth, development, and…

It is undeniable that many African nations grapple with challenges such as territorial disputes and internal security issues. In this context, a robust military presence becomes essential. One critical aspect of a formidable military force is the number of active personnel. Countries across Africa recognize that maintaining a substantial standing military is crucial. In dealing with various challenges, governments prioritize having a capable active military force to safeguard peace and stability. While the sheer size of a…

The significance of maintaining a robust helicopter fleet cannot be overstated, especially for African nations. The continent is characterized by vast geographical expanses, diverse topographies, and, often, infrastructure challenges that complicate transportation. This necessity extends far beyond mere transportation. A well-equipped helicopter fleet can play a pivotal role in enhancing a nation's security and defense capabilities. Think about it: how do you secure a border that stretches over thousands of kilometers, or…