North Africa

The Recent Update to the EU Financial Blacklist: Implications for Africa The European Union (EU) has recently revised its financial blacklist, introducing five African nations—Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, and Namibia—into a category that raises serious concerns about deficiencies in their anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems. This update signifies that these countries are now classified as high-risk jurisdictions. As a result, EU financial institutions must exercise enhanced due…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a touching reunion that highlighted both human resilience and the complexities of international cooperation, three Somali fishermen, who endured an astonishing 45 days stranded at sea and subsequently spent six harrowing months in a Libyan prison, were welcomed back to their families in Mogadishu on Thursday. This moment came after a meticulous and multifaceted repatriation effort led by the Somali government, alongside various international organizations. The fishermen — Abdullahi Yusuf Jama, Aweys…

Burkina Faso has taken a monumental step toward asserting control over its natural resources by officially transferring five gold mining assets to its state-owned mining company. This move marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to enhance its sovereignty and economic position in the global mining industry. This transition was confirmed through a decree published late Wednesday, signaling the completion of a process that began in August 2023. The government’s actions reflect a growing desire to centralize management…

The Dawn of a New Era in Egyptian Renewable Energy In a significant move towards sustainable energy, the African Development Bank Group's Board of Directors has approved financing of up to $184.1 million for the Obelisk solar project in Egypt. Set against the picturesque landscape of southern Egypt, this venture is on track to become Africa’s largest solar power plant, a testament to the continent's commitment to harnessing renewable resources. Imagine a sprawling solar photovoltaic (PV) facility paired with a…

Starvation Warning: Children Fill Kenya's Refugee Ward After US Aid Cuts In the heart of Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp, a tragic narrative unfolds. It’s a story marked by uncertainty, desperation, and, above all, a haunting sense of hunger. Hundreds of thousands of individuals find themselves gradually succumbing to starvation, a reality starkly highlighted by recent funding cuts from the United States. A United Nations official has candidly described the situation to the BBC, revealing that food rations have plummeted to…

DHL Group is making a substantial commitment to the future of healthcare in Africa and the Middle East by planning to invest approximately €500 million, which translates to about $575 million, in healthcare infrastructure over the next five years. This ambitious initiative seeks to cater to the ever-growing demand for medical logistics and services in these rapidly evolving markets. This strategic move is, in part, a response to the increasing influence of China in the region. As noted by Bloomberg, the demand…

The Land Convoy Soumoud, aimed at breaking the Gaza siege, has successfully arrived in the Libyan city of Zaouïa, situated approximately 50 kilometers west of Tripoli. From there, the journey continues to Egypt and ultimately toward the Rafah border crossing into the Gaza Strip. As the convoy crossed into Libyan territory, it was met with an overwhelming display of solidarity. Crowds gathered, their voices uniting in a chorus of support. Wael Nawar, the convoy's spokesperson, shared this uplifting moment with TAP,…

The Flourishing Grain Alliance: Russia and Egypt's Growing Partnership In a significant development in international trade dynamics, Russia has emerged as Egypt's leading grain supplier in 2024. The announcement from the Russian Ambassador to Cairo, Georgy Borisenko, has captured the attention of both economic analysts and agricultural experts alike. Russia’s export of over 10 million tons of wheat to Egypt not only marks a historic high for both nations, but it also sets a new precedent…

Strengthening Ties: Egypt and Somalia's Path Forward Mogadishu (AX) — In a compelling display of diplomacy and cooperation, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, recently celebrated the burgeoning relationship between Egypt and Somalia. His remarks at the Oslo Forum underscored a significant commitment to enhancing political, economic, and security collaboration. As we navigate the complexities of international relations, the importance of such partnerships becomes…

Burkina Faso's Bold Move to Enhance National Profit in Gold Mining In a significant development for its mining landscape, Burkina Faso has officially increased its free-carried equity stake in key gold mining projects from 10% to 15%. This change comes in line with the provisions outlined in the new Mining Code, which was adopted in August 2024. It's a pivotal moment, one that reflects a larger narrative of national sovereignty and economic empowerment. This adjustment affects several prominent mining assets, including…