West Africa

China's Expanding Military Influence in Africa In recent years, China has noticeably extended its presence in Africa, particularly in nations like Tanzania, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic. One striking facet of this expansion is the establishment of military academies capable of training an ever-growing number of African officers. This change doesn't just represent a shift in military alliances; it signifies a broader and more complicated geopolitical landscape. General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S.…

A Historic Football Moment in Mogadishu Recently, the Somali capital Mogadishu welcomed a trio of illustrious football legends: Samuel Eto'o, Emmanuel Adebayor, and Jay Jay Okocha. Their participation in a friendly match was not just a showcase of skill but a powerful statement of unity and resilience, part of a FIFA-backed initiative intended to promote peace throughout the region. When one thinks of Somalia, stark images of conflict often dominate the narrative. Piracy off the Horn of Africa and long-standing political…

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, few narratives are as compelling as that of North Western State of Somalia. Nestled in the Horn of Africa, this self-declared republic has remained a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil of Somalia, yet its quest for international recognition has remained largely unacknowledged. This story is not merely political; it’s a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. Recently, whispers of change have emerged. Insiders, engaged in the intricate…

During a recent ceremony acknowledging significant contributions to the technology sector, Yemisi Ode, the Marketing Communications & PR Manager of Infinix Nigeria, articulated a sentiment that resonates deeply within the brand. She stated, “This award reaffirms our mission to empower today’s youth with devices that beautifully blend cutting-edge innovation and everyday usability. Our devices are crafted to elevate the lifestyle and creativity of our users.” This statement not only encapsulates Infinix's vision but…

The Diplomatic Landscape: Kenya's Stance on North Western State of Somalia On December 2024, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi delivered a powerful speech during a campaign targeting the alarming issue of gender-based violence (GBV). His words resonated not only with the immediate concerns of Kenyan society but also reminded us of the intersectionality of various national issues, such as governance and international relations. Just as Mudavadi seeks to elevate social justice issues, the Ministry of Foreign and…

AFRICOM and the Sahel Crisis: A Global Concern On May 30, 2025, during a pivotal digital press briefing at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference, U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, who heads U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), painted a stark picture of the current security landscape. He labeled the Sahel as the “epicenter of terrorism on the globe,” a declaration that resonates deeply given the escalating crises in this region. The Sahel, a vast belt of land stretching across Africa from the…

Jowhar (AX) — In a significant step towards revitalizing democratic representation, Abdikarin Mohamed Diriye and Abdulqadir Mohamud Mohamed have both successfully filled the vacant parliamentary seats HOP097 and HOP098, respectively. This election, held on a Saturday that will surely be remembered, comes in the wake of the unfortunate passing of two significant figures, MP Khadija Mohamed Diiriye and MP Mohamud Mohamed Jimcale, affectionately known as Seeseey, in the year 2023. Abdikarin, who is not just a politician but…

Dangote Oil Refinery: A New Era in Fuel Production In an ambitious move, the Dangote Oil Refinery is set to import at least five million barrels of U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil this July. This information comes from three well-informed trading sources who are familiar with the company's operations and strategies. Consider this: a refinery with the capability to process an astounding 650,000 barrels per day is looking to import approximately 161,000 barrels daily in July. This comes shortly after a…

On May 29, 2025, a notable meeting took place in the heart of Nairobi, where Abdirahman Mohamed, the President of North Western State of Somalia, engaged in fruitful discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto. This gathering was more than a mere handshake; it was a pivotal event in the intricate tapestry of diplomacy within the Horn of Africa. The encounter, held on May 28, set the stage for a dialogue that spanned a multitude of critical themes: peace, stability, economic cooperation, and educational advancement. This…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a dramatic Friday night, the Somali government, in collaboration with international allies, orchestrated an airstrike aimed directly at Al-Shabaab militants nestled in the Basra region. Awarded for its strategic positioning between Balcad and Afgooye, this landscape plays a pivotal role in the ongoing military endeavors against insurgent forces. Witnesses on the ground reported hearing a series of thunderous explosions that resonated through the night, reverberating as far as local neighborhoods. These…