West Africa

Economic freedom. At first glance, this term may conjure images of spreadsheets, policies, and perhaps even the dusty pages of an economic textbook. Yet, peel back the layers, and you'll find that it is far more than an academic concept. Economic freedom intricately weaves its way through our lives, influencing the jobs we can secure, the quality and variety of goods available for purchase, the education our children receive, and even the very air we breathe. The Index of Economic Freedom,…

The Fight Against Terrorism: A Collective Journey Towards Peace Since re-assuming my presidential duties in 2022, my unwavering commitment has been to confront the threats posed by Al-Shabaab and ISIS head-on. We are implementing a comprehensive strategy that tackles them on two critical fronts: ideology and finance. This dual approach is not just an operational necessity; it is a moral imperative. Ideological Defense: Unmasking the Falsehoods On the ideological front, we have gathered over 300 esteemed…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant turn of events, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur, widely known as Aden Madoobe, the Speaker of the House of the People in Somalia, has announced the suspension of 20 lawmakers from participating in upcoming parliamentary sessions. This decision, rooted in security concerns following a recent outbreak of unrest within the legislature, has sent ripples through the political landscape. On Wednesday, the Speaker issued a formal directive to parliamentary staff, instructing them to prevent the suspended…

In a significant turn of events, the Somali federal government announced a ban on the entry, transit, and exit of travelers holding Taiwanese passports. This decision, driven by a steadfast commitment to the "one China" policy as delineated in United Nations Resolution 2758, raises various questions regarding the implications for international relations, national sovereignty, and individual freedoms. On April 22, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority released a notice declaring that all passports and travel documents issued…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a resolute response to the growing tide of misinformation, the Somali government has issued a pointed warning directed at both individuals and social media platforms engaged in disseminating false information that poses a threat to national security and undermines public trust. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Information released a statement aimed at addressing recent claims circulating in online spheres. These claims alleged that a mortar attack by the extremist group Al-Shabaab had struck the heavily…

Somali Cookbook Returns: Asha Mohamoud Guled’s Culinary Classic Updated for a New Generation In a world where culinary traditions are often lost amid modernization, the return of Asha Mohamoud Guled’s beloved Somali Cookbook feels like a warm embrace. This culinary classic, cherished for generations, has undergone a thoughtful update, ensuring that it resonates with today’s generation while honoring its rich heritage. As we delve into the pages of this revitalized cookbook, we find not merely recipes but a…

In a thought-provoking interview, Mr. Nkaw shed light on the often-overlooked consequences of gas flaring—a practice that remains alarmingly prevalent in our energy sector. He meticulously detailed how the unresolved issue of excess gas processing leads to not just financial waste, but also significant environmental and health repercussions. Flaring, a method of burning off excess natural gas, contributes to a myriad of challenges that extend beyond the immediate economic implications. “We have data that shows…

The Unfolding Story of Ahmed Hussen: From Refugee to Canadian Political Leader Ahmed Hussen’s recent re-election was anticipated by many, and rightly so. His prominent profile coupled with deep-rooted connections within his community made him a familiar and trusted figure. Analysts point out that his visibility, combined with a solid policy track record, played essential roles in securing his victory. This raises a captivating question: what truly defines a leader in contemporary politics? As community analyst Abdirahman…

Ghana's Growing Petroleum Revenue: A Dynamic Landscape In a promising turn of events, Ghana's total petroleum revenue surged to an impressive US$1.35 billion in 2024. This marks a remarkable 27.8% increase from the US$1.06 billion recorded in 2023, as outlined in the recently released 2024 Annual Report by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC). It’s a heartening statistic, one that evokes a sense of cautious optimism for both Ghanaian citizens and stakeholders involved in the nation's oil industry. This…

The Horn of Africa, together with the Red Sea, stands as a crucial nexus in global trade. Unfortunately, it has morphed into a hotbed of geopolitical tension. In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a pivotal, though often enigmatic, player in this arena. Its ambitions for economic growth, regional influence, and a desire to assert its power have made it a compelling, if contentious, force—especially in Somalia, where its impact is felt profoundly amidst the ongoing turmoil. Yet, it’s essential to…