West Africa

It was a momentous occasion at the 2025 Trade Conference of PAAC, held in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia. This annual gathering, orchestrated in collaboration with EXIM Bank and the African Union, serves as a platform to celebrate leaders who are not just influential but genuinely transformative in their contributions to trade, investment, and socio-economic development across Africa and its diaspora. Moments like these remind us of the powerful impact one individual can have when dedicated to a mission larger…

Mogadishu (AX) — A striking incident has taken place involving the USS Harry S. Truman, an aircraft carrier known for its resilience and operational prowess. On Monday, during operations in the Red Sea, a $67 million U.S. Navy fighter jet, specifically an F/A-18E Super Hornet, unexpectedly fell overboard alongside a towing tractor. As Houthi fighters claimed responsibility for missile launches targeting the carrier group, U.S. officials have refrained from drawing any direct connections between these events. This ambiguity…

During his recent visit to Uganda, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot took a significant step by engaging with President Yoweri Museveni. This meeting was not just a formality—it was a strategic initiative aimed at leveraging Museveni's influence in the region. Prévot sought the Ugandan leader's assistance in mending the rift in diplomatic relations between Belgium and Rwanda. The implications of this outreach stretch far beyond mere politics; they highlight the intricate web of relationships that exists among nations,…

Empowering Maternal and Newborn Health: A Significant Step Forward in Sub-Saharan Africa A collective of philanthropic organizations, headed by the Gates Foundation, has announced an ambitious initiative: a $500 million fund dedicated to enhancing maternal and newborn health in sub-Saharan Africa. In a world where resources can often feel scarce, this initiative shines brightly as a beacon of hope for countless families navigating the challenges of maternal healthcare. Presented on Tuesday in the vibrant city of Abu…

The Perilous Journey to Saudi Arabia: A Story of Hope and Despair Crossing deserts on foot, engaging with unscrupulous smugglers, braving the treacherous sea—these are the harsh realities faced by countless migrants attempting to reach Saudi Arabia. Their journey often entails enduring abuse from armed factions and navigating highly fortified mountain borders, which have long been the backdrop of conflict. In 2023, a report by Human Rights Watch shed light on the egregious abuses allegedly perpetrated by Saudi border…

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, where misinformation can travel the globe within moments, the actions of a single journalist can have ramifications far beyond personal accountability. Take Ayite's recent actions, for instance. His careless dissemination of unchecked information on platforms like Meta and TikTok is not merely a professional misstep; it represents a significant breach of the ethical responsibilities that underpin journalism. The gravity of this betrayal is particularly glaring in Togo, a nation…

Nigeria’s Refinery Crisis: A Closer Look The recent shutdown of the Warri Refinery—barely a month after it was declared operational—has ignited a firestorm of concern regarding the management and oversight of Nigeria's oil sector. How can a facility that absorbed nearly $900 million in maintenance costs cease operations so soon after opening its doors? It’s a question that has left industry experts scratching their heads and citizens questioning the transparency of the Nigerian National Petroleum…

The Complex Landscape of Somali Politics: A Humanitarian Gesture or Political Strategy? Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of Somali politics, a notable event unfolded earlier this month—a moment that many believe could reshape the future of the region. The SSC-Khaatumo administration recently released 25 prisoners to Somalia's federal government, coinciding with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s groundbreaking visit to Las Anod. Such a visit had not been made by a sitting Somali prime minister in over 50 years. It is…

Insights from IMD's Smart Cities Index 2025 As we navigate the complexities of urban life, IMD's Smart Cities Index 2025 sheds light on the progress of cities worldwide, including those across the African continent. This year’s findings are a tapestry woven with remarkable strides and lingering obstacles. The landscape of African cities presents a curious paradox—a blend of innovation and stagnation. A Glimpse of Progress and Challenges At the forefront, Cairo shines as the…

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn (AX) — In a decisive shift in federal policy, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that mandates commercial truck drivers demonstrate proficiency in English reading and speaking. This new regulation reverses an Obama-era initiative that had softened federal enforcement standards regarding language requirements for truck drivers. As a result, immigrant drivers, particularly a significant number of Somalis contributing to North America's trucking workforce, may find themselves…