West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — On a sunny Tuesday, the atmosphere at Villa Somalia was more than just pleasant; it buzzed with the excitement of possibility. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed Souleiman Hassan Waberi, a notable figure in the football world who wears many hats—President of the Djibouti Football Federation, Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and member of the FIFA Council. Their meeting wasn't just a standard diplomatic affair; it was a conversation brimming with potential for the…

By Ali Musa Axadle Times International – Monitoring Beledweyne (AX) — A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday in the bustling neighborhood of Ali Ganey, situated in the heart of the Hiiraan region, where the lives of two teenagers were abruptly cut short, and 32 Somali soldiers were left injured due to a harrowing road accident. This heartbreaking event has left the community grappling with shock and loss, as it shines a light on the larger issues of traffic safety and road maintenance in the area. According to local…

The Currency Landscape of Africa: A Key to Resilience Amidst Global Trade Turmoil While Africa may not occupy the frontlines in the current global trade conflicts, the economic repercussions are palpable across the continent. Indeed, in these challenging times, African nations find themselves navigating through turbulent waters, significantly influenced by international trade policies and market fluctuations. The importance of a robust and stable currency cannot be overstated. For African countries, a strong…

Navigating a Strategic Shift: Indonesia’s Changing Oil Dynamics In an era where global trade dynamics are in constant flux, Indonesia's recent pivot away from crude oil exports to Nigeria marks a pivotal moment in international economic relations. This decision stems from Indonesia's attempts to rectify its trade imbalance with the United States and sidestep a daunting 32% tariff on its exports. It’s a well-calibrated move, yet it raises several questions about the future of Nigeria’s oil revenues and its standing within…

Northeastern State's Capital, Garowe. Photo: Garowe Online In an unsettling turn of events, the community of Las Anod has been shaken by the tragic news of the death of Farah Aydiid Jama. Reports indicate that he served as an official at the Ethiopian Consulate in Garowe, the capital of Northeastern State state in Somalia. A grim narrative unfurled on Sunday, April 20, when officials, citing local media outlets from North Western State of Somalia, attributed his murder to the notorious Al-Shabaab terrorist group. Adding to…

In a world where climate change looms increasingly large, the predictions from the Igad Climate Predictions and Applications Center (ICPAC) have caught the attention of many. Climate scientists at ICPAC have forecasted an unusual uptick in rainfall across multiple regions, notably Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, eastern Kenya, northern South Sudan, and southern Sudan. It’s more than just numbers and statistics; it's a clarion call for communities to prepare for nature’s dramatic shifts. According to ICPAC, “Moderate rainfall of…

The Evolution of Nigeria's Blockchain Ecosystem A remarkable report from the venture capital firm Hashed Emergent has shed light on Nigeria’s blockchain landscape, revealing the impressive strides made by over 80 emerging startups. Together, these pioneers have successfully secured funding exceeding $130 million, with $20 million raised in the early months of 2024 alone. It’s a staggering figure that showcases the burgeoning potential of technology in one of Africa's largest economies.…

The Political Landscape in Jubbaland: A Tale of Tension and Determination The situation in Jubbaland is unfolding like a gripping political drama, filled with twists, turns, and a palpable sense of urgency. At the heart of this narrative lies the contentious election of the regional president, Madobe, whose legitimacy is now a matter of fierce debate. Amidst this, questions arise: How do we navigate the murky waters of political discord? And at what point do principles of governance yield to the harsh realities of power…

Across the vast expanse of Africa, the energy landscape presents a complex tapestry woven from the rich geological diversity found on the continent. In this intricate picture, coal has historically played a pivotal role, particularly within southern regions. As a fundamental resource, coal has powered industries and fueled electricity generation, serving as a cornerstone for numerous national economies. It's hard to envision the bustling cities, both small and large, and the energetic industries thriving, without the…

Across northern Nimba County, a profound shift is taking place as Liberians engage in a by-election to select a new senator for this vital region, which boasts the second-highest population in the country. The passing of the infamous Prince Johnson—known for his tumultuous past as a warlord and his influential role as a kingmaker in Liberia's political sphere—has left a significant void. His sudden demise has not only opened a seat but also ignited the aspirations of politicians eager to step into the spotlight. As the sun…