West Africa

In a deeply unsettling incident that has sent shockwaves throughout Melbourne, Victoria Police have found themselves at the center of a fraught conversation surrounding the tragic shooting of Abdifatah Ahmed. The officers involved, identified as a sergeant and a constable, were reported to be without Tasers at the time of this unfortunate event, a detail that raises significant questions about the preparedness and decision-making processes in high-stress situations. As these officers take a leave of absence while the…

On April 14, we marked a haunting eleven years since the tragic abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok by the extremist group Boko Haram in 2014. This incident did not merely shed light on the depths of human depravity but also highlighted the alarming systemic inadequacies in Nigeria's governance and security frameworks. Why, in a nation rich with resources and talent, do we continue to witness such harrowing events? Despite widespread condemnation and the fervent #BringBackOurGirls campaign, a staggering 90 of those…

Continuing Operations Against Al-Shabaab: The Fight for Stability As the sun began to rise on Tuesday morning, the air was thick with anticipation and the distant hum of helicopters. The operations against the Al-Shabaab militants were intensifying, and fighters ventured into surrounding areas, chasing those who had managed to escape the previous clashes. The strategic objective? To dismantle Al-Shabaab's network, preventing them from regrouping and launching retaliatory strikes. It’s a pursuit that speaks to the broader…

Strengthening Ties: The Russia-Nigeria Partnership in Trade and Security Exciting developments are on the horizon for trade and cooperation between Russia and Nigeria. The latest news reveals that a new shipping service, operated by A7 African Cargo Line from Russia, is set to launch operations by mid-June. This venture is not just another commercial route; it signifies a deeper connection between two nations with unique aspirations and challenges. At the outset, two container ships, each…

Mogadishu (AX) — On April 16, 2025, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), in collaboration with the Federal Government of Somalia, executed a targeted airstrike aimed at al-Shabaab militants near the Adan Yabaal district, a pivotal location in the Middle Shabelle region. This operation highlights the ongoing struggle against extremism in a region where the stakes are high, not just for Somalia but for global security. In a statement released on Monday, AFRICOM noted that, at this point, their initial assessments revealed no…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a bustling Monday, amidst the backdrop of complex national security challenges, Somali Second Deputy Prime Minister Abdusalam Abdullahi Ali took the helm of a critical high-level session aimed at bolstering the country's military offensive against two notorious adversaries: Al-Shabaab and ISIS. This gathering was more than just a meeting of officials; it symbolized the government’s unwavering resolve to eradicate terrorism from Somalia's landscape, a mission that weighs heavily on the hearts and minds of…

On Monday, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who passed away at the age of 88. His departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in a papacy that spanned over 12 years—a tenure characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and addressing global issues that touch the lives of millions. In a world often fraught with division, he sought to offer a message of unity and understanding. As the Church and the broader world come to terms with this loss,…

The recent U.S. Senate hearing, where a representative from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) leveled serious allegations against Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has sparked significant controversy. This hearing accused Traoré of misappropriating Burkina Faso’s gold reserves for his personal security rather than utilizing these resources for the betterment of his nation. In the wake of these claims, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that they are unfounded. The EFF…

The role of natural gas as a pivotal energy source has gained significant traction in recent years. Why has this transformation occurred? Primarily due to its cleaner-burning properties compared to traditional fossil fuels like coal and oil. Not only is natural gas recognized for its favorable environmental impact, but it has also proven essential in fueling industrial growth and driving economic progress in various regions across the globe. For many African nations, natural gas extraction emerges as a crucial…

Mogadishu (AX) — This week saw a significant political gathering in Villa Somalia, where former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon Saacid met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The discussions centered around the pressing nature of Somalia’s upcoming elections and the precariousness of the nation’s security landscape—a topic that resonates deeply with so many Somalis today. In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, Shirdoon, who now leads the Nagaad political party,…