West Africa

Setting the Stage: Ethiopia’s New Chapter in Oil Exports Ethiopia has taken a significant stride forward in its economic development by joining the ranks of Africa's oil-exporting nations. This pivotal moment places Ethiopia alongside established producers like Nigeria, Angola, Algeria, and Libya, marking the dawn of a new era in its energy aspirations and economic landscape. It invites us to ponder: how will this transition reshape not just Ethiopia, but the entire Horn of Africa? The announcement was made by…

2025 Global Peace Index: A Declining Trend in Global Peacefulness The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) presents a stark reality: for the 13th time in the last 17 years, global peace is on the decline. Over the past year alone, the average level of peacefulness has taken a hit, decreasing by 0.36%. It’s a sobering statistic that signals the sixth consecutive year where we witness a slip in global tranquility. What has led us to this state? And what does it mean for our collective future? While much of the world’s focus has…

The "Star of Unity" Concert: A Celebration of Somali Heritage The “Star of Unity” concert, a heartfelt initiative organized by the Somali Museum of Minnesota, serves as a vibrant tribute to the diverse tapestry of music and dance that has woven itself through generations and regions of Somalia. This event is not merely a concert; it’s a familial gathering that fosters bonds, nourishes understanding, and rejuvenates cultural pride. On October 22, 2023, the Ames Center in Burnsville will be alive with the sounds of…

Ghana is embarking on a transformative journey, one that could reshape its economic landscape for years to come. Recently, the country secured a vital agreement aimed at facilitating continued disbursements under a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package. This initiative is crucial, especially as Ghana grapples with the most serious economic challenges it has faced in decades. As the saying goes, "The only way out is through." But what does that pathway look like for Ghana? Known as the…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a remarkable Wednesday at Villa Somalia, the Somali Salvation Forum convened a pivotal meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This gathering was not just another routine assembly; it represented an essential effort to navigate the intricate waters of national politics, focusing on constitutional reform, impending elections, and the pressing need to tackle terrorism. The spokesperson for the Forum, Dahir Mohamud Gelle, shared insights post-meeting that were both encouraging and thought-provoking.…

One of the primary indicators used to assess the vitality of a country's economy is the gross domestic product (GDP). At its core, GDP encapsulates the total value of all goods and services produced within a nation over a specified period, typically a year. While seemingly straightforward, this figure carries profound implications, reflecting not only economic activity but also the overall well-being of a country's inhabitants. Throughout history, certain industries have emerged as the backbone of economic…

A Historic Milestone for Somalia: The Launch of Maan-Maal On June 22, 2025, Somalia experienced a remarkable transformation as Mogadishu became the backdrop for the launch of Maan-Maal, the very first Somali entrepreneurship reality TV show. The evening was a vibrant celebration steeped in promise, innovation, and the untapped potential found within the nation’s youth. Attended by over 300 guests, including key government ministers, private sector leaders, academic representatives, youth advocates, civil society members,…

Exploring the Impact of Economic Sanctions on African Nations For decades, African countries have found themselves on the receiving end of various sanctions imposed by international entities such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the United States. Why has this continent become a focal point for such measures? It's essential to recognize that sanctions are often employed to advance specific foreign policy objectives. However, the implications of these actions reach far beyond the political…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a memorable Wednesday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took center stage during the 65th Independence Week celebrations in Mogadishu. The event was a heartfelt tribute to Somalia’s long and arduous journey toward freedom, marking not just a historical milestone, but a collective call for renewed unity and national reconciliation among its people. The ceremony was a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of history, marked by the presence of senior government officials, distinguished…

Borrowing, at times, becomes a necessary tool for countries striving to enhance their development. However, the ability to maintain a modest, year-over-year increase in government debt reflects the sophistication of a nation’s economic management. It signals macroeconomic stability and lays down the foundation for long-term resilience. Imagine a tightrope walker, balancing carefully with each step—this is what prudent borrowing feels like in the context of national economies. Across the rich tapestry of Africa,…