West Africa

The stakes have never been higher as African teams converge in a heated contest for one of the nine coveted spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an expansion from the previous five. This monumental tournament, set to unfold across the landscapes of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has ignited a passionate fervor among nations eager to showcase their talent on the global stage. As anticipation mounts, the latest results from Matchday 5 have painted a vivid picture of the current standings. It’s a thrilling time for…

Nigeria Leads in Decline of Cash Transactions Consider for a moment, the bustling streets of Lagos where once the chime of cash registers dominated the soundscape, has now become a haven for digital transactions. How did we arrive at such a transformation? The answer lies in an intriguing report—WorldPay's Global Payments Report 2025 reveals Nigeria is at the forefront of this shift, recording the largest decline in cash usage among major global economies. Think back only a decade ago when…

An Examination of Ongoing Security Concerns in Somalia In the heart of Mogadishu, beneath its resilient facade, lies a series of challenges that question the notion of security in Somalia. Imagine a war room deep in Middle Jubba, where over 3,000 Al-Shabaab militants are orchestrating a colossal plan. Their aim? To regain control of the strategically significant Middle Shabelle region—a colossal endeavor initiated in February, shedding light on the security vulnerabilities that persist in this embattled nation. The…

Lessons in Parenting and Politics from Michelle Obama We often ponder the unique experiences of those in the public eye, especially when it comes to raising children amidst global scrutiny. Michelle Obama, in a candid interview on a podcast, offered a glimpse into her family's navigations through such a life. "The day-to-day kind of challenges that any parent has with teenagers, we had it on 100," she reflected with a mix of nostalgia and relief. She went on to express, "I was so glad when…

Bosaso (AX) – In an unfolding tension between regional and federal governance, the Northeastern State administration has cast allegations toward Somalia’s Federal Government. The crux of the matter? Accusations suggest the covert recruitment of young men from Northeastern State’s territory, conscripting them into the national military without any formal, transparent process. Engaging with this complex issue, Northeastern State’s Minister of Information, Mahmoud Caydiid Dirir, has voiced significant concerns. The events, as…

Redefining Happiness: A Glimpse into the Global Happiness Landscape Have you ever pondered what truly makes people happy? Is it wealth, freedom, good health, or perhaps the strength of social ties? These are questions the World Happiness Report seeks to answer every year, offering an insightful glimpse into how countries stack up in terms of their citizens' happiness. As we delve into the intricate tapestry of human happiness, it becomes evident that economic conditions, social structures, and political…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was a night that blended somber tones with structured planning as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud journeyed to the town of Adale, finding himself amidst regional leaders, security personnel, and dedicated community members. Thursday evening was not only an occasion to break fast together but, more importantly, a convergence of minds to dissect and devise strategies against the persistent threat of terrorism besieging the region. In a setting enriched by a shared iftar—a meal marking a day’s…

In a landmark decision that underscores the power of truth in journalism, a U.S. court has rendered a significant judgment, awarding Ghanaian investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas a staggering $18 million (£14 million) in damages. This victory comes in the wake of a jury's verdict that held former Ghanaian MP Kennedy Agyapong liable for defaming Anas. The seeds of this legal battle were sown in the aftermath of Anas's 2018 BBC investigation, which sent ripples…

Two distant lands with seemingly little in common—Lebanon and Nigeria—have found themselves intertwined over the years, sharing a tapestry woven from both economic resilience and cultural exchange. What are the threads that hold this unique relationship together? Perhaps their shared histories of European colonization and the intertwined tapestry of dominant Christian and Islamic communities offer a glimpse into how Lebanese citizens have seamlessly settled into Nigerian society. The…

When we gaze upon the shifting geopolitical landscape of Africa, the operations of the Wagner Group come into sharp focus. It has made significant inroads into several African nations—a move hailed by some as a step towards progress, while others remain wary, scrutinizing intentions that seem to intertwine with commercial interests. Could it be more about lucrative business prospects than a selfless act of assistance? This perspective invites deep reflection, especially as nations grapple with the…