West Africa

A Close Encounter in Mogadishu's Heavily Secured Zone In what can only be described as a brazen act of aggression, the heavily fortified Halane compound in Mogadishu, situated near the Aden Adde International Airport, found itself under siege. This isn't just any ordinary target; it's one of the most meticulously guarded areas in all of Somalia. This compound serves as a hub for the United Nations, African Union officials, and a multitude of foreign embassies. But who dares to strike at such a consortium of international…

Facing the Unknown: The African Immigrant's Journey in America Imagine waking up each day with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over you, a silent awareness that at any moment, the life you’ve built could be upended. For many African immigrants in the United States, this is not an abstract fear but a tangible presence lurking in the backdrop of their daily lives. “To be an immigrant is to live in perpetuity with an unanswered question,” shared Anna Mensah, a nurse who emigrated from Ghana a decade ago. Her words…

In a bold move that sends ripples through Nigeria’s political landscape, President Bola Tinubu has officially declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich Rivers State. The declaration comes hand-in-hand with the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected representatives of the State House of Assembly. This decision stems from a burgeoning political crisis and alarming acts of vandalism against vital pipeline infrastructure. As the sun began to set over the lush landscapes of…

The political landscape in Somalia is as intricate as it is volatile. An initiative that should unite is sparking division, as questions mount about its legitimacy. "The registration is politically driven and aimed at facilitating illegitimate elections without proper agreement with stakeholders, distracting citizens from the actual security and national unity challenges facing Somalia." These words resonate not just as a claim but as a profound reflection of distrust. Looking deeper, the…

Cooperation Dynamics Unveil: The Somali-Turkish-US Triangle In today's ever-shifting global landscape, the intricate dance of international relations can often resemble a well-choreographed ballet. Sometimes, however, it feels more like a precariously balanced tightrope act. Take, for instance, the recent developments between Somalia, Turkey, and the United States. A captivating narrative unfolds, replete with geopolitical tensions and significant alliances. This emerging story is as dynamic as it is thought-provoking,…

As the world spins on its axis, one truth remains unwavering: food has an unparalleled ability to forge connections. Be it through the chaotic charm of bustling street markets or the allure of an opulent dining room, culinary experiences continue to evolve and mesmerize. But in this whirlwind of flavors and aromas, where do we find the destinations that truly redefine our gastronomic adventures as of 2025? In a world that’s continuously embracing new tastes, Time Out offers a compass to navigate this vast…

Imagine this: seated in a bustling conference room in Abuja on a warm Tuesday morning, Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, paints a vivid picture of the region's food security challenges. Yet, amid the swirling concerns, there's a distinct glimmer of hope. Speaking at the ECOWAS Regional Food Security Reserve Management Committee's third meeting, Kyari highlighted the power of food reserves in navigating crises. Though Kyari couldn't partake in person, he was…

Nigeria's Trans Niger Pipeline Incident: Deep Dive into the Unexpected Imagine a vast network of pipelines stretching across Nigeria, a country teeming with natural resources and industrial activity. At the heart of this network lies the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) - a crucial artery for crude oil transportation to the Bonny export terminal. Recently, this vital link to Nigeria's oil economy experienced an unexpected event. On a seemingly ordinary Monday night, an explosion echoed…

Imagine waking up on a Sunday—coffee in hand, the day ahead open with possibilities—and finding out that a former President's social media has been hijacked. That's exactly what happened when Ghana’s ex-president, John Mahama, found his X account teeming with posts that were not his own. The situation unfolded with suspicious messages appearing, promoting a dubious project called “Solanafrica.” But have you ever wondered how often things like this actually happen? According to the President’s spokesperson, the breach…

Geopolitical Influence & Competition in Africa: A Modern Landscape In the intricate web of global politics, where would we be without the insightful reports that shape our understanding of geopolitical dynamics? Perhaps the Geopolitical Influence & Peace report is a case in point. It reveals how ideological chasms have widened among major global players. Countries like China and Russia are advocating for alternate governance models in stark contrast to the cherished ideals of liberal democracies.…