West Africa

Have you ever wondered why some countries with abundant natural resources are not reaping their full benefits? This is a curious predicament faced by numerous countries across Africa. Despite possessing vast reserves of natural gas, a remarkable resource that lies buried beneath their soil, many African nations continue to experience relatively low usage of this potential powerhouse. What are the underlying reasons for this paradox, and what implications might it have on various facets of society?…

UN cargo aircraft rests on its nose after a landing gear failure at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on April 1, 2025. This image, almost like a slumbering giant reduced to humility, serves as a poignant reminder that mishaps, while unfortunate, demand proactive measures. Mogadishu (AX) — In an earnest bid to address growing apprehensions surrounding air safety, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation of Somalia has mandated a comprehensive round of emergency safety inspections and…

Somalia’s Political Turmoil: A Call for Unity As President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud endeavors to rally federal member states, seeking to forge a unified front against Somalia’s myriad political challenges and the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab militants, the situation remains complex and fraught with tension. How can leaders navigate the delicate balance of power and cooperation? Indeed, the breakdown in relations has escalated into an outright conflict. In a…

Ivory Coast and Cocoa Prices Amidst U.S. Tariff Proposals Imagine walking through the bustling streets of Abidjan, where the air is rich with the earthy aroma of cocoa—a scent that hints at its significance to the nation. Ivory Coast, often acclaimed as the world's largest cocoa producer, stands at a crossroads. Recent geopolitical developments have added layers of complexity to an already intricate web of international trade. The present situation stirs up a notable question: What…

The buzz of a bustling city outside is always welcoming, but within the quiet chambers of diplomacy, significant conversations unfold that shape the future. Recently, Hamsa Abdi Barre, the seasoned Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Abdullah Al Otaibi. Al Otaibi, an instrumental figure as the Head of the Arab League Mission to Somalia, was on a mission quintessential to the interests of both parties involved. Their meeting wasn’t merely a diplomatic formality; it was a…

Ghana's Lithium Refining Dilemma: Weighing the Economic Scales In the heart of West Africa, Ghana stands at a crossroads. A recent report from the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) presents an unsettling choice: push for domestic lithium refining or continue exporting raw lithium spodumene concentrate. Why does this decision carry such weight? At first glance, local refining might seem like the patriotic choice. However, as with many things, the devil is in the details. The report meticulously…

Mogadishu (AX) – A fresh breeze of dialogue is about to sweep through Somalia as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extends a heartfelt invitation to the federal member state leaders. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mogadishu, the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, scheduled for May 1–2, carries with it the weight of addressing the intricate tapestry of Somalia’s political and security landscape. Villa Somalia, in its statement on Friday, captured this moment as a critical juncture,…

Kenya's Strategic Shift: From France to China in Infrastructure Development Picture this: a bustling highway carved through the heart of Kenya, propelling commerce and connecting communities. Once a symbol of Franco-Kenyan partnership, it now marks the changing winds of Kenya's international alliances. The Kenyan government recently opted to redirect a significant roadway project from its original French contractor to a Chinese firm. This decision…

Have you ever paused to consider the critical role that airports play in our interconnected world? They are more than just places where you board a flight; they are arteries of economic lifeblood, especially in regions like Africa, where they promise to change lives and expectations. Often underestimated, airports serve as vital threads in the fabric of global commerce, tourism, and regional progress. This is nowhere more apparent than in Africa—a continent that stretches beyond our…

Las Anod (AX) – On a bustling Friday morning, a top-tier delegation from the Federal Government of Somalia touched down in the town of Las Anod. Spearheading this group was Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Xoosh, setting the stage for a significant visit by Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre scheduled for the following day. As the delicate hues of dusk settled upon the town, anticipation swelled among the residents. Prime Minister Barre's visit isn't merely ceremonial. He’s on a mission to inaugurate a range of…