West Africa

Strategic Network Sharing: MTN and Airtel's New Partnership In a move that highlights the evolving landscape of telecommunications in Africa, two industry titans, MTN and Airtel, have joined forces to share critical phone network infrastructure in Nigeria and Uganda. If you’ve ever wondered how this partnership could shape the future of digital connectivity on the continent, you're certainly not alone. Let’s dive deeper into the motivations and potential impacts of this collaboration.…

In a surprising turn of events, a night in Galkayo witnessed the arrest of Dalmar Socdaal, a freelance journalist known for his brave storytelling and sharp insights. He was detained by Northeastern State security forces, accused of engaging in a process that Northeastern State authorities had firmly resisted—the registration for the Somali national identity card. This arrest is more than the simple handcuffing of a journalist; it reflects the simmering tensions between Northeastern State and Somalia’s federal…

Compliance and Taxation: A Clear Path Forward Let's step into the world of compliance for a moment—a landscape where rules and regulations govern our actions, ensuring the stability and fairness of corporate ventures. The recent report, diligently compiled, throws light on the path Segilola Resources Operations Limited (SROL) has been traversing. It reassures us of one thing: SROL has stoically adhered to its legal and regulatory obligations—a fact we held firm from the very beginning. The numerous…

In a recent development in Nigerian politics, the Senate ethics committee has dismissed a poignant petition brought forth by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The petition accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of severe allegations, including sexual harassment, abuse of office, and impediments to legislative duties. The committee's ruling hinged on a critical point: the case is currently under judicial consideration. The atmosphere during the hearing was far from serene. Representing the suspended Senator…

Complex Implications of Kenya's Shirika Plan for Somali Refugees Edited by Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring Mogadishu (AX) — Kenya's ambitious Shirika Plan aims to transform refugee camps into permanent cities, arousing significant concern in Somalia. This initiative, designed to reshape the Dadaab and Kakuma camps, could hinder efforts to repatriate Somali nationals, potentially perpetuating their displacement. Set to commence in 2024, the multi-billion-dollar project intends to reinvent two…

The captivating world of Turkish cuisine has found a new admirer in Somalia's ambassador to Türkiye. In an evocative conversation, the envoy shared his admiration for a myriad of traditional dishes that weave the rich culinary tapestry of this fascinating country. He hailed Turkish cuisine as being among the world's finest, echoing the sentiments of many gastronomic enthusiasts worldwide. Ambassador Fathudin Ali Mohamed expressed these heartfelt sentiments during an engaging interview with…

There's a sense of both relief and optimism in Nigeria's oil sector as the Trans Niger pipeline - a pivotal artery in the country’s crude oil transport network – is back in action. "We are pleased to announce its restoration," shared Tony Okonedo, the energetic spokesperson for Renaissance, on Tuesday. A tale of resilience, isn't it? Picture a pipeline capable of 450,000 barrels flowing each day, a lifeline to the bustling Bonny terminal. It’s more than just numbers; it’s a testament to…

Exploring the Burden of Debt in African Economies Albert Einstein once quipped, "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it; he who doesn’t, pays it." This quote rings particularly true for several African nations today. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), numerous African economies find themselves grappling with alarming levels of government debt. This raises a multitude of questions about fiscal sustainability…

The sudden cessation of aid disbursements from USAID by Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, signals a monumental shift for Africa, a continent that has long leaned on this vital lifeline of support. Given the U.S.'s stature as a leading global foreign aid benefactor, this unexpected move prompts a pressing query: What is on the horizon for Africa's aid-dependent nations? It seems only yesterday that Donald Trump, then the U.S. President, decided to pull the plug on USAID funding. This abrupt decision sent shockwaves through…

Imagine possessing a key that unlocks the world. This is precisely what a powerful passport represents: unfettered freedom to explore diverse landscapes, cultures, and opportunities beyond borders. The 2025 Passport Index has brought to light intriguing revelations about which nations hold such keys, organizing them by continent. This eye-opening report ranks countries based on their citizens’ ease of travel, without the need for prior visa arrangements. It sparks a thought: How do our global connections shape…