West Africa

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…

Chinese Naval Influence in Africa: Navigating New Waters In the intricacies of global geopolitics, one wonders how a nation's reach can expand across continents, oceans, and cultures. In recent years, the Chinese Navy has embarked on a series of goodwill visits to numerous African ports. But what do these naval forays signify? The visits aren't merely ceremonial; they are the tendrils of growing military alliances. These endeavors strengthen military cooperation and support peacekeeping…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan recently found himself at the center of a storm he claims was brewed from misinterpretation. In an interview with Israel's KAN media, a query directed at him touched upon former U.S. President Donald Trump's ambitious yet controversial proposal to resettle displaced individuals from Gaza. This is more than just a geopolitical topic; it strikes at the heart of a deeply entrenched international discourse that has sparked much…

Ghana: A Step Towards Balanced Marine Conservation In a significant move aimed at protecting both livelihoods and marine sustainability, the Ghanaian government has decided to lift the close season restriction for canoe fishermen by 2025. This decision was announced with a firm yet empathetic tone, emphasizing the delicate balance between supporting local communities and conserving the nation's priceless marine resources. Listening to the Heartbeat of the Fisherfolk One cannot overlook the profound…

In today's ever-evolving landscape of financial technology, it's easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of innovation. However, behind the scenes, regulators are working diligently to ensure that these technological advancements do not outpace the safety nets put in place to protect consumers and maintain market integrity. A recent development in this field involves MobileMoney Limited, the company that operates MTN MoMo. The central bank released a statement, noting, "MobileMoney Limited has not been authorised to carry out…

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud: A Testament to Determined Leadership in Somalia's Counterterrorism Efforts In the undulating heart of Middle Shabelle, a region brushed with both the blessings and challenges of nature, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a notable entrance. Accompanied by an elite cadre of Somali National Army (SNA) troops, his arrival at a frontline military base signaled more than just a visit—it marked a decisive step in the country’s ongoing commitment to an audacious…

Somali Forces Strike at the Heart of Al-Shabaab In a significant blow to Al-Shabaab, Somalia's forces have conducted a successful operation targeting key members of the insurgent group. This operation resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking commanders, including Ahmed Moalim, known as the Al-Shabaab commander for El-Buur. Another key figure, Abu Salman, who oversaw militant operations in EL-Garas, Galgadud, was also among those killed. Moreover, Hussein Ali Badal, Budul Farah Geedi, and Zakariye, all…