West Africa

The Strategic Shake-Up: What the Potential Closure of the Strait of Hormuz Means for Global Energy and Africa As we await a pivotal decision from Iran's Supreme National Security Council regarding the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one thing is clear: the discussions are reverberating across the globe. Iranian state broadcaster Press TV has confirmed that a parliamentary vote favoring this closure has already passed. But what does this mean for the world, and specifically for Africa? This…

Nigeria and Brazil Forge Groundbreaking $1 Billion Partnership This week, Nigeria and Brazil inaugurated a transformative agreement worth $1 billion aimed at advancing agriculture, energy, food security, and defense in Nigeria. This monumental step was highlighted by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the opening remarks of the 2nd Nigeria–Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. "Brazil and Nigeria are not bound by geography, but by a shared dream," Shettima passionately conveyed.…

Calls for Justice: The Tragic Death of Albert Ojwang In a poignant demonstration of civil society’s strength and resolve, activists gathered in Mombasa, Kenya on June 17, 2025, bearing placards that demanded justice for the late political blogger, Albert Ojwang. His untimely death while in police custody has ignited a firestorm of protests, stirring the hearts and minds of citizens across the nation. Standing amidst the sea of voices and banners, one could almost feel the pulse of the community—a mixture of sorrow and…

In recent years, there has been a growing conversation about the economic landscape of African nations, particularly those with low diesel prices. While this could easily seem like a matter reserved for economists or policy analysts, the implications stretch far beyond the fuel gauge. Low diesel prices offer a multitude of economic and social benefits that ripple across industries, affecting daily life, commerce, and even food security. One might wonder: how does a dip in diesel prices translate to tangible…

The Heart-Wrenching Struggles of Displacement in Baidoa In the crowded camps of Baidoa, amidst the evanescent shadows of past lives lived in comfort, families like Hussein Idris Nunow's are grappling with the relentless grip of hardship. As he shares a meager meal with his family of seven, one can't help but wonder about the weight of loss that hangs heavily in the air. The story of Hussein offers a vivid glimpse into the fragile existence of displaced communities, where the specter of hunger looms large.…

Despite initial forecasts predicting a GDP growth of between 4.5% and 4.8% for the year, emerging data suggests that Ghana’s economic performance might just exceed these expectations. It’s quite fascinating how such projections can be outdone, isn’t it? Let’s delve deeper into the details. Q1 GDP Growth Surpasses Expectations In a compelling analysis titled "Ghana’s Q1 2025 Real GDP Growth: Green Shoots in Tight Soil", IC Research has revealed that Ghana's economy grew by an impressive 5.3% year-on-year in the…

It is undeniable that many African nations grapple with challenges such as territorial disputes and internal security issues. In this context, a robust military presence becomes essential. One critical aspect of a formidable military force is the number of active personnel. Countries across Africa recognize that maintaining a substantial standing military is crucial. In dealing with various challenges, governments prioritize having a capable active military force to safeguard peace and stability. While the sheer size of a…

Somalia's New Identification Mandate: A Step Toward Unity or Controversy? Mogadishu (AX) — In a bold move aimed at streamlining public services, Somalia's Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has mandated that all of its services will now require the presentation of a National Identification Card. This requirement is a product of the Prime Ministerial Directive XRW/415/04/2025, which aims to enhance nationwide identity verification through a unified system. The Cabinet endorsed this decision during its…

The significance of maintaining a robust helicopter fleet cannot be overstated, especially for African nations. The continent is characterized by vast geographical expanses, diverse topographies, and, often, infrastructure challenges that complicate transportation. This necessity extends far beyond mere transportation. A well-equipped helicopter fleet can play a pivotal role in enhancing a nation's security and defense capabilities. Think about it: how do you secure a border that stretches over thousands of kilometers, or…

Northeastern State’s Approach to Young Militants: A Delicate Balance of Security and Rehabilitation Garowe (AX) — In the complex landscape of Northeastern State’s response to youth militants affiliated with Al-Shabaab and ISIS, the government has made a firm decision: rehabilitation centers are not an option. The rationale? The perceived danger these young fighters pose outweighs any potential benefits of reintegration. During a recent session of the Northeastern State Parliament, Justice Minister Mohamed Abdiwahaab…