West Africa

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…

Despite the rich tapestry of cultures and the vast potential found within the African continent, there is a pressing challenge confronting several nations today: military recruitment. As Africa’s population continues to grow, certain countries are grappling with a paradox. They find themselves unable to muster enough young individuals for military service. What does this mean for their future? A shrinking pool of potential recruits threatens not only the military's operational effectiveness but also national…

Human Rights Watch has issued a compelling call to action, urging the Guinean government to conduct an investigation into the disturbing abduction and torture of Mohamed Traoré, a distinguished lawyer and former president of the national bar association. Over the weekend, armed intruders stormed his residence, seizing Traoré and his daughter in a harrowing display of force. Known for his outspoken criticism of Guinea's military junta, which seized control in September 2021, Traoré's situation highlights the escalating…

As North Western State of Somalia embarks on its journey of state-building and strives for democratic consolidation, it finds itself in a unique position to draw lessons from the experiences of other nations in the Global South. One particularly resonant example is Bangladesh, a country that has utilized interim governance structures during times of national transition. In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus poignantly highlighted the necessity of structural transformation in the…

Sovereignty and Nationhood: A Fragile Fabric in Somalia In the vast landscape of international law and politics, the terms "sovereignty" and "nationhood" are often thrown around like interchangeable tools in a toolbox. Yet, as history unfolds, it becomes glaringly clear that these concepts diverge significantly. The core of the modern state system, which many attribute to the Westphalian principles established in 1648, encompasses more than just physical borders or national flags. It relies crucially…

In a pivotal moment for Liberian politics, a coalition of opposition parties has emphatically called for the appointment of a special prosecutor. This comes in light of serious allegations regarding witness tampering and claims of "torture" linked to the investigation of a devastating fire that ravaged parts of the building housing the national legislature. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. This coalition, comprising several significant political entities, issued a robust joint statement accusing the…

On a crisp Monday, the Kremlin buzzed with energy as President Vladimir Putin extended a warm welcome to Colonel Assimi Goita, the military head of Mali. Their meeting symbolized much more than a mere handshake; it was the beginning of a strengthened alliance between their two nations. Together, they signed important agreements aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, setting the stage for future collaborations that could reshape their respective geopolitical landscapes. According to Russian official media, this…

Turkey and Somalia: Forging a Strong Alliance On Monday, a pivotal meeting unfolded, building on a series of significant agreements established over the past year. Among these was a landmark accord reached in February 2024, when the Somali cabinet approved a comprehensive 10-year defense and economic cooperation pact with Turkey. This initiative promises a host of collaborations, including naval training, joint patrols, and a revenue-sharing model for offshore…

The Red Sea, a crucial lifeblood in global trade and maritime navigation, is more than a mere waterway; it represents an intricate tapestry of economic interdependence and geopolitical significance. Stretching across lands and cultures, it connects the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the vast Indian Ocean. Each year, it bears witness to the passage of billions of dollars worth of goods—everything from oil and food to manufactured products—ultimately sustaining the very fabric of international commerce. However,…

Rwanda's Currency Regulations: A Shift Towards Economic Stability In a significant move aimed at strengthening its economy, the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR) has announced that it will enforce stringent penalties on businesses and individuals who engage in transactions or price quoting in U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies without obtaining proper authorization. This initiative is more than just a regulatory measure; it's a vital step towards establishing and reinforcing the use of the Rwandan Franc in local trade.…