West Africa

Strengthening Humanitarian Efforts: A New Partnership Between Kuwait and the United Kingdom MOGADISHU, Somalia (AX) — In an inspiring display of international solidarity, Kuwait and the United Kingdom have recently signed two significant memoranda of understanding, committing a notable $10 million in humanitarian aid aimed specifically at communities ravaged by conflict in Sudan and Somalia. The announcement made on Sunday signals a renewed effort to pour vital resources into areas where hardship has become a way of life…

The Geopolitical Balancing Act: Somalia's Navigating Partnerships As the new year unfolded on January 1, 2024, Egypt’s strategic ambitions took a significant leap forward. The country eagerly embraced an agreement with Addis Ababa, granting naval and commercial access to the vital port of Berbera in North Western State of Somalia for an extensive period of up to fifty years. In a swirl of diplomatic tension, this memorandum of understanding drew sharp criticism from Somalia, which condemned the deal as an “illegal…

Starlink: A Double-Edged Sword in Conflict Zones Over the past couple of years, a concerning pattern has emerged. Various photos and videos shared on social media platforms have illustrated the use of Starlink terminals by militant factions. Such revelations have understandably raised alarms among regional governments and international partners, who are now grappling with this evolving challenge. A notable instance comes from Le Monde, which reported that in June 2024, a video surfaced showing a Starlink…

Egypt and Somalia: Strengthening Bonds Amid Regional Tensions In a bold declaration filled with resolve, Egypt has recently asserted its commitment to thwart Ethiopia’s push for access to the Red Sea. On Sunday, President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi conveyed this message during a press conference that followed strategic discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Cairo. This development highlights not only Egypt's deep-rooted concerns but also its expanding security partnership with Somalia. El-Sissi…

<h1>Assault in Moqokori: Understanding the Ongoing Crisis</h1> <p>Beledweyne (AX) — Just before dawn on Monday, an unsettling wave of violence swept through the Moqokori district in the Hiiraan region, as **al-Shabab militants executed a well-coordinated attack**. Local sources report that several casualties are feared, although precise figures remain elusive.</p> <p>The assault commenced with a horrifying suicide bombing, targeting an area bustling with local security forces and civilians…

The long-anticipated 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat kicked off with unexpected flair at the Stade Olympique on Saturday night. The host nation, Morocco, faced a formidable challenge against Zambia, ultimately ending in a gripping 2-2 draw. Both teams showcased remarkable skill and tenacity, each rallying to equalize, illustrating the heart of competitive football. Analysts praised their relentless spirit; Morocco's ability to respond under pressure was particularly impressive. The atmosphere in the…

In an unexpected and controversial move, the Northeastern State regional administration has declared a ban on all unauthorized meetings in the Sanaag region. This decision is widely perceived as a response to the growing momentum behind the newly recognized SSC-Khaatumo administration. It raises important questions about governance and local autonomy, challenging the very fabric of political relationships in northern Somalia. On Monday, Northeastern State authorities released a statement that detailed an immediate…

The Geopolitical Ripple Effects of Trump's Tariff Threats On a recent Sunday, the atmosphere of global diplomacy was stirred by none other than former President Donald Trump. In a statement that reverberated well beyond U.S. borders, Trump issued a stern warning to nations contemplating partnerships with the BRICS bloc. He labeled their policies as “anti-American,” threatening an additional 10% tariff on countries that align themselves with this coalition of emerging economies. This declaration has raised eyebrows and…

Garowe (AX) — In a recent development that has heightened tensions in Somalia's complicated political landscape, Northeastern State has publicly declared that the federal government will bear responsibility for any ensuing violence in the contested Sanaag region. This warning follows a decisive move by regional troops, who took control of the coastal village of Elbuh and effectively forced rival political figures to retreat overnight. In a statement from the Northeastern State presidency, it was revealed that Federal…

A recent study entitled AFRAA Taxes and Charges Study Review 2024 has shed light on a significant issue affecting travelers in Nigeria. The report highlights that Nigerians are paying an astonishing average of $180 in taxes and charges for each international flight, a figure that stands in stark contrast to the continental average of just $68. This disparity raises an important question: what does this mean for ordinary Nigerians who wish to explore the world or conduct business abroad? The financial burden,…