West Africa

Istanbul is a city that, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as the perfect backdrop for significant diplomatic dialogues. On Sunday, Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, met with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov. This meeting took place during the 51st session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers, a gathering that symbolizes unity and cooperation among member states. In this congenial atmosphere, both…

The High Court in London has delivered a significant ruling, establishing that Shell plc and its former Nigerian subsidiary must be held accountable for long-standing oil pollution in the Niger Delta. This decision signals not only a potential shift in legal precedents but also raises critical questions about corporate responsibility in environmental matters. In this instance, the Bille and Ogale communities in Rivers State have brought forth serious allegations. They assert that the infrastructure owned by Shell has led to…

In an unsettling chapter of international diplomacy, two South African engineers, Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham, have finally returned home after enduring over two years of confinement in an Equatorial Guinea prison. Their ordeal stemmed from what the United Nations described as arbitrary and illegal drug charges, raising serious questions about the integrity of the judicial process in that country. The engineers were apprehended in February 2023 when authorities allegedly discovered illicit substances in their luggage.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a decisive statement that resonates with both urgency and hope, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has categorically dismissed any notion of reverting to Somalia’s former system of indirect elections. He underscores a fundamental principle: that political power should always reside with the people. As we stand on the precipice of a new democratic era, this declaration is a clarion call to engage in the governance process that directly affects every Somali citizen. During a dinner event held in Mogadishu,…

In a world where energy security is more crucial than ever, Pakistan is embarking on a strategic shift aimed at solidifying its bilateral relations with Russia while tapping into the resource-rich energy landscape of Africa. This renewed focus comes against the backdrop of Moscow’s expanding ambitions on the continent, where accessibility to natural reserves continues to attract international interest. One has to wonder: what triggers these partnerships, and how might they alter the geopolitical landscape?…

Significant Progress in Somalia: A New Chapter in Child Protection Photograph that tugs at the heart strings: armed Somali children huddled behind sandbags during fighting are a grim reminder of the past. This photograph, which was snapped in an unspecified date, is a reflection of a nation struggling against the ugly facades of a war. Somalia had for years figured on the list of countries where children were conscripted and used in hostilities—such a pitiable testament to instability—but on June 17, 2025, the country…

Beledweyne (AX) — In a decisive move, the Somali National Armed Forces (SNA), in collaboration with local militias colloquially known as Macawisley, successfully neutralized a significant threat this past Sunday, resulting in the death of at least 20 members of the al-Shabab militant group. This operation occurred in the Hirshabelle State, which is situated in the heart of central Somalia and has long been a battleground against extremist forces. This coordinated offensive, meticulously planned and executed, targeted…

Business leaders and influential figures from across Africa have converged in Luanda, Angola, for the much-anticipated 17th U.S.-Africa Business Summit. This significant event is organized by the Corporate Council on Africa and proudly hosted by the Angolan government. Participants range from heads of state representing nations such as Algeria, Botswana, and Ethiopia to policymakers and industry leaders eager to explore new opportunities and forge stronger economic collaborations. Imagine the bustling atmosphere of the…

Mauritius has earned the title of Africa's most peaceful country for 2025, proudly securing the impressive 26th position globally. Following closely is Botswana, ranked 43rd, with Namibia claiming the third spot on the continent at 50th globally. These rankings serve as a beacon of hope, amidst a world that often highlights turmoil. In our daily lives, it’s easy to be inundated by headlines that focus primarily on unrest. Yet, the latest Global Peace Index for 2025 offers a refreshing perspective, reminding us that peace…

Leadership Transition: President Bio Takes the Helm at ECOWAS The recent transition in leadership at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has brought significant implications for the region. President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has officially replaced Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose two-term presidency has been marked by notable challenges and efforts to maintain democratic governance amidst regional turbulence. This transition was confirmed during the ECOWAS Heads of State and…