West Africa

Resilience and Despair: Families Fleeing Conflict in Southern Somalia In the heart of Jubaland state, Somalia, families are caught in a harrowing struggle for survival. Rising from the ashes of destruction, hundreds have fled the agonizing conflict in the Luq district, seeking refuge in small, rural towns along the Ethiopian border. Many, like Nimo Omar Ahmed, find themselves grappling with the unimaginable: making a home out of shattered dreams and unyielding uncertainty. Take Abdihakim Warsame Kiro, for instance. A…

Embracing a Greener Future: The Arrival of LNG-Powered Vessels in Nigeria The maritime landscape in Nigeria is witnessing a transformative event: the arrival of an LNG-powered vessel. This milestone signifies not merely a technological advancement but underscores Nigeria’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future in shipping. As climate change looms larger in our collective consciousness, steps toward cleaner shipping practices are becoming an urgent imperative. But what does this mean for the industry and the…

Mogadishu—In a significant moment for Somalia, the four-day National Consultation Forum came to a close on Thursday afternoon, after being inaugurated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This gathering not only marked a pivotal occasion for the nation but also underscored the complexities of its political landscape. The forum convened an impressive array of participants, including former presidents, federal and state officials, influential Somali leaders, and scholars from various domains. Yet, despite this high-profile…

Jowhar (AX) – In a significant political development, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, commonly known as Sanbaloolshe, has been re-elected to seat HOP058 in the House of the People of Somalia’s 11th Parliament. This election took place in Jowhar, the capital of the Middle Shabelle region, which falls under the Hirshabelle State. Remarkably, Sanbaloolshe won this seat unopposed, following the withdrawal of his expected challenger, Ismail Warsame Farah. The journey leading to Sanbaloolshe’s return to Parliament is compelling. Just a…

Throughout history, connections between nations have often been forged not just through trade but through shared experiences, values, and global perspectives. In the case of Russia and South Africa, the relationship is nuanced, marked not by significant trade numbers, but rather by a rich tapestry of historical ties and aligned visions for global governance. During a recent meeting, President Vladimir Putin underscored the importance of their partnership, noting that both nations "share…

Evacuation of Vulnerable Somali Nationals: A Testament to Human Resilience Ankara (AX) – In a poignant reminder of the fragility of peace, the Somali Embassy in Turkey has successfully facilitated the safe evacuation of Dr. Mustafa Ali Macalin—a Somali medical student who endured light injuries during recent turbulence in Tehran. This development comes amidst an intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel, igniting concerns among foreign nationals, particularly those with ties to the Somali community.…

Nigeria, despite holding the title of Africa's largest oil producer, finds itself in an ongoing struggle to consistently deliver crude feedstock to its flagship Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which is poised to refine up to 650,000 barrels daily. This disparity has compelled the refinery to look beyond its borders, seeking imports to maintain its operations. Why does this discrepancy exist in a nation rich in natural resources? It’s a question that can foster deeper discussions about the infrastructure, politics, and…

Las Anod (AX) – In a gripping statement that echoes the sentiments of many, the President of SSC-Khaatumo, Abdikadir Ahmed Ali Firdhiye, has publicly denounced the appalling gang rape and torture of two sisters in Las Anod, calling this incident a heinous crime that has left deep scars on the community. What does it mean for a society when such acts of violence occur? This question looms large, and President Firdhiye’s strong words offer a glimmer of hope amidst despair. On Thursday, President Firdhiye articulated his…

The world of wealth can often feel like a tumultuous sea, with some vessels rising dramatically on the waves, while others struggle to stay afloat. This dynamic environment has been particularly evident among African billionaires recently. While an impressive number have seen their fortunes balloon by billions, others have grappling with stagnation or even declines. What does this disparity reveal about Africa's complex commercial landscape? The fluctuations in wealth are not mere numbers on a balance sheet;…

Echoes of Concern: A Unified Stand Against Intimidation “Our businesses are being hounded at every turn,” shared Kojo Mensah, a lead developer behind the ambitious River Park Estate project in Abuja. It’s not just his voice echoing a sentiment felt by many; it’s a call for justice that resonates deeply amidst the chaos. Investors allege that their fundamental rights are being infringed upon, claiming a pattern of arbitrary arrests, repeated summons, and intimidation not only by the police but also by the…