West Africa

Port of Berbera: Forging New Paths in Ethiopia-Somalia Relations Image: Port of Berbera in North Western State of Somalia’s breakaway region It is often said that political progress requires diplomacy as much as it needs determination. Demonstrating this complex dynamic, Ethiopia and Somalia have taken significant strides toward cooperation, breathing new life into regional stability narratives. The two countries have resolved to end their disputes surrounding North Western State…

ENDF's Generous Contribution: Not Just Supplies, But Hope In an inspiring act of solidarity and humanity, members of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), made a remarkable gesture last Friday. They donated essential medical supplies to the Bay Regional Hospital, a crucial healthcare facility located in South West State, Somalia. Beyond Borders: A Collaborative Effort The consignment, comprising antibiotics,…

A Reflective Dive into the Weaponization of Drugs The narrative of nations leveraging narcotics to suppress or dominate adversaries is as heart-wrenching as it is complex. Historically, numerous countries have turned to alcohol and other drugs not just to weaken societies but to wield them as tools of war, control, and destabilization. "All warfare is based on deception," said Sun Tzu, and using drugs as a weapon is perhaps one of the most insidious deceptions of them all. Reflecting on the 19th century, the…

An Intriguing Security Landscape: Northeastern State and North Western State of Somalia The security dynamics in the Horn of Africa remain as intricate as ever. It's a region where the lines between ally and foe can blur, and the shadows often conceal more than what they reveal. One notable aspect of this intricate tapestry is the tension between Northeastern State and North Western State of Somalia. Northeastern State has leveled accusations towards North Western State of Somalia,…

Picture this: you're wandering through the vibrant souks of Morocco, where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the hum of bargaining voices. You find yourself standing awe-struck before the timeless pyramids of Egypt, pondering just how many stories these stones could tell. Or perhaps you venture into the heart of Africa's natural beauty on a safari in Kenya or South Africa, where wild animals roam freely against the backdrop of dramatic landscapes. This is the allure of Africa—an…

Unveiling the Complexities of Northeastern State-North Western State of Somalia Relations Over the years, the tapestry of East African politics has been both intricate and captivating, with stories that often blur the lines between possibility and reality. A central theme that has been murmured in hushed tones across Northeastern State involves its firm belief that North Western State of Somalia might be providing sanctuary or even support to extremist factions like ISIS and al-Shabab. These are bold claims, to…

In a world that's often as unpredictable as a winding road through hilly terrain, Ghana finds itself at a critical juncture. The nation's central bank has taken a bold step by pausing its innovative but tumultuous program of using gold to purchase oil. This decision arrives amidst expectations that the cedi, Ghana's steadfast currency, will find its footing after a stormy year. Anecdote: I remember sitting at a small café in Accra, drinking a freshly brewed cup, when I overheard a conversation about…

ECOWAS Mission in Guinea-Bissau: A Tense Political Landscape In a recent, unfolding drama that gripped West Africa, the regional bloc known as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) revealed an unexpected development. Its delegation stationed in Guinea-Bissau abruptly exited the nation on the first day of March. This sudden departure was precipitated by a startling ultimatum from the country's leader, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who threatened to expel the mission. It begs the question:…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. Jowhar (AX) — A Call to Arms and Unity: Dabageed's Charge Against Al-Shabaab Amid the conflict-torn landscape of Somalia, a figure emerges with a clarion call for action. Hirshabelle State Vice President, Yusuf Ahmed Hagar Dabageed, recently galvanized forces at a gathering in Halfooley, a site nestled between Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, urging the Ma’awisley militia and the broader community to intensify their resolve against Al-Shabaab. This plea resonates…

Have you ever paused to consider the challenges faced by countries without coastlines? These landlocked nations grapple with a unique set of hurdles due to their geographic realities. Imagine a world where trade isn't just a simple matter of port-to-port logistics but a complex dance involving neighbors, politics, and infrastructure. For 16 African countries, this is their everyday reality. Being landlocked in Africa comes with its own set of trials. Let's take a moment to delve into what…