West Africa

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…

The Global Stage: Are We on the Brink of World War III? As we navigate the intricate labyrinth of geopolitical tensions today, one can't help but feel the weight of uncertainty pressing down. The conflicts in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and rising hostilities among superpowers like the United States, Russia, and China have drawn fresh lines on a map—a map that many hope will never have to bear the ink of a global catastrophe. What would it mean for our world if these sparks of conflict spiraled into a full-blown…

In a significant development for both Burkina Faso and Russia, an agreement managed by Rosatom, Russia's state-owned atomic energy organization, has set the stage for extensive cooperation in building nuclear infrastructure for peaceful purposes. This partnership highlights both nations' commitment to leveraging nuclear energy as a strategic tool for development and energy diversification. During an enlightening interview with the Russian media outlet Sputnik, Burkina Faso's Minister of Energy, Yacouba Zabré…

In the heart of southern Somalia, a remarkable woman has dedicated her life to the health and well-being of others. Maryan Abdulkadir Haji, a 62-year-old veteran midwife, has spent an impressive 34 years in maternal healthcare, earning accolades and deep respect from her community for her unwavering commitment and life-saving achievements. As the head of the Malable Mother and Child Health Centre in Wanleweyn, located in the Lower Shabelle region and managed by the New Ways Organisation (NWO), Maryan plays an essential…

In a remarkable testament to the power of humanitarian aid, Qatar Charity (QC) has made significant strides in combating drought in Somalia, particularly in the village of Yoron. As shared in a recent statement coinciding with the International Day to Combat Desertification and Drought on June 17, these efforts have revived hope and transformed lives. This year’s theme, “Restoring Land... Unlock Opportunities,” encapsulates a profound truth: restoring the very foundation of our natural world not only revitalizes ecosystems…

President Joseph Boakai has taken a firm stance in defense of his choice to travel via private jet for international engagements, asserting that this decision is not rooted in an ostentatious lifestyle. Yet, the controversy surrounding his travel habits continues to swirl, especially among opposition figures who are quick to spotlight what they deem a disconnect between his earlier critiques of luxury travel by his predecessor and his current practices. In a candid interview with the BBC, President Boakai remarked, “I can…

The Standoff Over Development Projects in Northeastern State: A Closer Look Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant turn of events, the Somali Federal Government has publicly reiterated its concerns regarding the role of Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni in stalling key developmental initiatives aimed at uplifting communities across Northeastern State. This situation paints a complex picture of governance and cooperation—or the lack thereof—in a region that is in dire need of progress. During a press briefing on…

The Chairperson of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), Gift Trapence, has expressed deep concerns regarding the Malawi Police Service's sluggish response in addressing escalating political violence. He is calling for prompt action and accountability, highlighting a disturbing pattern of inaction. In a pointed critique, Trapence questioned the integrity of the police force, suggesting that their failure to act betrays the public trust. “How can citizens feel secure when those sworn to protect them remain idle?” he…