West Africa

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…

Ecuador has recently made a significant shift in its immigration policies, announcing the cancellation of visa-free transit privileges for citizens from 45 nations. This change notably affects 34 countries in Africa, marking a pivotal moment in the region's relationship with Ecuador and its transit systems. Under the new directive, travelers hailing from these African countries will now be required to obtain a Transit Visa (Visa de Transeúnte) if they wish to transit through Ecuadorian airports, a process that includes…

Education Tensions in North Western State of Somalia: A Story of Sovereignty and Resilience Hargeisa (AX) — In a bold move that has stirred the political pot in eastern Sanaag, North Western State of Somalia authorities have initiated national school exams, a step that has raised tensions in a region long contested by Northeastern State. Northeastern State, which openly forbade these tests, found its directives challenged as students prepared for their assessments across towns like Badhan and Dhahar. The exams commenced…

Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni extended a warm welcome to Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, known as Ahmed Madobe, upon his arrival at Garowe Airport on June 22, 2025. This moment exemplifies more than mere camaraderie; it signals a pivotal juncture for Somalia's political landscape, especially as the pair convenes to deliberate federalism and the nation’s evolving political dynamics against the backdrop of increasing tensions with the federal government in Mogadishu. In this vibrant scene in…

At the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis, the Swedish-Somali artist Salad Hilowle captivates viewers with one of his striking large-scale photographs. This image, with its rich, vibrant colors reminiscent of a painting, features bold canary yellow and lush avocado green that echo the ornate floral crown moldings adorning the old Turnblad Mansion. In this work, Hilowle is portrayed seated in an orange armchair, adorned in a traditional Somali sarong, his head caught in a moment of delicate motion blur. Behind him…

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