West Africa

Paris (AFP) - Despite his vivid orange beard and distinctive glasses, Abdul Qadir Mumin remains a shadowy figure, difficult to catch, and even harder to understand. This Somalian has likely climbed to the top tier within the Islamic State (IS) ensemble, potentially acting as the de facto big cheese without the official endorsement, according to experts. Some observers are puzzled about the mysterious figure Abou Hafs al-Hachimi al-Qourachi, IS's supposed caliph, speculating if he even exists. Meanwhile, it's plausible that…

In a significant legal development, Ghana's Supreme Court has turned down two attempts aimed at halting the enactment of a contentious piece of legislation targeting the LGBTQ+ community. This legislation, formally known as the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, received parliamentary approval in February. Under this bill, individuals from sexual minorities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years for engaging in homosexual relations. While the bill boasts substantial backing within Ghana, it has…

Mogadishu (AX) – Over in the rugged terrain of Lower Juba, Somali government forces teamed up with the US military to launch an impactful air raid in the Beerhani region, reportedly taking out ten al-Shabab militants. This daring strike was announced to the world by Somali officials on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Located about 35 kilometers northwest of Kismayo, the raid zeroed in on al-Shabab goons who were supposedly concocting a sinister plot. The Somali Ministry of Information was quick to let everyone know that their…

Military officials from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have boldly reiterated their commitment to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This decision stands firm despite ECOWAS's proposal for a six-month transitional period, which was put forth during a recent summit in Abuja. The trio had initially signaled their intent to part ways with the bloc back in January 2024, following their respective military takeovers. In a collective statement, the leaders of the junta—who have united under the banner of…

The Senate of Liberia has agreed to the draft budget for 2025 put forth by a faction within the House of Representatives, identifying themselves as the "majority Bloc." However, this move hasn't come without its share of controversy. Analysts, including the beleaguered Speaker Fonati Koffa and a former Supreme Court justice, have raised eyebrows about the legitimacy of this financial document. They point to ongoing tensions between the Speaker's supporters and those seeking to remove him from office. This hefty budget,…

In the bustling town of Galkayo, a significant attempt at peace is unfolding. Leaders from the Northeastern State and Galmudug regional administrations have embarked on a mission to resolve a violent rift among militias from their regions. This skirmish, rooted in a land disagreement in Jiicbor village, Galdadob district, has prompted leaders from both camps to engage in peace talks aiming at reconciliation. Officials on both sides stress the value of continuous dialogue. The game plan? To hold multiple meetings aimed at…

Recently, the Rwandan government made headlines by teaming up with U.S. comedian Steve Harvey's company, BILT LLC, in a pact designed to enhance both tourism and investment in the nation. This exciting agreement was formalized in the capital, Kigali, with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Francis Gatare signing alongside Steve Harvey himself. The focus of this partnership is far-reaching—it aims to develop skills in critical areas like film, media, and education. Moreover, it seeks to promote health and wellness…

In a decisive move, Lagos State officials are urging philanthropists, individuals, and organizations to register with local safety agencies when planning large gatherings—specifically, those expecting over 250 attendees. This call for precaution comes in the wake of a tragic series of incidents where numerous lives were lost due to dangerous stampedes at charity events. It’s a reminder of the paramount importance of safety during the festive season, a time usually filled with joy and generosity. Just last Christmas, a…

In a shocking event over in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, we find ourselves grappling with the tragic news of an attack on a Somali-owned shop. This isn't just a number; it's the loss of a community member, Sadaq Ahmed Hassan, who many knew better as Sadaq British. His life was snuffed out during a robbery that also left Mohamed Dahir nursing injuries. All this took place in the quiet suburbs of Pietermaritzburg—a reminder that even seemingly peaceful places aren't immune to turmoil. It's a gut-punch for the Somali…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a bid to tackle the drought and humanitarian challenges looming over Somalia, Mahmoud Macalin Abdulle, the top dog at the Somali National Disaster Management Authority (SODMA), convened with a United Nations entourage. The delegation was steered by George Conway, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the all-around UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia. At the heart of their pow-wow was the dry spell hitting various Somali regions,…