West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – In a moment brimming with significance, Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, welcomed Turkish Ambassador Alper Aktaş to a luncheon that resonated with promise and collaboration. This gathering, held in the bustling heart of Mogadishu, celebrated the successful completion of a monumental seismic survey mission by the Oruc Reis, a Turkish oil exploration vessel. After an extensive 234 days surveying off the scenic coast of Somalia, this luncheon was not merely a social event but a testament to…

The persistent imbalance within Africa’s fuel pricing landscape has left many consumers and businesses disenchanted. Why, despite broader global stability, do fuel prices in various regions of Africa remain disproportionately high? This question echoes through the halls of government buildings, corporate offices, and everyday conversations among citizens. The answers are multifaceted and reveal the complexities of economics on the continent. One of the critical factors driving these high…

As the specter of conflict looms larger in the Middle East, African nations are stepping forward, echoing global calls for restraint and diplomacy. Their voices resonate with a shared understanding: peace in one corner of the world is intrinsically linked to peace everywhere. This awareness comes in the wake of Israel's massive Operation Rising Lion, a military offensive that has sent ripples of concern throughout the international community, especially after its targeted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and strategic…

Transforming Nigeria's Energy Landscape: Dangote Petroleum Refinery's Fuel Distribution Initiative The Dangote Petroleum Refinery is poised to ignite a transformative wave within Nigeria's downstream petroleum sector. With an official launch date set for August 15, 2025, this major fuel distribution initiative is expected to not just change the game, but also significantly influence the economic landscape of the entire nation. In a recent announcement via the platform X, the refinery…

Mogadishu (AX) — A new chapter in maritime security has begun as Spain officially takes charge of the European Union’s long-standing counter-piracy operation off the coast of Somalia. On June 12, a formal ceremony witnessed Rear Admiral Francisco Javier Vázquez Sanz stepping into his new role as the commander of Operation Atalanta. Held aboard the Italian frigate, ITS Rizzo, stationed in Djibouti, this event marked not just a leadership change, but also a significant milestone in international collaboration to ensure…

The Ripple Effects of Conflict: Egypt's Economic Struggles Amidst Regional Turmoil The current geopolitical climate between Iran and Israel has escalated tensions, with repercussions that extend far beyond their borders. At the center of this turmoil, Egypt finds itself in a precarious position, facing immediate economic challenges that are impossible to ignore. The instability in the region has reverberated through various markets, hitting Egypt's banking industry hard. Sadly, this was no surprise given the country's…

Engaging Dialogue for a Prosperous Future in Somalia In a recent address, Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni delivered a powerful message urging President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to move away from unilateral decision-making. Deni emphasized the importance of broad-based dialogue that includes all stakeholders in shaping the future of Somalia. "The Somali people are disillusioned with the current state of governance," he stated firmly. "We need an electoral framework that everyone agrees on. The country cannot…

In a formal statement issued on Saturday, Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs articulated deep concern regarding the recent escalation of hostilities between two nations, signaling a worrying trend that seems poised to destabilize the already fragile landscape of the Middle East. The insights shared by the Ministry elevate a crucial question: How can global diplomacy navigate the hostile currents that threaten to envelop this region? Reports indicate that the current conflict has involved a series of missile…

Ethiopia Raises Concerns Over Egyptian Military Presence in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — Tensions in the Horn of Africa are escalating as Ethiopia’s chief military officer recently raised alarms regarding an increased military presence from Egypt in Somalia. This situation poses what Ethiopia considers a substantial threat to its national security, drawing attention from both regional observers and the international community. During a parliamentary briefing in Addis Ababa, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, the Chief of…

Recently, I had the opportunity to engage in a roundtable discussion with The Africa Report. During this compelling conversation, Bill Gates raised a significant point regarding the intricate relationship between political stability and healthcare systems in regions led by military governments. He acknowledged that while political dynamics can vary widely, certain areas remain bastions of healthcare efficiency. Gates stated, “Some of those countries run, within the areas of stability, pretty decent health…