West Africa

North Western State of Somalia Urges Immediate Transfer of Detainees from Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — In a move that has captured international attention, the North Western State of Somalia government has urgently requested the Somali federal authorities to transfer 25 detainees, taken from Las Anod, to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This request comes amidst accusations that the federal government is violating international humanitarian law and leveraging the detainees for political gain.…

The Power Dilemma: Niger’s Quest for Sustainable Energy Solutions Recently, a significant shift in energy dynamics has taken place in Niger, largely influenced by political tensions and external decisions. The Nigerian government’s choice to reduce power supply has sparked a wave of power shortages within the Niger Republic. The effects are rippling through various sectors, pushing individuals and businesses to explore alternative energy solutions in a bid to sustain their daily activities. How do communities adapt when the…

The Ongoing Struggle: Reflections on Somalia’s Battle Against Al-Shabaab In a recent televised address, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud articulated a poignant truth about the nature of conflict: “What we’re witnessing is the nature of war—momentum shifts.” It’s a reminder that, in the face of adversity, resilience is the cornerstone of success. The Somali National Army, alongside community forces known as the Ma’awisleey, has made significant strides over the past two years, yet the recent seizure of Aadan Yabaal by…

The Vital Contribution of Ensemble Main dans la Main Niger-Russie In a commendable move of goodwill, the non-governmental organization "Ensemble Main dans la Main Niger-Russie" (Together Hand in Hand Niger-Russia) has extended a significant grant to the National Reference Center for Obstetric Fistula in Niamey. This generous gesture not only reflects compassion but also embodies a commitment to addressing pressing healthcare needs in some of the most vulnerable communities. The…

As the diplomatic landscape continues to shift, tensions between South Africa and the United States appear to be escalating. However, amidst this backdrop of uncertainty, South Africa has made a pivotal gesture by inviting Nigeria to host a significant G20 event in Abuja. This invitation could potentially alter the dynamics of regional alliances and foster deeper collaboration between Africa's two most populous nations, effectively reshaping the continent's economic future. According to Africa Intelligence, the…

The Future of Nigeria's Sugar Industry: A Promising Partnership The recent agreement between the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the Chinese conglomerate SINOMACH marks a turning point for Nigeria’s sugar industry. This partnership not only aims to bolster the domestic sugar sector but also deepens China’s strategic foothold in Africa. The implications are substantial and multifaceted, carrying the potential to transform the agricultural landscape of Nigeria. In a recent interview with the News Agency of…

As part of its ongoing reevaluation of foreign policy, the Trump administration is contemplating the closure of an extensive number of diplomatic missions. This plan, which suggests shutting down 10 embassies and 17 consulates around the globe, has raised eyebrows and ignited discussions about the future of U.S. diplomacy. According to an undated internal memo from the State Department, revealed by The New York Times, if enacted, this decision would considerably contract the U.S. diplomatic footprint across all continents,…

U.S. Airstrike Targets Al-Shabaab: A Stride Towards Stability in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development in the ongoing battle against extremism in Somalia, a recent U.S. airstrike, executed in collaboration with the Somali National Army (SNA), successfully dismantled two vessels believed to be transporting advanced weaponry for Al-Shabaab. This operation was confirmed by officials from both Somalia and the United States on Thursday. The airstrike, which has garnered attention for its precision,…

In a matter of weeks, the north-central Nigerian states of Plateau and Benue have witnessed a chilling spike in violence, with at least 144 lives lost at the hands of herdsmen. The toll, as catastrophic as it is, reveals a deeper malaise—an ongoing conflict that has not only injured scores but also left over 50 homes in ruins. What drives such brutality, and how much longer can communities endure this torment? The violence reached new levels of horror recently in Benue, prompting Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State to…

Somali Forces Successfully Repel Al-Shabaab Attack in Gasarta Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of resolve, Somali government forces, alongside local militias, thwarted an attempted attack by the militant group Al-Shabaab in the Gasarta area, a crucial route linking Baidoa and Deynuunay. This encounter unfolded on Wednesday, resulting in the death of at least ten militants, as reported by military officials. An official from the Somali National Army (SNA) stated, "The Khawarij terrorists tried to carry out an…