West Africa

Military Success in Jubbaland: A Strategic Move Against Insurgency “We had firm intelligence on the enemy’s movements and struck first,” spoke Lt. Col. Asad Ahmed Mohamed—or as many affectionately know him, Asad Garweyne. This declaration, delivered over the phone with a tone of measured pride, is emblematic of the current military efforts unfolding in Jubbaland, a semi-autonomous region in southern Somalia. While he opted to remain tight-lipped about potential casualties or arrests linked to the operation, he deemed the…

Chidinma’s journey into the world of fintech is a story woven with passion, innovation, and a relentless belief in the transformative power of technology. Her adventure began while working on a digital fintech application associated with one of Africa’s leading commercial banks, a project aimed at providing short-term lending solutions. Through this experience, she witnessed how technology could effectively bridge financial gaps for low-income individuals, who often found themselves on the fringes of the traditional…

On July 8, 2025, a significant announcement resonated through the corridors of power in Accra during the official inauguration of the Ghana Gold Board Task Force. It was a moment laden with promise—a promise not just for governance and regulation, but for the very integrity of Ghana's treasured gold market. The newly formed task force has a clear and critical mandate: to dismantle the networks of illegal gold trading, put a stop to smuggling operations, and correct the pricing distortions that have plagued the gold sector.…

Understanding the Al-Shabab Threat: A Closer Look at Security Challenges in Kenya In recent months, the security landscape along Kenya’s northeastern frontier has shifted dramatically, drawing attention to an ongoing struggle against the militant group Al-Shabab. This Somalia-based affiliate of al-Qaida recently claimed responsibility for a series of violent attacks through a brief statement on its Shahada News Agency. Such developments raise pressing questions: What drives this escalation of violence? And what can be done…

Analyzing the Competitive Pricing Strategy of Dangote Refinery The recent moves by the Dangote Refinery to cut fuel prices are not just a reaction to market dynamics; they mirror a calculated strategy reminiscent of past actions. Earlier this year, the refinery's tactics stirred a pricing war with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), effectively reshaping the country's fuel landscape. It prompts one to ask: how much influence can a single player have in such a pivotal market? Last week, the Dangote Oil…

The Nigerian federal government has recently instituted a pivotal change in its education system by establishing the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions at 16. This significant development was announced by Education Minister Tunji Alausa during the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) meeting, a gathering that underscored the government's commitment to fostering educational access. Prior to this decision, the threshold was set at 18 years, a policy introduced by former minister Tahir…

New Travel Restrictions for Nigerian Nationals: A Growing Concern In a recent communication circulated among travel agents on Tuesday, the Dubai immigration authorities announced a significant change that will directly affect Nigerian nationals. All transit visa applications from Nigeria will no longer be processed, marking the closure of an essential travel route often utilized by Nigerians who connect through the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision raises a myriad of questions: What alternatives…

Political Dynamics in Northern Somalia: A Statement from Traditional Elders Garowe (AX) — On a pivotal Wednesday, a collective of respected traditional elders from the Sanaag and Haylaan regions made headlines by issuing a strong statement against efforts to integrate their territories into the newly endorsed SSC-Khaatumo administration. As significant political figures and fellow elders prepare to gather for a major conference in Las Anod next week, the stakes have never been higher. These elders assert that both Sanaag…

The recent sale of gold marks the resumption of operations at a significant mining site, which had been dormant for nearly six months due to a prolonged disagreement between Barrick Gold and the Malian government. In the world of mining, disruptions like these often send ripples through local economies, drawing attention from investors and the public alike. As operations begin anew, one can't help but wonder: what does this mean for Mali, its economy, and its future collaborations with foreign investors?…

On a vibrant Tuesday in Mogadishu, a significant gathering unfolded that underscored a critical chapter in Somalia's ongoing narrative—a chapter where women are positioned at the helm of the country's future. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre convened a high-level consultative meeting with hundreds of passionate women from diverse backgrounds. This assembly wasn't just another meeting; it was a clarion call for inclusivity, emphasizing the integral role of women in shaping pivotal areas such as elections,…