West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – In a bold move to reclaim territory from the grasp of Al-Shabaab, Somali Minister of Defense Ahmed Macalin Fiqi has announced a significant military initiative. This nationwide campaign is not merely a military endeavor; it reflects a profound commitment to restoring safety and stability to communities across Somalia. How might this renewed effort shape the lives of everyday citizens still living under the shadow of insurgency? Addressing reporters on Saturday, Minister Fiqi elaborated on a collaborative…

The Challenges of Humanitarian Aid in Niger: The Suspension of Red Cross Operations In a world increasingly defined by conflict and humanitarian crises, the decision to halt operations by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Niger is particularly alarming. This contentious move comes on the heels of accusations made by Nigerien authorities asserting that the organization had engaged with armed groups within the country. It raises a vital question: what are the broader…

Beledweyne (AX) – In a remarkable display of collaborative efforts, the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), in partnership with the Somali National Army (SNA) and various international allies, has confirmed the successful elimination of three high-ranking al-Shabaab leaders. This significant military operation unfolded on June 6, 2025, in the El-Hareri region of Hiiraan. The implications of this operation are profound, not just for local communities, but for the stability of the broader region. During a…

From Failure to Opportunity For Tonye Irims, the founder of WiSolar, the journey into entrepreneurship has been anything but smooth. His path is littered with setbacks, but those experiences shaped his resilience. Before launching WiSolar in 2016, Irims explored the startup world with two earlier ventures: WiMobile in 2006 and FriendsChip, a Texas-based social payments platform in 2011. While both were not successful, they became pivotal learning experiences. Failure, he discovered, can be the greatest teacher.…

Ethiopia’s Ambitious Naval Development: A New Dawn on the Horizon In what can only be described as a significant leap toward maritime capability, Ethiopia’s naval facility in the Janmeda area of Addis Ababa is reportedly nearing its completion. According to recent reports from Sputnik Africa, the project is an impressive 95% finished. But what does this mean for a landlocked country that hasn’t laid claim to a coastline since 1993? Let’s delve deeper. This sprawling 3-hectare site…

The Future of Africa’s Energy Landscape: A Deep Dive into the Infrastructure Report 2025 The African Finance Corporation (AFC) recently unveiled its “State of Africa’s Infrastructure Report 2025,” a pivotal document that sets the stage for the continent's energy future. This report paints an optimistic picture, suggesting that with proper management of existing and upcoming refineries, Africa’s dependence on imported petroleum products could witness a significant decline. Imagine a continent where resources are utilized…

Chinese Loans and Their Impact on African Economies The relationship between China and various African nations has evolved into a critical chapter in the story of development finance. Over the years, Chinese loans have enabled the construction of vital infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and power plants, across the continent. Yet, this financial support does not come without significant questions regarding debt sustainability, the risks associated with repayment, and the potential long-term autonomy of African…

Trump Signs New Travel Ban: Global Reactions and Implications On May 23, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump took a significant step in the realm of immigration policy, signing an executive order that has sent shockwaves around the world. In the Oval Office at the White House, Trump proclaimed a sweeping travel ban aimed at citizens from 12 countries, asserting that these measures were vital for national security and to combat the perceived threat of "foreign terrorists." This announcement rekindled memories of the travel…

My Journey: Caring for the Fighters Hello, I’m Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti. Currently, I serve as an oncology nurse specialist at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, located at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. It’s been a fulfilling 24 years filled with ups and downs, triumphs and heartaches, as I walk alongside my patients in their toughest battles against cancer. And believe me, I feel as though I’m just beginning this profound journey. How It All Began: The Girl Who…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant turn of events, the Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition of opposition political figures, has made its stance clear regarding the ongoing selection of members for the National Independent Human Rights Commission. Their strong condemnation highlights serious accusations of unlawful interference by the federal government. Such a bold assertion raises important questions about governance and the integrity of democratic processes. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Forum characterized the…