West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development in the ongoing fight against terrorism, the Somali government, in concert with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), has executed two targeted airstrikes aimed at the Islamic State (ISIS) in the Bari region of Northeastern State. This collaboration underscores a robust commitment to enhancing security and stability within Somalia—a nation grappling with the shadows of extremism. On a calm Sunday, the Somali Ministry of Information released a statement confirming the…

In the face of various challenges, such as fluctuating global economic conditions, inflation, and disruptions in trade, it's inspiring to note that several African nations are poised for a remarkable upswing in their real GDP growth by 2025. This resilience speaks volumes about the inherent potential within these countries. So, what factors are contributing to this positive outlook? First and foremost, the acceleration in economic growth does more than just ripple through local markets; it builds an…

A Somber Reflection: The Sentencing of Ahmed Awga and Its Implications for Press Freedom in Ethiopia In the realm of journalism, where the pursuit of truth often collides with authority, the story of Ahmed Awga emerges as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in many parts of the world. Ahmed, the founder of Ethiopia’s Jigjiga Television Network, recently found himself on the receiving end of a two-year prison sentence, a punishment that resonates deeply with the ongoing struggle for press freedom. The…

In a significant development for global shipping, Container News reports that Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has officially launched two colossal vessels, the Diletta and Türkiye, on its Africa Express service. This service is designed to connect leading Asian export hubs—namely, China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia—with vital ports in West Africa, including Lomé (Togo), Tema (Ghana), Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire), and Douala (Cameroon). The MSC Diletta is nothing short of a maritime marvel. Spanning an…

Mogadishu (AX) — The Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition of prominent opposition groups spearheaded by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, released a powerful statement this past Saturday night. In it, they leveled serious accusations against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, asserting that he is undermining national cohesion and straying from the mutually agreed-upon blueprint for state-building. The statements emerged following a significant meeting in Mogadishu, where concerns were raised regarding the President’s…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an important step toward fostering national unity and addressing pressing governance issues, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has officially announced the commencement of the National Consultation Forum. Scheduled to open in Mogadishu on June 15, 2025, this high-level gathering aims to bring together political and civil society leaders to discuss critical state-building priorities. “In times of uncertainty, dialogue becomes not just a mechanism, but a bridge,” President Hassan Sheikh articulated…

Exploiting Dreams: The Alabuga Dilemma A recent initiative marketed as a scholarship and vocational training opportunity turned into a disturbing revelation for many Nigerian youths. The promise of new skills and modest stipends within the confines of Russia's Alabuga Special Economic Zone was tantalizing. Just imagine the excitement of being selected for a program bearing the charm of educational growth and professional development. However, this excitement soon spiraled into something far more sinister.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant step towards enhancing security and stability, the Somali military court delivered a resounding message on Saturday by sentencing five individuals for their affiliation with Al-Shabaab and their involvement in orchestrating a series of assassination plots and bombings within the heart of Mogadishu. The proceedings took place at the First Instance Court of the Armed Forces, where the weight of justice was borne on the shoulders of these convicted men. The convictions were rooted in…

The Future of Open-Source Models: Governance and Collaboration In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, a salient topic of discourse unites researchers, tech executives, and policymakers: the governance of open-source models. These models, characterized by their free accessibility and capacity for modification, offer incredible potential but also pose significant questions about ownership, accountability, and ethical standards. How can we strike a balance that fosters innovation while…

The Return of Mahad Salad: A Crucial Shift in Somalia's National Security Landscape In a significant turn of events for Somalia's national security framework, Mahad Salad is stepping back into the leadership role at the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). His return, following his resignation in April 2024 to campaign for the presidency of Galmudug state, comes at a pivotal moment as the government heightens its counterinsurgency efforts against the al-Shabab militant group. With intelligence coordination…