West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — On Thursday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took a significant step forward in the country’s development by visiting the Turkish seismic exploration vessel Oruc Reis at the bustling Port of Mogadishu. This visit was not just ceremonial; it marked the culmination of an extensive oil exploration mission unfolding off the coast of Somalia. During his tour of the vessel, President Mohamud took a moment to commend the Turkish partners and all the dedicated stakeholders involved in this months-long…

Oruc Reis Seismic Exploration Vessel: A New Dawn for Somalia's Maritime Potential The Oruc Reis Seismic Exploration Vessel, a remarkable achievement of Turkish engineering, has recently completed its inaugural intercontinental mission. This accomplishment, announced by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, marks a significant milestone, not just for the vessel itself, but for Somalia and its burgeoning energy sector. Operating in the expansive open waters off the Somali coast, the Oruc Reis undertook…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a touching reunion that highlighted both human resilience and the complexities of international cooperation, three Somali fishermen, who endured an astonishing 45 days stranded at sea and subsequently spent six harrowing months in a Libyan prison, were welcomed back to their families in Mogadishu on Thursday. This moment came after a meticulous and multifaceted repatriation effort led by the Somali government, alongside various international organizations. The fishermen — Abdullahi Yusuf Jama, Aweys…

Burkina Faso has taken a monumental step toward asserting control over its natural resources by officially transferring five gold mining assets to its state-owned mining company. This move marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to enhance its sovereignty and economic position in the global mining industry. This transition was confirmed through a decree published late Wednesday, signaling the completion of a process that began in August 2023. The government’s actions reflect a growing desire to centralize management…

The Expanding Russian Influence in Africa: A Nuclear Partnership with Mali and Burkina Faso Recently, the Russian government sanctioned a significant move that underscores its growing presence in the African energy sector. This initiative entrusts Rosatom, Russia's state atomic energy corporation, with responsibilities to facilitate the development of nuclear energy agreements on behalf of Moscow. But what does this mean for Mali and Burkina Faso, countries struggling to address their…

The Super Eagles stand at a crucial crossroads in their journey toward the 2026 World Cup. As they compete within the challenging confines of Group C, their upcoming matches carry monumental significance. Head Coach Eric Chelle has passionately called upon his squad to bolster their efforts in refining the "pressing game," a cornerstone of their strategy. "Adapting our style is essential," Chelle acknowledged during a recent press conference. "While we've encountered some challenges with our traditional pressing approach,…

In a significant step towards improving healthcare accessibility in northern Somalia, Qatar Charity has proudly unveiled a new health centre that aspires to transform the medical landscape of a region grappling with a dire shortage of healthcare infrastructure. This initiative, marked by hope and determination, embodies the spirit of communal support and resilience. The newly inaugurated facility is not just a building; it represents a beacon of hope for countless individuals in need of essential medical services. With…

In the heart of Somalia’s Lower Juba region, the reverberations of healthcare funding cuts are creating a silent crisis. Many residents in remote areas—like the villages of Badhadhe, Kulbiyow, and Kudhaa—are finding it increasingly difficult to access essential medical services. These cuts have not just diminished resources; they have effectively stripped away lifelines that countless families relied on for urgent medical treatment. Consider the struggles of Dahabo Cumar Ali, a mother who recently faced the devastating…

In a recent pivot of policy, President Joseph Boakai’s choice to transfer complete ownership of four oil blocks to the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) has ignited a firestorm of criticism from industry experts. The decision, made without consulting the National Legislature, raises significant concerns about transparency and could potentially diminish investor confidence in Liberia's oil sector. This contentious move invites scrutiny. Critics question the implications of bypassing legislative input, suggesting that…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant move signaling his commitment to urban development and community welfare, Dr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein, affectionately known as Muungaab, has announced the appointment of new district commissioners for two key areas in the Banaadir Region. This action represents not just a shift in leadership but a broader vision aimed at steering the Somali capital toward a more stable and prosperous future. On Wednesday, Governor Muungaab appointed Mr. Omar Meeyre Mo’ow as the new commissioner of…