West Africa

Opposition Leaders Critique Federal Government's Decision on C6+ Cooperation Framework Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of discontent, Somalia’s leading opposition figures have openly criticized the federal government for its recent decision to dissolve the C6+ international cooperation framework. This move comes across as both unilateral and politically motivated, raising serious concerns about the potential isolation of the country and the jeopardization of hard-fought diplomatic and governance achievements.…

Kenya's Ongoing Battle Against Terrorism NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — On a notably vibrant Thursday in Mombasa, Kenyan President William Ruto spoke decisively about the strides the nation has made in combating the dark shadows of terrorism. With Al-Shabaab-linked attacks sparking fresh concerns in parts of northern and coastal Kenya, the backdrop of his comments was both pressing and urgent. As he addressed attendees at the closing of the 23rd Commonwealth Heads of Prosecuting Agencies Conference,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a notable development, five opposition parties in Somalia have expressed a cautious openness to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent call for national dialogue. However, they firmly state that their participation hinges on meeting specific conditions designed to ensure the process is inclusive, credible, and firmly rooted in constitutional principles. In a joint statement released on a recent Friday, representatives from parties such as Xaqsoor, Samadoon, DPC, Ramaas, and Dhulka Hooyo articulated…

In recent times, the landscape of gold mining in Africa has been evolving rapidly, as nations across the continent actively seek to assert more control over their natural resources. This journey toward resource nationalism is gaining momentum, and Tanzania stands at the forefront of this movement. A significant policy decision has just been made, placing Tanzania alongside other African countries that are reevaluating their relationships with foreign mining companies. With rising global gold prices, this initiative…

The Transformational Impact of the Nagaad Project in Somalia In the heart of Somalia, the landscape is shifting. Farhiya and Halima, two remarkable women, stand as testaments to this transformation. They are part of a larger cohort of 583 women engaged in the World Bank-backed Somalia Urban Resilience Project – Phase II, affectionately known as the Nagaad Project. Co-financed by the Somalia Multi-Partner Fund, this initiative is not just about rebuilding infrastructure—it’s about reconstructing lives, redefining…

The Implications of Evolving Drone Technology in the Horn of Africa In today’s rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, the sharing of advanced weaponry, particularly lethal drone technology, can reshape the dynamics of ongoing conflicts. The recent reports indicating a deepening relationship between Yemen’s Ansar Allah, commonly known as the Houthis, and Somalia’s al-Shabaab and the Islamic State in Somalia (IS Somalia), raise critical questions about the potential ramifications for regional stability. Consider this:…

New Direction for AFRICOM as Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson Takes Command In a significant shift for U.S. military strategy in Africa, President Donald Trump has officially announced the appointment of Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson as the next commander of U.S. Africa Command, or AFRICOM. This operational command holds a critical role in overseeing American military engagements and partnerships across much of the continent. What challenges will Anderson inherit, and how will he navigate the complex geopolitical…

Mali's Bold Step into Gold Refining: A New Chapter for the Economy Mali's government has recently unveiled its ambitious plans to establish a state-controlled gold refinery in collaboration with the Russian firm Yadran. This initiative is poised to significantly boost Mali’s gold sector earnings, a critical component of the nation’s economy. As a nation rich in mineral resources, how can it better leverage these assets to shape a prosperous future? Finance Minister Alousseni Sanou revealed that the newly formed…

Community Alarm Over Recent Violence: Seeking Solutions for Somali Youth MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (AX) — The recent tragic events have sparked concern and prompted urgent conversations in the Somali community. Just last week, a 15-year-old boy was arrested in connection with a fatal shooting outside Northtown Mall in Blaine. This incident adds to a disturbing trend that has left many in the community anxiously searching for effective solutions. The victim, aged 15, lost his life in this heartbreaking incident, which occurred…

The Political Landscape of Somalia: A Growing Division Mogadishu (AX) — In recent days, a significant storm has been brewing within the political corridors of Somalia. The country's top opposition leaders have turned their ire towards the federal government, vocally opposing its controversial decision to suspend the C6+ international cooperation framework. This move, they argue, is not merely a bureaucratic adjustment but rather a politically charged initiative that threatens to isolate Somalia from crucial international…