Eye on Africa

The Diplomatic Dance: Zuma’s Controversial Endorsement of Morocco’s Claim Over Western Sahara Former South African President Jacob Zuma’s recent visit to Rabat has ignited fresh debate over the sensitive and long-standing issue of Western Sahara's status. By endorsing Morocco's claim of sovereignty over the region—as an autonomous area—Zuma has taken a surprising turn from his previous position, raising questions about motives and the implications for broader African unity. A Shifting Paradigm Once a staunch advocate for…

The Fragile Fabric of African Trade: AGOA at a Crossroads As the sun rises on the bustling markets of Nairobi and the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, a shadow looms over the economic prospects of sub-Saharan Africa. This unease derives not from the rhythmic dance of local entrepreneurs or the vibrant colors of fresh produce but from an evolving political landscape in Washington, D.C. President Donald Trump’s recent decisions to cut vital aid to Africa and impose new tariffs on exports have raised alarm bells, rekindling…

The Cost of Accountability: Kenya’s Landmark Legal Battle with Britain NAIROBI, Kenya — The vast expanses of Lolldaiga Hills, home to resilient communities and rich biodiversity, have stood as silent witnesses to a historical shift in Kenya's legal landscape. For the first time, Britain has agreed to compensate Kenyans following military misconduct, an event that marks a turning point in the accountability of foreign forces operating abroad. A Fire’s Far-reaching Consequences In 2021, a persistent blaze engulfed more than…

Baidoa (AX) — On Monday, Ambassador James Swan, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, sat down with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen’ and his team. Their chat revolved around some big-ticket items like security, election prep, and the pressing humanitarian concerns. Regional bigwigs filled in the UN envoy on safety measures being beefed up across South West State. They particularly pointed out the recent wins in Sabiid and Bariire in the Lower Shabelle region.…

The government of Liberia is dialing up its fight against illegal drug use by enforcing a sweeping ban on hookah in both public and private spaces. Alongside this, the authorities have placed strict limitations on the use of Tramadol, allowing it solely in "licensed hospital settings" under the watchful eye of qualified medical professionals. "Liberia is grappling with a significant drug crisis," emphasized Health Minister Louise Kpoto. She pointed out that the government is ramping up efforts to implement the nation’s…

The Nigerian armed forces, as part of Operation Hadin Kai, recently dealt a significant blow to terrorist factions, obliterating over 35 militants in a series of precision airstrikes. This decisive action came on the heels of an attempted assault near the Nigeria-Cameroon border, where insurgents had convened in Kumshe, Borno State, ostensibly gearing up to target a Forward Operating Base manned by the elite 21 Special Armoured Brigade. According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the militants had organized themselves into…

The head of Ethiopia Electric Power, Asheber Balcha, recently expressed concerns over Egypt's actions regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the largest hydroelectric project in Africa. Balcha accused Egypt of "scrambling to create hurdles" just as the dam nears its operational launch—a project deeply tied to the Nile River, a vital water source for Egypt and its neighbors. This statement comes at a time of escalating diplomatic tensions in the region. While visiting Uganda, the Egyptian foreign minister…

The recent arrest of five individuals in Lesotho for the illegal trade of pelargonium has revealed significant flaws in the government's capacity to safeguard endangered plant species, as reported by Sechaba Mokhethi for GroundUp. Back in 2004, the government classified Pelargonium sidoides—often called African geranium—as a protected species. This plant has gained global recognition for its medicinal properties, being a key ingredient in various herbal remedies, including some cough syrups. Yet, despite these protective…

In Kismayo, a new chapter of political drama unfolds as the Jubbaland legislative body votes to retain Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe as their regional leader for a third stint. Though controversy brews around this decision, opposition factions are not backing down, opting to host their own election and stirring the pot of dissent. By collecting 55 ballots in his favor, Madobe secured his position against rivals. His nearest competitor, Faisal Mohamed Mataan, managed to secure just 16, while Abubakar Abdi Hassan lagged behind…

In the bustling city of Kismayo, the seat of Jubbaland’s interim government in the Lower Jubba region, the stage is set for a dramatic political showdown. Despite a cloud of controversy hanging over the proceedings, the regional presidential election is scheduled for Monday. The central government, however, is up in arms, outright dismissing the election's legitimacy. I ain’t whistling Dixie! The stakes are sky-high as four ambitious contenders throw their hats into the ring. Among the hopefuls, we’ve got the seasoned Ahmed…