Eye on Africa

Urgent Call for Assistance in Galmudug Mogadishu (AX) — In a heartfelt plea that resonates with the urgency of the moment, Deputy President Ali Dahir Eid of Galmudug has reached out to Somalia’s National Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), emphasizing the immediate need for aid to support communities grappling with the devastating effects of drought. "The gravity of the situation cannot be overstated," Eid stated during a high-level meeting in Mogadishu this past Saturday. "Our people are facing a humanitarian crisis…

In a stark illustration of economic disparity, four of Africa's wealthiest individuals possess a staggering $57.4 billion—an amount that surpasses the combined wealth of approximately 750 million people. This figure accounts for nearly half of the continent's total population. These eye-opening statistics stem from Oxfam's recent report, which explores the rapidly escalating issue of inequality in Africa. The report, Africa’s Inequality Crisis and the Rise of the Super-Rich, lays bare a troubling narrative of…

Somalia is a land filled with untapped natural and human potential. The journey towards real prosperity hinges not just on harnessing its resources but also on establishing robust governance structures, embracing sustainable development, and ensuring an inclusive approach to utilizing its vast land, maritime, and diaspora assets. The Promise Beneath the Soil Recent geological surveys reveal something intriguing: Somalia may be sitting on significant reserves of oil, gas, and an array of valuable minerals, like gold, iron…

Nigeria’s Digital Economy and the Rise of Fraud: A Call for Regulatory Action Recently, significant concerns have come to light regarding the safety and stability of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy. According to sobering statistics, a staggering 70% of financial losses attributed to various crimes were traced back to digital platforms, many of which operate beyond the reach of regulatory oversight. This raises an urgent question: do we have adequate measures in place to protect our financial…

Starlink Controversy: A Political Landscape Unfolding Recently, during a budget vote debate in Parliament, Eff MP Sinawo Thambo voiced serious concerns regarding the South African government's intentions surrounding the ICT licensing framework. Thambo, representing the Economic Freedom Fighters, characterized the government's modifications as an undue effort to pave the way for Starlink's entry into South Africa. “There’s a security threat that it poses. It must never be allowed to operate in South Africa,” he asserted…

Skin-whitening products have long crowded the shelves of shops and markets in Somalia, yet a growing number of Somalis are beginning to question this longstanding practice. A grassroots campaign advocating for natural beauty is surging, fueled by an increasing awareness of the harmful effects associated with skin bleaching. At the heart of this cultural conflict is a paradox. In a world increasingly influenced by digital platforms, many Somali beauty influencers—both in Somalia and its diaspora—continue to extol…

The recent developments in Nigeria’s maritime landscape signify a concerted effort to reposition itself as a key player in the regional cargo traffic arena. The nation is setting its sights on attracting a larger share of cargo bound for neighboring countries such as Ghana, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire. Over the years, these countries have become established transshipment hubs for goods intended for Nigeria. Such strategic shifts raise compelling questions: What does this mean for the future of trade in West Africa? How will it…

Recent studies by Henley & Partners forecast a significant shift in global wealth migration by 2025, predicting that around 142,000 dollar millionaires will seek new homes across the globe. Among their preferred destinations? The UAE, USA, Italy, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia lead the pack. Quite intriguing, don't you think? Despite the allure these nations offer, Africa finds itself in a paradoxical state—experiencing both losses and rare gains, highlighting the sharp contrasts among its nations as they navigate this…

Illustration of rice. AI Empowering Refugees: Korea’s Generosity in the Face of Hunger The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) recently welcomed a significant donation of 23,268 metric tonnes of rice from the Republic of Korea. This gesture is not merely a statistic; it represents a lifeline for those navigating the tumultuous waters of displacement and uncertainty. Valued at Sh2.34 billion (approximately $18 million), this contribution was facilitated through Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture,…

LGBTQI Event Cancellation: The Interplay of Human Rights and National Sovereignty Recently, a significant event aimed at raising awareness about LGBTQI issues was organized by the United Nations and the Dutch embassy. The program included a film screening followed by heartfelt discussions, creating a platform for dialogue and understanding. But as often happens when discussing sensitive topics, especially in conservative regions, the context quickly shifted. In a startling twist, the Senegalese foreign ministry…