Eye on Africa

In the outskirts of Mogadishu, within Garasbaaley's bounds, a tragic event unfolded on a somber Sunday afternoon. A landmine detonated, claiming the lives of six individuals employed by Hormuud Telecommunication Company. Hormuud Telecom, a titan in Somalia's telecommunications landscape, articulated the incident as a calculated assault, emblematic of a continuum of hostilities waged against the nation's commercial enterprises. Eluding direct finger-pointing, the corporation left the perpetrator unnamed, and so far, silence…

Tim Loughton, a Tory lawmaker with a history of challenging China’s policies, experienced a controversial detainment and expulsion in Djibouti, reflecting the nation's solid alliance with Beijing. Representing East Worthing and Shoreham since the twilight of the 20th century, Loughton found himself in a tight spot at the airport earlier in the month, denied entry and earmarked for an immediate return flight. In 2021, the Middle Kingdom slapped sanctions on Loughton and six other parliamentary figures for allegedly…

On April 24, 2024, Mohamud Beenebeene, the Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, heralded a significant gathering. | Photo: X/ @MoPIED_SomaliaThe assembly beckoned a diverse crowd: international and domestic magnates, dealmakers, savants, hustlers, and expatriate allies of Somalia, all united to weave networks and chase opportunities for investment and the economic resurrection of their homeland.In Mogadishu, Somalia's pulsing heart, a two-day investment summit commenced on Wednesday, summoning global…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a pivotal move, Kenya's elite security forces apprehended a top-tier Al-Shabaab figure, as verified by insiders. This capture marks a significant milestone in combating radical militancy. The dragnet ensnared Mustakima Mohammed Ali, also known as Abu Mahir, on the Lamu-Malindi road. He orchestrated deadly assaults, wreaking havoc across Kenya, claiming both lives and property. Prior to his capture, Mustakima's name topped the list of sought-after Al-Shabaab agents, tagged "dead or alive" for…

After revealing some disturbing news, Somalia's Defense Ministry declared it would dig into why grub meant for troops went astray, signaling a wave of military clean-up efforts. "In the midst of this scrutiny, our own Somali National Armed Forces coughed up intel about Danab chow getting side-tracked within one of our squads. The FGS is dead serious about sorting this mess and has kicked off inquiries lickety-split, leading to some officers getting benched and locked up to keep things square and above board." Whispers in…

In Machakos, Kenya, farmers are adopting climate-smart beans to combat climate change. From ancient farming techniques in Zimbabwe to modern greenhouse technology in Somalia, African farmers are adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate. Africa, home to the world's youngest population, is disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing little to the problem. As a result, farmers are under pressure to feed the growing population. Despite having more than 60% of the world's uncultivated…

Helping a woman navigate floodwater post heavy rains in Mathare slums, Nairobi, residents show solidarity. Kenya ramps up emergency response to floods from heavy rains, setting up a national flood emergency team coordinated by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The government's proactive stance aims to handle the crisis effectively as the country faces unprecedented rainfall leading to 160,000 displaced individuals and extensive damage. In response to the ongoing disaster, urgent actions are being taken to ensure the…

President Williams Ruto of Kenya greeted President Salva Kiir in Nairobi on August 19, 2023 (photo from the SS presidency). Kenya plans to mediate between the South Sudan government and rebel groups soon, according to an official source. Gen. Lazaro Sumbeiywo, a retired Kenyan army officer chosen by President Ruto to lead the negotiations between South Sudan government and rebel groups, expressed optimism about the peace talks. "Our meeting with President Salva Kiir was productive, and mediation could begin soon. This is a…

Law enforcement officers were present in large numbers, deploying chemical irritants and Tasers to disperse students at various universities joining the movement. Protesters across the United States are demanding a Gaza ceasefire and divestment from companies supporting Israel's prolonged conflict with Palestine. Violence escalated as police used force on students who protested against ongoing bombings in Gaza and US military aid to Israel. In Boston, around 100 people were detained during the clearance of a protest camp…

Conservative legislator Tim Loughton, facing retribution from China, got detained and thrown out of Djibouti due to the African nation's strong connection with Beijing. China penalized seven lawmakers in 2021, including Loughton, for allegedly spreading falsehoods about human rights violations in Xinjiang. Loughton, a long-time MP, was stopped at the airport during his brief visit to Djibouti and promptly escorted onto the next flight out. He believes his harsh treatment by Djibouti stemmed directly from his criticism of…