Eye on Africa

Barcelona and the DRC: A Bold Move to Transform Tourism and Image In a groundbreaking four-year sponsorship agreement, FC Barcelona has partnered with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a move aimed at revitalizing the war-torn nation’s tourism sector and transforming its global image. Valued at approximately 44 million euros ($46.37 million), this deal represents a significant collaboration between one of football's most storied clubs and an African nation seeking to overcome a legacy of conflict and instability. A…

Somalia’s Education Triumph: A Story of Resilience and Hope In a remarkable turn of events that marks a significant milestone in Somalia's historical narrative, the Federal Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Learning unveiled the results of the 2024-2025 national Grade 12 examinations on Sunday. The results symbolize not just an academic achievement but a triumph over adversity for a nation that has long been burdened by decades of conflict. A Resounding Success Amidst Adversity Out of the 37,052 students who…

Charting a New Educational Course: Somalia's Ambitious Stakeholder Dialogue On a balmy Sunday morning in Jowhar, Hirshabelle state's interim administrative capital, the air buzzed with a sense of promise and renewed purpose. The city, known for its verdant landscapes and strategic location, played host to a crucial event with national implications: the National Education Consultation Conference. Amidst a landscape reshaping itself after decades of turmoil, Somalia stands at an educational crossroads. This gathering,…

Executions in Mogadishu: A Harsh Reminder of Somalia's Struggles In a somber scene that underscores Somalia's ongoing battle with extremist violence, a Somali military court recently carried out the execution of two men. Convicted of orchestrating deadly bombings and targeted killings, their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by the Al-Shabaab militant group. By Ali Musa Axadle Times international–Monitoring. The Executions Anas Abdulqadir Ali Mahmoud, known by the alias "Salman," and Aden Mursal…

Kenya Airways: Navigating Turbulence and Anticipating New Horizons Amidst the riveting expanse of African skies, Kenya Airways, one of the continent's airline giants, finds itself grappling with financial headwinds yet plotting a hopeful course toward recovery and growth. As the airline announced plans to secure at least $500 million in new capital by next year’s first quarter, it underscores a dynamic mix of challenges and ambitions in the aviation industry. A Journey Through Financial Storms Kenya Airways, often hailed…

Resurgence of Chaos in Cabo Delgado: The Human Cost of Insurgency As dawn breaks over the dense forests and emerald landscapes of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, a sense of urgency permeates the air, underscored by the echoes of armed conflict. In recent weeks, jihadist groups have intensified their violent campaign across several districts, resulting in a swift escalation of human suffering and disruption. This once-quiet province, rich in natural resources, has been plunged into turmoil as militants engage in increasingly…

Strengthening Ties: Somalia and Sudan's Security Partnership in a Troubled Region In a region where instability and conflict often dominate headlines, a significant diplomatic step was taken this week as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud engaged in substantial discussions with Maj. Gen. Ahmed Ibrahim Ali Mufadal, Sudan's Director General of National Intelligence Service. The meeting underscores a potential pivot towards more strategic alliances in combating shared security threats in the Horn of Africa. A Crucial…

Somalia's Ambitious Step into the Cosmos: A New Era or Overambition? In an unexpected announcement that has captured imaginations globally, Somalia is exploring plans to become the world’s next satellite launching pad. While this may seem like a bold step for a nation grappling with reconstruction, the possibility hints at broader aspirations and potential implications for Somalia and the global stage. Exploring a New Frontier Mohamed Mahmud Allaale, a seasoned communications strategist and advisor to Somalia’s Ministry of…

A New Chapter in Somalia’s Electoral Landscape: Progress or Peril? In a significant political shift, a faction of Somalia's opposition alliance has reached an electoral agreement with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This pact could alter the country’s democratic trajectory, signaling both hope and uncertainty. As the global audience absorbs this development, one must consider its ramifications within Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa. A Historic Breakaway The Sehmiye faction, composed of influential figures like…

The Hidden Crisis: Understanding Violence Against Women in South Africa In a country that often rings with the vibrancy of its diverse cultures and rich traditions, a dark shadow looms—a shadow that continues to threaten the safety and dignity of women. A recent crime report from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) paints a sobering picture of the violence that continues to plague this nation, revealing that a staggering 60% of crimes against women are perpetrated by those closest to them: spouses, friends, acquaintances,…