Eye on Africa

Somalia’s New Electoral Agreement: A Crucial Step Toward Unity NAIROBI—In a nation often marred by instability and political discord, the recent landmark electoral agreement between Somalia’s federal government and the Somali Salvation Forum marks a pivotal stride toward national unity and democratic governance. The Agreement: A Pathway to Stability After two months of contentious negotiations, the agreement outlines a distinctive approach to conducting the next elections. Under the new framework, the Federal Parliament…

The Gold Coin Dilemma: Zimbabwe’s Currency Crisis Continues to Unfold In a bid to stabilize its struggling economy, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe made a bold announcement in April 2023: gold coins were to be reintroduced into the market. This move was intended as a countermeasure to the increasingly erratic global gold prices that were wreaking havoc on local currency values. Yet, as the months unfolded, the temporarily revived enthusiasm for these coins proved to be a fleeting beacon of hope against long-standing financial…

Voices from Khar Yalla: The Plight of Displaced Communities in Senegal In the coastal community of Khar Yalla, Senegal, the comforting rhythm of waves has been replaced by the echoes of despair. Displaced by relentless coastal flooding, the residents have been thrust into a harsh existence in a makeshift settlement, where the pillars of human dignity struggle under the weight of neglect. A recent report from Human Rights Watch (HRW) underscores the urgency of this crisis, revealing a reality that is all too often brushed…

Amid Rising Tensions, U.S. Intensifies Its Air Campaign in Somalia In a remote area of Middle Shabelle, Somalia, a recent U.S. airstrike highlights the ongoing battle against the resilient al-Shabab militant group. The strike, conducted on August 22, targeted the al-Qaida affiliate, aiming to disrupt its activities both domestically and internationally. While details remain sparse due to operational security, this event underscores a broader, escalating campaign led by the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). Shifting Tactics…

Kamto's Exclusion: A Growing Shadow Over Cameroon’s Elections In the heart of Central Africa, Cameroon prepares for its upcoming presidential elections, yet the air is thick with skepticism and unease. The exclusion of Maurice Kamto, a prominent opposition leader and steadfast critic of long-time President Paul Biya, from the list of approved candidates for the 12 October election has unleashed a flurry of questions regarding the integrity of the electoral process. A Voice Silenced Maurice Kamto, once a beacon of hope for…

Hope and Heartbreak at the African Nations Championship This past weekend, the energy in East Africa was palpable as the quarterfinals of the African Nations Championship unfolded, yet the local excitement soon transformed into poignant heartbreak. Despite fervent home support for the co-hosts—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—the tournament’s dramatic atmosphere didn’t culminate in the fairytale many had hoped for. Instead, it was the defending champions, Senegal, and the rising surprise team from Sudan that emerged victorious,…

Embassy Shift: The Implications of the U.S. Visa Suspension in Zimbabwe In a poignant reminder of the intricacies of international diplomacy and the growing concern over security, the United States Embassy in Harare has abruptly halted all routine immigrant and non-immigrant visa services. This decision, driven by national security and public safety considerations, underscores the delicate balance governments must maintain between welcoming international visitors and protecting their own citizens. As the world watches, this…

Rwanda's Bold Move: A New Chapter in Migration Policy In a world where migration is often a contentious topic, Rwanda has taken a significant step that reflects both its historical context and its current ambitions. A recent agreement with the United States has paved the way for Kigali to accept up to 250 migrants deported from the U.S. This partnership, which was formalized in June, marks a deepening of relations between the two nations and underscores Rwanda's evolving role as a hub for humanitarian support. The…

Mohamed Said Gees: An Architect of Peace and Education in Somalia The recent passing of Mohamed Said Gees, a revered Somali academic, statesman, and peacemaker, has left a profound void in the fabric of Somali society. Gees, who died on August 23 at the age of 77 and was laid to rest in Virginia, embodied a lifetime dedicated to education, cultural preservation, and reconciliation amidst Somalia's turbulent history. A Remarkable Journey from Education to Politics Born on November 11, 1946, in the northern town of Erigavo,…

A Struggle for Survival: The Cholera Crisis in Darfur's Refugee Camps In the parched camps of Tawila, western Sudan, fear is as palpable as the scorching heat. Here, among the dusty landscapes, an invisible enemy strikes—and it's spreading with the relentlessness of a desert wildfire. Cholera, a ruthless bacterial infection, is carving through the refugee population with lethal speed, leaving healthcare workers racing against time to save lives. A Humanitarian Nightmare In the shadow of recent conflict, Mona Ibrahim's…