Central Africa

In a significant development for international relations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently delivered a ruling concerning the islands of Mbanie, Conga, and Cocoteros. These tiny, sparsely populated landmasses now officially rest under the sovereignty of Equatorial Guinea, a resolution that puts a close to a territorial disagreement that has lasted for decades with Gabon. While these islands may seem inconsequential at first glance, they lie in waters believed to be rich in oil and gas reserves, a detail that…

In recent discussions about cost reduction initiatives, one example that stands out is Nigeria's Dangote Refinery, which has made headlines by cutting prices. Yet, many African nations are still grappling with the persistent challenge of soaring diesel costs. The implications of these high prices extend far beyond mere numbers on a fuel pump; they ripple throughout entire economies, impacting everything from agriculture to transportation. Diesel serves as the lifeblood for numerous sectors, including…

The Complexities of Democracy in East Africa: A Personal Insight into Martha Karua’s Recent Deportation In an unsettling turn of events, renowned Kenyan lawyer and presidential candidate Martha Karua found herself detained in Tanzania, an action that raises questions about the state of democracy in East Africa. According to reports, Karua was held for three hours before being expelled from the country, a move her spokesperson confirmed. This incident occurred just as she prepared to observe the high-profile trial of Tindu…

On Monday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) made a landmark decision affirming that Equatorial Guinea possesses legal sovereignty over a cluster of small islands situated in the potentially resource-rich Gulf of Guinea. For many, this may feel like just another ruling in the international legal arena—but the implications resonate deeply. Imagine engaging in a decade-long tug-of-war over territories, only to finally see the scales tipped in your favor. This ruling effectively marks the closure of a…

In a notable shift in strategy, U.S. envoys stationed in Africa will now be evaluated based on the commercial agreements they facilitate, rather than the volume of aid distributed. This change, articulated by a senior official from the State Department, reflects a burgeoning focus on economic collaboration rather than traditional assistance. Historically, many African nations have been among the largest recipients of U.S. aid. However, under former President Trump’s policies, particularly those leaning towards economic…

The latest market report reveals a consistent decline in the prices of all ORB (Official Reference Basket) components, aligning with the downward trend in corresponding crude oil benchmarks. This convergence between basket component prices and crude oil benchmarks isn't just a coincidence; it's rooted in the broader market dynamics that dictate pricing in this volatile industry. Moreover, lowered official selling prices across the primary marketplaces have exacerbated the price drops, creating a ripple effect felt by…

In a significant turn of events, former President Ali Bongo and his family have arrived in Luanda, the vibrant capital of Angola, following their recent release from Gabonese authorities. This marks a pivotal moment for the Bongo family, who have endured tumultuous times since a coup deposed Ali Bongo and reshaping the political landscape of Gabon. The aftermath of the coup, which took place in August 2023, saw tragic repercussions for many. Among those affected were Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo, Ali's wife and son, who…

In a rapidly evolving global landscape, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is stepping onto the stage with considerable resolve. Representing 19 member states and a population nearing 390 million, COMESA faces a formidable challenge: adapting to the U.S. tariff measures that have cast shadows over various African nations, both within and outside its bloc. The economic ramifications of these tariffs, implemented by former President Donald Trump, have begun to weigh heavily on the economies of eight…

Tragic Bombing Targets Young Recruits in Mogadishu Mogadishu (AX) – On a seemingly ordinary Sunday, tragedy struck outside the Damanyo military base. A suicide bombing targeted a group of hopeful young recruits, claiming the lives of at least ten individuals and leaving dozens more with injuries that would change their lives forever, according to eyewitness accounts and medical personnel reports. Imagine, if you will, the moment just before the chaos: a vibrant scene of teenagers, filled with…

The Growing Crisis of Global Slum Populations The world is witnessing an alarming expansion of slums—areas marked by overcrowding, substandard housing, and limited access to essential services. As urban centers swell, the growth in infrastructure and reasonably priced housing struggles to keep pace. This imbalance begs a crucial question: what happens to those left behind in this rapid urbanization? According to recent data from UN-Habitat and World Bank reports, along with early…