Central Africa

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…

Following a landmark peace agreement that Donald Trump facilitated between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the U.S. president took a momentous step by convening a meeting with five other distinguished African leaders. The agenda was rich with potential: trade discussions, regional security, and vital investments. In today's interconnected world, such dialogues are not merely beneficial; they are essential. The meeting unfolded this past Wednesday, and while Trump’s discussions with global leaders…

In a significant turn of events, Uganda has officially reopened its border points with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically at Bunagana and Mupaka. This development comes after a troubling four-year hiatus imposed by geopolitical tensions. The closing of these vital passageways in late January followed the M23 rebel group’s takeover of Goma, the heart of North Kivu Province. Such a disruption cast a long shadow over the region. Bunagana stands at the frontline of economic interaction, resting cheek-by-jowl…

In today’s complex economic landscape, low reserves have emerged as a significant vulnerability for many African nations, impacting them both economically and politically. It raises important questions: How do these nations navigate such precarious circumstances? What are the broader implications for their populations? The fragility of these economies is reflected in various international rankings, including the Global Firepower Index. This index evaluates the strength of nations by measuring military…

New Travel Restrictions for Nigerian Nationals: A Growing Concern In a recent communication circulated among travel agents on Tuesday, the Dubai immigration authorities announced a significant change that will directly affect Nigerian nationals. All transit visa applications from Nigeria will no longer be processed, marking the closure of an essential travel route often utilized by Nigerians who connect through the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision raises a myriad of questions: What alternatives…

In a striking display of camaraderie, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently remarked to President Donald Trump that he would be nominating him for a Nobel Peace Prize. This conversation unfolded during a momentous dinner in the ornate Blue Room of the White House, where the two leaders celebrated their collaborative military strikes on Iran's nuclear locations, touting the operation as a resounding success. Why is it that we often witness such bold proclamations of peace amidst the backdrop of turmoil?…

Dangote Refinery's Future: A Turning Point for Nigeria By the close of 2025, the Dangote refinery, a titan in Africa’s energy landscape, will pivot entirely to using Nigerian crude oil, as articulated by Devakumar Edwin, the Vice President of Dangote Industries. This journey toward self-sufficiency represents not merely a strategy for the refinery but a potential renaissance for Nigeria's oil sector. This ambitious refinery, boasting a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is owned…

Understanding Transfer Taxes in Africa: A Comprehensive Overview As we navigate through the evolving landscape of air travel in Africa, recent statistics from 2024 reveal a significant uptick: 42 African nations currently impose transfer taxes and fees on travelers, a notable increase from 35 in 2022. This surge occurs within the context of 52 countries examined. Why the sudden shift? What's really at stake for travelers? Transfer taxes, along with associated charges and fees, represent the costs incurred when a traveler…

The tourism sector in Africa is exhibiting remarkable recovery and potential, with a staggering 66.3 million international tourists anticipated to visit the continent in 2024. This influx is projected to generate a substantial $38 billion in total receipts, as highlighted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This isn't merely a statistical triumph; it represents an uplifting narrative of revived interest in the continent's vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences. The…

Starlink: A Double-Edged Sword in Conflict Zones Over the past couple of years, a concerning pattern has emerged. Various photos and videos shared on social media platforms have illustrated the use of Starlink terminals by militant factions. Such revelations have understandably raised alarms among regional governments and international partners, who are now grappling with this evolving challenge. A notable instance comes from Le Monde, which reported that in June 2024, a video surfaced showing a Starlink…