East Africa

Strengthening Ties: Kenya's New Consulate in Haiti In an important move characterized by strategic foresight, the Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto has approved the establishment of a Consulate-General in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. This initiative is not just a matter of expanding diplomatic presence; it reflects Kenya's deeply held commitment to fostering stability and order in a country that has faced its share of challenges. One can’t help but wonder: What does this mean for Kenya's role in international…

In a groundbreaking move, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has entered into a three-year partnership with Atlético de Madrid, establishing Visit Rwanda as the club's official sponsor until June 2028. This collaboration not only signifies a strategic alliance but also reflects Rwanda's vision as a prominent player on the global stage. Starting next season, the Visit Rwanda brand will prominently feature on Atlético’s training kits, match jerseys, and across the Metropolitano Stadium. Additionally, the branding will…

In a landmark decision, the Tanzanian government has announced an increase in the monthly minimum wage, raising it from Sh370,000 to Sh500,000. This significant change is set to take effect in July 2025, marking a pivotal moment for workers across the nation. President Samia Suluhu Hassan articulated the rationale behind this decision, highlighting the remarkable economic progress that Tanzania has witnessed in recent years. She attributed this success to the unwavering commitment and hard work of Tanzanian…

The world has been watching as vital health funds have faced interruptions, particularly in Africa, due to the turbulent political landscape in the United States following Donald Trump's election. This decision has put essential services at risk, leaving many vulnerable populations in dire straits. The chaos within the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has been a focal point of growing concern, and the stakes couldn't be higher. A recent report sheds light on the ramifications…

Riot police officers have found themselves at the center of controversy, detaining protesters on the Aga Khan Walk in downtown Nairobi, Kenya. These demonstrators are raising alarm bells over an unsettling trend: the unexplained abductions of government critics. As these events unfolded on December 30, 2024, one can't help but ponder the implications of such actions on the very fabric of democracy. Adding urgency to the situation, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is set to scrutinize Kenya’s human rights…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a tumultuous scene that echoed through the halls of Somalia's parliament, prominent opposition figures including former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have spoken out vehemently against the violent altercation that unfolded during Wednesday’s session of the House of the People. Their unified stance not only highlights the gravity of the situation but also emphasizes the urgent need for integrity within Somalia’s political…

Economic freedom. At first glance, this term may conjure images of spreadsheets, policies, and perhaps even the dusty pages of an economic textbook. Yet, peel back the layers, and you'll find that it is far more than an academic concept. Economic freedom intricately weaves its way through our lives, influencing the jobs we can secure, the quality and variety of goods available for purchase, the education our children receive, and even the very air we breathe. The Index of Economic Freedom,…

In a significant development, Southern African troops have commenced their evacuation from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following a tumultuous period marked by conflict and casualties. This withdrawal comes in light of a harrowing January offensive launched by the M23 armed group, which has left a grim toll—a heartbreaking loss of 17 soldiers. The decision to retreat was made by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), reflecting the dire situation on the ground. The SADC Mission in the Democratic…

Tragic Loss in Kenyan Politics: The Assassination of Charles Were On the evening of April 30, 2025, Nairobi witnessed a harrowing incident that sent shockwaves through the nation. Charles Were, a dedicated Kenyan lawmaker representing the Kasipul constituency, was tragically shot dead in a brazen attack by gunmen on motorcycles. This event, which unfolded outside a Nairobi hospital, reminds us of the volatile intersection of politics and violence in today's world. To visualize the scene: it’s around 7:30 PM, and the city…

The Unfolding Story of Ahmed Hussen: From Refugee to Canadian Political Leader Ahmed Hussen’s recent re-election was anticipated by many, and rightly so. His prominent profile coupled with deep-rooted connections within his community made him a familiar and trusted figure. Analysts point out that his visibility, combined with a solid policy track record, played essential roles in securing his victory. This raises a captivating question: what truly defines a leader in contemporary politics? As community analyst Abdirahman…