East Africa

On January 20, 2025, just moments after stepping into office for his second term, Donald Trump made a consequential move that reverberated across continents. By halting USAID funding, a major lifeline for numerous African countries, Trump set off a storm of questions about the future of U.S. support for the region. Imagine for a moment the far-reaching impact of abruptly cutting off such a crucial funding source. Programs that focus on healthcare, agriculture, and education have long depended on this aid to…

Kenya's Recognition of Kosovo: A New Chapter in International Relations The wind of change is often gentle, subtle, yet unmistakably significant when it finally engulfs us. Such was the breeze felt when Kenya decided to step forward and recognize Kosovo as an independent nation. A move that rippled through the corridors of international diplomacy; this development is more than just a diplomatic gesture—it's a symbol of resilience and unwavering advocacy. Kosovo, a region with…

In an era where economic fluctuations are as unpredictable as the weather, Zambia has showcased an intriguing tale of resilience and growth. Last year, the nation demonstrated a remarkable economic performance that shattered prior expectations, leaving both skeptics and optimists equally mesmerized. What drove this unexpected trajectory, and how might it shape Zambia’s future? According to preliminary data revealed by Sheila Mudenda, the acting statistician-general, Zambia's Gross Domestic…

Although Russia may not match the economic footprint of Western nations or China in Africa, its influence lies in specific sectors that echo the priorities of global superpowers: armaments, mining, and energy—extending into nuclear energy. Have you ever wondered why Russia, despite its relatively modest economic stakes in Africa, holds such sway politically? Analysts have unraveled a layer of this intricate relationship, unveiling a remarkable political influence Russia commands on the African continent, a power that belies…

Mogadishu, Somalia (AX) — In the heart of a continent that echoes tales of resilience and fortitude, stands Jacinta Kaahwa, a Ugandan finance officer enmeshed in a legal battle that could redefine labor rights within conflict zones. She seeks $15 million in damages from a British firm, SafeLane Global, alleging wrongful dismissal, racial discrimination, and abandonment in a chaotic battleground after surviving a harrowing terrorist attack. The narrative traces back to Mogadishu, where Kaahwa spent six arduous years…

March 2025 marked a notable shift in Zambia’s economic course that hadn’t been seen since the summer of 2023. It's during times like these that we wonder, what drives such change? How do such economic metrics speak to the lived experiences of individuals? In an unexpected twist, the annual inflation rate in Zambia slipped to 16.5% this month, moving slightly down from February's mark of 16.8%. Even a small dip can make the headlines, stirring hopes and speculation.…

The Unlikely Beacon of Democracy: North Western State of Somalia's Journey As a child, I naively thought of democracy as a Greek invention, an intricate art only suited to those ancient pillars of Western philosophy. This wasn't a surprising thought, especially growing up in Ethiopia where democracy is more a dream than reality. However, little did I realize that just across the border, a quiet revolution was taking place. In North Western State of Somalia, a place branded by some, including Google, as unstable and…

Can you imagine holding a Nigerian passport as a foreigner simply because you made a significant economic contribution? This is not a far-fetched dream but soon could be a reality thanks to Nigeria’s bold new initiative: the citizenship by investment program. But what does this move really mean for the country and investors alike? It's fascinating to observe that countries across the globe are tapping into the potential of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, using it as a magnet to…

Jigjiga, Ethiopia — In a time of mounting political tensions, Mustafa Muhumed Omar, the steadfast President of Ethiopia’s Somali Region, has vowed to expand government services. This declaration arrives amidst mounting pressure and critiques from the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), who claim the administration is underperforming. "Are we, as leaders, meeting the expectations set upon us?" President Cagjar’s administration grapples with this very question.

In the heart of Mogadishu, whispers of hope intertwine with the calls of street vendors and laughter of children, creating a melody of resilience that is unmistakably Somali. This sense of tenacity, however, met an untimely stumble on the soccer field, as Somalia's cherished ambition to record a historic victory in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers faced a fresh challenge. On a somber Tuesday afternoon, under the African sky, the Ocean Stars bowed to Botswana in a 2-0 defeat—a match marked by stark defensive errors, according to…