East Africa

Somali Language Marks a Landmark Moment at Hajj Pilgrimage Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development for Somali-speaking Muslims around the world, Somali will be introduced as one of the official languages for translating key sermons during the Hajj pilgrimage. This groundbreaking announcement was made this past week by Somalia’s Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, marking a monumental step for Somali pilgrims participating in one of Islam’s most esteemed rituals. Minister Mukhtar Robow Ali made this…

Burundian Peacekeepers Evacuate Xawaadley Amid Severe Flooding Mogadishu (AX) — This week, the town of Xawaadley in Somalia witnessed an unexpected twist of fate. As heavy rains led to extensive flooding that overwhelmed the base of Burundian peacekeepers, the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) promptly executed an evacuation. This event, which took place on a seemingly regular Monday, serves as an important reminder of the challenges faced in regions grappling with both…

Security Forces in Garissa County: Recent Operations Against Al-Shabaab Recently, the tense atmosphere in Garissa County witnessed a dramatic encounter between security forces and suspected militants. This confrontation unfolded when four individuals, thought to be associated with the notorious Al-Shabaab group, resisted arrest. In response, the security personnel were compelled to return fire, ultimately resulting in the deaths of all four suspects at the scene. This event shone a light on the ongoing…

Recently, the *Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK)* granted its approval for Moniepoint to acquire a substantial 78% stake in Sumac Microfinance Bank, based in Nairobi. While the regulatory green light is a significant milestone, it's important to recognize that the conclusion of this deal remains pending. In a recent statement to Techpoint Africa, Moniepoint conveyed that they have received the necessary regulatory approval from the CAK for the potential partnership with Sumac. The company…

Strengthening Bonds: President Irro’s Diplomatic Mission in Kenya NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of North Western State of Somalia has recently wrapped up a significant diplomatic voyage to Kenya, a journey that he hailed as a resounding success. This venture not only aimed to bolster North Western State of Somalia’s regional presence but also underscored a steadfast commitment to democratic ideals. In our increasingly interconnected world, how vital are these…

Connecting Continents: Ethiopian Airlines and Sharjah Airport Partnership A new chapter in international connectivity has unfolded as Ethiopian Airlines launched its inaugural flight to Sharjah Airport. This event, celebrated with a warm reception attended by senior officials and dignitaries from both sides, marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With a commitment to enhance…

Across the vibrant and diverse landscape of Africa, a quiet transformation is taking place that is reshaping the continent’s digital future. Governments are exploring innovative Information and Communication Technology (ICT) policies that not only recognize the importance of technology but also champion data protection laws, broadband access strategies, and regulations aimed at fostering growth. Enter the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and its forward-thinking ICT Regulatory Tracker. This vital tool offers a…

The Alarming State of Blocked Airline Funds: A Deep Dive Into Africa's Aviation Sector The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently published a comprehensive report that’s raising eyebrows across the globe. What’s particularly striking is that out of fifteen nations listed, twelve from Africa are responsible for approximately 65% of the total blocked airline funds, which resonates to the tune of $846 million—that's quite a hefty sum. Altogether, these funds, which stand at an alarming total of $1.3…

The deployment of Turkish forces in Somalia arrives at a pivotal moment for both the region and the broader African landscape. With the African Union transitioning from the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Security Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSS), the stakes have never been higher. The move comes against a backdrop of critical funding gaps that threaten the stability that has been painstakingly built over the years. This change is particularly pertinent given the recent shifts in U.S. foreign…

Bill Gates Commits to Transforming Africa’s Health and Education Landscape In a bold declaration that resonates far beyond the confines of wealth management, American billionaire Bill Gates has expressed his intention to dedicate the majority of his fortune toward improving health and education across Africa over the next two decades. This commitment, articulated during his recent address at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marks a pivotal moment not just for the continent, but for the global…