East Africa

1. The Rise of the Islamic State Before we delved into the narratives surrounding the establishment of the Islamic State in Somalia in 2015, a key player on this turbulent stage was the Somali jihadist group al-Shabaab. Imagine a landscape where al-Shabaab—deeply rooted in the northern territories—was not only a formidable entity by itself but also intricately tied to expansive smuggling networks. At a certain point, however, a chasm began to open within their ranks, leading to a fateful division. From this split emerged…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the ever-evolving landscape of global migration, fresh stories emerge that remind us how interconnected our world truly is. Just recently, the spotlight turned towards Bangladesh as border guards nabbed a Somali individual, citing unauthorized entry from neighboring India. This incident is yet another chapter in a growing narrative of unorthodox crossings in the region. Early on a Saturday morning, near the Nijkalika Border Outpost in Feni district's Parshuram sub-district, Abdiwali Mohammed Ali was…

A New Chapter in Kenyan Administration President William Ruto has embarked on a significant reorganization of key administrative positions within the Kenyan government. This sweeping change aims to not only freshen up the ranks of Principal Secretaries but also bolster Kenya's representation in the global foreign service. In a detailed statement issued on Thursday, the State House emphasized the underlying intention behind these decisions. "These changes are propelled by the necessity to tap into emerging…

Imagine living in a country where filling up your car's tank doesn't cost more than a handful of coins. In several African countries, this is not a distant dream but a refreshing reality. The benefits of low fuel prices are multifaceted, deeply entrenched in both economic stability and social wellbeing. Have you ever wondered how access to affordable gasoline could transform the daily narrative? Here's a detailed exploration into this phenomenon. Albert Einstein once said,…

Countries grappling with intense humanitarian crises, like South Sudan, DR Congo, and Somalia, quickly emerged as areas of concern. Famine, displacement, and mounting distress made them susceptible to further turmoil. Have you found yourself pondering, "How do these regions cope?" The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) highlighted a stark reality. In 2022, approximately 282 million people in Africa found themselves undernourished, which accounts for nearly 20% of the continent's population. This number was…

Africa has long been a pivotal region in the intricate game of global power dynamics. Nations from far and wide have vied for a slice of its prosperity, leveraging Africa's substantial natural resources, strategic positioning, and burgeoning markets to establish their economic, military, and political predominance. As this multi-layered contest continues to evolve, one might wonder—what does Africa stand to gain or lose as various global powers intensify their efforts to mark their presence on this vast continent?…

The stakes have never been higher as African teams converge in a heated contest for one of the nine coveted spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an expansion from the previous five. This monumental tournament, set to unfold across the landscapes of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has ignited a passionate fervor among nations eager to showcase their talent on the global stage. As anticipation mounts, the latest results from Matchday 5 have painted a vivid picture of the current standings. It’s a thrilling time for…

An Examination of Ongoing Security Concerns in Somalia In the heart of Mogadishu, beneath its resilient facade, lies a series of challenges that question the notion of security in Somalia. Imagine a war room deep in Middle Jubba, where over 3,000 Al-Shabaab militants are orchestrating a colossal plan. Their aim? To regain control of the strategically significant Middle Shabelle region—a colossal endeavor initiated in February, shedding light on the security vulnerabilities that persist in this embattled nation. The…

Redefining Happiness: A Glimpse into the Global Happiness Landscape Have you ever pondered what truly makes people happy? Is it wealth, freedom, good health, or perhaps the strength of social ties? These are questions the World Happiness Report seeks to answer every year, offering an insightful glimpse into how countries stack up in terms of their citizens' happiness. As we delve into the intricate tapestry of human happiness, it becomes evident that economic conditions, social structures, and political…

In the contemporary world, where the echoes of historical tensions often resonate all too loudly, nations are left with the critical task of choosing diplomacy over conflict. An instance of such a decision is observed in the resolve of Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, who has vocally affirmed his nation’s commitment to peace with its beleaguered neighbor, Eritrea, despite rumblings that might suggest otherwise. Speaking on a matter close to the heart of Ethiopia’s national aspirations—access to the…