East Africa

Tanzania, a country renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, finds itself at an intriguing economic crossroads. Despite its booming economy, propelled by ambitious infrastructure projects, the local currency—the Tanzanian shilling—has been on a downward trajectory. As investors, economists, and everyday Tanzanians watch closely, one question looms large: Will these infrastructure investments eventually translate into a stronger currency? Since January, the Tanzanian shilling has slipped by…

Cooperation Dynamics Unveil: The Somali-Turkish-US Triangle In today's ever-shifting global landscape, the intricate dance of international relations can often resemble a well-choreographed ballet. Sometimes, however, it feels more like a precariously balanced tightrope act. Take, for instance, the recent developments between Somalia, Turkey, and the United States. A captivating narrative unfolds, replete with geopolitical tensions and significant alliances. This emerging story is as dynamic as it is thought-provoking,…

In the world of international relations, where every dialogue can tip the scale, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda recently made a significant decision. He previously vowed to "stand up" to Belgium, a statement which resonated ambiguously across global platforms. Now, Rwanda has plunged forward, severing diplomatic ties with Belgium. The Rwandan government asserts it has been "consistently undermined" by this European nation during a complicated conflict brewing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision has…

Geopolitical Influence & Competition in Africa: A Modern Landscape In the intricate web of global politics, where would we be without the insightful reports that shape our understanding of geopolitical dynamics? Perhaps the Geopolitical Influence & Peace report is a case in point. It reveals how ideological chasms have widened among major global players. Countries like China and Russia are advocating for alternate governance models in stark contrast to the cherished ideals of liberal democracies.…

The World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, stood majestic against the crisp winter sky on January 28, 2025. It seems astonishing, doesn't it? The power of decisions emanating from high offices and how they ripple across the globe. A profound decision has just sent shockwaves through the fabric of international health—a decision by the Trump administration to pause U.S. foreign aid. This pause, the World Health Organization claims, has "substantially disrupted" the supply of HIV treatments in a…

In the labyrinth of Ethiopia’s rapidly evolving logistics sector, the Chinese-built Ethiopia-Djibouti railway stands as a beacon of transformation. Described by senior Ethiopian officials as a "crucial artery," this railway line is redefining how the nation handles its import-export trade. On a typical morning in Addis Ababa, one can witness the hustle as a passenger train pulls into Furi-Lebu railway station on the city's outskirts, a sight captured on a serene September day by Michael Tewelde. Such images are becoming…

Imagine waking up a sleeping giant. That's the task that lies at the heart of transforming Africa's energy potential. Rich in resources yet starved of investments, Africa has remained on the sidelines of global energy discussions for far too long. You might wonder how a continent brimming with untapped reserves finds itself in such a predicament. Chronic underfunding over the decades has stymied progress, shackling a land that could fuel not only its own growth but…

The Ripple Effect of the U.S. Aid Suspension on Global HIV Treatment Programs The recent announcement by the Trump administration, halting the flow of U.S. foreign aid, has sent ripples across the globe, particularly affecting the supply of HIV treatments in eight nations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm, warning that the disruption could have dire consequences. Can we afford to overlook the implications of such a decision? Six of the affected countries are nestled…

Engaging with Science: Trust in African Nations Is the world losing faith in its scientists? Recent findings suggest otherwise, challenging the prevalent fear of a disconnect between scientific communities and society. Unveiling this narrative, a new study calls for a renewed effort to bridge any gap — especially through deeper engagement between scientists and the public. This intriguing study, published in the esteemed journal Nature Human Behaviour, emerges as part of the Trust in Science Project (TISP)…

The M23 militia has publicly declared its decision to withdraw from negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government. This move, they assert, is a direct consequence of European Union sanctions imposed on Rwandan officials earlier that same day, which the militia claims have compromised the integrity of the dialogue. It’s noteworthy how this situation has unfolded. For nearly a decade, the prospect of direct talks between the M23 fighters and the government was nothing more than a distant dream—something…