East Africa

The Zimbabwean government finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with unmet commitments regarding essential infrastructure. Promises of upgraded treatment plants, modern pump stations, and prepaid meters have faded into empty rhetoric, particularly following a substantial loan of U.S.$144 million from the China Exim Bank intended for Harare's water treatment system enhancement. As a means to address the escalating debt, a new water levy was instituted in March, placing an additional financial burden on the citizens. The…

The recent helicopter crash at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia, has cast a somber light on aviation safety amidst ongoing conflicts and political challenges. It serves as a striking reminder of the unpredictable nature of both human endeavors and natural circumstances. Ahmed Maalim, the head of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, shared critical updates with the BBC. He confirmed that at least eight individuals were on board the ill-fated aircraft at the time of the crash. While the…

The USAID Transition and Its Implications for Africa The recent announcement made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio signals a paradigm shift in U.S. foreign engagement, particularly concerning Africa. This significant transition, which will take effect on July 1, has left many wondering about its repercussions. For decades, USAID has played a crucial role in development, acting as a dependable partner in the region. Yet, this revamped approach prompts serious questions about the future of global development efforts. Rubio…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a fateful Tuesday, a military helicopter met with disaster at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, igniting flames and spawning smoke clouds that rushed into the sky. Eyewitness accounts from airport staff detail a scene filled with chaos and uncertainty as the incident unfolded. Preliminary investigations suggest that the helicopter belonged to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, now known as the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission (AUSSOM). This renaming not only…

Uganda's Shift Towards Sustainable Fuel: A New Ethanol Blending Policy Beginning in January next year, Uganda is set to embark on a transformative journey in its fuel distribution sector. This new initiative will mandate all fuel distributors to incorporate locally produced ethanol into the petrol they sell nationwide. It’s not just a regulatory shift; it’s a bold stride towards sustainability and self-reliance in energy production. The announcement came from Ruth Nankabirwa, the Energy Minister, who outlined that the…

Breaking New Ground: Ethiopia's First Electricity Export to Tanzania In a groundbreaking move that symbolizes a new chapter in regional energy collaboration, Ethiopia has successfully initiated its first electricity export to Tanzania. This historic event was made possible by leveraging Kenya's high-voltage transmission network. As a pilot project, it marks a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of energy trade within East Africa, showcasing how countries can work together for mutual benefit. Recently, the…

In recent times, India has placed a significant focus on securing essential raw materials to propel its transition to clean energy and fulfill its ambitions in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector. This strategic move reflects a larger narrative of nations scrambling to strengthen their supply chains amid global uncertainties. At the heart of this endeavor is the Indian geological team, which is embarking on a journey to uncover cobalt—an indispensable element for the batteries…

DAR ES SALAAM: In an exciting development for both nations, Tanzania and Somalia are set to revive direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Mogadishu. This initiative signifies not only a logistical shift but also a vital enhancement of the diplomatic and economic relationships that have historically linked the two countries. The announcement unfolded during Somalia’s 65th Independence Day celebrations. This event was particularly noteworthy as it marked the formal reopening of the Somali Embassy in Tanzania after an…

Namibia has officially embarked on a pivotal journey by launching its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). This significant milestone is the culmination of years of commitment and strategic planning, marking a promising chapter for the nation within the broader African trade landscape. As one of the earliest ratifiers of AfCFTA, Namibia has set a precedent. The government's proactive approach culminated in the gazetting of its tariff offer in December 2024, a critical step designed to…

In an important development this week, South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry and Competition announced that the nation has formally requested an extension to finalize a crucial trade agreement before the imposition of a hefty 31% tariff on U.S. imports from South Africa. This new tariff, if enacted, could drastically alter the landscape of trade relations between these two nations. As part of their negotiation strategy, South African officials are advocating for a significant reduction in the tariff,…