East Africa

Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International–Monitoring NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — It has been over four grueling years, but the agony of uncertainty persists for the family of 21-year-old Shaffi Noor. His sudden disappearance just after being acquitted of terror-related allegations outside a Garissa courtroom on December 29, 2021, remains a haunting memory. Eyewitnesses recall the ominous presence of masked officers, presumably from Kenya’s Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU), who took Noor, leaving no trace behind. His case is not…

A revealing study published in The Lancet has illuminated a staggering surge in type 2 diabetes rates across sub-Saharan Africa, far beyond what was earlier anticipated. This research is not merely a collection of statistics; it highlights a troubling trend that poses significant health risks for millions. What drives this epidemic? The answer lies in a confluence of poor dietary choices, inadequate access to health care, rising obesity rates, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Tracking over 10,000 participants from…

Preserving Heritage Through A Culinary Odyssey Toronto, Canada (AX) — Exploring the savory landscapes of Somali cuisine, Ifrah F. Ahmed stands as a remarkable beacon of cultural preservation and innovation, all while artfully bridging continents and traditions. A Journey Across Kitchens Born in Somalia and now traveling between New York and Seattle, Ahmed is on a mission to elevate Somali cuisine through culinary pop-ups and…

Understanding the Ripple Effect of Rising Fuel Prices in Africa Let's take a moment to talk about something that affects all of us in more ways than we often realize—fuel prices. Recent shifts in the global oil market, along with various factors such as currency depreciation and reduced subsidies, have led to an unwelcome surge in fuel costs across many African countries. It's quite astonishing, isn't it, how a single market shift can create a domino effect felt across an entire continent? One might wonder,…

The Decline of Car Theft in Kenya: A Closer Look Car theft in Kenya remains a concern. However, recent statistics suggest an unexpected twist in the narrative—namely, a decline. Is this trend here to stay, or is it merely a fleeting respite? According to the latest report by the Association of Kenyan Insurers (AKI), a total of 327 motor vehicles were stolen in 2024. Although an uncomfortable reality, this figure marks a substantial 28% decrease from the previous year’s 419 reported…

November 24, 2024. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights In a noteworthy move, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Kenya are gearing up to discuss a fresh lending initiative that could be pivotal for the East African nation, especially after both parties decided to forego the anticipated ninth review of the existing $3.6 billion agreement. But why is this dialogue significant, and what does it spell for Kenya's financial future? Let's delve into these pressing questions. For Kenya, sustaining…

In the intricate landscape of global geopolitics, seemingly unlikely alliances often emerge, united by common adversaries. In this case, Yemen’s Ansar Allah, more commonly known as the Houthis, and their primary benefactor, Iran, have formed pragmatic links with non-state actors like Somalia's al-Shabab and the Islamic State in Somalia (ISS). While their ideologies and objectives may diverge significantly, their shared hostility toward countries such as the United States and Israel provides common ground. Considering the…

It's a momentous occasion at the Stade de France, set against the backdrop of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games. Picture this: Gudaf Tsegay of Team Ethiopia making strides in the intense atmosphere of the women's 1500m semi-final. The crowd's anticipation is palpable, their eyes glued to the unfolding drama on the track. (CFP Photo) Meanwhile, looking ahead, the countries of Kenya and Ethiopia have unveiled their lineups for the World Athletics Indoor Championships set to occur in Nanjing in 2025. A captivating…

Reimagining Trade in African Economies We often hear the phrase "money makes the world go round," but have you ever paused to consider whose money does that? For the African continent, the answer often points towards foreign currencies. Unfortunately, these aren't just facilitating trade; they're silently eroding Africa's economic potential. Historically, African nations have predominantly conducted trade—both amongst…

Nairobi, Kenya (AX) – In the dusty, sun-beaten terrain of Mandera, echoes of gunfire shattered the morning calm last Friday. A Kenyan police officer tragically lost his life, another was left nursing injuries, and an entire community was thrust into the crosshairs of a dispute brewing just across the border. The attackers were believed to be operatives from Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). But why would such a violent engagement ensue? Let’s unravel this complex tapestry. Border Point 4,…