East Africa

Kenya has responded decisively to U.S. concerns regarding its burgeoning relationship with China, proudly reaffirming its commitment to a longstanding partnership with the United States while pursuing a foreign policy that emphasizes mutual benefit and sovereignty. The Kenyan government seeks a balance between respecting traditional alliances and expanding its connections across the globe. In a detailed communication to the U.S. Senate, Nairobi articulated its intention to diversify international relationships…

In recent discussions about cost reduction initiatives, one example that stands out is Nigeria's Dangote Refinery, which has made headlines by cutting prices. Yet, many African nations are still grappling with the persistent challenge of soaring diesel costs. The implications of these high prices extend far beyond mere numbers on a fuel pump; they ripple throughout entire economies, impacting everything from agriculture to transportation. Diesel serves as the lifeblood for numerous sectors, including…

In recent months, Ghana has found itself mired in a complex and contentious dispute with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) over a sizable debt of $768.4 million. This situation comes on the heels of a challenging debt restructuring process that the country has been navigating. The backdrop is certainly tense. The Ghanaian Finance Ministry is advocating for the treatment of the Afreximbank loan to mirror other debts it has successfully restructured. These include a mix of bilateral loans from China and…

The Complexities of Democracy in East Africa: A Personal Insight into Martha Karua’s Recent Deportation In an unsettling turn of events, renowned Kenyan lawyer and presidential candidate Martha Karua found herself detained in Tanzania, an action that raises questions about the state of democracy in East Africa. According to reports, Karua was held for three hours before being expelled from the country, a move her spokesperson confirmed. This incident occurred just as she prepared to observe the high-profile trial of Tindu…

NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — Aviation across Africa and the Middle East finds itself on the cusp of significant change. The coming decade promises a surge in passenger demand, upcoming safety regulations, and maintenance challenges that could potentially elevate operational risks. For airlines and operators navigating these high-growth yet resource-constrained environments, the margin for error is becoming increasingly slim. In this landscape, Danan Aviation Consulting, a Canadian-based aviation advisory firm, emerges as a vital…

Forging New Paths: Ramaphosa's Visit to Washington In a significant diplomatic move, President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to visit Washington this week, largely with the aim of fostering investment opportunities for companies helmed by none other than Elon Musk. This initiative is seen as part of a broader effort to mend fences with U.S. President Donald Trump, as emphasized by Ramaphosa’s spokesperson. The upcoming meeting presents a unique platform for both nations to recalibrate their relationship, which has…

As living costs continue to rise in East Africa, Nairobi is increasingly feeling the pressure of food inflation, much like its neighbor Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The soaring prices of basic commodities have left many residents grappling with financial strain, prompting important discussions about the state of food security in these bustling urban centers. A recent report from the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Competition Commission (CCC) has shed light on the troubling rise in maize prices, which…

In a notable shift in strategy, U.S. envoys stationed in Africa will now be evaluated based on the commercial agreements they facilitate, rather than the volume of aid distributed. This change, articulated by a senior official from the State Department, reflects a burgeoning focus on economic collaboration rather than traditional assistance. Historically, many African nations have been among the largest recipients of U.S. aid. However, under former President Trump’s policies, particularly those leaning towards economic…

Bridging Borders: A Call to Action from Ethiopia’s Somali State President NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — In a heartfelt and compelling appeal, Mustafa Mohammed Omar 'Cagjar', the President of Ethiopia’s Somali State, has invited Somalis living abroad to return and reinvest in their homeland. Speaking to a throng of diaspora members in Nairobi, he made a passionate case for not just relocation, but active participation in the region’s renaissance, particularly targeting professionals and entrepreneurs based in Kenya. “Our region…

Djibouti Faces Humanitarian Challenges Amid Crackdown on Migrants In a move that has sparked widespread international concern, the Djiboutian government has launched a significant crackdown on undocumented migrants and refugees. This initiative has led to the arrest and deportation of individuals from Yemen, Somalia, and Ethiopia, all accused of violating residency and work permit regulations. As these policies unfold, questions arise: What does this mean for those caught in the crosshairs of enforcement? And what…