East Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – The rhythmic hum of helicopter blades slicing through the air above Mogadishu heralds a new chapter in regional cooperation against the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab. In a remarkable display of unity and purpose, five African nations, each carrying the weight of their own hopes and histories, are contributing a formidable force of 11,900 troops to the African Union's recently unveiled Somalia Mission, aptly named AUSSOM. It's interesting to note that three of Somalia's immediate neighbors—Uganda,…

In an era characterized by fluctuating alliances and high-stakes diplomacy, the role of military forces in stabilizing tumultuous regions like Somalia becomes a complex symphony of negotiations and strategic maneuvering. Consider the intricate dance playing out between African nations and the African Union in crafting a new mission in Somalia—a nation that has, for years, been the battleground for competing interests and ideologies. The backdrop is Mogadishu, a city that has seen its fair share of turmoil, where a soldier…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a pivotal twist of regional dynamics, Burundi has commenced the withdrawal of its troops from Somalia. This move marks the end of an 18-year era of military involvement under the auspices of the African Union's peacekeeping initiatives. But what's driving this significant change? The roots trace back to a contention over troop contributions to the recently minted African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, or AUSSOM, which took the baton from the African Union Transition Mission in…

A Historic Diplomatic Encounter: Bridging Gaps and Building Trust Mogadishu (AX) — On a windswept Thursday morning, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is expected to grace the Somali capital’s horizon, setting the stage for an essential dialogue with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. These meetings, vivid with political undertones and strategic dynamics, capture a pivotal moment in the intricate relationship between these two Horn of Africa neighbors. Their journey, marked by maritime disputes and military…

Mogadishu: A New Chapter in the Fight Against Militancy In a world where the battle against extremism is relentless, the U.S. military executed a decisive airstrike targeting Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region. This action came on the heels of a significant setback for the militants, who had faced formidable opposition from Somali government forces and allied local militias. As the Ministry of Information released this development, it signaled a critical moment in the ongoing fight against…

In the sprawling urban landscapes of Africa, a silent crisis gnaws at the heart of its bustling cities. Imagine a tapestry woven with vibrant threads of diversity and culture, yet tightly bound by the shackles of economic limitations. How, one wonders, do people in these low-income African cities manage to navigate through the maze of daily existence, when paying for basic necessities alone becomes a formidable challenge? A striking aspect of this predicament is its insidious ability to undermine both…

As the vibrant pulse of Senegal quickens in anticipation, the countdown to the Youth Olympic Games has truly begun. Slated to unfold over the course of two exhilarating weeks from October 31 to November 15, 2026, this monumental event aims to unite approximately 2,700 young athletes from across the globe. Can you imagine the excitement coursing through the veins of these budding champions, all eager to display their talents on an international stage? This year is particularly significant, as it marks the first time an…

As each new year unfurls, African nations boasting resilient currencies against the US dollar find themselves at a unique fiscal advantage. From tempered inflation and a bolstered purchasing power to a flourishing confidence among investors, the financial landscape offers a promising horizon. But what lies at the heart of these monetary benefits, and how do they ripple through the broader economic canvas? A robust currency doesn't just provide a fiscal foundation—it shapes an environment brimming with…

Remittances to Sub-Saharan Africa: A Complex and Expensive Journey Imagine this scenario: You're working hard in a foreign land, far from the warmth of your home, trying to make a better life for yourself and those you've left behind. Every month, you send a portion of your earnings back home. It’s a lifeline, not just for your family, but for the economy of your homeland. Now, consider the irony — while your remittances are crucial, the cost of sending this money can sometimes feel like an insurmountable barrier.…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was a gathering marked by mutual respect and a shared ambition. On a bright Tuesday in Nairobi, Somali Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Bashir Mohamed Jama, sat down with his Kenyan counterpart, Adan Barre Duale. The primary focus? To forge stronger ties between their respective environmental ministries and tackle challenges that know no borders. This significant meeting was not only a convergence of two political figures but a confluence of ideas and aspirations that could ripple positively…