East Africa

Strengthening Somalia’s Future: A Call for Unity and Inclusivity Entebbe, Uganda (AX) — In a region where challenges often seem insurmountable, African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf recently made a fervent appeal to the Federal Government of Somalia. His message was clear: it’s time to ramp up political efforts in building robust state institutions. But what does that truly mean for the ordinary citizen? How can inclusivity, as emphasized by Youssouf, shape a more resilient Somalia? During a pivotal…

In recent months, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been grappling with an alarming increase in violence, a situation that escalated dramatically in January after a significant offensive by the M23 rebels, who are thought to be backed by Rwanda. This offensive resulted in the capture of two of the largest cities in eastern Congo, creating a wave of instability that rippled throughout the region. Each incident of conflict not only deepens local tensions but also has profound implications for millions of Congolese…

As we venture into 2024, an alarming trend has emerged: global employee engagement has dipped from 23% to 21%. This marks a significant moment, as it’s only the second occurrence of such a decline in the last twelve years, with the first instance happening during the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ramifications of this data resonate on a universal scale, but they strike particularly hard in Africa, where workplace stress levels are notoriously high. Have you ever felt that work has transformed into an uphill battle?…

Finding Balance: A Harmonious Approach to Gaming and Life Magnate represents a refreshing perspective on responsible gaming. In 2025, the acclaimed entrepreneur, educator, and innovator Suzyo Shawa, who is widely recognized as Magnate, stepped into the role of official ambassador for 1xBet in Zambia. But his connection to the 1xBalance initiative extends beyond mere title; it symbolizes a heartfelt commitment to nurturing a culture grounded in responsible betting practices. Together with the brand, he champions…

In April, the U.S. State Department took a significant step to safeguard its citizens by releasing revised travel warnings for several countries, including Ghana, Burkina Faso, Morocco, and Uganda. This advisory urges U.S. citizens to approach travel plans with caution or, in some cases, to reconsider their trips altogether. The implications of such advisories run deep, affecting personal travel plans and the broader perceptions of safety in these regions. The advisory highlights a spectrum of concerns ranging…

Jigjiga, Ethiopia (AX) — The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has recently raised serious allegations against Ethiopian security forces, accusing them of violently disrupting a women's meeting in Jigjiga on April 24. These claims assert that not only were numerous participants arrested, but several also sustained injuries during the incident. The ONLF contends that this attack is emblematic of a broader crackdown on dissent within the Somali Region, curtailing freedoms and silencing voices that challenge the status…

When we delve into the economic health of a nation, one term invariably rises to the top of the conversation: Gross Domestic Product, or GDP. This seemingly simple acronym encompasses a wealth of information about a country’s financial landscape. At its core, GDP represents the total value of all goods and services produced within a country over the span of a year. Imagine it as the price tag that reflects the sheer scale of a nation’s economic prowess. It’s akin to looking at the collective effort—the hard work,…

Mogadishu (AX) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has sounded the alarm, urgently calling for the rapid deployment of an additional 8,000 peacekeepers. This plea is made against the backdrop of escalating Al-Shabaab attacks, which have cast a long shadow over years of stabilization efforts in Somalia. The situation is becoming increasingly precarious, jeopardizing the hard-earned progress of the nation. During a ministerial meeting held in Kampala on Thursday, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu…

In a poignant gesture that acknowledges a challenging past, French President Emmanuel Macron recently articulated his intent to seek “forgiveness” for France’s colonial domination over Madagascar. This statement comes as part of a broader commitment to revisit the historical narrative, beginning with the return of cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. Madagascar, with its rich tapestry of history and heritage, endured French colonial rule from 1896 until it regained full sovereignty in 1960. This period marked…

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebels, known for their ties to Rwanda, have declared a ceasefire in the eastern regions of the country. This agreement will remain in effect until peace negotiations, facilitated by Qatar, are brought to a close. It’s a significant development in the ongoing conflict that has claimed an estimated 7,000 lives since M23 escalated its military campaign in January. In a joint statement, representatives from both factions characterized their recent discussions as "frank and…