East Africa

In the quiet hours of a Saturday morning, a tragedy unfolded in Karon Village, located in West Pokot County. Panic and despair swept through the community as news broke that four individuals lost their lives when a gold mining pit unexpectedly collapsed at 2 a.m. This incident has left families shattered and a village grappling with profound loss. County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi reported that the victims were tragically buried alive under the rubble after the mine caved in. The deceased have been identified as Lotudung…

Rwanda has recently made a significant diplomatic decision, announcing its withdrawal from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). This choice follows a heated dispute, particularly concerning accusations regarding Rwanda's alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict within the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Understanding the context of this withdrawal demands a closer look at ECCAS itself. Established in the 1980s, this regional bloc comprises 11 member states, all united under…

The Complex Challenges Facing Kenyan Tea Farmers Imagine waking up each day, only to find that your labor—your sweat and skill—isn’t enough to provide for your family. In Kenya, this is the harsh reality for many tea workers and farmers. A recent poll conducted by the Fairtrade Foundation revealed that only one in five tea workers can earn enough each month to meet basic family needs. This statistic raises an important question: what is being done to address the systemic inequities in this sector? Adding to this…

Fostering Understanding: Celebrating Dialogue Among Civilizations On June 5, 2025, a vibrant celebration unfolded in Nairobi, Kenya, marking the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. The event highlighted the importance of building bridges of friendship and understanding among diverse cultures. Picture the scene: students from the Confucius Institute of Moi University showcased traditional Chinese garments, exuding pride and cultural richness. It was more than a display; it was a testament to…

Ethiopia’s Ambitious Naval Development: A New Dawn on the Horizon In what can only be described as a significant leap toward maritime capability, Ethiopia’s naval facility in the Janmeda area of Addis Ababa is reportedly nearing its completion. According to recent reports from Sputnik Africa, the project is an impressive 95% finished. But what does this mean for a landlocked country that hasn’t laid claim to a coastline since 1993? Let’s delve deeper. This sprawling 3-hectare site…

The Unfolding Saga of Godbless Lema: A Struggle for Freedom and Healthcare On a seemingly ordinary day at the Namanga border post, a political drama unfurled that stirred deep feelings about freedom, healthcare accessibility, and the role of government. Tanzania's opposition figure, Godbless Lema, a member of the Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) party, found himself unexpectedly held for over four hours as he sought entry into Kenya for medical attention. This incident raises significant questions: where does…

Chinese Loans and Their Impact on African Economies The relationship between China and various African nations has evolved into a critical chapter in the story of development finance. Over the years, Chinese loans have enabled the construction of vital infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and power plants, across the continent. Yet, this financial support does not come without significant questions regarding debt sustainability, the risks associated with repayment, and the potential long-term autonomy of African…

Trump Signs New Travel Ban: Global Reactions and Implications On May 23, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump took a significant step in the realm of immigration policy, signing an executive order that has sent shockwaves around the world. In the Oval Office at the White House, Trump proclaimed a sweeping travel ban aimed at citizens from 12 countries, asserting that these measures were vital for national security and to combat the perceived threat of "foreign terrorists." This announcement rekindled memories of the travel…

My Journey: Caring for the Fighters Hello, I’m Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti. Currently, I serve as an oncology nurse specialist at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, located at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. It’s been a fulfilling 24 years filled with ups and downs, triumphs and heartaches, as I walk alongside my patients in their toughest battles against cancer. And believe me, I feel as though I’m just beginning this profound journey. How It All Began: The Girl Who…

Rabat – The world has taken a collective breath, with a palpable tension that underscores the gravity of recent events. President Trump’s latest travel ban has ignited a widespread reaction from nations around the globe, highlighting its profound and often unwelcome international ramifications. The very essence of mobility, intertwined with the hopes and dreams of countless individuals, has come under scrutiny. As it stands, nationals from twelve countries—each a tapestry of unique histories and cultures—now…