East Africa

Human Trafficking: The Dark Path from Dadaab to Europe In the sprawling landscape of hardship and hope that characterizes the Dadaab refugee camps in Kenya, a silent crisis unfolds. Trans-Saharan human trafficking syndicates are exploiting the dreams of vulnerable Somali refugees, particularly the youth who yearn for a better future. These traffickers, led by the infamous Libyan group known as Magafe, have turned aspiration into a perilous gamble, where the stakes are often unimaginable. What lies behind the allure of…

The Complex Landscape of Loyalty and Governance in Somalia In the intricate tapestry of Somali society, loyalty often finds its roots in clans, overshadowing broader civic identities. Clan affiliation, while historically a pillar of strength and survival for the Somali people, has evolved into a lens through which political dynamics are often viewed. Imagine a judge not evaluated on the fairness of his rulings, but rather on the clan he represents. Alternatively, think of a minister whose competence is overshadowed…

During a recent diplomatic mission to Brazil, Kenya's Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized an urgent call for international collaboration to tackle the ongoing crisis in Haiti. It’s a stark reminder of how global challenges often require unified responses— a reflection of our interconnected world. Mudavadi, representing Kenya's leadership in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, urged the international community—particularly the United Nations and the United States—as well as other…

Three years ago, on May 15, 2022, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected as the President of Somalia following a lengthy indirect electoral process. This marked his return to the presidency—notably, his second non-consecutive term—as he had previously served from September 2012 to February 2017. His comeback was widely celebrated, reflecting a collective hope that his prior experience would provide invaluable lessons. Having spent nearly five years in power and another five years in opposition, many believed he was primed to…

Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir/FILE In a significant move aimed at enhancing aviation safety, long-serving pilot Captain Peter Maranga, alongside Fredrick Kabunge from the Ministry of Transport, has been appointed to lead an investigation team. This team is tasked with reviewing all preliminary accident reports involving Kenyan-registered and operated aircraft. These reports have been submitted over the past five years by both South Sudan and Somalia. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, this initiative…

Strengthening Bonds: Uganda's Military Commitment to Somalia Mogadishu (AX) – On a Saturday filled with promise and potential, Lieutenant General Samuel Okiding, the Deputy Chief of the Uganda Defence Forces, stepped onto Somali soil for an official visit. This journey is not just a routine diplomatic mission; it is a vital endeavor aimed at fortifying military cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, two nations bound by shared concerns and aspirations. Upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport, Lt. Gen.…

The commitment of the Trump administration to bolster U.S. exports to Africa is not merely a political statement; it is a clarion call for transformation. “We aim to elevate U.S. exports and investments in Africa, eliminate trade deficits, and foster mutual prosperity,” shared Ambassador Troy Fitrell, currently leading the Africa Bureau at the State Department. His remarks were made during an American Chambers of Commerce gathering in the vibrant city of Abidjan, a place rich with opportunity yet often overlooked. This…

The Conviction of a Former Leader: A Landmark Case for Mauritania and Africa Recently, the Mauritanian appellate court delivered a verdict that has reverberated beyond its borders: the conviction of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz on charges of corruption. After appeals from both state officials and Abdel Aziz’s defense team, the court increased his sentence from five years to a significant 15-year term. This ruling addresses not just a local scandal but also speaks volumes about accountability on the African…

Understanding GDP per capita growth isn't just about numbers; it's a window into the lived realities of a nation's populace. How many of us actually grasp what that growth means for an average citizen grappling with daily financial challenges? It serves as a vital indicator of whether economic advancements benefit all layers of society or if they remain ensnared by inflationary pressures, population surges, or stark inequalities. In the global landscape, some nations have seen their economic indicators trend…

Response to Unrest in Burao: A Call for Unity and Clarity In a significant turn of events following the recent protests in Burao, North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro announced the release of at least 150 individuals detained during the demonstrations. This decision comes on the heels of tragic unrest that left two individuals dead and over forty injured, prompting the president to initiate a formal investigation into the violent incidents. These protests, which erupted amid social…