East Africa

In a surprising turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump declared a 90-day hiatus on trade tariffs for a multitude of countries, with one notable exception: China. This announcement, made through the ubiquitous channel of social media, has stirred quite a debate. In fact, President Trump stated that over 75 nations reached out to the U.S. administration, eager to "negotiate a solution." Isn't it intriguing how swiftly the global economy can find itself engulfed in complex negotiations, driven by the urgency to preserve…

The Strategic Corridor: Enhancing Connections Between Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia In the heart of the Horn of Africa, a transformative project is underway, promising to strengthen economic ties and foster community integration across this vibrant region. As Jigjiga's Mayor, Engineer Shafi Ahmed Maalin, eloquently pointed out, This is a vital route for Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia and for strengthening economic cooperation across the Horn. Such infrastructural endeavors often raise a critical…

Celebrating Artistry: Saalax Sanaag's Triumph at the Africa Arts Entertainment Awards In a vibrant fusion of culture and celebration, Saalah Abdirisaq Mohamed, more popularly hailed as Saalax Sanaag, has ascended the ranks of African music stardom. At the 2025 Africa Arts Entertainment Awards in Nairobi, Kenya, Saalax won double accolades: Best Somali Artist and Most Dedicated Performer in East Africa. Is this recognition just another token, or does it herald a rebirth for Somali music on the international stage?…

OX Delivers: Flat Pack Trucks Driving African Trade Let me introduce you to OX Delivers, an ambitious and pioneering British startup that has made significant strides in the world of electric mobility. The brilliance behind their enterprise lies in their creation of the world’s first flat-pack electric truck tailored specifically for the unique challenges of the Global South. But what truly sets OX Delivers apart is their novel "transport as a service" model—an idea that feels almost…

The Life and Legacy of General Shegow Ahmed Ali: A Reflection By Abukar AlbadriApril 9, 2025 The untimely passing of General Shegow Ahmed Ali has left a deep void and stirred waves of suspicion across our land. Surrounded by uncertainty, the circumstances of his arrest, prolonged detention, and ultimately unjust verdict have sparked widespread concern and skepticism. Was justice truly served? Or has it become another victim of power and prejudice? Beyond his military accomplishments, General Shegow was cherished as a…

Geopolitical Dynamics: Russia's Expanding Influence in Africa In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, ideological rifts among the world’s dominant powers have widened significantly. Particularly noteworthy is the call from authoritarian regimes such as China and Russia for the establishment of alternative governmental frameworks, standing in stark contrast to the values espoused by liberal democracies. One might ponder: What drives this seismic shift in geopolitical alliances? Interestingly,…

Nairobi, a city humming with vitality and ambition, hosts the epicenter of Kenya's financial world—the Central Bank of Kenya. On a seemingly ordinary Tuesday, the bank's walls echoed an extraordinary announcement: the central bank decided, unexpectedly, to cut its policy rate for the fifth consecutive meeting. The decision rippled through the streets of the city, signaling a stimulus aimed squarely at revitalizing private sector lending. In an era where economic forecasts often found themselves shifting with the…

In a troubling revelation, Amnesty International's recent report highlights that in 2024, the number of executions worldwide surged to its highest level in nearly a decade. This sobering news arrives at a time when several African countries, notably the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria, are contemplating the reintroduction of capital punishment—a move that stirs deep fears among human rights advocates. Imagine a landscape that has gradually tilted toward hope—a world where progress in human rights was not just a…

Democratic Republic of Congo Revamps Its Diplomatic Strategy with the USA In a remarkable twist of international diplomacy, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a bold step by suspending a significant $5 million lobbying contract with Earhart Turner. This strategic shift aims to concentrate on fostering direct relationships with the United States, particularly during the era of the Trump administration. It begs the question: What drives this new direction, and what does it mean for both…

In a year marked by significant economic challenges, Kenyan banks have outdone themselves, posting a remarkable profit of Sh240.1 billion in 2024. This milestone comes despite the turbulent financial landscape of the nation. But what does this mean for the average Kenyan and the broader economy? As we delve into the details, let's explore the interplay between high profits and economic hardship, drawing insights from leading financial figures. Surprisingly, amid this financial success, banks…