East Africa

The unpredictable corridors of power opened their doors on February 4, 2025, as US President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into the Oval Office. An occasion captured in time by Evan Vucci's lens for the Associated Press, the meeting hinted at a controversial geopolitical chess move: relocating Gazans from their besieged enclave. But relocate to where? The eyes of Israeli and US officials are turning toward Morocco and two autonomous Somali regions—Northeastern State and North Western State…

In a resolute stride toward equity in public service, President William Ruto inaugurated Kenya's 10th immigration office on Thursday, nestled in the heart of Garissa County. This significant move aims to streamline the passport application process for the residents of Northern Kenya. But why is this such a momentous occasion? Picture a resident from Mandera, Wajir, or Tana River, trekking arduous journeys to Nairobi, Mombasa, or Nakuru merely to procure a passport. The inconvenience and costs add up, don't they? Now, with a…

In a significant development on Thursday, Kenya announced that it had dispatched 144 additional police officers to join the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, aiming to combat the persistent specter of gang violence plaguing the Caribbean nation. This fresh contingent is part of an endeavor strikingly complex yet courageously undertaken. Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, detailed that the group includes 120 men and 24 women. They are…

Vaccination Against Mpox South Sudan has encountered its inaugural case of mpox, as confirmed last Friday—a grim milestone that has placed the nation on high alert. The discovery was made when a patient succumbed to the clutches of this rare virus, following a gauntlet of diagnostic tests. James Hoth Mai, serving as Acting Health Minister, illuminated the details during a press briefing held in the pulsating heart of Juba. On January 22, a patient first displayed harrowing symptoms, including fever, a…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the vibrant city of Kampala, a significant meeting unfolded between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. Their conversation was peppered with discussions on deepening the bonds between their nations, with an emphasis on security, economic growth, and collaborative measures against the specter of terrorism. The dialogue between the two leaders wasn't merely a formal exchange. Instead, it was imbued with the kind of warmth and understanding that often arises…

At the Mandera border post, a tense yet hopeful scene plays out between Kenya and Somalia. The border symbolizes more than just a geographical demarcation; it reflects the complex ties and tumultuous past shared by these two nations. Recently, in an unexpected twist of events, Kenya dispatched a multi-agency delegation, championed by wise community elders, to Somalia. Why, one might ask? Their mission is clear yet perilous: to negotiate the safe return of five local chiefs who were abducted under mysterious and troubling…

Kampala (AX) — Against the backdrop of an overcast Kampala sky, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down on Ugandan soil this past Friday. His visit marks a pivotal moment, one intended to weave tighter threads of diplomacy and cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, especially in realms such as security, commerce, and socio-economic development. An anecdotal account from President Mohamud’s entourage whispered that when you pause to think, diplomacy really is an art; an intricate dance between nations, played…

The elusive quest to dismantle the Islamic State network threaded through the rugged terrain of north-eastern Somalia requires resilience and acute caution. Yet, such an assignment must negotiate the subtlety of mountainous hideouts against an adversary thriving in shadows. Unyielding and stoic, these militants persist, shaping the narrative of extremism in Africa's complex tapestry. In an audacious move, former U.S. President Donald Trump struck with characteristic bravado—a hallmark reminiscent of his tenure. Following an…

Garissa (AX) – In a significant move to streamline immigration services for Northern Kenya, President William Ruto officially opened Kenya's 10th immigration office in Garissa County on Thursday. But what does this mean for the residents of this expansive region? Imagine the winding roads to Nairobi becoming a thing of the past for those in Mandera, Wajir, Tana River, Lamu, Kitui, and Isiolo counties. This newly inaugurated office is a beacon of convenience, bringing passport and travel document services much closer to home…

As the dry winds swept across the vast desert landscape of Mandera on February 4, 2025, President William Ruto made a significant entrance, escorted by local dignitaries who eagerly awaited his arrival. The timbre of anticipation was palpable, especially with the burden of unresolved concerns hanging in the air. Would the five abducted Mandera chiefs see the light of freedom soon? President Ruto's resolute promise echoed a commitment that although rare in articulation, resounded with heartfelt urgency. Ruto, in a bid that…