East Africa

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…

Ethiopia’s National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) has revealed that the ongoing security operation by Kenya against the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) is a concerted effort with Ethiopian security forces. This operation, targeting “OLA camps” on both sides of the border, underscores a strategy where borderlines blur into zones of mutual concern and cooperation. What has led these two countries to act in unison against threats lurking at geographical seams? On February 4, NISS issued a statement indicating that this…

Hargeisa (AX) – In the ever-complex political landscape of North Western State of Somalia, a glimmer of hope appears to be emerging. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro recently acknowledged a peace proposal extended by Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni, aimed at quelling the tumultuous disputes currently unfolding in the Sanaag region. Could this mark the beginning of a new chapter for this embattled region? In an intimate gathering held at the presidential palace on a breezy Wednesday…

On a seemingly ordinary Wednesday, Kenya found itself at a pivotal juncture regarding its critical security mission in Haiti. The East African nation, known for its rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures, is steadfastly working to transition its security mission on the sun-baked Caribbean island into an official United Nations operation. Why this sudden shift? A disruption in U.S. funding. It seems like a daunting challenge, but Kenya's resolve is evident, and the narrative unfolds with remarkable intricacy. Korir…