East Africa

Embracing AI in Journalism: A New Dawn for African Media On a balmy August morning in Nairobi, under the expansive African sky, journalists from across the continent gathered to explore an evolving frontier—Artificial Intelligence in journalism. The half-day workshop, "The Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Its Impact on Journalism," organized by Xinhua News Agency Africa Regional Bureau, became a confluence of tradition and innovation, merging human stories with machine precision. A Meeting of Minds in Nairobi As I…

Kenya Airways: Navigating Turbulence and Anticipating New Horizons Amidst the riveting expanse of African skies, Kenya Airways, one of the continent's airline giants, finds itself grappling with financial headwinds yet plotting a hopeful course toward recovery and growth. As the airline announced plans to secure at least $500 million in new capital by next year’s first quarter, it underscores a dynamic mix of challenges and ambitions in the aviation industry. A Journey Through Financial Storms Kenya Airways, often hailed…

Resurgence of Chaos in Cabo Delgado: The Human Cost of Insurgency As dawn breaks over the dense forests and emerald landscapes of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, a sense of urgency permeates the air, underscored by the echoes of armed conflict. In recent weeks, jihadist groups have intensified their violent campaign across several districts, resulting in a swift escalation of human suffering and disruption. This once-quiet province, rich in natural resources, has been plunged into turmoil as militants engage in increasingly…

Somalia's Ambitious Step into the Cosmos: A New Era or Overambition? In an unexpected announcement that has captured imaginations globally, Somalia is exploring plans to become the world’s next satellite launching pad. While this may seem like a bold step for a nation grappling with reconstruction, the possibility hints at broader aspirations and potential implications for Somalia and the global stage. Exploring a New Frontier Mohamed Mahmud Allaale, a seasoned communications strategist and advisor to Somalia’s Ministry of…

Strengthening Ties: Kenya and Germany Forge Pathways through Migration Partnership In a world increasingly defined by movement, migration stands at the crux of opportunity and challenge. As nations grapple with the dynamics of global migration, Kenya and Germany have taken a proactive step forward. Their inaugural Joint Implementation Committee meeting under the Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement marks a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. Nurturing Trust and Expanding Opportunities…

Kenya Steps In: A Fresh Bid to Broker Peace in Somalia By Ali Musa Axadle Times international–Monitoring. The winds of political change in Somalia are stirring tensions once again. As clashes between federal and Jubbaland forces threaten to escalate, neighboring Kenya has quietly stepped into the fray, offering to mediate talks between Somalia's federal government and the semi-autonomous Jubbaland administration. The unfolding situation marks yet another pivotal moment in the Horn of Africa, where decades-long instability…

In the Shadow of Waste: One Year After Kampala's Landfill Collapse When the massive landfill at Kiteezi in Uganda’s bustling capital, Kampala, surrendered to its own weight, the catastrophe heralded by a deafening roar, many mistook it for the routine noise of a low-flying airplane. But as the echoes faded, chaos erupted. A deluge of detritus surged across the landscape, uprooting trees and engulfing whatever lay in its wake. Zamhall Nansamba was among the fortunate. With her heart pounding and her children in tow, she…

Eastern Congo Peace Talks: A New Chapter or More of the Same? In a rare show of diplomacy, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have embarked on a journey to untangle a web of conflict that has plagued the mineral-rich eastern region of Congo for over three decades. The landmark peace agreement, signed in June, marks the first step in a potentially long road towards peace. A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Longstanding Conflict On Thursday, representatives from both countries met for their first discussions in…

Inside Somalia’s Judiciary Financial Quagmire Mogadishu, long viewed as the beating heart of Somalia’s hopeful resurgence, now finds itself at a crucial juncture. Somalia’s Auditor General, Ahmed Issa Gutale, has thrust the nation’s judiciary into the spotlight by accusing its top courts of obstructing essential financial audits. This revelation, leading to the disappearance of over $1 million, raises profound questions about transparency and governance in the country. A Call for Transparency, Met with Silence During a…

Zimbabwe’s Currency Conundrum: A Tale of Change and Skepticism In a bold yet controversial move, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has announced plans to unveil newly designed ZWG notes, aiming to phase out the previous versions deemed “defiled” by the public. As Zimbabwe grapples with tumultuous economic challenges, the currency change raises questions about the nation’s financial future, consumer trust, and the potential for recovery. Facing Devaluation and Distrust The journey of the ZWG notes has not been smooth.…