North Africa

Building Bridges: A Strategic Alliance in the Horn of Africa In a world where strategic partnerships often define the course of international relations, the recent diplomatic mission led by Abdelatty is noteworthy. It reflects an intent to weave stronger ties within the Horn of Africa amid a dynamic global landscape. But what does this mission really entail, and why does it matter? The backdrop to Abdelatty's mission was the burgeoning tripartite framework among Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. Born…

The pristine waters of Kenya's coastline are brimming with renewed promise as the Port of Lamu comes into focus as a key player in regional logistics and trade. Recent commitments between Kenya and its neighboring states are setting the stage for Lamu to shine as a transshipment hub. In the vibrant landscape of African trade routes, President William Ruto announced a pivotal development: an agreement with Ethiopia to route significant portions of imported merchandise through Lamu, our…

In a world where diplomatic gestures often speak louder than words, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), on a sunny Friday, extended a warm welcome to the encouraging diplomatic re-engagement between two pivotal African nations: Ethiopia and Somalia. This fresh air of diplomacy follows a notable visit by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu on Thursday—a move laden with both expectation and promise. Inside the venerable halls of Somalia’s presidential palace, a meeting of paramount…

Unraveling the Thread: The Economic Impact of Clothing Prices The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is an economic concept many of us hear about, but few truly grasp. It consists of various elements, with food, clothing, and housing being the most significant. However, there are other interesting items on this list—recreation, health, and education, to name a few. My friend once said, "It’s like trying to balance plates on a stick—you’ve got to keep an eye on each one." Have you ever noticed…

In the vast, ever-evolving landscape of African economies, a quiet resilience often dominates the narrative. While major players like South Africa and Nigeria have been grappling with economic challenges and currency depreciation, Ghana, with its fortitude, presents a compelling case study in banking resilience. As the world turns its gaze towards West Africa, Ghanaian banks stand firm, holding strong Tier 1 capital positions that inspire confidence and stability. Performance of…

In the heart of Mogadishu, a momentous occasion unfolded on a significant Thursday as Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, touched down in Somalia's capital. His agenda was clear: to bridge the chasm that had formed between Ethiopia and Somalia. The reception, marked by reverence, was just the prelude to the dialogues expected to reshape their bilateral relations. History has a peculiar way of weaving its narrative, and in this tale, the frostiness of relations dates back to January 2024. It was a time when…

Hurghada, nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Red Sea in Egypt, is more than just a tourist hotspot. Once a quaint fishing village, this vibrant coastal city has blossomed into a premier destination for travelers worldwide. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, the sun coaxing you out for a morning dive. Here, in its crystalline waters, you'll find an underwater spectacle of coral reefs and marine life dancing just beneath the surface.…

Food inflation looms as a profound challenge for numerous African nations, exacerbating existing economic hardships and amplifying food insecurity for millions of citizens. Life in various parts of Africa is already mired in complexity, as many countries grapple with systemic issues. With the spike in food prices, the situation is akin to salt on an open wound—undermining not only household well-being but threatening the broader economic landscape. Consider a family struggling to make ends meet, now facing the relentless…

In a world where international dynamics shift like sands in the desert, the pursuit of stronger partnerships is a journey not for the faint-hearted. On a bustling Tuesday in the historic capital of Tripoli, this pursuit took a significant step forward. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud embarked on an official visit to Libya, an encounter filled with promising intentions and a refreshingly candid dialogue. Mohamed al-Menfi, the pragmatic chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council, echoed a sentiment that seemed…

Africa, while home to a vast spectrum of cultures and landscapes, encounters a unique geographical challenge—being landlocked. Surprisingly, one-third of the continent's countries do not have direct access to the sea. Yet, the presence of seaports on the African coastline is a beacon of economic hope and utility, facilitating access to international markets for even the most inland businesses. These maritime gateways are not just crucial for those positioned at the water’s edge, but they extend their opportunity-laden arms…