North Africa

A Milestone in Somali Football: Omar Artan's Historic Achievement In a remarkable chapter of sports history, Omar Artan has emerged as a beacon of hope and perseverance for his home country, Somalia. Recently, he made headlines by becoming the first Somali football referee to officiate a continental final, an accomplishment that has stirred immense pride and admiration among his fellow citizens. Artan's journey reached a significant milestone during the second leg of the African Champions League final, held in the vibrant…

Understanding the Latest US Travel Ban In a striking move that has once again ignited debates surrounding national security and immigration policy, President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation effectively banning citizens from twelve countries from entering the United States. This initiative, as reported by Reuters, emerges as a protective measure against what the administration describes as “foreign terrorists” and various security threats. This travel ban is a continuation of Trump’s immigration crackdown launched…

In a significant turn of events, Chad’s President Mahamat Déby has taken a bold step by suspending all visas for U.S. citizens. This decision, framed as a matter of "reciprocity," follows the revelation that the United States has blacklisted Chad and eleven other nations, barring their citizens from entry. The context is critical: in a sweeping travel ban recently enacted by former President Donald Trump, seven out of the twelve affected countries hail from Africa. This sweeping measure was justified by claims of…

In recent years, Africa has encountered a series of economic challenges that have hindered the continent's growth trajectory. This declining trend presents a multitude of obstacles and drawbacks, significantly impacting nations striving for development. Without careful navigation, these issues may undermine future progress, setting back years of hard work. Yet, amidst these hurdles, there is a glimmer of hope. Several African nations are stepping up to serve as beacons of stability and economic strength within their…

Community Concerns Over New Travel Ban: A Somali Perspective Twin Cities, MN (AX) – The Somali community in Minnesota is grappling with a wave of emotions following the announcement of a renewed travel ban by former U.S. President Donald Trump. This latest directive targets citizens from 12 countries, including Somalia, and is set to restrict their entry into the United States starting next month. The list of affected nations is unsettlingly familiar to many: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea,…

In a significant diplomatic development this Thursday, Ghana echoed sentiments akin to those of the United Kingdom regarding the Western Sahara conflict. The West African nation asserted that the Moroccan autonomy plan serves as the exclusive framework for navigating this long-standing territorial dispute within the United Nations' purview. During a meeting between Ghana's Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, in Rabat, a joint statement articulated Ghana's…

Chad's Response to U.S. Visa Restrictions: A Matter of Dignity and National Pride In a notable reaction to international diplomacy, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno publicly condemned the travel ban imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. He characterized it as unjust and discriminatory, emphasizing that Chad felt it necessary to respond with reciprocal visa restrictions on American citizens. This action serves as more than a mere political maneuver; it is deeply interwoven with national pride. In a…

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has recently been awarded the prestigious "Infrastructure Deal of the Year" title for 2025 by The African Banker Awards. This accolade honors the Bank's pivotal role in financing the landmark 1.1 GW Suez Wind Power Project in Egypt, the largest wind energy initiative on the African continent to date. The announcement came during the African Development Bank Group’s Annual Meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, poignantly underscoring the institution's leadership and its…

Kenya’s Compassionate Response: Supporting Gazans This Eid-ul-Adha On April 16, 2025, a poignant scene unfolded at the Islamic University in Gaza City, where thousands of displaced Palestinians sought refuge in sprawling tents. The stark reality of their situation—an enduring testament to human suffering amidst conflict—embodies a deep humanitarian crisis. (Photo by BASHAR TALEB / AFP) In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, Kenya’s Muslim community has pledged an impressive Ksh. 5.4 million to aid the hungry in Gaza…

A Bold Proclamation: Understanding the Latest U.S. Travel Ban Under President Trump On June 4, 2025, amidst the picturesque backdrop of the White House's South Lawn, President Donald Trump made a striking announcement. He signed a proclamation—one that has stirred both debate and reflection—banning citizens from 12 countries from entering the United States. This decision, grounded in the belief that it would protect national security from potential threats, unveils a complex narrative intertwined with immigration, safety,…