North Africa

Nigeria is embarking on an unprecedented journey in its quest to attract foreign investment while boosting local manufacturing. The renowned automaker, AvtoVAZ, is propelling plans to set up an assembly plant in the nation. Curious about this bold move? Let’s delve into the details. According to Techcabal, AvtoVAZ, commonly associated with its Lada range of accessible passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles, is charting a path into Nigeria. This venture aligns…

On a seemingly routine Wednesday, Mohamed Menfi, the Head of the Presidential Council, reached out to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud with an all-too-familiar sentiment of empathy and solidarity. The recent attack on the president, which sadly resulted in multiple casualties and left others injured, demanded a moment of introspection and unity. It is moments like these that remind us of the fragility of human existence and the unyielding spirit that binds nations together. During this heartfelt exchange, Menfi…

Analysis of Recent Trends in Oil Market Dynamics "Energy is the golden thread that connects economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability." - Ban Ki-moon. This quote perhaps most aptly captures the essence of OPEC's influence in the global energy sector. In the ever-shifting landscapes of oil markets, understanding these trends is crucial. In February, the OPEC Reference Basket (ORB) experienced a decrease of $2.57, equating to a 3.2% drop month over month, settling at an…

A Sombre Tale from Hurghada Imagine a serene morning in Hurghada, a beacon for tourists nestled by Egypt's spectacular Red Sea shores. Here, an adventure on the inviting waters turned tragically wrong. The loss was profound, as at least six lives were claimed when the "Sindbad" viewing submarine, crafted to offer tourists an underwater spectacle, succumbed to the ocean's might. Hurghada, situated roughly 250 miles southeast of Cairo, stands as a jewel along the Red Sea, drawing visitors…

On January 20, 2025, just moments after stepping into office for his second term, Donald Trump made a consequential move that reverberated across continents. By halting USAID funding, a major lifeline for numerous African countries, Trump set off a storm of questions about the future of U.S. support for the region. Imagine for a moment the far-reaching impact of abruptly cutting off such a crucial funding source. Programs that focus on healthcare, agriculture, and education have long depended on this aid to…

Although Russia may not match the economic footprint of Western nations or China in Africa, its influence lies in specific sectors that echo the priorities of global superpowers: armaments, mining, and energy—extending into nuclear energy. Have you ever wondered why Russia, despite its relatively modest economic stakes in Africa, holds such sway politically? Analysts have unraveled a layer of this intricate relationship, unveiling a remarkable political influence Russia commands on the African continent, a power that belies…

The current political unrest in South Sudan illuminates the fragile nature of peace and power dynamics within the nation. As South Sudan grapples with tenuous stability, recent developments threaten to unravel the delicate fabric of peace woven since the end of the brutal civil war. This unrest underscores a critical turning point in South Sudan’s political landscape, where every decision could either fortify or shatter the fragile peace. Recently, the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar and several key figures has ignited…

Can you imagine holding a Nigerian passport as a foreigner simply because you made a significant economic contribution? This is not a far-fetched dream but soon could be a reality thanks to Nigeria’s bold new initiative: the citizenship by investment program. But what does this move really mean for the country and investors alike? It's fascinating to observe that countries across the globe are tapping into the potential of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, using it as a magnet to…

In the heart of Mogadishu, whispers of hope intertwine with the calls of street vendors and laughter of children, creating a melody of resilience that is unmistakably Somali. This sense of tenacity, however, met an untimely stumble on the soccer field, as Somalia's cherished ambition to record a historic victory in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers faced a fresh challenge. On a somber Tuesday afternoon, under the African sky, the Ocean Stars bowed to Botswana in a 2-0 defeat—a match marked by stark defensive errors, according to…

The humanitarian challenges we face today are profoundly complex and daunting, steered by four prominent global forces: escalating conflicts, increased assaults on civilians, the worsening impacts of climate change, and the widening chasm of economic inequality. Have you ever wondered how such factors collectively intensify the need for humanitarian intervention, compelling the world to act with urgency? These elements coalesce, forming a brewing storm of humanitarian needs…