North Africa

Algeria and the Islamic Development Bank: A Dynamic Partnership Since its admission in 1974 as a founding member, Algeria has woven a complex and multifaceted tapestry of relationships with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). This partnership is significant not just for its historical context, but also for its future implications for both Algeria's growth and regional stability. As a major contributor and equally as a substantial beneficiary, Algeria stands at a pivotal crossroads where development…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a remarkable Monday, the vibrant city of Mogadishu welcomed its new guest, the newly appointed UK Ambassador to Somalia, Charles Nicholas King. As he stepped onto Somali soil, King officially began his mission, representing the United Kingdom in this fascinating yet complex region of the Horn of Africa. As he takes on this important role, one can’t help but ponder: What does this transition mean not only for the diplomatic landscape but for the everyday lives of Somali citizens? Having been appointed in…

In recent months, Ghana has found itself mired in a complex and contentious dispute with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) over a sizable debt of $768.4 million. This situation comes on the heels of a challenging debt restructuring process that the country has been navigating. The backdrop is certainly tense. The Ghanaian Finance Ministry is advocating for the treatment of the Afreximbank loan to mirror other debts it has successfully restructured. These include a mix of bilateral loans from China and…

The latest market report reveals a consistent decline in the prices of all ORB (Official Reference Basket) components, aligning with the downward trend in corresponding crude oil benchmarks. This convergence between basket component prices and crude oil benchmarks isn't just a coincidence; it's rooted in the broader market dynamics that dictate pricing in this volatile industry. Moreover, lowered official selling prices across the primary marketplaces have exacerbated the price drops, creating a ripple effect felt by…

Egypt Condemns Devastating Attack in Mogadishu Mogadishu (AX) – In a profound expression of empathy and solidarity, Egypt has condemned the tragic suicide bombing that occurred at the Damanyo military base in Mogadishu on Sunday. This heinous act took the lives of at least 20 individuals and left 15 others with grievous injuries. Such events raise difficult questions: How can communities come together in the face of such violence? What steps must be taken to foster resilience and healing? The Egyptian Foreign Ministry…

A Comprehensive Overview of Africa's Thriving Hotel Development Landscape in Early 2025 In a recent industry report, the hotel development pipeline across Africa has experienced a notable surge, with a remarkable 13.3% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth serves as a testament to the continent's potential as a burgeoning hub for global tourism and business. As we delve into the details, one can't help but wonder: what is driving this remarkable transformation? Let’s explore the top ten countries in…

In a rapidly evolving global landscape, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is stepping onto the stage with considerable resolve. Representing 19 member states and a population nearing 390 million, COMESA faces a formidable challenge: adapting to the U.S. tariff measures that have cast shadows over various African nations, both within and outside its bloc. The economic ramifications of these tariffs, implemented by former President Donald Trump, have begun to weigh heavily on the economies of eight…

The Ongoing Struggles in Somalia: A Nation Under Siege On May 18, 2025, the Somali Sudanese Hospital in Mogadishu found itself a critical hub for urgent medical care, as doctors and nurses treated youth injured in a brutal attack targeting the Somali army's Damaanyo camp. This tragic event reflects the tumultuous state of affairs in Somalia, where violence often overshadow the hopes of many for a brighter future. Just recently, the Foreign Ministry of Jordan issued a heartfelt condemnation of the “terrorist” attack that…

A New Chapter in Aviation Safety: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Team in Kenya The tragic wreckage of a plane that went down in Somalia on March 22, 2025, at 5 PM serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities within the aviation sector. As captured poignantly by Ilkha Media, this incident, which claimed the lives of five individuals aboard a Kenyan cargo aircraft, has sparked a wave of introspection within the aviation community. In response, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has taken a…

In the bustling heart of New York City, the world was captivated by the profound discussions unfolding at the Arab League summit held in Baghdad on May 17, 2025. Uniting in a quest for peace, prominent figures such as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres brought attention to pressing global issues, particularly the escalating situation in Gaza. During his address, Guterres firmly reiterated his unwavering stance against a collaborative Israeli-American initiative designed to bypass…