North Africa

Morocco's transformative journey in the realm of rail transport is not merely remarkable; it’s a bold assertion of national ambition. Pioneering the continent's leadership in high-speed rail, Morocco already boasts the only operational high-speed rail (HSR) system in Africa: the Al Boraq line connecting Tangier and Kenitra. With this success as a springboard, the kingdom is now embracing an exciting new phase, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transportation and regional integration. A $9 Billion…

Turkey's Ambitious Initiative to Enhance Energy Independence In a move that promises to reshape the energy landscape of the region, Turkey is gearing up to initiate a robust series of oil and natural gas exploration projects in Libya, Iraq, Somalia, and Azerbaijan. This strategic initiative, heralded by Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, aims to significantly diminish Turkey's reliance on imported energy sources. Announced during a recent event in Istanbul, this plan reflects Turkey’s commitment to…

In a surprising development that raises questions about governance and international relationships, Northeastern State's President Said Abdullahi Deni has seemingly transferred control of Bosaso Airport to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) without securing the necessary parliamentary approval. This move, shrouded in secrecy, has ignited a heated debate regarding Northeastern State's autonomy and its delicate ties with the federal Somali government. On March 5, satellite imagery uncovered a significant development: an…

Somalia's Evolving Security Environment: A Commitment to African-Led Solutions In a recent statement that echoed resolute determination, President Mohamud of Somalia reflected on the nation’s unwavering commitment to “African-led solutions for African challenges.” This sentiment speaks volumes about Somalia's journey and the vital role played by soldiers from various contributing nations in stabilizing the region. Indeed, it is their collective sacrifices that have become the backbone of peacekeeping efforts in a country…

Strategic Implications in the Red Sea: A Call for Collaboration and Control In a recent gathering that underscored the importance of regional cooperation, Guelleh articulated a shared commitment among nations to protect the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—a pivotal juncture linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. “We support free maritime trade and greater coordination between regional states to protect this vital passage,” he stated, highlighting the essential role this strategic chokepoint plays in global trade. Discussions among…

African Aviation: A New Era of Connectivity Africa is embracing the skies like never before. Once characterized by a scarcity of direct routes and the burden of lengthy layovers, the aviation landscape across the continent is undergoing a captivating transformation. Have you ever imagined how the mere act of taking flight can reshape destinies? Well, this is precisely what is happening as the continent becomes more connected by air. With tourism on the rise and business connections…

Last week, President Salva Kiir sought to reassure his fellow citizens amid ongoing security concerns in the world’s newest nation, proclaiming that peace has been restored across South Sudan. His words may resonate well in the hearts of many, offering a glimmer of hope after years of turmoil. Yet, amidst the undulating rhythms of political change, life continues much as it has before, with Kiir evidently emerging as a stronger figure in South Sudanese politics. It's noteworthy to mention that various government officials…

Strengthening Ties: Sisi's Visit to Djibouti On a significant Wednesday, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi embarked on a diplomatic journey to Djibouti. This visit was not merely a routine check-in; it represented a concerted effort to cultivate deeper political ties and foster mutual cooperation between Egypt and Djibouti amid the evolving dynamics of the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. Upon his arrival, Sisi engaged in comprehensive discussions with his Djiboutian counterpart, Ismail Omar Guelleh. These…

Natural Gas: A Transitioning Energy Source for Africa Natural gas is rapidly solidifying its position as a crucial player in the global energy arena. As the world grapples with the urgency of sustainable energy, natural gas serves as an essential bridge—connecting traditional fossil fuels with cleaner renewable resources. But what does this mean for nations, particularly in Africa, where natural gas production might be lagging? In regions devoid of indigenous natural gas production, governments find themselves…

As of Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the price of the OPEC basket, which comprises twelve distinct crudes, reached $69.94 a barrel. This figure represents a slight increase from the previous day's price of $69.65, as calculated by the OPEC Secretariat. This subtle shift in pricing might seem trivial at first glance, but it serves as a telling reflection of the intricate dance between supply and demand in the global oil market. Is it possible that such fluctuations are merely the calm before a more turbulent storm? The oil…