West Africa

Qatar Charity’s Impact: A Beacon of Hope in Somalia In the heart of the Banadir region of Somalia lies the Garsabali District, where countless families are grappling with the weight of displacement. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Qatari people, Qatar Charity (QC) has stepped in to make a significant difference. Recently, they distributed food aid to hundreds of displaced families residing in camps—an act of kindness that seeks to alleviate the suffering of individuals and provide for their basic needs.…

The Unfolding Crisis in Nigeria's Oil Market: A Deep Dive into Dangote's Concerns In a candid discussion that has sent ripples through Nigeria's oil sector, Aliko Dangote, a titan in the industry, has pointedly criticized the nation’s port infrastructure and the financial burdens faced by local oil marketers. He revealed a startling reality: it is now more cost-efficient for marketers to obtain refined petroleum products from offshore depots in neighboring countries, such as Togo, than to source them from the Lekki-based…

Perspectives on the MV Sea World Dispute: A Call for Unity and Understanding Today, the complexities of international relations and local governance are vividly illustrated in Somalia, where tensions have escalated over the MV Sea World vessel. Sharmarke recently shared on X, “In a meeting with the Turkish ambassador today, I was informed that the MV Sea World vessel was carrying military equipment for TURKISOM.” He went on to reveal that the ambassador reached out to Northeastern State authorities but received no…

Reinforcing Support for Somalia’s Future: International Commitment at Work In a world where humanitarian crises often dominate headlines, it’s easy to overlook the profound potential of nations emerging from the shadows of turmoil. Somalia, a country with a rich tapestry of history and culture, now stands at a crossroads, one characterized by the urgent need for humanitarian aid, economic growth, and a robust response to violent extremism. With a staggering youth population, the opportunity to ignite change has never been…

In Nigeria's bustling informal economy, the mobile phone transcends its role as a mere device. For many women working in vibrant markets, navigating crowded streets on bolt bikes, or selling homemade meals, this pocket-sized gadget serves as a marketplace, a point of sale, and even a secure savings option. It often determines their profits and losses, making it a vital tool in their daily economic lives. A four-part documentary series, crafted with the support of the Centre for Communication and Social Impact,…

In a dramatic turn of events, Somalia’s ambassador to Kenya, Jibril Abdulle, demonstrated remarkable diplomatic agility by stepping in to facilitate the release of a prominent Somali political figure, Dalha. Engaging directly with Kenyan officials, Ambassador Abdulle navigated a tense dialogue that, thankfully, culminated in Dalha's release—albeit without any formal charges being laid against him. This incident not only highlights the intricacies of international relations between Somalia and Kenya but also raises questions…

The Vital Role of a Strong Currency in Africa’s Economic Landscape While it might seem counterintuitive, a strong currency can present challenges for exporters, yet its broader advantages for developing nations, particularly in Africa, are increasingly evident. In a region often plagued by inflation, mounting debt, and exchange rate volatility, the strength of a country’s currency can be a beacon of hope. Have you ever wondered how much a stable currency can truly transform an economy? Perhaps the most…

Strengthening Security in Southern Mudug: A Strategic Offensive Against Al-Shabaab In recent developments that underscore the ongoing battle against insurgency in Somalia, security forces have intensified operations in southern Mudug, a region long plagued by the activities of the militant group Al-Shabaab. Utilizing the land’s rugged terrain as both a hideout and a launchpad for attacks, Al-Shabaab has positioned itself as a formidable challenge to local and national authorities. Yet, amidst these challenges, significant…

In a recent letter, Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace and security across Africa, emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations with Burkina Faso. The aim is to enhance collaboration in key strategic sectors, creating a pathway for mutual growth and stability. During his visit, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s enthusiasm for deepening economic ties between the two nations. "Our shared future depends not on isolation but on collaboration," he noted, highlighting…

Doha (AX) — In a significant diplomatic move, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, sat down on Wednesday with Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Mohamed Omar. This meeting unfolded against the vibrant backdrop of Qatar—a nation known not just for its stunning skyline but also its increasing role on the international stage. The two ministers engaged in a fruitful discussion, thoughtfully dissecting the nuances of their…