West Africa

The Evolution of Nigeria's Blockchain Ecosystem A remarkable report from the venture capital firm Hashed Emergent has shed light on Nigeria’s blockchain landscape, revealing the impressive strides made by over 80 emerging startups. Together, these pioneers have successfully secured funding exceeding $130 million, with $20 million raised in the early months of 2024 alone. It’s a staggering figure that showcases the burgeoning potential of technology in one of Africa's largest economies.…

The Political Landscape in Jubbaland: A Tale of Tension and Determination The situation in Jubbaland is unfolding like a gripping political drama, filled with twists, turns, and a palpable sense of urgency. At the heart of this narrative lies the contentious election of the regional president, Madobe, whose legitimacy is now a matter of fierce debate. Amidst this, questions arise: How do we navigate the murky waters of political discord? And at what point do principles of governance yield to the harsh realities of power…

Across the vast expanse of Africa, the energy landscape presents a complex tapestry woven from the rich geological diversity found on the continent. In this intricate picture, coal has historically played a pivotal role, particularly within southern regions. As a fundamental resource, coal has powered industries and fueled electricity generation, serving as a cornerstone for numerous national economies. It's hard to envision the bustling cities, both small and large, and the energetic industries thriving, without the…

Across northern Nimba County, a profound shift is taking place as Liberians engage in a by-election to select a new senator for this vital region, which boasts the second-highest population in the country. The passing of the infamous Prince Johnson—known for his tumultuous past as a warlord and his influential role as a kingmaker in Liberia's political sphere—has left a significant void. His sudden demise has not only opened a seat but also ignited the aspirations of politicians eager to step into the spotlight. As the sun…

Mogadishu (AX) – Excitement is building as the Somali Federal Government announces that Northeastern State's President, Said Abdullahi Deni, will be partaking in the forthcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting set to convene in Mogadishu next month. This news marks a potential turning point in an ongoing effort to mend frayed ties and foster a robust dialogue aimed at uniting the nation's leadership. A senior official from the federal government confirmed the invitation extended to President Deni, indicating…

Understanding the Economic Ripple Effect of Diesel Prices in Africa The influence of diesel prices extends far beyond the surface; it reaches into the very fabric of our economies, shaping the dynamics of transportation and energy supply. From the trucks that deliver our groceries to the diesel generators powering small businesses and farms, diesel plays an essential role in daily operations across the continent. So, when diesel prices experience even a slight decrease, we may be surprised by…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a tragic incident that underscores the persistent volatility in the Somali capital, a landmine explosion claimed the life of one civilian and inflicted injuries on three others. This unfortunate event unfolded on a typical Tuesday, near a small restaurant along the bustling main road in the Dayniile district—a location that serves as a popular meeting point for locals, particularly during the vibrant afternoon and evening hours. Eyewitness accounts paint a somber picture of the scene. The restaurant,…

In Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, heads of state from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have convened for a pivotal meeting. This gathering comes in response to a significant development: three member nations have announced their intent to withdraw from the bloc in January. As the discussions unfold, the leaders aim to explore the complexities surrounding the countries' exit and its broader ramifications for ECOWAS agencies. ECOWAS, a cornerstone of regional cooperation, has consistently upheld…

In today's complex world, we are witnessing an alarming increase in refugee flows, particularly from regions marred by intense conflicts. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlights that these migratory waves often last significantly longer than those caused by natural disasters. This raises a critical question: how can we as a global community better respond to these ongoing crises? A striking observation from the IMF report sheds light on the relationship between natural disasters and migration patterns.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant stride towards bolstering international relationships, Azerbaijan's parliament ratified a defense cooperation agreement with Somalia on Monday. This landmark decision crystallizes a budding partnership aimed at fortifying military ties while enhancing collaborative ventures across various sectors. Why such a focus on defense at this juncture? Perhaps it's a reflection of the shifting dynamics in global security and cooperation. The agreement, officially termed the “Agreement between the…