West Africa

African Rig Counts: Navigating Economic Stability and Growth For nations dependent on oil and gas, a bustling rig count isn't merely a number; it's a heartbeat, an indicator of economic vitality and optimism. In the dynamic landscape of global energy sectors, regions rich in resources—like those across Africa—often measure their economic pulse by the rhythm of rigs diligently tapping underground reservoirs. But what does a healthy rig count truly mean for these economies? Could it symbolize more than simply barrels and…

Somalia Embarks on Historic Voter Registration, Marking New Chapter in Democracy Mogadishu (AX) — On a warm Tuesday morning, history quietly unfolded in Mogadishu's bustling Shangani district, signaling a significant and long-awaited turning point for Somalia's democratic journey. For the first time in over half a century, hundreds of enthusiastic Somalis lined up patiently to take part in the country's inaugural voter registration campaign—a landmark step towards one-person, one-vote elections. The significance of this…

An Inspiring Encounter: Hanu Fejiro Reflects on Time Spent with Sir Richard Branson Have you ever met someone you admired deeply since childhood, someone whose life story not only shaped your thinking but also encouraged you to tread your own path with fearless ambition? Recently, Nigerian entrepreneur and innovator Hanu Fejiro experienced such a powerful encounter—spending quality time with legendary entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson, on Necker Island, Branson’s spectacular private escape nestled in the clear waters of…

Somalia Takes a Historic Step Toward Democracy With First Voter Registration in Over Five Decades Tuesday marked a significant milestone for Somalia, as it commenced voter registration in the capital city, Mogadishu, for the first time in over half a century. This pivotal moment is a meaningful stride toward universal suffrage, as the nation gears up for presidential elections slated for 2026. In a country often associated with turbulent headlines, does this symbolic step represent a genuine shift toward greater…

Somalia’s Strategic Realignments: Stability or New Cold War in the Horn? Leaders of the Red SEE Alliance: Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki. From the bustling markets of Mogadishu to diplomatic hallways in Cairo and Addis Ababa—Somalia’s evolving security alignments are more than just regional posturing. According to a compelling new study, these partnerships are inadvertently fueling instability, increasing proxy tensions,…

"We hadn't encountered anything like it before; the intensity was unlike any infectious disease we had ever faced," reflected former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at the recent launch of a compelling new book that chronicles Liberia's struggle against the Ebola virus. Titled Stepping Up to the Plate: Liberia's Untold Ebola Story, this publication emerges from a collaborative effort by the Liberia Institute for Growing Patriotism and the Angie Brooks International Centre for Women's Empowerment. The book aims to shed light…

Reimagining Emergency Medical Services in Africa: A Conversation with Emergency Response Africa CEO, Folake Owodunni The recent Prehospital Emergency Care Stakeholder Summit: Beyond the Ambulance held in Lagos was more than just another healthcare conference. It brought together passionate healthcare leaders, dedicated policymakers, innovative tech entrepreneurs, and committed community advocates—all united by a common goal: reshaping emergency medical services (EMS) in Africa. Sitting down for a reflective…

U.S. and Partners Crack Down on Al-Shabaab’s Financial Operations with New Sanctions In a fresh effort to curtail the ongoing threat from Al-Shabaab, the United States, in coordination with the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center (TFTC), recently imposed sanctions against key operatives integral to the group's financial and operational structures. While such moves are hardly new, this latest action emphasizes the growing urgency felt by international partners to disrupt Al-Shabaab's extensive financial networks. Have…

Assessing Military Strength in the Horn of Africa: Challenges and Possibilities When discussing military strength and strategic capability across the globe, Somalia offers a poignant example of complexity and vulnerability. In a region characterized by geopolitical dynamism, Somalia's heavy reliance on external support, particularly foreign-led training missions and cooperation from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), underscores inherent weaknesses. Analysts caution that this dependence reveals deep…

African Leaders Embrace Crisis as Opportunity at Marrakech Summit Amid escalating global trade tensions, African heads of state, policymakers and key stakeholders converged over the weekend in the enchanting city of Marrakech, Morocco, united in their resolve to transform prevailing challenges into pathways for growth and development. The occasion—the third annual AfriHeritage Awards and Concert—blended vibrant celebration with candid conversations on Africa's strategic response to shifting global dynamics. Could this…