West Africa

Insights from the Latest OPEC Report: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Oil Prices The latest report from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) unveiled some intriguing insights into the dynamics of global oil markets. In May, the OPEC Reference Basket (ORB) saw a notable decline, falling by $5.36—or 7.8%—to settle at $63.62 per barrel. The fluctuation in oil prices invariably affects economies and consumers alike, leaving one to ponder: what does this mean for the average individual and the…

Exploring New Frontiers: Sierra Leone's Offshore Seismic Survey Sierra Leone stands at a crucial juncture, embarking on its first offshore 3D seismic survey in almost a decade. The aim? To uncover the vast potential nestled beneath the waves of its offshore oil basin. This six-week survey is not just a technical endeavor; it signifies a pivotal step towards demystifying the oil-rich subsea landscape that many experts believe holds great promise. Conducted in collaboration with the esteemed energy consulting…

Between June 1st and June 20th, a comprehensive survey was conducted in key regions—Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale—that revealed insightful perspectives on consumer sentiments regarding prices. A striking 73% of respondents believe that the costs of imported goods, including electronics, automobile parts, building materials, and fuel, should experience significant reductions in the forthcoming months. This sentiment, although overwhelmingly positive, does bring with it a layer of complexity. Interestingly, nearly one…

Growing Tensions Between Northeastern State and Jubbaland: A Call for Collaboration Garowe (AX) – On a significant Thursday, the leaders of Northeastern State and Jubbaland stepped into the political arena, taking firm stances against what they perceive as the federal government’s alarming trend toward centralizing power. In a joint statement released from Garowe, Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni and Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) voiced their concerns, urging for direct, constructive…

African Trade: A Resilience Story After a challenging year in 2023, the winds are changing for trade among African nations. As we step into 2024, intra-African trade has surged impressively by 12.4%, reaching an eye-catching figure of $220.3 billion. This rebound encapsulates not just numbers; it conveys a spirit of resilience that echoes the diverse experiences across the continent. However, how did we emerge from the shadows of a 5.9% drop the previous year?…

Elderly IDP women sit outside their makeshift shelters/File Photo In the heart of North Western State of Somalia’s Ainabo district, several hundred displaced pastoralists have found themselves adrift, grappling with the aftermath of devastating rain and storm winds that struck their camp. The destruction left many homeless and struggling to secure basic necessities, primarily food. Among those affected is Fadumo Mohamed Hassan, a mother of five, who is one of the 200 families forced to sleep under the open sky since their…

A recent report from the World Bank titled Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report 2025 reveals some troubling realities regarding electricity access, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. It's disheartening but not surprising to learn that a large proportion of the world's electricity deficits are concentrated in this region. As investment in energy infrastructure continues to lag, the urgent need for improvements is clearer than ever. Despite various initiatives aimed at boosting electrification across the…

Intensifying the Fight Against Al-Shabab: A New Chapter for Somalia In the current climate of unrest, the Somali government has taken decisive steps to confront the entrenched threats posed by the al-Qaida-linked group, al-Shabab. Recently, they reported a significant operation that eliminated 18 militants, effectively neutralizing two combat vehicles intended for their escape. This was not merely an operation; it symbolized renewed hope, determination, and a strategic step forward in a long-standing conflict. Describing…

The recently unveiled 2024 Africa Trade Report has provided compelling insights into the evolving trade landscape during the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings held in Abuja, Nigeria. It's fascinating to see such a deep dive into data that not only tracks economic progress but also reflects a broader narrative about Africa's potential. This year, the report indicates a slight uptick in trade figures compared to 2023, which is a step in the right direction for the continent. It encompasses both exports and imports…

On May 19, families of detained Moroccans took a courageous step by submitting a formal complaint to Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They called for immediate intervention, arguing that their sons’ continued detention signals a grave violation of legal due process. These families recounted heart-wrenching tales of deception. Their sons, they assert, were lured to Somalia under the promise of legitimate employment but found themselves ensnared in a web of accusations related to terrorism. This recent appeal unfolded…