West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – In the snowy embrace of Davos, Switzerland, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud found himself in the spotlight, basking in the glow of recognition. Tuesday evening witnessed a special moment, as Africa House rolled out the metaphorical red carpet to honor him with the illustrious African Presidential Leadership Award. This accolade isn't just a shiny trophy for his mantle. It stands as a testament to President Mohamud's relentless dedication to steering Somalia through the tricky terrain of…

In a bold and transformative step, the Kenyan government has declared the elimination of Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) and visa requisites for travelers from across the African continent. Well, almost everyone—from the sands of Senegal to the shores of South Africa—can rejoice, except for those residing in Somalia and Libya, a decision influenced by persistent security concerns that linger like an unwelcome guest. This ambitious initiative aims to bolster regional integration and fuel tourism, promoting the idea that…

In a vibrant twist to the ever-evolving travel narrative, Kenya has revealed a groundbreaking shift in its visa policy, electing to ax eTA and visa obligations for its African brethren. Well, almost all—Somalia and Libya find themselves on the outskirts of this diplomatic accord, left in the visa-requiring zone due to discernible security qualms. Opening Borders, Opening Hearts Kenya's latest gambit isn't just a tale of policy shifts. It's a heartfelt invitation, a clarion call for vibrant unity across a continent brimming…

The Trump Tapestry: Unraveling Biden’s Threads with a Flourish Donald Trump, once again occupying the Oval Office as the 47th leader of the free world, began his latest tenure with a swift and assertive teardown of Joe Biden's presidential patchwork. On a crisp Monday, he flexed his executive muscles by pardoning the majority of his supporters embroiled in the infamous January 6th Capitol riot, leaving the rest of the nation astounded and wondering—what comes next? The day wasn’t just about brushing off the past…

Police headquarters in the lively Italian city of Crotone | Photo: ARCHIVE/ANSA/GIUSEPPE PIPITA Deep in the heart of southern Italy, the police in Crotone scored a significant victory, clamping down on a sinister underworld network. They nabbed the alleged kingpin of a notorious human trafficking syndicate, the footprint of which has left French authorities reeling. The story reads almost like a crime thriller. A 42-year-old Nigerian, cloaked in mystery and infamy, was brought in by the Italian police. Known by the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a stern message that's as clear as a bell, Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has sounded the clarion call, warning businesses, brokers, and drivers not to dance to the tune of extortion payments to Al-Shabaab. Think they're bluffing? Think again. NISA is ready to crack the whip of legal repercussions on those bankrolling this notorious militant outfit. The agency, with a vigilance sharp enough to cut diamonds, made this…

Mogadishu (AX) — Picture this: A sprawling, vibrant city buzzing with the latest political drama. Set the scene: the Union for Peace and Development (UPD) party, led by the charismatic and sometimes controversial Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is stepping boldly into the ring to back a fresh and promising registration process for new political organizations. Their endorsement comes quicker than a cat on a caffeine boost, sparking a heated debate and ruffling feathers, particularly in the rocky terrains of…

In an unexpected twist better fitted to the pages of a suspense novel, a suspect along with a vehicle harboring no less than 50 bags of illicit sugar was apprehended in the once quiet town of Garissa. The escapade unfolded like a classic cat-and-mouse chase, with the suspect initially outsmarting local authorities but eventually running out of luck. Rumors danced through the air long before law enforcement made their move. Whispers of contraband crept across the city—like shadows in the wind, elusive yet palpable. The…

Mogadishu (AX) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somalia has once again taken center stage, highlighting its resolve for international diplomacy. At the helm of this diplomatic journey is Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed, who praised the newfound ceasefire orchestrated by an unlikely coalition—Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. During an impassioned speech given at UN Headquarters, there's more than just routine platitudes; there's a nation standing firm on its principles. At the Security Council’s 9841st…

The return of Donald Trump to the Oval Office has cast a long shadow of uncertainty over Africa. As the 47th President of the United States, Trump’s policies could either build bridges or deepen divides, and the continent is bracing for what lies ahead. On one hand, there’s a flicker of hope illuminating the darker corners of apprehension. Trump's meteoric rise back to power signals a potential shake-up of the status quo, not just domestically but internationally as well. As he gears up for the 2024 election, he touts a…