West Africa

In the throbbing heart of Africa's economic evolution lies the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a monumental venture aiming to redefine the continent’s trade dynamics. Yet, as with any ambitious initiative, the path forward is strewn with both opportunities and obstacles. Among these challenges, the security of ports emerges as a critical focal point, given that a staggering 80% of Africa's trade transits by sea. How can nations truly thrive if the vessels carrying their dreams are vulnerable to theft and…

On a somber Wednesday, a Ugandan military helicopter, integral to the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, tragically crashed at Mogadishu airport. According to a spokesperson for the Ugandan military, the somber outcome of this incident resulted in the loss of five lives. The helicopter was carrying eight occupants when disaster struck. While three passengers survived the crash, they are grappling with severe injuries and burns, as reported by Felix Kulayigye, the military spokesperson. This incident serves as a…

Dhusamareb (AX) – In a significant leap towards democratic engagement, Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qoor Qoor on Thursday proudly inaugurated the “One Person, One Vote” voter registration campaign in Dhusamareb, the administrative heart of the region. This initiative is more than just a political maneuver; it embodies the aspirations of a population eager to embrace participatory governance. As the first individual to formally register, President Qoor Qoor set a powerful precedent. His action was not merely…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant move toward fostering unity and collaboration among Somali leadership, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened a meeting with the Somali Salvation Forum, a pivotal coalition representing opposition interests. This gathering occurred at the Presidential Palace, known locally as Villa Somalia, and marks the second high-level dialogue in less than a month — a testament to the urgency and necessity for communication in this crucial time. The discussions revolved around four vital national…

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) finds itself at a critical juncture, issuing a 21-day ultimatum aimed squarely at the federal government. The stakes are high, as the association threatens nationwide industrial action unless urgent attention is paid to pressing issues surrounding salaries, allowances, and overall welfare. When medical professionals raise their voices in unison, it is not just a flurry of words; it's a call for action that demands to be heard. Bala Audu, President of the NMA, recently expressed…

Thriving Startups: The Rise of African Innovation in 2025 In an exhilarating display of resilience and ambition, startups across Africa raised a remarkable $365 million in June 2025. This impressive figure not only marks the continent’s strongest funding month in nearly a year but also highlights a powerful narrative encapsulating the first half of 2025. New insights from Africa: The Big Deal reveal that African startups collectively secured a total of $1.35 billion in funding during H1 2025. This figure represents an…

In the face of rising crime rates, many African countries find themselves navigating turbulent waters. The ramifications of escalating criminal activity extend well beyond individual incidents, influencing economic viability, deterring investment, and ultimately eroding public confidence in governmental institutions. This intricate web of challenges calls for a deeper examination of the socio-economic landscape affected by crime. Consider, for instance, a country where the crime index is perceived as alarmingly…

Mogadishu Extends Heartfelt Condolences to Uganda After Helicopter Crash Mogadishu (AX) — In a poignant display of solidarity, the Somali government has issued sincere condolences to the people and leadership of Uganda following a tragic incident that unfolded in Mogadishu on Wednesday. A Ugandan military helicopter, part of the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), crashed while attempting to land at Aden Adde International Airport, resulting in the loss of five dedicated personnel. This…

In today’s increasingly connected world, expanding a business across borders is enticing but fraught with challenges. Founders and investors alike can easily get swept up in the buzz of international expansion, often overlooking a critical truth: what works 'anywhere' does not necessarily translate to 'everywhere.' It requires a blend of global vision paired with meticulous localized execution. As someone who has been on the front lines, navigating the intricate waters of West Africa's markets as Country Director and…

In recent years, the continent of Africa has faced significant challenges in economic growth, primarily due to losses that severely hinder foreign direct investment (FDI) and development assistance. This loss is more than a statistic; it resonates in the lives of millions who are deprived of essential resources necessary for infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The underlying culprits—illicit financial flows—are often driven by practices such as capital flight, tax evasion, and crimes ranging from money laundering to…