West Africa

On a recent Monday, Togo's media regulator announced a significant decision: the suspension of two prominent French broadcasters, Radio France Internationale (RFI) and France 24, for a three-month duration. The authorities accused these outlets of disseminating "inaccurate" and "tendentious" content, claiming such information could potentially undermine national stability. This action raises numerous questions about the interplay between media freedom and governmental control, particularly in regions still grappling with…

In a significant development for the security landscape in Somalia, recent military actions have unfolded in the underbrush of El-Dhere—a location bordering the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. This area, which has long been associated with Al-Shabaab activity, has once again become a focal point for both the Somali National Army (SNA) and various allied local forces. It’s heartening to witness coordinated efforts in regions long plagued by insecurity. The orchestrated military operations over the past few…

FILE PHOTO Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant turn of events, the Yemeni Embassy in Somalia has confirmed the release of seven Yemeni fishermen who had been held by security forces in Bosaso, Northeastern State for nearly two months. Their detainment followed their entry into Northeastern State’s coastal waters without the necessary authorization from the regional Ministry of Fisheries. This incident sheds light on the complexities of maritime regulations in the region and the delicate balance between fishing rights and law…

Ghana’s Tertiary Education Commission Takes a Stand on Honorary Titles The Ghanaian landscape of academia and specialized titles is undergoing significant changes, as the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) makes a bold declaration: the misuse of honorary doctorate and professorial titles in public discourse is now officially prohibited. This initiative comes with a serious note; individuals who flout this directive may not only find themselves publicly named and shamed but could also face legal repercussions…

Garowe (AX) – Recent developments from Northeastern State have sent ripples of concern throughout the region, as authorities have confirmed that Abdikadir Mumin, the notorious leader of the Islamic State in Somalia, has managed to escape from the clutches of the Northeastern State forces. This escape occurs against the backdrop of significant military advances, with Northeastern State announcing the capture of 98% of the Calmiskaat mountain range—a known stronghold of ISIS in the Bari region. In a statement made on Monday,…

Ghana's Gold Smuggling Crisis: A Multi-Billion-Dollar Dilemma Ghana, often celebrated as Africa's leading gold exporter, finds itself at a crossroads. Each year, this vibrant nation loses billions of dollars due to rampant gold smuggling, particularly linked to its bustling artisanal mining sector. The unsettling details of this issue have recently been illuminated in a report from the nonprofit organization Swissaid, shining a light on a reality that many might prefer to ignore. Dive…

Building Bridges or Burning Them? The Upcoming National Consultation Forum in Somalia As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated national consultation forum in Somalia, President Mohamud has been busy laying the groundwork. In the lead-up to this critical meeting, he held a series of consultations, engaging with civil society representatives, political party leaders, and revered elders of the community. "We want this forum to be a platform for honest dialogue—not limited to politicians, but open to all segments of…

Evacuation of Ghanaian Nationals Underway In a rapidly evolving situation, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has publicly confirmed the urgent evacuation of Ghanaian nationals residing in Iran. The announcement was made via a recent social media update, showcasing a swift and decisive response from the Mahama-led administration as tensions in the region escalate. “The Mahama administration has, in the interest of safeguarding Ghanaian lives, decided to immediately evacuate Ghanaians…

Strengthening Ties: Nigeria's AH-1Z Viper Helicopter Acquisition Recently, a noteworthy development unfolded in the domain of international defense cooperation. This was catalyzed by a high-profile visit to the United States led by Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff. His delegation attended a comprehensive Programme Management Review Meeting from June 9 to 13, 2025, in the bustling city of San Diego, California. You could almost feel the excitement in the air. This meeting convened…

Resilience Against Al-Shabaab: A Step Forward in the Bakool Region Baidoa (AX) — In a significant military operation that spanned three days, Somali government troops have successfully dismantled several Al-Shabaab bases situated in the Bakool region. This endeavor, confirmed by security officials on a recent Monday, underscores the ongoing struggle to reclaim territory from militant groups. Leading this coordinated offensive was Capt. Elmi Adan Isaaq, a determined commander of the Somali…