West Africa

Baidoa (AX) — In a significant meeting held on Wednesday, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, engaged in discussions with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed, commonly known as ‘Laftagareen,’ and his cabinet. The focus was on critical issues that resonate deeply within the Somali context: national political dialogue, security operations, electoral planning, and the pressing need for humanitarian assistance. Following the meeting, Swan addressed the media, emphasizing…

Significant Developments in Hiiraan Region: A Community's Stand Against Al-Shabaab Mogadishu (AX) — In a remarkable display of resilience and unity, local militia forces in Somalia's Hiiraan region engaged in fierce fighting on Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least ten militants affiliated with Al-Shabaab. This confrontation unfolded in the Hararta area, strategically located between El-Harari and Aden Yabaal, thereby emphasizing the ongoing struggle against extremism in this volatile landscape. The…

On a vibrant Friday, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) made headlines by officially granting a license to Elon Musk’s Starlink, positioning itself among the growing list of African nations embracing satellite internet. This decision marks a significant step forward for a country where only about 30% of the population currently has access to the internet, according to the International Telecommunication Union. As a nation that has faced its share of tumult, with an ongoing struggle against conflict and instability,…

Nairobi (AX) — A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday when five Kenyan police officers lost their lives in a brutal ambush attributed to suspected Al-Shabaab militants. This harrowing attack took place in Boni Forest, a region nestled close to the Somali border in Lamu County, and reflects an ongoing struggle in an area fraught with danger. The officers, part of the elite Special Operations Group, were engaged in a mission that had deep implications for regional security. This was their second day chasing after…

Understanding Nigeria's New Visa Overstay Regulations Beginning on September 1, 2025, a significant shift in Nigeria's approach to visa overstays will take place. Foreign nationals who exceed their visa allowances will incur a daily fine of $15 for each day they remain in the country beyond their authorized stay. This new regulation is not merely a policy adjustment but an integral part of Nigeria's broader immigration reform strategy. The impetus behind these reforms is to enhance…

Poverty is not merely a statistic; it profoundly impacts the lives of millions across the African continent. It is a persistent challenge that demands our attention and action. As we explore this complex issue, it's crucial to recognize the context in which such hardship arises. Africa, rich in resources and blessed with a youthful population, is paradoxically home to some of the world’s highest poverty levels. Why, you might wonder, does such potential coexist with such distress? Countries across the continent…

Ghana's oil production in 2024 has seen a heartening yet frustratingly narrow miss as the nation recorded a shortfall of just 0.01%, equating to merely 7,000 barrels, compared to its output in 2023. By the end of 2024, the total crude oil output reached an impressive 48,240,010 barrels, but just shy of the 48,247,037 barrels produced in the previous year. This slight decline raises a myriad of questions: What factors are contributing to this near miss? Is it a reflection of broader global trends or domestic challenges?…

In a poignant address that resonates deeply with the realities facing many Nigerians, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), recently sounded the alarm over Nigeria’s worsening economic landscape. His words serve not just as a critique but as a wake-up call: the average Nigerian is now grappling with an economic state that is, alarmingly, worse than it was at independence in 1960. Dr. Adesina's remarks were made during a keynote address at the 20th anniversary dinner of the…

Mogadishu (AX) — Since mid-April, heavy rains and flash floods have swept through parts of Somalia, impacting over 45,000 individuals and tragically claiming at least four lives. This unsettling news comes from a recent situation report released by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). As we delve into the details of this situation, it’s essential to reflect on the resilience of Somalia's communities, even in the face of such overwhelming adversity. The report, issued on April 30,…

Attending the AfricArena Lagos Summit was nothing short of exhilarating. Imagine the vibrant atmosphere as Lady Kay, the Head of Communication and Social Impact at Salad Africa, masterfully guided us through the event, weaving a rich tapestry of Africa’s tech narrative with her storytelling prowess. Each word seemed to resonate, pulling us deeper into our continent’s entrepreneurial journey. Coupled with her presence, Deepankar Rustagi, the founder and CEO of OmniRetail Technology, delivered a keynote address that was as…