West Africa

The waves of change in international relations often ebb and flow unpredictably. Just recently, Kenya and the United Kingdom took a significant leap forward in their partnership by introducing six additional flights each week between Nairobi and London. This initiative, championed by President William Ruto, aims to address ongoing challenges in both cargo transportation and passenger travel—challenges that have at times felt like insurmountable hurdles in the rapidly evolving landscape of global commerce. This agreement…

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has recently taken a significant step forward by disbursing $20 million to ten Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDCs). This initiative, part of a strategic foreign exchange (FX) forward auction, underscores the central bank’s continuous commitment to stabilizing the Ghanaian cedi and securing reliable fuel supplies in the country. As we reflect on these collective efforts, one has to wonder: how do such financial maneuvers influence our daily lives and the economy at large? Fixed Rate Auction: A…

Tragedy Strikes: African Union Helicopter Crash in Mogadishu On a seemingly ordinary Wednesday morning, July 2, 2025, a tragic event unfolded at Aden Adde International Airport in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu. An African Union military helicopter, under the auspices of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), faced a catastrophic accident while attempting to land, resulting in the loss of at least three lives. This incident not only underscores the perilous nature of military operations in…

**Arab Parliament Speaker Congratulates Somalia on National Day** Mogadishu (AX) — In a heartfelt gesture, Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yamahi, the Speaker of the Arab Parliament, has extended his warmest congratulations to the leadership, government, parliament, and citizens of the Federal Republic of Somalia. This acknowledgment comes in celebration of Somalia's 65th Independence Anniversary, a momentous occasion commemorated this past Tuesday. In his message, Speaker Al Yamahi aptly characterized this anniversary as a pivotal…

The recent helicopter crash at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia, has cast a somber light on aviation safety amidst ongoing conflicts and political challenges. It serves as a striking reminder of the unpredictable nature of both human endeavors and natural circumstances. Ahmed Maalim, the head of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, shared critical updates with the BBC. He confirmed that at least eight individuals were on board the ill-fated aircraft at the time of the crash. While the…

Celebrating 65 Years of Independence: A Testament to Resilience and Unity Mogadishu (AX) — This year's celebration resonates with a unique vibrancy as the Federal Republic of Somalia marks its 65th Independence Anniversary. Recently, James Swan, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, alongside Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, extended their warm congratulations to the Government and people of Somalia. It is a moment rich with historical…

In a poignant ceremony, Liberia recently conducted a reburial for its former President, William Tolbert, precisely 45 years after his tragic assassination during a coup in 1980. This event served not only as a remembrance but also as a vital chapter in the nation’s complex history, marked by trauma and resilience. To chronicle such a narrative, we must delve deeper. Just ten days following Tolbert's brutal murder, 13 of his Cabinet members were subjected to a summary execution that remains seared into the collective memory…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a moment steeped in historical significance, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud graced a high-profile ceremony on Tuesday night, held at the Office of the Prime Minister. This gathering was dedicated to honoring the 65th anniversary of Somalia’s Independence and National Unity Day. On such a poignant occasion, the past resonates with fresh meaning, igniting a sense of solidarity that encapsulates the essence of national pride. The evening, organized under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister…

The USAID Transition and Its Implications for Africa The recent announcement made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio signals a paradigm shift in U.S. foreign engagement, particularly concerning Africa. This significant transition, which will take effect on July 1, has left many wondering about its repercussions. For decades, USAID has played a crucial role in development, acting as a dependable partner in the region. Yet, this revamped approach prompts serious questions about the future of global development efforts. Rubio…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a fateful Tuesday, a military helicopter met with disaster at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, igniting flames and spawning smoke clouds that rushed into the sky. Eyewitness accounts from airport staff detail a scene filled with chaos and uncertainty as the incident unfolded. Preliminary investigations suggest that the helicopter belonged to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, now known as the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission (AUSSOM). This renaming not only…