West Africa

In a pivotal move, Somalia officially joined the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Monday during the General Conference held in Vienna. The Somali government heralded this membership as a remarkable achievement, underscoring the nation's commitment to fostering the peaceful application of nuclear technology. "This is a watershed moment for our nation, showcasing our unwavering dedication to peaceful nuclear interactions and sustainable progress," the Somali prime minister's office commented in a poignant…

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has greenlit a $6.6 million grant to assist Somalia’s Federal Government (FGS) in bolstering state capacity, aiming to construct a robust financial framework to foster inclusive and fair growth. The Somalia Financial Sector Development Project is set to hone the capabilities of financial entities, such as the Central Bank of Somalia, the Somalia Development and Reconstruction Bank, and the Financial Reporting Center (FRC). The project focuses on efficient credit delivery,…

Türkiye's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, addressed the media alongside Egypt's Foreign Minister during a joint press briefing in Cairo on August 5, 2024. AFP The third round of mediation talks under the Ankara Process between Somalia and Ethiopia, originally slated for September 2, and then moved to September 17, has now been postponed indefinitely, without a new date announced, as per Turkiye Today. Although no official explanation was provided for the delay, it follows remarks by Somalia's Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalim…

The deal allowing Ethiopia access to North Western State of Somalia's Red Sea coast has ignited a diplomatic skirmish. Somalia views this as a breach of its sovereignty since North Western State of Somalia, despite declaring independence in 1991, remains part of Somalia in Mogadishu's eyes. Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi suggested that Somalia might support Ethiopian rebel factions if Ethiopia continues with the agreement. "The option to engage with armed rebels in Ethiopia...is available to us," Fiqi stated on…

Severe Flooding in Nigeria's Northeast: Tragic Losses and Widespread Displacement

Explosion Shakes Mogadishu: Casualties Feared After Attack on Liido Beach On late Friday night, chaos erupted in Somalia’s bustling capital, Mogadishu, as a devastating explosion targeted a crowded locale. A massive blast reverberated through the city, particularly at the popular Liido beach, igniting fears of casualties. Immediately following the explosion, sounds of gunfire filled the air. Police spokesperson Ahmed Abdi communicated with Anadolu Agency (AA), reporting that law enforcement officials and various security…

The Shifting Sands of Migration: Navigating Dreams and Dilemmas in Niger At Agadez's vibrant bus terminal, a dozen men, faces veiled by turbans and shades, climbed aboard a rugged pickup truck destined for Libya. They traversed the arid desert, holding fast to their aspirations. Amidst their journey, several proclaimed, “Italy, Italy!” as they gripped wooden poles, steeling themselves against daunting challenges. “If I make enough in Libya, I’ll settle down there. If not, Europe is next on my list,” declared Abdoulaye…

OIC Summit: Unity, Culture, and Critical Resolutions in Banjul

Russian Troops Enter Niger Amid U.S. Withdrawal Russian forces have reportedly taken control of an airbase in Niger housing U.S. troops, following orders from Niger's junta for American forces to leave. This move comes amidst rising tensions between the two global powers. Niger's ruling military leaders have demanded nearly 1,000 U.S. military personnel exit the country. Until last year’s coup, Niger remained a vital ally in America's battle against insurgents, who have wreaked havoc and led to mass displacement in the…

Sixty years ago, on March 18, 1962, the Evian Agreement was signed between representatives of the French Government and those of the Provisional Government of Algeria (GPRA). The text defined the conditions for Algeria's independence and put an end to almost eight years of decolonization war. A conflict that had consequences in neighboring countries, especially in Mali, where then-President Modibo Keïta had supported the Algerian national liberation front. Our guest is the Malian journalist Tiegoum Boubeye Maïga.