West Africa

In the world of finance, it seems that Africa is on the cusp of a transformative era. The continent's banking brands are not just holding their ground; they are surging forward with unprecedented momentum. With an average Brand Strength score of 80.21, African banks are not only strong contenders in the global market but are also leading the pack. Have you wondered what fuels this phenomenal success? Picture this: A world-renowned financial entity releases its latest Brand Finance Global 500…

Mogadishu (AX) – In recent developments that underscore a potential shift towards greater political harmony in Somalia, former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, alongside ex-Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and opposition legislator Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, have collectively endorsed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's invitation for a consultation forum. This initiative, they assert, is a commendable stride toward fostering political consensus and reinforcing national cohesion. But what does this mean for…

The Strategic Leap of Uganda's Refinery Project Nestled in the heart of the Kabaale, Hoima District, Uganda's ambitious refinery project stands as a beacon of transformation. Tasked with refining locally-extracted crude oil, the project symbolizes a bold stride towards energy independence, reducing the nation's reliance on foreign imports. Isn't it interesting how a single project can redefine a country's entire energy landscape? Tapping into…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a strategic maneuver on March 29, the United States military launched an airstrike targeting the notorious Islamic State (ISIS) militants entrenched in northern Somalia. This action, executed in consonance with the Federal Government of Somalia, culminated in the demise of several ISIS operatives, as reported by the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). This operation transpired southeast of Bosaso, nestled within the Northeastern State region's rugged expanses. Though AFRICOM has withheld…

Mogadishu (AX) – The serene dawn of a Sunday morning found Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre alongside the Somali National Army (SNA) troops and local residents, gathered in the KM-50 area of the picturesque Lower Shabelle region. Together, they performed the sacred Eid al-Fitr prayer, bidding farewell to the tranquil and reflective days of Ramadan. Following the prayer, a heartening scene unfolded as Prime Minister Barre moved through the crowd with a warm demeanor, exchanging greetings and sharing in the collective…

Aliko Dangote, a name synonymous with monumental wealth in Africa, has made waves across various industries, from petroleum to cement, sugar, and beyond. His financial empire not only underscores his business acumen but also positions him as a pivotal figure in Africa's ever-evolving economic narrative. In the world of business, success is often measured by strategic foresight and the expansion of industries. Dangote's staggering fortune is a living testament to these…

Mogadishu's Call for Unity: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's Vision Against Al-Shabaab In a city that awakens each day with both challenges and hopes, Mogadishu's vibrant spirit was palpable during President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's addresses at the Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Against this backdrop of celebration and reflection, the President extended an invitation that feels more like a plea to Somalia's political elites. His message? The fight against the Al-Shabaab insurgency cannot be won in isolation; it needs…

A Crossroad of Decisions: Somalia’s Offer to the United States Standing at a pivotal juncture, Somalia has extended a proposal to the United States. In an unexpected move, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed an evocative letter to President Donald Trump, marking a new chapter in the Horn of Africa's geo-political landscape. Revealed on a typical Friday afternoon via a reliable source, Reuters, the letter sparked…

The Complex Tapestry of Russian Arms in Africa In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, one intriguing narrative is the increasing flow of Russian weapons into Africa. These arms transfers usually form a crucial component of bilateral military cooperation, often acting as a precursor to the more notorious deployment of Wagner paramilitary soldiers in various African regions. It begs the question: How did Africa become such a pivotal chessboard for Russian geopolitics? According to The Grey…

In the ever-evolving theater of conflict that is northern Somalia, a recent development has once again captured international attention. On an otherwise silent Saturday, high above the enigmatic Togga Miraale, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) executed an airstrike with surgical precision. Their target? ISIS militants, notably entrenched in the Calmiskaad Mountains, an area long considered a bastion for the group. This strike is just one chapter in the ongoing narrative aimed at unravelling the very core of this militant group’s…