West Africa

Recent findings emerging from a survey spearheaded by Afrobarometer in collaboration with local partners present compelling insights into public sentiment toward the judicial system in Liberia. The data reveals a notable rise in support for the court system, especially since the establishment of the Office for War and Economic Crimes by President Joseph Boakai. This favorable shift is particularly striking when juxtaposed with sentiments recorded in 2022. What might be driving this renewed faith in the judiciary? As we…

In an obscure corner of the world, far from the eye of most international media, the Al-Karrar office has metamorphosed into something more sinister—a financial command center crafted intricately for the Islamic State’s sprawling empire, extending its dark reach from Afghanistan to Mozambique. Picture a warren of clandestine activities where ancient hawala networks blur seamlessly with cutting-edge cryptocurrency transactions, a place surviving on the gritty art of extortion. Entire economies within these insurgent zones…

The Remarkable Gems: Ghana's Mineral Wealth Nestled in the heart of West Africa, Ghana is a symphony of cultural richness and natural resources. Yet, beneath this vibrant landscape lies something equally compelling—a treasure trove of minerals that contributes profoundly to the nation's economy. But, beyond mere numbers, what is the story told by these minerals? Let's delve into the geology of Ghana to uncover its most precious treasures. The Golden Triumph Who hasn't heard of Ghana's illustrious…

Mogadishu (AX) — It appears that the resilient and determined forces of Somalia, coupled with the valorous local militias, have once again made strides forward. On Friday, an intriguing ripple spread through the Middle Shabelle region as they reclaimed the pivotal towns of El Baraf and Miirtaqwa. These areas had fallen into the clutch of the Al-Shabaab militants, albeit fleetingly. Was this maneuver by Al-Shabaab a sign of desperation? Perhaps. The tides turned rapidly, and the towns now resound with a newfound hope,…

Mogadishu (AX) — At the crack of dawn, the stillness of El Baraf was shattered. You could feel the tension in the air, palpable and unnerving. Just days ago, the town fell into tumult when Al-Shabaab launched an overwhelming assault on the Somali National Army (SNA) and local militias. This was not just another battle. It was a turning point in a theater of conflict that many have come to accept as the norm. The Somali government, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has crafted a decisive response. Troops aren't…

The world's prosperity gap, a measure of the disparity between average incomes and a target of $25 per person per day, has stagnated ever since the pandemic began. Why, you might ask? The culprit seems to be a dual assault of dwindling economic growth and an uneven income distribution among countries. While it’s easy to blame this on external shocks, could it be a call for introspection on how intertwined our economies really are? Achievements are not made overnight. Here's a compelling statistic: between 1990…

Dhusamareb (AX) – In the moonlit tranquillity of a Thursday night, the Somali army, in concert with vigilant local clan militias, set the stage for a deliberate military operation in Dabagalo—a haven nestled within the Harardhere district of the Mudug region. Their mission? To dismantle an Al-Shabaab stronghold that, until then, had been an insidious blight on the community's path. Six militants met their fate, taken down as if they were extensions of the very shadows they sought to exploit. What makes a group of people…

On the dusty streets of Accra, the buzz amongst locals revolves around an announcement that came as quite the surprise. You see, a letter has arrived from abroad—a formal communiqué sent by none other than the legal counsel of Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, former finance minister of Ghana. The correspondence sheds light on Ofori-Atta's peculiar status, detailing a confirmed date for his much-anticipated return. Will his return solve the riddles that surround him? Let's dive back to a pivotal date—February 12, 2025. On that day,…

Mogadishu (AX) – The tapestry of diplomatic relations often weaves itself in unexpected patterns. Recently, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi found himself at the center of a swirling storm of speculation, dismissing allegations that the federal government barred former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Rooble from securing diplomatic passport clearance for a journey to South Africa. During a candid discourse with VOA Somalia, Minister Fiqi painted a picture of respect and regard for Rooble, highlighting…

Mogadishu (AX) – On Thursday, the Somali government stepped into the spotlight, addressing its vigilant watch over the legal and humanitarian status of Somali nationals imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. This move comes on the heels of a fervent protest in Mogadishu, where families of detainees facing execution spilled their worries onto the streets. Their cries echo: will justice have an ear? The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, echoing a chorus of duty and humanity, pledged allegiance to the cause of these…