West Africa

The recent statements made by Aliou Touankara, a member of Mali's National Transitional Council, unveil a growing frustration within Bamako regarding Ukraine amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Sahel region. This sentiment is not just a fleeting reaction but an indicator of the ripple effects that international conflicts can have on local politics. “I believe the first step has already been taken—diplomatic relations with Ukraine have been severed. It would also be prudent to consider banning Ukrainian…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant show of support for the ongoing military efforts against al-Shabab, Dr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein, known as Muungaab, the Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, has recently delivered an essential shipment of medical supplies to the brave Community Defense Forces. These valorous men and women stand shoulder to shoulder with the Somali National Army, engaged in critical operations in the Hiiraan region. During a heartfelt handover ceremony in Mogadishu on Tuesday, Mayor Muungaab…

Sarah Aderibigbe, known to the world as Ayra Starr, has made headlines once again. At the prestigious 25th annual BET Awards held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, she walked away with the coveted title of Best International Act for 2025. Her victory was remarkable, especially when considering the formidable competition she faced. Among the nominees were notable names such as Tyla from South Africa, Rema representing Nigeria, and Black Sherif from Ghana. The list also included talents from across the globe, including…

Somali Lawmakers Condemn Detention of Businessmen in Galkayo Galkayo (AX) — In a troubling development that has stirred both concern and outrage, federal lawmakers representing Somalia’s Southwest State have vocally condemned the recent detention of several businessmen from their region in northern Galkayo. This event, they argue, is not just an isolated incident; it strikes at the very heart of Somali unity and ethnic harmony. In a passionate statement, Member of Parliament Abdirashid Jilley revealed the deplorable…

Galkacyo (AX) — In a recent press briefing, the Governor of the Mudug region, Faysal Abdullahi Sheikh, commonly known as Jifojabsade, faced the storm of controversy head-on. Accusations of torture emerged after images circulated on social media, revealing men from Southwest State restrained with their hands and feet bound. This alarming visual narrative evoked a wave of public outcry and concern, raising questions about justice, community, and the human experience of suffering. In a tone both firm and thoughtful, Governor…

In an era where collaboration and diplomatic ties shape the geopolitical landscape, Kenya recently engaged in a strategic meeting with the government of Somalia. This dialogue unfolded during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), emphasizing the importance of fostering bilateral relationships between these two East African nations. On June 10, 2025, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, made an announcement that underscored the commitment of both nations…

Khaby Lame: The Journey of a TikTok Icon In a world where social media fame often feels fleeting, Khaby Lame stands as a testament to authentic engagement and creativity. This Italian-Senegalese creator, known for his amusingly silent yet expressive responses to the bizarre intricacies of modern life, has amassed an astonishing 160 million followers on TikTok. However, in a recent turn of events, Lame found himself navigating a different kind of challenge—his visa situation in the United States.…

Engineering with Purpose: Lawal's Approach to System Design “My engineering philosophy is driven by three key principles,” Lawal begins, his voice steady yet passionate. “First and foremost, there should always be clarity regarding the system being built. It's essential that the system remains understandable not just to me, but also to other engineers and future maintainers.” This unwavering belief in clarity lies at the very core of Lawal's coding practices and architectural choices. “I consciously steer clear…

Africa Soft Power Summit 2025: A Vision Unfolding The recent summit was an eye-opener, comprising two pivotal conferences: the Remarkable African Women's Leadership Conference and the Creative & Innovative Industries Conference, culminating in the prestigious Africa Soft Power Gala & Awards. Each segment offered profound insights that resonate with a diverse audience, charting a hopeful yet realistic path forward for the continent. “Africa's creative and tech sectors have already proven themselves to…

At the core of the online gambling revolution lies a remarkable synergy between user-centered design and cutting-edge technology. In Finland, a nation renowned for its high standards and tech-savvy populace, a distinct demand has emerged. This evolving landscape is compelling local operators to push past the conventional online casino offerings. The result is a burgeoning array of brands like Pikakasinot, which prioritize speed, security, and simplicity above all else. Isn’t it fascinating how dissatisfaction with the…