West Africa

The Starlink Conundrum: Diplomacy or Manipulation? In an intriguing investigation by ProPublica in 2025, a complex tale unfolds involving significant tensions at the intersection of business and international diplomacy. At the heart of this narrative lies the government of The Gambia and its controversial dealings with Starlink, the satellite internet service spearheaded by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Quite remarkably, the campaign entailed at least seven Gambian ministries embroiled in what could be perceived as veiled threats…

Strengthening Bonds: Uganda's Military Commitment to Somalia Mogadishu (AX) – On a Saturday filled with promise and potential, Lieutenant General Samuel Okiding, the Deputy Chief of the Uganda Defence Forces, stepped onto Somali soil for an official visit. This journey is not just a routine diplomatic mission; it is a vital endeavor aimed at fortifying military cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, two nations bound by shared concerns and aspirations. Upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport, Lt. Gen.…

34th Arab League Summit Takes Center Stage in Baghdad: A Call for Unity On a significant Saturday in Baghdad, the 34th Arab League Summit opened its doors to discussions that reverberate far beyond the confines of the conference hall. It marks not only Iraq's fourth summit but also its first since 2012, making this an occasion of great importance. The shadows of Israel's ongoing conflict with Gaza loomed large over this gathering, overshadowing numerous regional concerns. As the world watches with bated breath, the…

Turning the Tide: The Recent Assault Against Al-Shabaab “We received actionable intelligence about militant gatherings near Masaajid Ali Guduud,” declared a senior commander involved in the recent military assault. It is not often that we witness a well-coordinated strike against an enemy that has held such a tight grip over vast regions of Somalia. The commander went on to emphasize the speed and efficiency of their efforts, stating, “We acted swiftly, and the area is now under our control.” This compound experience…

Tragic Landmine Explosion Near Baraawe Airport: A Call for Renewed Vigilance On a seemingly ordinary Saturday in Baraawe, a devastating incident unfolded that left a community shaken. Reports indicate that at least one life was lost, while two others sustained injuries due to a landmine explosion in close proximity to Baraawe Airport, located in the picturesque Lower Shabelle region of Somalia. Local residents, who witnessed the tragedy, have recounted the harrowing moment, painting a poignant…

Tidjane Thiam, a prominent figure in Ivorian politics, has unexpectedly resumed his role as the leader of the country’s foremost opposition party. This surprising turn of events occurred just days after he had stepped down from the position. Following legal complications that emerged with his presidential aspirations for the upcoming October elections, Thiam initially announced his resignation from the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire - African Democratic Rally. At 62, his political journey has taken a tumultuous path,…

Mogadishu (AX) – As the sun rises over Baghdad, anticipation is palpable. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is gearing up to attend the esteemed 34th Arab League Summit this Saturday. This summit, taking place in Iraq’s capital for the first time in over a decade, is themed "Dialogue, Solidarity and Development," a phrase that resonates on multiple levels in today’s geopolitical landscape. The importance of this summit cannot be overstated. In a world rife with conflict and uncertainty, the commitment to address…

The commitment of the Trump administration to bolster U.S. exports to Africa is not merely a political statement; it is a clarion call for transformation. “We aim to elevate U.S. exports and investments in Africa, eliminate trade deficits, and foster mutual prosperity,” shared Ambassador Troy Fitrell, currently leading the Africa Bureau at the State Department. His remarks were made during an American Chambers of Commerce gathering in the vibrant city of Abidjan, a place rich with opportunity yet often overlooked. This…

Unrelenting Floods Ravage Mogadishu: A Tale of Resilience In the wake of a tempestuous night, rain-soaked Mogadishu grappled with the aftermath of relentless deluges that left at least seven dead, among them two women and two children. Homes were toppled, residents trapped, and essential roads severed, officials reported on Saturday. The torrents—over 115 millimeters in an eight-hour onslaught—descended Friday night, persisting until dawn. This wall of water unleashed flash floods, paralyzing much of the city,…

Mogadishu (AX) – Last Friday, the calm of Kahda district in Mogadishu was shattered by the deafening sound of a landmine explosion, injuring at least seven people, including two government soldiers. Reports from eyewitnesses and local officials paint a vivid and distressing picture of the aftermath. The blast didn’t just disrupt the moment; it left many civilians with severe injuries—particularly affecting their legs. In isolated instances such as these, one can’t help but reflect on the fragility of life and the…