West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — On a warm and dusty afternoon, in the heart of Somalia's Middle Shabelle region, the determined sounds of marching feet echoed through the barren landscape. At the forefront, leading with unwavering resolve, stood the commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), General Odawaa Yusuf Rage. His message was clear, resonating through the air like a clarion call: it’s time for a decisive stand against Al-Shabaab. With the militant group on the brink of collapse, he urged the brave men and women under his command…

The 2025 Global Terrorism Index report, released by the Institute for Economics & Peace, paints a sobering picture of the Sahel region as it seemingly becomes the new heart of global terrorism. As someone who’s been following global security dynamics for a while, I can't help but wonder how this transformation could happen so swiftly from the Middle East to sub-Saharan Africa. Why here? Why now? Africa’s unsettling position on the terrorism index is not without reason. It’s a familiar narrative,…

Upon his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has made it abundantly clear what his administration aims to tackle: the sprawling issue of federal waste. It’s a topic that’s been at the heart of many political debates, and one that begs the question: how do we ensure taxpayer money is used judiciously? The President, with his characteristic resolve, has embarked on what he describes as a crusade against wasteful spending. The administration took a notable step forward by…

Collaboration in the Face of Adversity: Jubbaland's Appeal for Unity Kismayo (AX) - In an era where collaboration often holds the key to problem-solving, Jubbaland’s regional administration has hailed the concerted efforts of federal military forces and local clan militias in their offensive against extremist factions in the Middle Shabelle region. This acknowledgment comes at a crucial time, not just as a gesture of appreciation, but as a clarion call for unity.…

Nestled within the borders of Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger lies the W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking biodiversity. Yet, this remarkable sanctuary faces a perilous paradox. What should be a celebration of nature’s splendor is marred by a sinister undercurrent: organized transnational crime. From arms smuggling to drug trafficking and human exploitation, the WAP Complex has become a multifaceted battleground, as highlighted by Feyi Ogunade in The Conversation Africa.…

Tragic Testimony: A Survivor's Story Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring The Fateful Night: November 24, 2021 Imagine the biting cold of the English Channel, the dark waters a cruel contrast to the twinkling lights of safety beyond reach. This was the harsh reality for Issa Mohamed Omar, a Somali national who survived one of the most deadly tragedies in recent maritime history. Reliving the haunting events during…

When it comes to choosing a university, there are myriad paths one might take. In Ghana, a country known for its rich history and cultural significance, university selection is no small decision. The AD Scientific Index offers an intriguing lens into the academic landscape by listing the top 10 universities in Ghana. Let's delve deeper into this ranking and find out what makes these institutions exceptional. Top 10 Universities in Ghana (2025 Rankings) The world of higher education is vast and varied.…

Political Turmoil in South West State: Calls for Reform Amidst Allegations of Repression Mogadishu (AX) — On a brisk Monday evening, the atmosphere in Mogadishu was thick with determination as lawmakers and political leaders from South West State converged to voice their mounting concerns. The issues at hand have been simmering for some time now: a combination of governance failures, accusations of political suppression, and claims of electoral deceit are casting a long shadow over President Abdiaziz…

ONLF and the Ethiopian Government: A Strained Peace Mogadishu (AX) — In the intricate tapestry of Ethiopian politics, the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) finds itself at a pivotal juncture. With a history steeped in struggle and hope, the movement is now grappling with discord within its ranks, driven by accusations of the Ethiopian government failing to honor the 2018 Asmara Peace Agreement. Abdirahman Mahdi, a prominent voice heading a faction within ONLF, has declared an end to cooperative efforts with the…

Who would have thought that a tool as simple as social media, once deemed for private exchanges, would require government licensing to operate? Yes, you heard it right. Under newly proposed regulations in Niger, if a social media group has 50 members or more, they might soon need a governmental nod to continue their digital interactions. The announcement came straight from Niger’s Minister of Communication, Sidi Mohamed Raliou. During a national television interview, Raliou articulated concerns about these platforms being…