Eye on Africa

Reflections on Nigeria's Refinery Saga: Insights from Aliko Dangote In a recent assessment of Nigeria's refining challenges, Aliko Dangote, the distinguished CEO of the Dangote Group, pointedly questioned the operational viability of the state-owned refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna. His remarks were not made in a vacuum; the context was a tour of his own oil refinery with members of the Global CEO Africa program from the Lagos Business School, where he highlighted the staggering sums already expended…

Over the years, the United States has been on a quest to reform its immigration policies, exploring various strategies for managing undocumented migrants. Among these strategies is the controversial consideration of deporting individuals, including convicted criminals and those with unresolved immigration statuses, to various African nations—an initiative that gained traction during President Donald Trump’s administration. This has sparked debates and raised critical questions about the responsibilities and challenges…

North Western State of Somalia’s Minister of Finance: A Leader for a New Era In the bustling heart of London, beneath the glimmering lights of the 15th African Leadership Summit, a significant accolade was conferred upon an exceptional leader. On Wednesday, Somalia's own Minister of Finance, Biihi Iman Egeh, was honored as the African Finance Minister of the Year for 2025 by the prestigious African Leadership Magazine (ALM). This recognition is not merely a title; it is a testament to Egeh’s unyielding commitment to…

Kenyan President William Ruto issued a stark warning on Wednesday, cautioning against efforts to "overthrow" the government through what he described as "unconstitutional means." He alleged that the recent violent protests were backed by sponsors with nefarious intentions. The nation has faced an unrelenting surge of protests spearheaded by young citizens frustrated with economic struggles, rampant corruption, and police brutality. These demonstrations began last June when tax hikes were proposed, provoking widespread…

NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — In a significant stride towards revitalizing digital connectivity in East Africa, the Kenyan government has embarked on a consultation initiative with industry stakeholders. This marks the dawn of an ambitious regional fibre optic infrastructure project, aimed at linking northeastern Kenya with Somalia and Ethiopia. Through this endeavor, the government hopes to enhance digital accessibility and foster integration throughout the Horn of Africa. It is not merely a technological upgrade; this project…

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump commended Liberian President Joseph Boakai for his remarkable command of the English language. This encounter, which also included leaders from five other African nations, showcased a moment of genuine appreciation. Trump expressed admiration, even inquiring about how Boakai honed his impressive language skills. Yet, beneath this seemingly innocent praise lies a deeper narrative that deserves scrutiny. Critics swiftly seized upon this incident, interpreting…

In a recent turn of events, opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi was handed a new sentence, compounding the over two decades of imprisonment he has already endured due to previous convictions, including money laundering. At the age of 84, Ghannouchi, along with 17 co-defendants, faced charges of "conspiring against state security." His legal team has vehemently contested these allegations, arguing that the trial lacked fundamental fairness. Since his detention in 2023, Ghannouchi has steadfastly refused to attend court…

Caster Semenya, South Africa's double Olympic champion in the 800 meters, has recently achieved a notable, if partial, legal victory. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that the Swiss Federal Supreme Court infringed upon her right to a fair hearing back in 2020. It’s a ruling that resonates deeply, not just in the realm of sports, but also within wider discussions about equity and the treatment of athletes. To put this into context, Semenya's fight isn't just about one race or one title; it's a quest for…

Akon City Dream Reshaped: Senegal’s Vision Takes a New Turn Senegal has recently made headlines with a significant shift regarding R&B singer Akon’s ambitious project to construct a multibillion-dollar city along the nation’s stunning Atlantic coastline. In the face of mounting economic pressures, plans for “Akon City” have been officially scrapped. Instead, the government has opted for a more modest, yet equally promising, privately funded development. Back in 2020, the Senegalese government allocated an impressive…

This year, Nigeria proudly celebrates 26 years of stable civilian governance—no small feat for a nation that has weathered the storms of military coups and autocratic regimes. This milestone isn't just a statistic; it's a solid foundation upon which our economic future is being constructed. The significance of this durability cannot be overstated; it represents resilience, hope, and the potential for growth. Political stability serves not just as a governance metric, but as a vital business asset. In Nigeria,…