Eye on Africa

In a significant move to enhance its defense capabilities, Somalia is set to receive T129 Atak helicopters from Turkey. This development stems from a defense agreement signed earlier this year, which has garnered attention from policymakers and analysts alike. How will these helicopters play into Somalia’s ongoing struggle against the al-Qaeda-linked militant group, al-Shabaab? The implications of this deal could be profound, as it represents not just a procurement of equipment but a step towards bolstering Somalia’s…

On a pivotal day, Burundians cast their votes to shape the future of their parliament. With the ruling party positioned to secure a dominant victory, the political landscape appears decidedly lopsided. This comes on the heels of a notable development: the main opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL), was effectively barred from participating in this electoral process. How does one reconcile democracy with such blatant exclusion? The CNL, which emerged as the runner-up in the contentious 2020 elections, had its…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant step toward fostering unity and constructive dialogue, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has expressed his determination to collaborate with national political leaders. This commitment was articulated in a recent statement from the Ministry of Information on Friday, which underlines the importance of addressing the multifaceted challenges that currently confront the nation. Recently, President Mohamud convened a pivotal meeting at the presidential palace that brought together leaders…

In recent years, the landscape of finance has shifted dramatically, particularly in Africa. More individuals are embracing cryptocurrency, not merely as a speculative investment, but as a viable method for managing funds swiftly and affordably. Amongst this evolving ecosystem, Nigeria stands out with its bustling crypto market. Within this vibrant context, one innovative platform is emerging as a game-changer, addressing a significant concern: how can one smoothly integrate cryptocurrency into daily financial needs…

The Evolution of Somali Defense through Turkish Cooperation In a significant step towards enhancing its military capabilities, Somalia has recently received helicopters from Turkey as part of an evolving defense cooperation strategy between the two nations. The essence of this collaboration goes beyond mere transactions; it signifies a mutual commitment to stability and security in a tumultuous region. This multi-dimensional package includes three T129 Atak combat helicopters for the Somali Air Force and two utility…

The Liberia National Police has taken a significant step in the investigation surrounding the devastating fire that engulfed the Capitol Building—the heart of the Liberian Legislature—in December 2024. Several members of the House of Representatives have been summoned as persons of interest, raising eyebrows and questions about the implications of this inquiry. A communication sent directly to Speaker of the House Richard Koon outlines the police's request for a meeting with specific lawmakers. This unexpected development…

The Complex Dance of Development and Human Rights: A Closer Look at Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act The World Bank made headlines in 2023 when it suspended funding to Uganda in response to the Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) that the Ugandan parliament approved. The Bank, a global financial institution, articulated that this new law was antithetical to its core values, signaling a bold stance amid a rapidly shifting landscape of international ethics. The AHA has not only sparked outrage but also incited international…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a heartfelt message during this year’s Eid al-Adha celebrations, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre extended their warm regards not only to the Somali populace but also to Muslims across the globe. Their messages resonate with a call for unity, understanding, and steadfast commitment against the persistent threats posed by Al-Shabaab. President Mohamud’s address was reflective and purposeful. He took the occasion to congratulate the Somali people on…

Petrobras, the state-controlled oil giant of Brazil, is making bold strides in the global arena. Under the leadership of its CEO, Magda Chambriard, the company has set its sights on Africa as its primary growth market beyond Brazilian shores. This strategic pivot is not merely a business maneuver; it is a significant moment in the evolving energy landscape. In a revealing interview with Reuters, Chambriard shared compelling insights about their ambitions, noting that Ivory Coast has granted Petrobras…

In a significant turn of events, Chad’s President Mahamat Déby has taken a bold step by suspending all visas for U.S. citizens. This decision, framed as a matter of "reciprocity," follows the revelation that the United States has blacklisted Chad and eleven other nations, barring their citizens from entry. The context is critical: in a sweeping travel ban recently enacted by former President Donald Trump, seven out of the twelve affected countries hail from Africa. This sweeping measure was justified by claims of…