Eye on Africa

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,…

Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Power of Healthcare A well-structured healthcare system can be the backbone of a thriving society. It's not merely a safety net; it's a launching pad. Think about it: when people are in good health, they are not only more likely to show up to work, but they also engage more actively in educational pursuits and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Imagine a student, burdened by recurrent illness, struggling to keep up with classmates. His…

Diplomatic Tensions: The Stalled Somalia-Ethiopia Negotiations Mogadishu (AX) — The diplomatic endeavor led by Turkey to ease the ongoing friction between Somalia and Ethiopia seems to have reached an impasse. According to Somali and Ethiopian diplomats, negotiations have ground to a halt as discussions broke off due to Ethiopia's desire for direct access to the sea through North Western State of Somalia. This development raises eyebrows and questions about the future trajectory of not only Ethiopia and Somalia but also…

On Monday, July 7, 2025, during the Council’s 59th session in Geneva, the vote regarding the renewal of the mandate brought forth a significant outcome: 29 member states voted in favor, 15 against, and three opted to abstain, with Ghana being one of them. This vote encapsulates a broader narrative of the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights on the global stage. Renewed Mandate: A Beacon for Global LGBTQ+ Rights The renewal of this mandate serves as a reaffirmation of the global commitment to protect the…

Embracing a Vision for Somalia's Future In a recent gathering that brought together policymakers, academics, and business leaders from across East Africa, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre illuminated a transformative vision for Somalia’s path forward. His address was not merely a presentation; it was a call to action, inviting all stakeholders—especially Somali scholars both domestically and internationally—to concentrate on critical areas such as poverty alleviation, climate adaptation, enhanced medical services, education…

South Africa's Economic Landscape: A Call for Transformation Since 2010, South Africa's economic growth has been tragically slow, leaving its citizens significantly poorer than the global average. This unsettling reality has been highlighted by Investec Wealth & Investment International, which points to a stark discrepancy that continues to shape the lives of millions. In 2023, the GDP per capita—an essential indicator of economic health—was measured at $15,194, adjusted for purchasing power parity.…