Eye on Africa

Arrest of Somali Police Officer Sparks Outrage and Calls for Reform Mogadishu (AX) — A recent incident involving a Somali police officer has ignited a firestorm of public outrage, highlighting concerns about the conduct of security forces in Somalia. The officer, identified as Ahmed Nur Mahmoud, has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a civilian woman—a case that not only raises questions about accountability but also reflects broader societal issues. The Somali Police Force confirmed his arrest on Tuesday, emphasizing…

Remittances to Somalia represent a lifeline in a landscape marred by challenges. In 2023, the Somali diaspora generously sent approximately $1.73 billion back home, a staggering figure that surpasses the total of all development and humanitarian aid received. This essential flow of funds is crucial—it’s estimated that these remittances account for between 30% and 50% of Somalia's GDP. Families depend on this support for their basic needs, including food, education, healthcare, and even access to clean water. However, as we…

Deportation of Somali Nationals from Germany: Striking a Balance Between Justice and Humanity Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant action, German authorities recently deported eight Somali nationals convicted of serious crimes. This decision has been framed as a matter of public safety and legal responsibility, reflecting a growing tension in Germany’s immigration policy landscape. The Bavarian State Office for Asylum and Returns reported that six of the eight deportees faced prosecution…

Urgent Call to Action on Hepatitis Outbreak in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — In a pressing announcement, Somalia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Adam, has raised an alarm about the rapid proliferation of hepatitis across the nation. This urgent advisory calls for collective action aimed at expanding testing, amplifying public awareness, and enhancing access to vaccinations. During a recent briefing, Dr. Ali described the current situation as an “alarming surge” in hepatitis infections. This…

The Call for Clear Regulatory Frameworks in Ghana's Digital Finance Sphere During the recent Graphic Business/Stanbic Bank Breakfast Meeting, a significant conversation emerged concerning the surge of digital financial technologies in Ghana. The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison Asiama, underscored the pressing need for definitive regulations as the digital landscape evolves. As he aptly put it, “Crypto is like the air we breathe—you can’t stop it. So let’s regulate it properly.” This statement…

The Ouster of MP Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril: A Pivotal Moment in Northeastern State Politics Garowe (AX) — In a significant move showcasing the intricate dynamics of Northeastern State's political landscape, the regional parliament recently took a decisive stance by voting to expel MP Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril. This decision was notably influenced by Jibril's participation in a federal government-backed conference held in Las Anod. Northeastern State lawmakers argue that this participation not only violates their…

Ghana is taking proactive steps to bolster its economy—specifically, the nation is developing a strategic plan to hedge its gold exports. This initiative aims to protect the earnings that have significantly enhanced the foreign reserves of the Bank of Ghana, as articulated by Governor Johnson Asiama. In a world where uncertainty often reigns, it’s refreshing to see such forward-thinking measures. Speaking at an event in Accra, Governor Asiama highlighted the remarkable growth in gold production and favorable…

Growing Security Threat: Somalia and Yemen Address Militant Alliances London, United Kingdom (AX) — In an era defined by complex geopolitical shifts, Somalia and Yemen have recently raised urgent alarms concerning a burgeoning security threat. This concern arises from the unsettling connections forming between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and extremist factions operating within Somalia. A high-profile diplomatic meeting held in London on Tuesday highlighted these issues and underscored the need for immediate action. The…

In today’s fast-paced world, financial security often feels like a distant dream for many individuals. Yet, the recent initiative by FCMB (First City Monument Bank) is turning that dream into reality, one draw at a time. By organizing a series of electronic draws from January to June, they’ve ensured that participation was broad and inclusive. This initiative is not just available for new customers but welcomes existing savings account holders as well, emphasizing a community-focused approach that resonates with all.…

The Rise of Omar Fateh: Navigating Challenges and Possibilities In the heart of Minneapolis, a significant moment in political history is unfolding. Somali-American state senator Omar Fateh is campaigning to become the city's next mayor. As he embarks on this journey, he faces a wave of Islamophobic and racial attacks that emanate from far-right detractors. These voices seek to undermine his credibility by questioning his loyalty, heritage, and legitimacy as a candidate. Rather than dampening his spirit, these…