Eye on Africa

In the vibrant and often tumultuous theater of international relations, arms imports have carved a significant niche. Behind this growth lurk geopolitical frictions, modern-day defense evolution, and security jitters that nations, large and small, seek to address. But what drives a nation to become a top importer of military might? Let us explore the data supplied by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) to unravel this enigma. Global Leaders in Arms Imports: A…

Civic space in Africa has become ground zero for a poignant tussle, drawing government entities, activists, and citizens into a conflict over essential freedoms. It's a vivid spectacle, showcasing courage and resilience on one side, and a draconian clampdown on liberties on the other. It beckons us to ask, what value do we place on our freedom of expression, and how far are we willing to go to protect it? While there are still beacons of steadfastness, countries that cling stubbornly to the ideals of…

(ERGO) – Life in North Western State of Somalia's Awdal region has never been easy, and Jama Mohamed Hassan can tell you all about it. His eyes are weary, a reflection of the tribulations his family of 17 is enduring. Their grocery business in Ruqi—a lifeline for years—recently came to a standstill. Customers who once brought vitality to his store now only leave unpaid debts, totaling a staggering $6,000 over the last 10 months. Jama's story is not just his own. Forty other shopkeepers in the region have shuttered their…

On a day marked by significant developments, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) made a compelling decision to conclude its military involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After years of complex engagement, this decision wasn’t just a moment in time; it was the culmination of extensive deliberations and strategic thought. The transition involves a thoughtful, gradual withdrawal of forces—an operation marked by its sensitivity and precision. As the SADC's communiqué succinctly…

Political Tensions Rise: A Call for Evidence and Accountability In the ever-evolving landscape of Somali politics, raising voices and discord are not uncommon. Among them stands MP Abdirashid Jilley, a figure known for his outspoken criticism of the current government. Recently, he has emerged as a vocal advocate for transparency, especially in light of some eyebrow-raising comments made by a deputy minister. Imagine the astonishment when accusations surfaced suggesting that certain MPs were sympathizing with…

It's a new dawn for journalism across Africa, at least according to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). These indices reveal that some African nations are making commendable strides in promoting media freedom, a cause that has historically faced numerous hurdles on the continent. Notable improvements are being made in the realms of transparency, safety, and of course, the autonomy of media professionals—a true testament to the shifting tides of African journalism.…

When we delve into the realm of economics, one concept stands out as particularly enlightening: Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). This crucial economic metric enables economists, policymakers, and even curious minds like ours to unearth the real value of currencies by evaluating how much a standard basket of goods would cost across different nations. Essentially, PPP adjusts currencies to help us grasp the true worth of the monetary units by factoring in living cost differentials. Imagine it as a global price leveler, a…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. In a groundbreaking moment for East Africa, Djibouti City celebrates an accomplishment that reverberates beyond its borders. For the first time, an East African representative, Sulayman Hassan Waaberi, takes a seat on FIFA’s Executive Committee. Elected in the vibrant city of Cairo, Waaberi's success shines a spotlight on a region that has historically watched from the sidelines of global football. Waaberi's four-year term marks a significant stride for East Africa,…

It’s fascinating to witness the blossoming success of Tony Elumelu, a household name in Nigeria and across Africa. Currently estimated at a net worth of $2.15 billion by MoneyCentral, Elumelu has not only established himself as a formidable business titan but also as an inspiring figure. This astonishing figure makes one ponder, what sets him apart? Let's delve into the details. According to recent evaluations, this notable ascent comes primarily from his calculated investments and ownership stakes…

Human Rights Watch has called upon Mozambican authorities to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the recent attack on opposition members in Maputo. This incident unfolded during a significant moment—the signing of a peace accord between President Daniel Chapo and various opposition parties, notably excluding former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who led hundreds in a peaceful march that day. The stark contrast between the peaceful intentions of the demonstrators and the violent response they…