Eye on Africa

In a momentous stride for African representation in global affairs, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Liberia have successfully secured seats on the United Nations Security Council. This achievement not only enhances the influence of these nations but also marks a significant step forward for the African continent in seeking a more prominent voice within one of the UN’s most pivotal institutions. Alongside the DRC and Liberia, three other nations were elected: Bahrain from the Asia-Pacific Group,…

Dramatic Shift in Nigeria's Cement Industry: A Success Story of Local Investment In a remarkable transformation, Nigeria—once known as the second-largest importer of cement globally—has now emerged as the continent's leading exporter. Aliko Dangote, the influential President of the Dangote Group and Africa’s richest man, recently highlighted this pivotal shift at the Gates Foundation Goalkeepers event held in Nigeria. His discourse didn’t just reflect facts; it was a celebration of progress forged through vision and…

PRESS RELEASE Mogadishu, June 5, 2025 – Premier Bank is thrilled to unveil its upgraded direct SWIFT payment platform—a significant leap forward in the realm of international money transfers. This innovative service will enable both businesses and individuals in Somalia to send and receive funds globally with unprecedented speed, simplicity, and security. For over two decades, the complications surrounding cross-border transactions have lingered like a cloud over the economic landscape. Now, with the launch of this direct…

On a recent Wednesday, a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy occurred. President Donald Trump officially enacted a new travel ban that casts a wide net over 12 countries, predominantly situated in Africa and the Middle East. This decision, part of a larger crackdown on immigration, has sparked both concern and debate across the nation. “We don’t want them. We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm,” Trump declared in a video message that accompanied the announcement. His words…

Building Bridges: A New Era of Cooperation Between North Western State of Somalia and Kenya Recently, I had the profound pleasure of visiting Nairobi, where the warmth of the welcome I received not only lifted my spirits but also underscored the enduring spirit of African solidarity. This invitation mirrored the unfolding potential for regional partnerships that can significantly benefit our nations. Meeting with President William Ruto on May 29 was more than just a diplomatic handshake; it was a powerful affirmation that…

The Future of Africa: Insights from Bill Gates and Aliko Dangote Recently, a thought-provoking question was posed to Bill Gates: given his experience and contributions to Africa over the past 25 years, what would he do differently in the next two decades? Without hesitation, he turned our focus to the continent's most valuable asset—its youth. “Africa is a youthful continent," Gates said, sharing slides that starkly highlight this demographic reality. As the…

Most of us probably don’t spend our days contemplating how much time we have left on this Earth. Yet, the average life expectancy in a given country offers more than a mere count of potential birthdays. It serves as a crucial lens into the health of a society, reflecting its healthcare quality, living conditions, educational opportunities, nutritional standards, and even the political landscape. Around the globe, life expectancy varies dramatically based on geographical and socio-economic factors. According to…

Mogadishu's Turbulence: A Glimpse into Recent Events Mogadishu, the vibrant capital of Somalia, is a city that resonates with the echoes of both its rich history and the challenges it faces today. Recently, in an event that underscores the ongoing struggles against extremism, Somali police apprehended several individuals suspected of affiliation with Al-Shabaab following a dramatic explosion in the Dayniile district. A Fractured Calm On Thursday, the residents of the Barwaaqo neighborhood experienced a…

In a harrowing revelation that has sent shockwaves through the international community, the discovery of numerous bodies across both official and unofficial detention sites in Libya has highlighted a dark narrative of human rights violations. Reports of torture, enforced disappearances, and the specter of extrajudicial killings are emerging from the shadows, raising urgent questions about accountability and morality in a nation steeped in turmoil. For years, human rights organizations and the United Nations have suspected…

New Travel Ban Signed by President Trump: An Overview On a Wednesday that many in the political arena won’t soon forget, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping changes to the nation's travel policies by signing a new travel ban targeting twelve countries, predominantly situated in Africa and the Middle East. The implications of this directive could be profound, shaping the lives and futures of countless individuals across the globe. “We don’t want them. We will not allow people to enter our country who…