Eye on Africa

Somalia's Development Projects: A New Chapter in Northeastern State's Collaboration? Garowe, a vibrant city bustling with potential, finds itself at the center of exciting developments that may reshape its future. Despite the ongoing political tensions between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Northeastern State state leadership, significant strides are being made in the realms of health and energy infrastructure. It’s fascinating to witness how nations, much like individuals, can navigate conflicts while still…

When we talk about a nation's financial health, the relationship between government debt and GDP (Gross Domestic Product) can be enlightening. A lower government debt in comparison to GDP often signals economic advantages that go beyond mere numbers. For starters, it fosters investor confidence, boosts economic stability, and sets the stage for sustainable growth. This dynamic might seem counterintuitive, especially in African countries where the demand for development finance is paramount. However, the reality…

Agathe Habyarimana, now an 82-year-old widow, was once at the heart of a tumultuous chapter in Rwandan history as the spouse of former President Juvénal Habyarimana. Recently, she evaded judicial proceedings in France when investigating magistrates concluded there was not enough evidence to implicate her in the harrowing events of the 1994 genocide. After her husband’s assassination ignited a cataclysm of violence, Habyarimana fled Rwanda, receiving assistance from French authorities. This period, marked by chaos and loss,…

**Beledweyne (AX)** — In a dramatic turn of events early Wednesday, heavy fighting erupted in Abooreey, a village situated in the Hiiraan region of Somalia. This escalation was marked by the Hawadle Ma'awiisley militia launching a multi-pronged assault against Al-Shabaab fighters firmly entrenched in the area. The Ma'awiisley, named for the traditional sarong worn by many of its gallant fighters, took decisive action to reclaim the territory from the well-known militant group. Residents of Abooreey reported hearing sustained…

Embracing the Digital Revolution: Kenya’s Path to a Tech-Savvy Future In our current era, marked by a profound technological revolution, it’s hard to overstate the pivotal role that China has played in shaping the digital landscape, particularly for countries like Kenya. Through extensive investments in digital infrastructure and educational initiatives, China lays the groundwork for Kenya’s transformation into a technological hub. Companies such as Huawei have not only constructed essential communication…

Jeddah (AX) – A significant milestone has been reached in the realm of international security cooperation. The government of Saudi Arabia has formally sanctioned a landmark security agreement with Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) aimed at combating the ever-pressing threats posed by terrorism and terrorist financing. This decision, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), reflects a deepening commitment to address shared security concerns. The formal endorsement of this agreement took place…

Despite the harsh realities of widespread poverty, underfunded healthcare systems, educational disparities, and inadequate infrastructure that many African countries face, there’s a glimmer of hope emerging. Enter the wave of billionaire-led philanthropy, a movement that is making palpable contributions across various sectors. This philanthropic endeavor, while addressing profound challenges, offers a fresh perspective on how wealth can serve as a tool for change. When we think about African philanthropy, names…

African Philanthropy: A New Dawn In a world where the headlines often spotlight challenges such as poverty, underfunded healthcare systems, and inadequate educational resources, there's a compelling narrative unfolding in Africa—one that resonates with optimism and resilience. While these challenges remain persistent, we are witnessing a remarkable wave of billionaire-driven philanthropy that is beginning to make a significant impact across various sectors. Figures like Aliko Dangote from Nigeria, Patrice…

The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) recently made headlines with its controversial decision to replace striking lecturers with part-time staff, offering a meager rate of just US$5.50 per hour. Of this amount, a staggering 40%—equivalent to US$2.20—will be disbursed in local currency, subject to income tax. Whose idea was this, one might wonder, to disregard the commitment and expertise that full-time educators bring to the table? As the sun rises over the university campus, classrooms remain eerily quiet. Striking lecturers…

Nigerian fuel traders are navigating a challenging landscape filled with unmet expectations. Despite proclamations made six months ago that the state-owned Port Harcourt and Warri refineries were ready for operation, traders still find themselves struggling to secure gasoline from these facilities. It raises an important question: How long can a nation, rich in resources, rely on aging infrastructure? This situation has led traders to maintain their dependence on imports and the privately-owned $20 billion Dangote…