Eye on Africa

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…

Controversial Deportations Raise Ethical Concerns An unsettling email originating from a detention officer has unveiled a troubling situation involving a Burmese national identified merely as "N.M." The startling news? N.M. was "removed...to South Sudan." This revelation, while succinct, has set off a flurry of reactions that reveal the complexities of immigration policies and the human cost behind them. The move has not only caught the attention of the public, but it has sparked significant criticism from various…

President Ruto's Vision for Affordable Housing in Mukuru, Nairobi On a significant day in his tenure, President William Ruto delivered a transformative moment for the residents of Mukuru in Nairobi. On Tuesday, he proudly handed over the keys to 1,080 affordable housing units, a gesture he described as the pinnacle of his political career. The excitement among the community was palpable, and it was evident that this was not merely a ceremonial act but rather a profound step toward changing lives. These newly inaugurated…

Impact of Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s New Agreement on Fuel Prices in Nigeria The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s energy landscape, has recently made headlines. In a significant move that resonates across the nation, the refinery has announced a naira-for-crude oil agreement with the Nigerian government, a strategy that has allowed it to decrease petrol prices. This initiative ultimately translates to lower costs for Nigerian consumers at fuel stations, easing the financial burden on many…

The Appointment of Kamil Idris: Hope or Hurdle for Sudan’s Future? In an evocative moment captured on February 3, 2010, independent candidate Kamil Idris posed for a photograph in Khartoum, revealing a glimpse of the hope and aspirations he carries for Sudan. Fast forward to recent developments, and it is this same Kamil Idris who has been appointed as the prime minister of Sudan's military-led government, a pivotal moment that might redefine the country's leadership landscape. On a seemingly ordinary Monday, Sudan's army…

International Condemnation of Suicide Bombing in Somalia In a tragic turn of events, a suicide bombing took place on Sunday near a military base in the bustling capital of Somalia, Mogadishu. This horrifying act was met with swift and strong condemnation from nations including Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Such coordinated denouncements reflect a broader commitment across the region to combatting violence and upholding peace. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry was among the first to respond, strongly denouncing…

Somalia Launches Ambitious Nationwide Vaccination Campaign Photo: AP In an inspiring stride towards safeguarding the future of its youngest citizens, Somalia has initiated a comprehensive vaccination campaign. On a Monday that will be remembered in the annals of public health, the nation set its sights on immunizing over 3 million children against preventable diseases, specifically measles, polio, and pneumonia. This monumental endeavor reflects not just a numerical target but a vital commitment to children's health…

Presidential Stance on Peace: President Samia Suluhu of Tanzania Responds to Political Tensions Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu, has recently spoken out about the concerning situation surrounding the detention and deportation of several prominent Kenyans. This event unfolded over the course of just two days, sparking heated discussions and a flurry of emotions on both sides of the border. As she addressed the nation at a public forum on May 19, President Suluhu took a firm stance, asserting that attempts by Kenyan…

In a significant milestone, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) gathered for its 300th meeting last Tuesday, a momentous occasion celebrated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, during a press conference in Abuja. Meetings like these often hold the weight of economic forecasts, yet they also reflect the pulse of the nation—a blend of caution and opportunity. Governor Cardoso emphasized that the committee reached a unanimous decision to maintain current policies. This choice speaks…