Eye on Africa

The new import duty imposed on ECOWAS states is set to take effect immediately. Its intention is, ostensibly, to finance activities within the Sahel countries, leaving many curious minds questioning: What are these activities? Why now? This levy arrives at a significant crossroads for West African trade. For decades, the region has thrived on the principle of open exchanges as a bedrock of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Now, this pillar seems to be wavering. Consider…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a profound moment of consensus, former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, along with ex-Prime Ministers Abdi Farah Shirdon and Mohamed Hussein Roble, came forward to endorse President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent plea for peace dialogues. Their shared vision paints these discussions as essential steps towards reinforcing Somalia’s federal governance and the shared struggle against terrorism. Farmaajo, a vivid figure in the country's political tapestry, released a heartening statement on Sunday,…

The recent unearthing of a Bronze Age settlement, dating back approximately 4,000 years, at Kach Kouch in Morocco has sent ripples through the archaeological community. This discovery prompts a critical re-evaluation of long-held beliefs about the ancient Maghreb region, particularly the notion that it remained largely unpopulated prior to the advent of the Phoenicians around 800 BCE. How often do we allow assumptions to cloud our understanding of history? Excavations at this site have unveiled a tapestry of life that…

Joint Operation Against Al-Shabaab: A Tactical Endeavor On a significant Monday in Mogadishu, the Somali National Army (SNA) Danab Commandos orchestrated a noteworthy mission. Teaming up with Jubbaland's Dervish forces, they embarked on a carefully planned military operation, focusing their efforts against well-entrenched Al-Shabaab militant strongholds in the northern territories of the Lower Juba region. This operation, no small feat, zeroed in on crucial areas where Al-Shabaab exerted its influence, unjustly…

Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International – Monitoring. In a dramatic sweep of athletic prowess and undeniable determination, the football clubs Manchester City and Aston Villa both clinched their places in the FA Cup semifinals this past Sunday. The journey wasn't just about dodging defenders or scoring goals; it was about the essence of football itself – a microcosm of strategy, skill, and sheer willpower. And, as we explore these matches further, we find ourselves asking: in sport, as in life, what does it…

Berbera: A Tale of Geopolitics and Sovereignty The city of Berbera sits at a vantage point on the Gulf of Aden. This strategic location has long made it a focal point of geopolitical interest. Here, history and modern politics entwine, painting a vivid landscape of opportunity and conflict. North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared independent region of Somalia, recently found itself at the heart of a geopolitical storm. As Somalia's central government attempted to grant the United States exclusive…

In a fervent address at the Consecration and Installation Ceremony of Rev. Harrison Munyua at the Redeemed Church in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Rigathi Gachagua, former Deputy President, offered a spirited critique of the current political scene. He voiced apprehensions concerning President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to the Mt. Kenya region, raising the question: “What tangible benefits will this visit bring for the people of Mt. Kenya?” Gachagua, in his animated speech, advised the residents of Mt. Kenya to…

There's a vivid reminder of the fragility of peace in Somalia. On March 18, a bomb blast narrowly missed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's convoy, underscoring the ever-present danger posed by Al-Shabaab within Mogadishu itself. This incident serves as a wake-up call, illustrating the volatile nature of a conflict that many believed was nearing resolution. Just days earlier, Somali security forces, perched on their open trucks, stood sentinel by the Syl Hotel. This location has become a grim testament to the ongoing…

Eid-Ul-Fitr: A Time of Reflection, Unity, and Celebration in Kenya In the tranquil, early hours of March 30, 2025, Muslim communities across Kenya gathered at various locations to celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. This day isn't just another date on the calendar for Muslims worldwide. It is an opportunity for spiritual renewal, deep reflection, and an embrace of unity and compassion. The experiences during Ramadan leave an indelible mark on many, as they engage in fasting from…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the world of medicine, there are individuals driven not merely by duty but by passion and a deep love for humanity. Dr. Mohamed Abdullahi Hassan, a seasoned Somali physician residing in the United Kingdom, is one such figure. Picture him nestled among the rolling hills of the Al Miskaad region in Northeastern State, where he has ventured to lend a hand to local medical teams. The aim? To care for soldiers injured in the current skirmishes against the Islamic State militants—a mission fueled…