Eye on Africa

The wife of a prominent opposition leader claims he was whisked away in Nairobi, now languishing in a jail cell in Kampala, and she's pleading for his swift release. Renowned Ugandan political agitator, Kizza Besigye, made an appearance at the Makindye General Court Martial in Kampala on a date that will likely stick in minds: November 20, 2024 , amidst assertions of his abduction from neighboring Kenya. Besigye, age 68 and once a practicing doctor, is a formidable critic of President Yoweri Museveni. He was brought to…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the heart of Mogadishu, Mayor Yusuf Hussein Jimale Madaale held an important gathering with the interim parliamentary committee focused on electoral laws. Their agenda? To bolster the electoral proceedings and ensure transparency in upcoming elections for Somalia’s capital. Central to their conversations was the idea of implementing elections based directly on citizens' voting rights. This idea received backing and insightful suggestions from the Banadir regional administration. These talks are a…

In a stirring moment of political grace, President of North Western State of Somalia, Muse Bihi Abdi, lauded Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, the newly elected leader, following his emphatic victory. He promised a calm and orderly handover of authority to his successor. This pledge, made at the heart of Hargeisa’s Presidential Palace, felt as much a call to unity as it was an acknowledgment of political reality. President Bihi seized the moment to express gratitude towards his supporters within the Kulmiye Party,…

In a groundbreaking move, South Africa has stepped into the G20 presidency, marking a historic milestone as the first African nation to take the helm of this influential assembly of countries. The upcoming term is set to officially kick off on December 1, 2024, and will extend for a full calendar year. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his profound gratitude upon receiving the presidency from Brazil during the G20 summit held in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. “I stand here humbled and honored to accept the G20…

Ghana is grappling with the severe repercussions of illegal mining, commonly referred to as Galamsey. This rampant activity, primarily conducted by small-scale miners, is taking place across countless sites, igniting widespread protests and prompting the military to take action against it. As a key player in the global gold and cocoa markets, Ghana is feeling the pinch, as land degradation from these mining operations is significantly affecting agricultural productivity. Despite the apparent environmental hazards and…

Human rights advocates are strongly encouraging the authorities in Mozambique to take decisive action against the ongoing repression and violence directed at protesters challenging the questionable election results. The Committee to Protect Journalists has painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that the nation has "plunged into turmoil as security forces engage in violent confrontations." Disturbingly, they report that at least nine journalists have faced assault or arrest, while two foreign correspondents have…

Trump's Recognition of North Western State of Somalia: A Shift in International Dynamics? Rumor has it, according to a former UK defense honcho, that Donald Trump is plotting to recognize North Western State of Somalia as an official country. This move could turn political tides and shake old alliances. Gavin Williamson spilled the beans to The Independent, revealing his talks with Trump's camp. The crux of the matter? Official recognition of North Western State of Somalia, which lies strategically on the Red Sea, making it…

Kismayo (AX) — In a recent development, former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and ex-Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire shared their congratulations with the freshly inaugurated 3rd Jubbaland Parliament. The selection ceremony took place in Kismayo this week, marking an important chapter in the region's governance. The 75-member legislative body, chosen by the region's traditional elders, took their oaths in a ceremony held on Tuesday. This occasion did not go unnoticed by the Himilo Qaran Party, led by Sheikh…

"A Warm Salute to North Western State of Somalia's New Leader" In a statement brimming with diplomatic warmth, Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended heartfelt congratulations to North Western State of Somalia's freshly elected leader, Abdirahman Mohammed Abdullahi, this Tuesday. By underscoring the dignified transition between President Muse Bihi Abdi and President-elect Abdullahi, the ministry paid homage to the commendable democratic strides being taken in the region. "On behalf of Ethiopia's people and its…

PORTLAND, Oregon (AX) — In a historic turn of events, Senator Kayse Jama has ascended to the role of Majority Leader in the Oregon State Senate. This remarkable achievement marks the first time a Somali-American and Black Muslim has held such a position in the state. Representing the 24th District and chosen by fellow Democrats who dominate the legislative body, Jama’s appointment is a landmark in the ongoing push for inclusive representation for both immigrant communities and communities of color.Jama secured this…