Eye on Africa

In a noteworthy political shift, several members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have jumped ship to the newly formed uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MK Party) over the past six months. High-profile figures like Floyd Shivambu, Mzwanele Manyi, former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, and more recently, advocate Dali Mpofu, have all made the switch, stirring quite the buzz in South Africa's political landscape. Julius Malema, the charismatic leader of the EFF, has brought attention to a rather intriguing proposal made by…

Qatar Charity, teaming up with UNICEF, has kicked off a vital nutrition initiative aimed at alleviating hunger among children in Somalia's displacement camps near Mogadishu—a region heavily impacted by drought-related displacement. This project, a beacon of hope, is set to aid more than 3,000 young ones in dire need of nutritional support. The primary goal here? To nourish children aged 6 months to 5 years, addressing malnutrition head-on and ensuring their basic dietary needs are met. As of now, the initiative has already…

Somalia shook things up this Saturday, swapping out their top military brass in a dramatic reshuffle. The cabinet decided to retire Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin Addow from his position as the chief of the armed forces, handing the reins over to Maj. Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Rageh. The mood in Mogadishu was tense during the emergency meeting when this decision was made, reflecting the swirling political unrest in the Horn of Africa. It’s a big callback for Rageh, who’s no stranger to the role, having previously served as the army chief…

Recent reports have emerged of new cholera cases at the Gache Gache fishing camp and Nyamhunga village, not long after the previous outbreak was officially declared over. Alarmingly, this situation raises concerns about the potential for the highly mobile fishmongering community to facilitate the disease's spread throughout Kariba and its neighboring regions. Tragically, one individual has succumbed to the illness, while 14 others are suspected to be infected. In response, the health ministry has actively engaged…

In a compelling appeal to the political landscape of Ghana, Kathleen Addy, the head of the National Commission for Civic Education, has urged local politicians to quit hurling insults on social media platforms. She passionately asserted that such behavior "could lead to violence," drawing attention to the broader implications of their words. Furthermore, Addy cautioned the media against peddling "misinformation, personal attacks, and divisive rhetoric," emphasizing the responsibility they carry in shaping public discourse.…

Mogadishu (AX) — Here’s the scoop: Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) claimed a significant victory over al-Shabab, taking out at least 22 militants in a precise and strategic maneuver in the Dhararweyn village, located in the Gal’ad district of Somalia's Galgadud region this past Monday night. The intel on this op comes straight from NISA itself, emphasizing that the strike was the culmination of diligent intelligence-gathering on al-Shabab's movements. Recent activities of these militants in…

In a compelling demonstration of solidarity, the Federal Republic of Somalia's head honcho, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, threw his weight behind the Palestinian cause, making an impassioned plea for an immediate halt to hostilities. "The bloodshed must stop," he declared, emphasizing the necessity of freeing all captives and prisoners. "This is not just about peace, it's about preserving lives and easing suffering." Speaking at the high-stakes Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit in Riyadh, President Mohamud laid bare…

In a significant move, the Somali Minister of Finance, Bihi Egeh, placed his signature on the dotted line next to the US ambassador. (Image courtesy of the US Embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia.) Chronic turmoil involving warlords and piracy has long plagued this corner of Africa. Amidst such challenges, the USA gave Somalia a bit of financial breathing room by forgiving a hefty $1.1 billion (£860m) in debt. This reveals a new chapter for Somalia as it announces the cancellation of about a quarter of its total debt through…

The vibrant colors of the North Western State of Somalia flag waved through the air at a bustling rally in Hargeisa on November 8, 2024, marking the region's anticipation for the upcoming presidential election. The North Western State of Somalia National Electoral Commission confirmed that over a million citizens are set to cast their votes this Wednesday, deciding on their leader for another five-year term. The three presidential contenders aim not only to cement North Western State of Somalia’s delicate political…

Even with a rising tide of awareness regarding children’s rights, the latest findings from UNICEF unveil some serious educational hurdles faced by kids in Eastern and Southern Africa. The figures are eye-opening and provoke serious thought. Research has shown that a staggering 87% of children recognize their rights. Yet, awareness doesn’t equate to adequate support or access. Take Tanzania, for instance, where youngsters are vocal about their need for better digital literacy and vocational training opportunities. They see…