African

Have you ever wondered why certain regions seem to experience endless cycles of political upheaval? Imagine the landscape of West Africa, where military coups have become a peculiar phenomenon, especially in nations like Mali and Burkina Faso. Concerns about democratic stability in this vibrant region are frequently overshadowed by the rumblings of military trucks signaling yet another seize of power. The landscape isn’t just influenced by unknown officers; it…

Across the diverse tapestry that is Africa, a continent rich in culture and history, the realities of governance often invoke spirited discussions. It is intriguing to consider that while the general retirement age in most African nations hovers around 60, some leaders remain in power well beyond these years. This leads us to ponder: what drives these figures to extend their tenure, and what implications does this have on the countries they govern? Let's take a closer look at the African presidents who have held onto power…

In our rapidly changing world, trust in institutions seems to be slipping through our fingers—like sand in an hourglass. Think about it: according to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, a staggering six in ten individuals now harbor deep-seated grievances, intensely believing that both governments and big corporations cater solely to the affluent, leaving the rest of us clutching at straws. Are these fears unfounded, or is there meat to this bone of contention? Reflecting on the last quarter-century, has the picture of…

Imagine the delicate fabric of a nation's economy, intricately woven with resources, ambitions, and policy decisions. This fabric can unravel if pressured by the burden of excessive debt, particularly when the debt is channeled from notable institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Have you ever contemplated how a country could potentially stumble, losing its balance in the dance of debt and growth? The reassurance of financial assistance during turbulent times is undeniably comforting, yet it…

In the diverse and expansive continent of Africa, speed regulations vary significantly from one nation to another. These regulations, while reflecting the unique landscapes and infrastructural conditions of each country, generally converge within specific limits determined by the type of road. For instance, urban areas typically see speed limits ranging from 40 to 60 km/h. On the other hand, rural roads extend these limits to between 60 and 100 km/h, whereas highways offer a broader range of 80 to 120 km/h. If you’ve ever…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - On a cloudless morning, defense heads from Ethiopia and Somalia reached a landmark consensus that could shift the region’s dynamics. They have sanctioned the deployment of Ethiopian soldiers into the African Union's latest undertaking, the AUSSOM mission. The discussions, permeated with a cautious optimism and underscored by a joint communiqué released on Sunday, also saw them promising to draft a detailed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) aimed at delineating the operations of these bilateral forces…

Speed limits, a crucial element of road safety, typically fluctuate across African nations based on the type of roadway. In cities, you'll find limits ranging from 40 to 60 km/h, while rural roads allow 60 to 100 km/h. Highways, the epitome of speed, permit 80 to 120 km/h. Speed limits serve not merely as numbers on signs but as lifelines woven into the fabric of road safety. They aim to foster an orderly flow of traffic and, more importantly, preserve human lives. "Speed thrills but kills," as the adage goes. Research…

Military Diplomacy in Somalia: A Visit with Intent MOGADISHU, Somalia — Modern diplomacy sometimes unfolds far from the gilded halls of embassies, finding its stage amidst the sands of complex regions. On a wholly unpredictable Sunday, Ethiopia's army chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, descended upon Mogadishu with an air of quiet determination. But what goal lies beneath this curtain of spontaneity? Accompanying Birhanu was Redwan…

Imagine a sprawling complex nestled in a strategically vital location—a hub of constant activity. These military bases, scattered across foreign lands, serve multifaceted purposes. Their roles range from counterterrorism painstakingly orchestrated from afar to safeguarding maritime borders. But have you ever wondered about the hidden layers beneath their ostensibly benign existence? Strategic military bases often appear as essential instruments of peace and stability. They’re pivotal for intelligence operations and for…

With the emergence of Djibouti's Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as the new leader of the African Union Commission (AUC), a pivotal question arises: how will this new stewardship navigate the escalating continental and global crises? Often overshadowed by global news headlines, the recent African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa marked a significant turning point for Africa's foremost multilateral institution. A tectonic shift, if you will, was felt as Youssouf, an esteemed diplomat, was ushered in to replace Chad's Moussa…