Central

The Zimbabwe Gold: A New Chapter in Currency History The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) boasts that its latest currency, the Zimbabwe Gold—a gold-backed currency colloquially known as the “ZiG”—is underpinned by more than 100% in reserves. These reserves include 2.5 tons of gold and approximately $100 million in foreign assets. At first glance, such figures might inspire confidence in a nation long plagued by economic upheaval and inflation. But how genuine is this assurance? Enter the ZiG, Zimbabwe’s sixth…

Gold Reserves: A Pillar of Financial Stability in Africa In today's unpredictable financial landscape, gold reserves stand as a beacon of stability. They serve not just as a buffer against currency volatility, but also as a cornerstone of investor confidence—a vital asset for nations especially susceptible to external economic shocks. The importance of gold cannot be overstated; it has historically provided a sense of security as well as a tangible representation of wealth and economic strength. As stated by…

Al-Shabaab Seizes Strategic Area Amid Fierce Clashes in Central Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - Al-Shabaab militants have recently showcased images from El Hareeri, a critical village in central Somalia, aiming to demonstrate their unyielding control over the area. Surprisingly absent from these images is any sign of government forces, prompting questions about the current state of affairs in Somalia’s conflict zones. Just last Wednesday, Al-Shabaab released photographs revealing their continued dominance in El…

Al-Shabaab Struggles for Control in Central Somalia Amid Intense Clashes MOGADISHU, Somalia - The landscape of central Somalia is once again disrupted by the relentless attempts of the al-Shabaab forces to reassert their authority. These Al-Qaeda-linked militants have been engaged in heated battles, particularly on the outskirts of Moqokori village. It seems they are determined to displace government forces along with local fighters who bravely stand on the frontlines.…

Rwanda has recently made a significant diplomatic decision, announcing its withdrawal from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). This choice follows a heated dispute, particularly concerning accusations regarding Rwanda's alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict within the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Understanding the context of this withdrawal demands a closer look at ECCAS itself. Established in the 1980s, this regional bloc comprises 11 member states, all united under…

In recent years, Kenya has steadily positioned itself as a pivotal transit hub for gold trafficking, particularly from African nations grappling with instability and governance challenges. According to a comprehensive report released by SwissAid, a non-governmental organization dedicated to resource justice and development, the intricacies of this illicit trade reveal a pressing need for deeper scrutiny and understanding. A significant portion of Kenya's gold production originates from artisanal and small-scale…

Assault on Galkayo Central Prison Raises Security Concerns Galkacyo (AX) — In the early hours of Thursday, armed militia engaged in a brazen, coordinated assault on the Galkayo Central Prison. This alarming incident appears to be a calculated effort to extricate inmates, as reported by reliable local sources. The chaos that ensued disrupted the city’s tranquil atmosphere and stirred significant concerns regarding the recurrent breaches of prison security. As gunfire reverberated through the city, it was impossible not to…

Chad's Promising Path: An Overview of Recent Developments In May 2025, significant negotiations unfolded in N’Djamena, culminating in an agreement that now awaits the approval of the IMF Executive Board. This critical step relies not only on securing the necessary financing assurances but also on the backing of a comprehensive plan aimed at fostering Chad's long-term economic growth and stability. At the heart of this strategic vision lies Chad’s Vision 2030 framework, a blueprint intended to transform the nation into an…

The Douala-N’Djamena Corridor: A Pathway to Prosperity Imagine a bustling marketplace where goods from various nations converge to create a tapestry of culture and commerce. This is the vision underpinning the Douala-N’Djamena corridor, a vital infrastructure project linking Douala, Cameroon’s largest port and economic heart, to N’Djamena, the capital of Chad. This corridor is not just a road; it’s a lifeline, facilitating trade and transport across Central Africa, and promising to…

Somali Army Embarks on Major Offensive in Central Regions MOGADISHU, Somalia - The gentle hum of the city masks the underlying tensions, where in the midst of persistent challenges, the Somali National Army (SNA) has decisively initiated a significant offensive against militant groups. These operations, pivotal in nature, aim to reclaim pivotal areas from insurgents in central Somalia. Joining forces with regional allies, the SNA has targeted Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions,…