challenges

Addressing Vulnerabilities and Risks: The Somali Entrepreneur's Journey in Unstable Times Source: Equals blog The Landscape of Vulnerability In a world where stability often feels like a fleeting ideal, Somali entrepreneurs are particularly susceptible to the winds of change. As they navigate the complex tapestry of identities within their communities, they frequently find themselves under heightened scrutiny. There’s a palpable risk of being drawn into political fault lines, whereby their businesses could be unfairly…

On Thursday, the Moroccan government unveiled a key agreement with the National Airports Authority (ONDA), marking a major milestone in the nation's ambition to modernize its airport infrastructure. This agreement is not just a bureaucratic tick in the box; it signals a transformative leap towards better accommodating the influx of international travelers expected in the coming years. The overarching goal? To nearly double the country's airport capacity—from a current 38 million to an impressive 80 million…

The recent decision by the UK government to slash foreign aid spending by a staggering 40% has raised a wave of concerns regarding its ramifications for humanitarian efforts, particularly across the African continent. This significant budget reduction has sent ripples of anxiety through various sectors, notably health and education. The Prime Minister described this juncture as a "painful choice," a term that may indeed resonate with those on the front lines of aid work. This move mirrors a troubling trend initiated by past…

On July 4, 2025, U.S. lawmakers enacted the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and nestled within this sweeping legislation is a new fee that has sparked widespread discussion and concern. Set to take effect later this year, this fee introduces significant changes to the landscape of U.S. immigration and visa applications. According to the reputable immigration legal firm Envoy Global, this fee will apply to all foreign nationals issued a nonimmigrant visa—especially those hailing from Africa. Whether applying as…

In recent times, two significant global developments have dramatically altered the economic landscape: the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and the escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. With Trump reintroducing import tariffs—set at 10% across the board and additional duties on specific countries—global trade tensions have reignited. This move has raised questions about the future of multilateralism and has triggered a retreat of capital flows to emerging markets. Concurrently, the conflict in the Middle East…

China's Industrial Strategy Under Scrutiny: A Paradigm Shift? On a recent Monday, Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader, raised eyebrows with remarks that questioned the nation’s fixation on a select few high-tech sectors. It was an unexpected moment of introspection from a leader usually known for his steadfast resolve in promoting ambitious technological initiatives. “When it comes to new projects, it's always the same few things: artificial intelligence, computing power, and new energy…

The disparities in how fragility is defined point to significant shortcomings in our understanding of conflict and vulnerability. This situation begs the question: how can we refine our global metrics to better encompass the complexities of fragile states? A revealing report by the World Bank classifies Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations (FCS) as nations grappling with weak institutions, persistent violence, or challenges in post-conflict recovery. But what does being ‘fragile’ truly mean for the people…

A New Chapter: AU Allocates $10 Million for Somalia Peace Initiative ADDIS ABABA — In an era marked by both hope and uncertainty, the African Union (AU) has committed an essential $10 million to a vital peace mission in Somalia. This allocation is set to bolster the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a decision driven by the urgent need arising from heightened security challenges and fiscal constraints. So, what prompted this significant move? Over recent months, traditional allies,…

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to engage in discussions as the UK urges France to enhance its efforts in curbing migrant crossings. President Macron's arrival marks the first state visit by an EU leader to the UK since Brexit, highlighting the importance of this occasion. In recent weeks, the UK has been advocating for more stringent actions from French authorities regarding the beaches along the Channel coastline. Prime Minister Starmer is aiming to negotiate a "one in,…

Garowe (AX) — In a significant development that may reshape Northeastern State’s political landscape, the regional parliament is gearing up to vote on a highly controversial motion aimed at revoking the parliamentary immunity of the former Speaker, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril. Accused of spearheading efforts to detach the Sanaag region from Northeastern State and align with the SSC-Khaatumo administration, this action raises layers of complexity and stakes in a region already fraught with political tensions. Those in favor of…