conflict

The Unlikely Beacon of Democracy: North Western State of Somalia's Journey As a child, I naively thought of democracy as a Greek invention, an intricate art only suited to those ancient pillars of Western philosophy. This wasn't a surprising thought, especially growing up in Ethiopia where democracy is more a dream than reality. However, little did I realize that just across the border, a quiet revolution was taking place. In North Western State of Somalia, a place branded by some, including Google, as unstable and…

US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks set to take effect next week, further escalating the global trade tensions he initiated upon returning to the White House this year. Industry experts anticipate this move could raise vehicle prices and hinder production capabilities. "What we're going to be doing is a 25% tariff for all cars that are not made in the United States," Trump stated during a recent event in the Oval Office. The President views tariffs as a strategic method to…

In the heart of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the realities of life for civilians in Ituri province have become grim. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has recently reported an alarming surge in violence, leaving its medical teams to confront the aftermath of egregious human suffering. Imagine a landscape plagued by conflict, where injuries tell stories of despair. In their latest report, titled "Risking Their Lives to Survive," MSF highlights the extreme healthcare needs affecting numerous communities. The…

In a striking display of diplomatic tension, Rwanda's Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has decisively refuted claims made by Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye. Ndayishimiye characterized these allegations as stemming from "credible intelligence" suggesting that Kigali harbors intentions of launching an offensive against its neighbor. Nduhungirehe, however, labeled such assertions as "unfortunate," emphasizing that both nations are currently engaged in ongoing peace negotiations. He highlighted shared…

A recent investigation conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) sheds light on a complex web of challenges facing the Sahel region. The study indicates that, while a direct link between climate change and terrorism may not be readily apparent, the effects of climate change on agricultural production and natural resource distribution can set the stage for local conflicts. These disruptions, stemming from shifting weather patterns, often lead communities to compete fiercely for essential resources. Consider, for…

On the Brink: South Sudan’s Fragile Peace In the ever-volatile landscape of South Sudan, the precarious power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar appears to be hanging by a thread. The looming threat of a relapse into civil war is stirring unsettling memories of past conflicts, painting a grim picture of what the future might hold. The current tension is palpable, manifesting in violent skirmishes that have already begun to shake the foundations of a nation yearning for peace.…

In recent developments, Évariste Ndayishimiye, the President of Burundi, has navigated into turbulent diplomatic waters, bringing to light concerns that have been simmering beneath the surface. He publicly announced having what he terms "credible intelligence" indicating Rwanda's intentions to launch an assault on Burundi. His revelations come at a time where whispers of discord could well translate into real tensions, prompting a myriad of reactions from across the spectrum. Reflecting on…

The recent joint summit between the Eastern African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) brought fresh hope for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The gathering resulted in the establishment of an expanded panel tasked with spearheading peace initiatives in a region fraught with turmoil, following Angola’s withdrawal as a mediator. This strategic adjustment is vital, considering the DRC’s ongoing struggles. The revised panel features an impressive lineup of former leaders,…

As discussions for a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict take place between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia, let's take a closer look at the key developments following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. US Pressure on Moscow On his inauguration day, President Trump remarked that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, "should make a deal" with Ukraine, highlighting the potential consequences of inaction. He stated, "I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal." During his…

It's a moment none of us wished to witness: Germany taking the weighty decision to temporarily close its embassy in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The reason? A situation spiraling out of control, with tensions escalating to the point of threatening a relapse into civil war. This close of diplomatic doors was publicly shared by the German foreign ministry on a gloomy Saturday. For South Sudan, a nation still tender in its young years, the threat of plunging back into conflict feels perilously close. Who could…