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The discourse around the elimination of fuel subsidies is fraught with complexities. On the one hand, there is a prevalent belief that removing these subsidies could lead to positive outcomes in the long term. But, is that always the case? In discussing this issue, we must consider not only the economic theories but also the real-world impacts that countries face when embarking on this challenging path. Nigeria serves as a compelling case study. When the country made the decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, the…

In the world of international relations, where every dialogue can tip the scale, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda recently made a significant decision. He previously vowed to "stand up" to Belgium, a statement which resonated ambiguously across global platforms. Now, Rwanda has plunged forward, severing diplomatic ties with Belgium. The Rwandan government asserts it has been "consistently undermined" by this European nation during a complicated conflict brewing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision has…

The World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, stood majestic against the crisp winter sky on January 28, 2025. It seems astonishing, doesn't it? The power of decisions emanating from high offices and how they ripple across the globe. A profound decision has just sent shockwaves through the fabric of international health—a decision by the Trump administration to pause U.S. foreign aid. This pause, the World Health Organization claims, has "substantially disrupted" the supply of HIV treatments in a…

Columbia University Faces Federal Funding Cuts Amidst Controversy In a surprising twist last Friday, the Trump administration announced its decision to cut approximately $400 million worth of federal contracts and grants to Columbia University. This substantial figure accounts for nearly 8% of the university’s current $5 billion portfolio in federal grant commitments. A bold move, isn’t it? Yet, it wasn't entirely unexpected given the atmosphere of heightened scrutiny towards educational…

Fuel Price Reduction: A New Dawn for Nigerians On Monday, Nigerians will breathe a little easier with a new development that promises financial relief. There’s no denying that fuel costs have been a significant burden since the removal of fuel subsidies in this bustling nation. But what does this price cut mean for the everyday Nigerian? Recently, Dangote Petroleum Refinery took a bold step, lowering its ex-depot price from N890 to N825 per litre. It’s not just a number; it's a…

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Tense Meeting with President Trump: A Diplomatic Standoff In an unexpected turn of events, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's recent visit to the White House for discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump descended into a public clash, leaving onlookers baffled and concerned. Tensions flared as the two world leaders exchanged fiery comments regarding the ongoing war with Russia, a situation that has gripped global headlines since the Kremlin’s invasion of Ukraine three years…

In a significant turn of events, a prominent Norwegian aid organization specializing in demining has announced the unfortunate laying off of 1,700 employees across 12 countries. This decision, precipitated by a recent move from the United States to suspend foreign aid payments, casts a long shadow over the future of humanitarian efforts. Remarkably, this marks the second major Norwegian charity to scale back operations within just two days, a worrisome trend that raises pressing questions about the sustainability of…

The diplomatic ties between South Africa and the United States have recently taken a sharp turn toward tension. Central to this escalating strain is a dramatic clash between two notable figures: Elon Musk, a South African-born entrepreneur and advisor to former President Trump, and Julius Malema, the fiery leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Tensions came to a head when Musk, calling Malema an "international criminal," demanded sanctions against him for incendiary remarks during a rally. These remarks included the…

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari apologizes to his compatriots for some recent economic troubles related to fuel shortages and power grid outages. Emmanuel Igah, consultant in geopolitics and international development, tells us more

The European Union cuts Kenya's military funding in Somalia NAIROBI, Kenya - The European Union has cut off Kenya's defense forces Somalia's budget by nearly half, giving further indication of the imminent exit of AMISOM troops from the Horn of Africa nation, which still grapples with the threat of Al-Shabaab. This will pave the way for the exit of FDK troops serving in AMISOM, and subsequent…