governance

The Netherlands has recently made a significant commitment by agreeing to repatriate a collection of culturally important artifacts to Nigeria. In a landmark decision, the Dutch government pledged to return 113 Benin bronzes, emblematic remnants of a rich African heritage, that were taken during colonial times. This momentous agreement emerged through a formal signing between the Dutch Minister for Education, Eppo Bruins, and representatives from Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments. The artifacts,…

In a decisive and candid address, President John Mahama recently emphasized a critical message to his administration: the stringent expectation to declare assets by the end of March, as mandated by Ghanaian law. He warns that failure to comply will result in "severe sanctions." This directive underscores his unwavering commitment to combatting corruption, an issue that has plagued many nations, including Ghana. On February 19, during a public asset declaration alongside Ghana's Auditor General, Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu,…

The Rwandan government has sharply rebuked Belgium for what it perceives as an “aggressive campaign” aimed at disrupting its access to vital development funding. In a bold move, Belgium has urged the European Union to suspend direct budgetary support to Rwanda, contingent on the nation “severing ties with the Tutsi-led M23 rebels,” who have made significant territorial gains in the eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions raises an important question: To…

On the horizon looms a pivotal moment for South Africa’s fiscal landscape as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to present the much-anticipated 2025 Budget Speech. This speech is more than just a financial outline; it serves as a reflection of the government's priorities, intricately aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent State of the Nation Address. The task ahead is daunting: how to strike a balance between fostering economic growth and providing essential social support, all while navigating the…

The military junta, under the leadership of Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, has once again faltered, neglecting another deadline for restoring democracy in Guinea. This delay in the transition to civilian governance was outlined in an agreement forged in 2022 with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), concluding a long, tumultuous year of discussions. The long-awaited process intended to initiate preparations for the 2025 elections had been scheduled to commence on New Year's Day. Yet, instead of rallying the…

In a recent dialogue with journalists, President Emmerson Mnangagwa firmly reaffirmed his dedication to adhering to the constitutional mandate of a two-term limit. As he articulated his vision, he indicated that his presidency will conclude in 2028, as originally scheduled. This steadfast declaration comes amid persistent discussions about extending his tenure to 2030, discussions he categorically dismissed. “While I respect the democratic rights of those advocating for an extension, my decision is resolute. I will not allow…

Muhsin Hendricks, renowned as the world’s first openly gay imam, was tragically killed in what appears to be an assassination in Gqeberha, South Africa. The circumstances surrounding his death are nothing short of shocking; his vehicle was ambushed, highlighting a dark chapter in the ongoing struggle for acceptance and safety faced by LGBTQI+ individuals. Hendricks was not merely an imam; he was a revolutionary figure passionately advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ people within the Muslim community. His mission was…

In recent years, the landscape of global funding has been tumultuous, prompting African nations to grapple with the consequences of dwindling foreign aid. The ripple effects of changes in American policy, particularly under the Trump administration, pose a grave threat to essential health, education, and economic stability initiatives crucial for various countries on the continent. A notable example is President Donald Trump's executive order, which quelled new government spending on foreign assistance for a staggering 90…

Friday, February 14, 2025 FILE - Speaker of SSC-Khaatumo Parliament, Jama Yasin Warsame Mogadishu (AX) — Change is often the subtle heartbeat of progress. The SSC-Khaatumo Parliament has embarked on a noteworthy venture by initiating a constitutional drafting committee, a move aimed at sculpting the region’s governance structure. The journey is anything but pedestrian. What challenges lie ahead as they chart a course towards legislative autonomy? Speaker Jama Yasin Warsame addressing the Parliament The…

As South Africa navigates its complex socio-political landscape, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent address during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate struck a resonant chord focused on unity and collaborative nation-building. In a world fraught with challenges, he urged the nation to stand resilient against what he described as a “harsh global wind.” One might wonder—how does a country, rich in diversity and potential, find common ground amid such pressing issues? Ramaphosa emphasized the pivotal role of the…