governance

Somalia's Leader Responds to Critics in Face of Governance and Security Struggles MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia's President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has addressed his detractors at a time when the nation is grappling with external threats. He found himself in the hot seat, emphasizing that defending the reputation of the Horn of Africa is a collective duty. Clearly, Hassan Sheikh is battling external tensions with Ethiopia, while struggling to build bridges within the federal member states. Meanwhile, the…

Today marks Global Handwashing Day, an occasion designed to elevate public consciousness about the vital role of handwashing with soap in safeguarding health and preventing disease. Failure to wash one’s hands properly with soap and clean, flowing water significantly heightens the risk of various illnesses. This year's theme, "Why Are Clean Hands Still Important?", underscores the ongoing relevance of hand hygiene in thwarting the spread of outbreaks and pandemics, particularly in areas where healthcare resources are…

President Joseph Boakai has officially accepted the resignation of Commerce Minister Amin Modad. This decision came in the wake of significant public backlash regarding Modad's acquisition of a vehicle that surpassed the established price ceiling. "His actions demonstrate a serious lapse in judgment and an insensitivity to the prevailing economic circumstances in our nation," Boakai remarked, emphasizing the need for accountability in leadership. The former Minister of Commerce defended his choice, explaining that the…

FILE - Inside the Parliament House in Mogadishu, Somali Federal Parliament members gather. Parliament plays a pivotal role in promoting good governance, accountability, and democratic ideals in Somalia.  Introduction When envisioning good governance, images of democracy, the rule of law, and visionary leadership come to mind. The term “governance” takes its roots from ancient Greek ideas, picked up from Latin origins meaning “to steer,” and passed along by the French. John Locke, back in the 17th century, dished out…

Zimbabwe has recently confirmed its inaugural two cases of mpox, coming on the heels of Zambia’s declaration of its own first instance of the disease. While the specific strains of the virus in Zimbabwe remain unidentified, it appears that the individuals who tested positive either traveled to or made visits from Tanzania and South Africa. Just days prior, Zambia reported its initial mpox case, although the particulars about the viral strain were not disclosed. The health ministry of Zambia revealed that a 32-year-old…

Tributes are flooding in for Tito Mboweni, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank and South Africa's Labour and Finance Minister, who sadly passed away following a brief illness. He was 65 years old. Mboweni's political journey began in South Africa’s first democratically elected Cabinet, where he held the position of Minister of Labour from 1994 to 1999. He later took the helm as the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, serving from 1999 until 2009. His tenure in government culminated in his role as Minister of…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has opted not to pursue charges against President Cyril Ramaphosa or anyone involved in the Phala Phala affair, which originated from a criminal complaint lodged by former intelligence official Arthur Fraser back in 2022. Known colloquially as "Farmgate," the controversy erupted when Fraser accused Ramaphosa of covering up the theft of $4 million after a burglary at the president's Phala Phala game farm. The president firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that the funds taken…

In a significant gathering in Asmara, Eritrea, leaders from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia convened to reaffirm their commitment to upholding sovereignty and ensuring territorial integrity within the Horn of Africa. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia participated in this summit, which took place against the backdrop of escalating tensions throughout the region. During their discussions, the leaders focused on bolstering security measures, enhancing…

The government of Burkina Faso is sharpening its focus on a nationalistic approach to news and information dissemination, as noted by the Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Recently, the Superior Council for Communication (CSC), which oversees media regulations in Burkina Faso, imposed a ban on the rebroadcast of foreign radio programs effective immediately. This decision follows a three-month suspension of the Voice of America (VOA) broadcasts in the country. This move highlights a growing trend in which the government seeks…

In a striking move, the state-run National Handling Services (NHS) has sent several senior executives home amid serious allegations of corruption, ineptitude, and failures in corporate governance. Among those suspended are Godknows Maravanyika, Question Maisera, and Shamiso Nyangairi, who heads the Human Resources department. These individuals face accusations of financial improprieties and mismanagement of company assets. The atmosphere within NHS resembles a stormy sea, as discontent among employees reaches a boiling…