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Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, recently ascended to the position of chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). With this new role, he sets his sights on reinstating constitutional order and fostering a more robust democratic framework across the region. Taking over from Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who faced significant tribulations during his two terms, Bio steps into a complex landscape. Tinubu’s leadership was not without its hurdles. His tenure endured the strain of…

Taoiseach Michéal Martin Strives for Ireland’s Leadership in Maritime Policy Taoiseach Michéal Martin has expressed his aspiration for Ireland to emerge as a "leading nation" in global maritime policy. His remarks came as he arrived in France to participate in the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), currently taking place in Nice until Friday. As we commemorate a decade since the historic Paris Agreement, which set ambitious targets for limiting global warming, the spotlight now…

Tidjane Thiam, a prominent figure in Ivorian politics, has unexpectedly resumed his role as the leader of the country’s foremost opposition party. This surprising turn of events occurred just days after he had stepped down from the position. Following legal complications that emerged with his presidential aspirations for the upcoming October elections, Thiam initially announced his resignation from the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire - African Democratic Rally. At 62, his political journey has taken a tumultuous path,…

Imagine a swift change in direction for one of the world’s largest oil corporations. Today, we witnessed just such a transformation in Nigeria’s energy landscape. In a significant announcement, the presidency declared Bayo Ojulari as the new CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). This change comes swiftly after the removal of Mele Kyari from the same position. “Every beginning has an end; however, every end is also a new beginning.” — these words from an anonymous thinker…

Tensions Escalate: A New Chapter in Rwanda-Congo Mediation The Congo-Rwanda conflict has reached a pivotal juncture, marked by the rise in militant activities in eastern Congo. The M23, a rebel group allegedly supported by Rwanda, continues its aggressive campaign, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Why has peace in this tumultuous region remained elusive for so long? What are the implications for the people on the ground? In a previous peace initiative, Angola played a key role, guiding negotiations…

In the heart of Addis Ababa, the bustling capital of Ethiopia, the African Union convened its annual summit. This gathering, straddled between the echoes of prior conflicts and the anticipations of future peace, witnessed a pivotal leadership transition. Among the dappled sunlight that filtered through the grand assembly hall, an air of quiet anticipation settled in—a new chief was to be chosen for the African Union Commission, a role vital for steering the organization through its intricate daily operations. The merits of…

In a showdown that felt reminiscent of political dramas played out on the silver screen, Pete Hegseth just eked out a victory in his quest to become the next Secretary of Defense. For President Donald Trump, this wasn't just another appointment; it was a significant triumph over a wave of opposition from Democrats and even a few skeptical Republicans regarding his polarizing nominee. The drama unfolded in the Senate, where votes were cast like confetti on New Year’s Eve, culminating in a 50-50 tie. Vice President JD Vance,…

As President-elect John Mahama prepares to assume the highest office in Ghana on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, he faces a monumental task—leading a nation overwhelmed by its most severe economic crisis in decades. Mahama isn’t new to the political arena; he served as president from 2012 to 2017. His recent triumph over the ruling party's candidate, outgoing Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, marks a noteworthy comeback that has captured national attention. "The economic landscape is challenging," Mahama expressed shortly after…

Come October 1, Egypt will helm the African Peace and Security Council for a month, announced Mohamed Gad, Egypt’s ambassador to Ethiopia and its Permanent Representative to the African Union. Egypt aims to boost the Council's efforts in safeguarding peace, security, and stability, while tackling the multifaceted security and development issues plaguing the African continent, Gad stated Monday. Circumstances today are pretty gnarly—both regionally and globally—heightening security threats left and right. This scenario…

In Tunisia, more than three weeks after taking temporary power, the President of the Republic, Kaïs Saïed, has not yet proposed a roadmap or a new head of government, but he continues the messages and sharpens the tone against corruption and political parties. as reported from Tunis, Lilia blaiseIt is a status quo that remains…