international

North Korea has officially prohibited foreign visitors from accessing its newly inaugurated beach resort, as announced by the country's tourism administration this week. This development comes shortly after a visit by Russia's top diplomat to the region. The extensive seaside resort, located on North Korea’s east coast and championed by leader Kim Jong-un, welcomed domestic guests earlier this month amid much celebration in state-run media. Affectionately dubbed "North Korea's Waikiki" by South Korean media outlets, the…

U.S. Imposes 3.5% Tax on Foreign Remittances, Sparking Global Concern WASHINGTON—In a significant policy shift, the United States has introduced a 3.5% tax on international money transfers sent by non-citizens. This decision is expected to deeply impact countless families worldwide who depend on these remittances for essential needs like food, education, and healthcare. Imagine the countless conversations, punctuated by sighs and silent heartaches, and you begin to fathom the change's profound human cost. The measure,…

The tourism sector in Africa is exhibiting remarkable recovery and potential, with a staggering 66.3 million international tourists anticipated to visit the continent in 2024. This influx is projected to generate a substantial $38 billion in total receipts, as highlighted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This isn't merely a statistical triumph; it represents an uplifting narrative of revived interest in the continent's vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences. The…

The landscape of energy generation in Africa is witnessing a pivotal transformation, fueled by a renewed interest from international investors and development partners in nuclear power infrastructure. This surge in interest is not merely a trend; it's a purposeful move towards enhancing energy security, stimulating industrial growth, and bolstering climate resilience across the continent. Africa, with its ever-increasing energy deficits, stands at a crossroads. Coupled with an urgent need to transition to…

Resurgence in Nigeria's Forex Markets: A Sign of Economic Optimism A notable turnaround is echoing through Nigeria's foreign exchange landscape. A recently observed uptick in the international usage of naira cards highlights a blossoming confidence that permeates the market. This shift can be attributed to a combination of pragmatic monetary policy reforms, a revival of bank initiatives, and a general enlivening of the economy. Engaging in cross-border transactions has become more accessible, allowing for smoother…

The Revival of Libya's Petroleum Sector: A New Era of Opportunities The landscape of global energy is shifting, and at the center of this transformation lies Libya, a North African country rich in oil and gas resources. Major players in the industry, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, TotalEnergies, and Eni, are beginning to take note of the country's revitalized petroleum sector. It's a change ripe with promise, both for Libya and for the international energy market. Recently, Masoud…

It’s hard not to feel a heightened sense of tension in the world today—an undercurrent of uncertainty that seems to permeate our daily lives. If you've observed this sensation, you’re not alone. The latest findings from the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) corroborate these feelings, revealing a sobering truth: global peacefulness has declined for the sixth consecutive year. Alarmingly, this marks the 13th time in 17 years that we have witnessed such a backtrack. Yet, amidst this general decline, a curious silver…

Yesterday, Windhoek was abuzz with excitement as the second edition of the Global African Hydrogen Summit was officially announced. Scheduled for 9 to 11 September 2025, this international gathering will unfold under the ambitious theme: “Ambition in Action: Fuelling Africa's Green Industrial Revolution.” This summit not only aims to showcase innovative energy solutions but also seeks to reposition Africa at the forefront of the global energy transition. But why hydrogen? Amidst the escalating concerns over climate change…

Reflections from the 113th International Labour Conference: A Somali Perspective The delegation from Somalia, under the leadership of Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Hon. Yusuf Mohamed Adan, recently wrapped up their engagement at the 113th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva from June 2 to June 13, 2025. Now back in Mogadishu, the twelve delegates have immersed themselves in deep contemplation and strategic meetings at the Ministry's headquarters over the past couple of days. These days spent in…

Tragedy Strikes in Benue State, Nigeria In a devastating turn of events, over 100 lives were claimed in a violent attack on a village in central Nigeria's Benue state, according to a recent report from Amnesty International Nigeria. This shocking incident occurred during the night, stretching from late Friday into the early hours of Saturday, in the village of Yelewata. The details emerging from this tragedy are not just numbers on a page; they represent families shattered, communities devastated, and lives…