journey

U.S. President Donald Trump returned to Washington late Friday night, traveling aboard the vintage Boeing 747 that has become a symbol of his presidency. This aircraft, a remnant from George H.W. Bush's administration, has carried many leaders and dignitaries on numerous trips to the Middle East over the years. This vintage plane, often referred to as "the other Air Force One," has been a witness to significant U.S. involvement in the region. From Bush's initial invasion of Iraq in response to Kuwait’s aggression to his…

The Perilous Journey to Saudi Arabia: A Story of Hope and Despair Crossing deserts on foot, engaging with unscrupulous smugglers, braving the treacherous sea—these are the harsh realities faced by countless migrants attempting to reach Saudi Arabia. Their journey often entails enduring abuse from armed factions and navigating highly fortified mountain borders, which have long been the backdrop of conflict. In 2023, a report by Human Rights Watch shed light on the egregious abuses allegedly perpetrated by Saudi border…

In an exciting development on the global diplomatic stage, President Cyril Ramaphosa is preparing to welcome President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine this Thursday. This occasion will mark a historic first: the inaugural visit by a Ukrainian head of state to South Africa. It’s more than just a formality; it represents a significant moment for both nations as they seek to navigate the complexities of contemporary geopolitics. Vincent Magwenya, the presidential spokesperson, has articulated the essence of this visit well. He…

In a significant move reflecting the complexities of international diplomacy, the United States has recently announced plans to deport around 132 South Sudanese nationals. In response to this unfolding situation, the government of South Sudan is taking proactive steps and has decided to send a delegation to the United States. The aim? To thoroughly assess the circumstances surrounding these deportations and facilitate a constructive dialogue. According to an official statement from Vice President Bol Mel's office, this…

An Irish-Syrian citizen who fled Aleppo in 2014 recently returned to her home city, only to find it "completely destroyed." Dentist Loujin Shakerdi has made Maynooth, Co. Kildare, her home since her arrival in Ireland nearly a decade ago. However, the lingering effects of the 13-year civil war she escaped have left an indelible mark on her heart, igniting a strong desire to return and lend a helping hand. During a recent five-day humanitarian medical mission, the 25-year-old found herself stationed in Maarat al-Numan, a…

Namibia has entered a transformative era under the leadership of its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Upon assuming office, she made an audacious move to trim the size of her Cabinet from a bulky 21 members down to a more agile 14. This decision has sparked both admiration and vigorous debate, inspiring many to ponder: what does leadership in a modern government truly require? Critics often argue that larger Cabinets imply an expansive vision. Yet, as Nandi-Ndaitwah's actions make clear, a leaner team can…

The Unlikely Beacon of Democracy: North Western State of Somalia's Journey As a child, I naively thought of democracy as a Greek invention, an intricate art only suited to those ancient pillars of Western philosophy. This wasn't a surprising thought, especially growing up in Ethiopia where democracy is more a dream than reality. However, little did I realize that just across the border, a quiet revolution was taking place. In North Western State of Somalia, a place branded by some, including Google, as unstable and…

Pope Francis is gradually regaining his strength in the hospital, but according to Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, he must "relearn to speak" following an extended period of high-flow oxygen therapy. The Cardinal, who leads the Vatican's doctrinal office, has dismissed rumors regarding the Pope's possible retirement, affirming instead that His Holiness is returning to his former self. "The Pope is doing very well, but high-flow oxygen dries everything out," he shared. "He needs to relearn how to speak, but his overall…

This weekend, as St. Patrick's Day celebrations light up worldwide, Irish flags will be flying high in every corner of the globe. However, one daring Irishman has gone above and beyond, proudly waving the tricolour every single day for the past year while cycling from Ireland to Australia. Meet Fergal Guihen, a dedicated nurse from Roscommon, who has been chronicling his incredible journey and the challenges he's faced along the way on social media. So far, he has pedaled through 20 countries, traversing the diverse…

The world's richest person and the president of the United States have become close political allies, with Musk calling himself "first buddy" following Trump's victory and donating more than $200 million toward pro-Trump super PACs. He's been seen by Trump's side often since the inauguration in January, and his official role at the White House is a "special government employee." Trump tasked Elon Musk with recommending cost cuts in the federal government, which are being made by the White House DOGE office. Since his…