leaders

European Leaders Rally Against Russia: Insights from the Recent Summit On May 16, 2025, momentous discussions unfolded during the European Political Community Summit in Tirana, Albania. Leaders from several nations, including Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, France's President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, found themselves in communication with United States President Donald Trump. The aim was clear: to join forces…

In a decisive move, the military junta governing Mali has declared the dissolution of all political parties. This bold announcement emphasizes the junta’s commitment to initiating a “reform process” and signals intentions to draft a new law aimed at regulating the political landscape in the nation. This decision follows a national conference where political parties reportedly conferred upon military leader Assimi Goita a five-year presidential term. Goita, who assumed power after a series of coups in 2020 and 2021, now…

Somalia's Leadership Struggles: A Fragmented Nation Yearning for Unity MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a nation where hope seems perpetually on the horizon, yet just out of reach, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stands at the crossroads, facing the challenge of uniting Somalia's federal leaders. Recently, his efforts to gather all participants of the National Consultative Council (NCC) in Mogadishu have fallen short, highlighting deepening fissures within the fragile country. The initial talks, scheduled for May 2, 2025, and…

Rebuilding Bridges: Macron's Historic Visit to Madagascar This recent visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Madagascar is much more than a diplomatic engagement; it symbolizes France's renewed commitment to rekindling its influence in Africa. In a landscape where its presence has waned in former colonies, this visit marks a pivotal moment for both nations. Let's consider context for a moment. France has seen its presence diminish in several African nations, including Gabon, Chad, and Niger, where military juntas…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a tumultuous scene that echoed through the halls of Somalia's parliament, prominent opposition figures including former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have spoken out vehemently against the violent altercation that unfolded during Wednesday’s session of the House of the People. Their unified stance not only highlights the gravity of the situation but also emphasizes the urgent need for integrity within Somalia’s political…

1. Martti Ahtisaari: The Global Visionary Peacemaker for Africa Martti Ahtisaari, former president of Finland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of global conflict resolution. His dedication to fostering stability, particularly across Africa, is not only commendable but also transformative. Ahtisaari's mediation efforts have played a pivotal role in Namibia's independence and in the peace processes of various other African nations. What sets his approach apart is his unwavering respect…

Mogadishu (AX) — This week saw a significant political gathering in Villa Somalia, where former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon Saacid met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The discussions centered around the pressing nature of Somalia’s upcoming elections and the precariousness of the nation’s security landscape—a topic that resonates deeply with so many Somalis today. In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, Shirdoon, who now leads the Nagaad political party,…

The TIME100 Most Influential People of 2025: Celebrating African Changemakers The highly esteemed TIME100 list for 2025 recognizes African innovators, leaders, and game-changers who are not only transforming their countries but also making a significant impact on the world stage. This annual celebration doesn't simply spotlight fame; it highlights the unsung heroes who are shaping our future in various sectors, including politics, culture, science, and beyond. What does it mean to be influential in today's interconnected…

Cairo (AX) — This past Tuesday, a significant meeting took place in the vibrant heart of Cairo, where a high-level Somali delegation had a productive dialogue with General Osama Sayyid, the Secretary-General of Egypt’s Council of Ministers. This gathering aimed to foster and enhance bilateral cooperation in the realms of public sector development and institutional reform. The discussions underscored a shared vision: strengthening the bonds between Somalia and Egypt. At the core of these talks was the aspiration to modernize…

UK Hosts Global Conference Calling for Swift End to Sudan Conflict The United Kingdom has spearheaded international appeals for an immediate end to the devastating war in Sudan, hosting top global diplomats to discuss new humanitarian aid commitments as the crisis enters its third year. The conflict, erupting on April 15, 2023, arises from a power struggle between Sudan's regular army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), headed by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Neither leader attended…