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Northeastern State's Bold Shift Toward Electoral Transparency Garowe (AX) – In an ambitious move geared towards reforming its electoral process, the Northeastern State administration is taking definitive steps to abolish the secret ballot system traditionally used for electing local council members and parliamentarians. This change aims not just to enhance transparency but also to tackle the pressing issues of corruption and bribery that have, unfortunately, overshadowed past elections. The Northeastern State…

Somalia: Mortar Attack Targets Mogadishu International Airport – Residents MOGADISHU, Somalia – Bright and early on a Tuesday morning, the peace of the capital city was broken. Residents near the Aden Adde International Airport were jolted from their routines by the echoing booms of at least five mortar rounds. This incident has once again stirred up conversations about the security of this crucial part of Mogadishu. Imagine starting your day hearing loud explosions. It's a reality for those living near the airport. The…

As living costs continue to rise in East Africa, Nairobi is increasingly feeling the pressure of food inflation, much like its neighbor Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The soaring prices of basic commodities have left many residents grappling with financial strain, prompting important discussions about the state of food security in these bustling urban centers. A recent report from the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Competition Commission (CCC) has shed light on the troubling rise in maize prices, which…

Political Tensions in Hirshabelle: President Guudlawe's Accusations Jowhar (AX) — In a significant address at the opening session of the Hirshabelle parliament, President Ali Guudlawe did not shy away from controversy. He took aim at federal lawmaker Osman Xadoole, accusing him of actively destabilizing the regional administration. This bold declaration resonates deeply with citizens, stirring questions about governance and representation. As President Guudlawe spoke, he outlined a narrative that many…

Tragic Loss in Kenyan Politics: The Assassination of Charles Were On the evening of April 30, 2025, Nairobi witnessed a harrowing incident that sent shockwaves through the nation. Charles Were, a dedicated Kenyan lawmaker representing the Kasipul constituency, was tragically shot dead in a brazen attack by gunmen on motorcycles. This event, which unfolded outside a Nairobi hospital, reminds us of the volatile intersection of politics and violence in today's world. To visualize the scene: it’s around 7:30 PM, and the city…

Today, voters across England are participating in a series of local and mayoral elections that could shape the political landscape. In addition to the local elections, a by-election is taking place in north-west England following the resignation of Labour MP Mike Amesbury. Amesbury stepped down after serving time for an incident involving a constituent, bringing attention to the importance of accountability in governance. Some opinion polls reveal a shift in public sentiment, indicating that the Reform UK party, under the…

The Power of Partnerships: Somali Ambassadors Call for Heightened Collaboration in the Hospitality Sector In a compelling address to the attendees of the East Africa Somali Awards, Somali Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, passionately advocated for strengthening partnerships between Kenya and Somalia. His focus on the hospitality industry illuminated the significant achievements of Somali entrepreneurs, who have firmly established their presence and reputation in this vibrant sector. “These…

Ghana's Lithium Refining Dilemma: Weighing the Economic Scales In the heart of West Africa, Ghana stands at a crossroads. A recent report from the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) presents an unsettling choice: push for domestic lithium refining or continue exporting raw lithium spodumene concentrate. Why does this decision carry such weight? At first glance, local refining might seem like the patriotic choice. However, as with many things, the devil is in the details. The report meticulously…

In a significant move to invigorate local economies, the South African government has initiated applications for the R500-million Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF). This initiative aims to enhance the sustainability and growth of spaza shops—those familiar neighborhood convenience stores that serve as lifelines for township and rural communities. During a recent announcement, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, highlighted the transformative potential of this fund. “We are committed to empowering our…

In a pivotal move, the Federal Ministry of Finance recently confirmed the continuation of a policy that's been off the radar for a few months—the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative. This decision came hot on the heels of a high-powered conclave led by a Technical Sub-Committee. Sometimes, the paths taken to conserve resources and bolster local industries can be quite the labyrinth. Do you remember wanting to unravel a knotty problem yourself? That's what this initiative seeks to do for…