Nation

In a significant move to enhance its defense capabilities, Somalia is set to receive T129 Atak helicopters from Turkey. This development stems from a defense agreement signed earlier this year, which has garnered attention from policymakers and analysts alike. How will these helicopters play into Somalia’s ongoing struggle against the al-Qaeda-linked militant group, al-Shabaab? The implications of this deal could be profound, as it represents not just a procurement of equipment but a step towards bolstering Somalia’s…

Nearly half of South Africa's refining capacity lies dormant, a staggering statistic that highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the nation's energy sector. In just five years, South Africa's refining capacity has been slashed by 50%, a decline attributed to a complex mix of accidents and a desperate lack of investment. At times, the magnitude of these figures can be overwhelming, but what does this really mean for the everyday South African? According to Transnet SOC Ltd., the state-owned logistics firm,…

Chad's Promising Path: An Overview of Recent Developments In May 2025, significant negotiations unfolded in N’Djamena, culminating in an agreement that now awaits the approval of the IMF Executive Board. This critical step relies not only on securing the necessary financing assurances but also on the backing of a comprehensive plan aimed at fostering Chad's long-term economic growth and stability. At the heart of this strategic vision lies Chad’s Vision 2030 framework, a blueprint intended to transform the nation into an…

In an exciting collaboration, the South African tourism company Tourvest has partnered with LTR, aiming to tap into the burgeoning airport travel market across Africa. With a solid foundation already established in West and East Africa, this partnership signals a promising new chapter in the region's travel retail landscape. Currently, LTR's operations span six African nations: Benin, Gambia, Gabon, Mauritania, Senegal, and Tanzania. This diverse geographical footprint illustrates the company’s commitment to…

Understanding Recent Developments in Sudan In a significant policy move, the United States has announced a new round of sanctions against Sudan, responding to grave concerns regarding the military's use of chemical weapons during the ongoing civil war. This decision comes as part of the U.S. commitment to uphold international norms against chemical warfare, particularly under the provisions of the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991. The U.S.…

Ethiopia is soon to embark on a significant journey that underscores its emerging role in the global economic landscape. The country's anticipated accession to the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) marks a pivotal moment in not just Ethiopia's economic strategy, but also in the broader narrative of African nations forging robust international partnerships. The NDB, a vital institution aiming to enhance financial sovereignty among its member countries, is clearly dedicated to expanding its influence across emerging markets,…

The memories of historical tensions from my elementary and secondary school days bring Djibouti, the Somali Coast, to mind. Recently, I came across several articles on social media that discussed how people were busy with fleeting pursuits, like finding signals in Djibouti, rather than focusing on significant historical narratives. Such commentary often lacks the decorum and depth reminiscent of Djibouti’s historical role in Somali politics and nation-building, supported immensely by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh’s political…

In a remarkable wave of civic engagement, tens of thousands of protesters have gathered in major U.S. cities to voice their dissent against the polarizing policies of President Donald Trump. These demonstrations mark the largest public outcry since his return to the White House. Residents from various backgrounds have come together to rally against a range of issues stemming from the president's administration—ranging from government staffing cuts to trade tariffs and the erosion of civil liberties. Major cities, including…

Imagine a future where the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg no longer grapples with widespread power outages, or where Cape Town can confidently manage its water resources. South Africa is making strides toward this reality with a transformative initiative valued at a staggering $3 billion. Presented in partnership with the World Bank, this concerted effort promises to renew essential services and powerful infrastructures in key urban centers across the country.…

On the Brink: South Sudan’s Fragile Peace In the ever-volatile landscape of South Sudan, the precarious power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar appears to be hanging by a thread. The looming threat of a relapse into civil war is stirring unsettling memories of past conflicts, painting a grim picture of what the future might hold. The current tension is palpable, manifesting in violent skirmishes that have already begun to shake the foundations of a nation yearning for peace.…