Nation

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.…

Tensions Escalate: A New Chapter in Rwanda-Congo Mediation The Congo-Rwanda conflict has reached a pivotal juncture, marked by the rise in militant activities in eastern Congo. The M23, a rebel group allegedly supported by Rwanda, continues its aggressive campaign, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Why has peace in this tumultuous region remained elusive for so long? What are the implications for the people on the ground? In a previous peace initiative, Angola played a key role, guiding negotiations…

The discourse around the elimination of fuel subsidies is fraught with complexities. On the one hand, there is a prevalent belief that removing these subsidies could lead to positive outcomes in the long term. But, is that always the case? In discussing this issue, we must consider not only the economic theories but also the real-world impacts that countries face when embarking on this challenging path. Nigeria serves as a compelling case study. When the country made the decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, the…

For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has been recognized as the happiest country in the world, according to the World Happiness Report. This achievement is often attributed to the nation's picturesque lakes and robust welfare system, which significantly enhance the overall mood of its citizens. Moving forward in the rankings, Ireland has climbed to 15th place, up from 17th in 2023, demonstrating an upward trend in its citizens' happiness. Meanwhile, Afghanistan continues to hold the unfortunate title of the unhappiest…

Upon his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has made it abundantly clear what his administration aims to tackle: the sprawling issue of federal waste. It’s a topic that’s been at the heart of many political debates, and one that begs the question: how do we ensure taxpayer money is used judiciously? The President, with his characteristic resolve, has embarked on what he describes as a crusade against wasteful spending. The administration took a notable step forward by…