Progress

The recent report sheds light on an array of growing challenges faced by Ghana, which include alarming inflation rates, a weakening cedi, and increasing climate-related risks. Together, these factors are contributing to a significant rise in household vulnerability. The implications are profound, impacting not just the economy but the daily lives of countless Ghanaians. How can we respond effectively to these pressing issues? Over One in Four Ghanaians Now in Extreme Poverty More than 25% of Ghanaians…

Renewed Energy Alliances: Türkiye and Somalia On April 10, Türkiye and Somalia reached a significant milestone in their partnership during a signing ceremony in Ankara. This agreement marks a transformative expansion of their energy alliance, allowing Türkiye to explore three onshore blocks totaling nearly 16,000 square kilometers. The implications of this deal extend far beyond mere diplomatic gestures; they signify the dawning of a new era for Somalia's energy sector. For decades, Somalia's rich hydrocarbon reserves…

Celebrating 50 Years of ECOWAS: A Legacy Worth Remembering Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, recently articulated a powerful sentiment during the launch of the community's 50th anniversary celebrations in Accra, Ghana. "The achievements of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) over five decades are not only worthy of recognition but also worthy of celebration," he asserted, emphasizing that our journey has been far more impactful than many might realize. In a political and…

Somali Minister Highlights Efforts Against Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the swirling sands of central Somalia, challenges persist. Yet, amid the clamor of conflict against Al-Shabaab militants, Somalia's Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, has illuminated a beacon of determination and progress. He asserts proudly that the Somali National Army (SNA) is not only holding its own on the frontlines but turning the tide against these adversaries. Just last week, the town of Adan Yabaal became a…

The unveiling of Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP) for 2025-2029 represents a critical point in our nation's narrative—a narrative previously marred by conflict but now leaning towards recovery and sustainable growth. On a bright morning, with optimism brimming, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre announced this ambitious scheme designed to serve as a guide to rebuilding a self-sustaining and resilient Somalia. Like a phoenix rising, this plan symbolizes the shift from the former National Development Plan,…

The current political situation in Somalia is a complex tapestry, woven with threads of negotiation, power struggles, and the ongoing effort to balance federal authority with local autonomy. Recently, Somalia’s federal government has been embroiled in mounting political tensions with its member states. In March, a decisive step was taken by the federal parliament to amend the governance model, opting for a presidential system. However, this decision has not been universally welcomed. Northeastern State, often seen as one…

Somalia's Road to Democracy: A Complex Vision The echo of "conducting free and fair direct elections" has been a familiar refrain among Somali officials since 2009. Along with ambitious ventures like "completing the constitution" and "eliminating terrorism," these aspirations have been part of national discourse. Yet, over a decade and a half later, these goals remain elusive. One can't help but wonder: Why are these dreams still unrealized? The answer might lie in their intricate interdependencies and the unique…

Imagine waking up a sleeping giant. That's the task that lies at the heart of transforming Africa's energy potential. Rich in resources yet starved of investments, Africa has remained on the sidelines of global energy discussions for far too long. You might wonder how a continent brimming with untapped reserves finds itself in such a predicament. Chronic underfunding over the decades has stymied progress, shackling a land that could fuel not only its own growth but…

Pope Francis is currently stable in the hospital, with a recent chest scan indicating improvements in his condition, according to the Vatican. This marks a positive development as he continues to combat double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection that required evolving treatment protocols. The latest medical update from the Vatican reassured the public that "the Pope's clinical condition is stable," which is certainly welcomed news.…

Fifth Quadrennial Congress of FESTU Concludes with Resolve to Defend Workers' Rights How does one begin to measure the pulse of a movement? The air was thick with determination as the Fifth Quadrennial Congress of the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) reached its conclusion in Mogadishu on February 12, 2025. It was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the Somali labour movement. With 328 delegates—53% men and 47% women—hailing from both the bustling regions of the five…