reforms

The Republic of Niger has taken a significant step forward in its political journey by officially unveiling the Consultative Council for Refoundation (CCR). This event marks yet another milestone in the nation’s ongoing transition towards a more stable and participatory governance. As reported by Sputnik Africa, the launch ceremony took place in the vibrant atmosphere of the Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center located in the heart of Niamey, Niger's capital. Imagine the room filled with a diverse group of…

Significant Progress in Somalia: A New Chapter in Child Protection Photograph that tugs at the heart strings: armed Somali children huddled behind sandbags during fighting are a grim reminder of the past. This photograph, which was snapped in an unspecified date, is a reflection of a nation struggling against the ugly facades of a war. Somalia had for years figured on the list of countries where children were conscripted and used in hostilities—such a pitiable testament to instability—but on June 17, 2025, the country…

Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni extended a warm welcome to Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, known as Ahmed Madobe, upon his arrival at Garowe Airport on June 22, 2025. This moment exemplifies more than mere camaraderie; it signals a pivotal juncture for Somalia's political landscape, especially as the pair convenes to deliberate federalism and the nation’s evolving political dynamics against the backdrop of increasing tensions with the federal government in Mogadishu. In this vibrant scene in…

Somalia Celebrates a Milestone in Education: The 12th Grade National Examination In a significant step forward for its education system, Somalia has successfully completed the 12th Grade National Examination for the 2024–2025 academic year. This accomplishment is a noteworthy part of the country's ongoing efforts to modernize and reform a sector that has faced numerous challenges over the years. According to the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education, a remarkable 39,382 students participated in the…

In recent years, a remarkable transformation is underway in the tourism landscapes of various African nations. Through a series of ambitious reforms—ranging from strategic airline expansions and upgraded airport infrastructure to surging hotel occupancy rates and progressive visa policies—certain countries are taking significant steps to revitalize their tourism sectors. What does this mean for the traveler? After enduring prolonged disruptions due to the pandemic and an ever-evolving…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a recent reflection on his presidency, Somalia's leader, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, shared insights that reveal a nuanced approach to governance. As the countdown to the 2026 presidential election begins, he finds himself at a crucial crossroads. The question on everyone's mind is simple yet profound: Will he seek a third term? While president Mohamud remains noncommittal, his emphasis lies in the here and now—a focus tightly wound around national security, economic revitalization, and the promise of…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a Wednesday that held the promise of progress, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened the third Somalia-European Union Partnership Meeting in the heart of Mogadishu. This gathering wasn’t merely ceremonial; it was a reaffirmation of the robust relationship between Somalia and the European Union (EU), a bond fortified by mutual aspirations outlined in the Joint Operational Roadmap, an ambitious guide launched back in May 2023. As the sun filtered through the windows of the meeting room,…

Mogadishu (AX) — Under the vibrant political canopy of Somalia, a noteworthy moment unfolded in the Somali Parliament on Monday. It was a day that saw the approval of two pivotal legislative acts: the Youth Justice Bill and the Income Tax Bill. These are not mere legislative formality; they are emblematic of a nation striving to break free from its past shackles and move towards a horizon marked by prosperity and fairness. Bihi Iman Igeh, the Minister of Finance, stood tall amid his peers as he commended the…

Political Dissonance and Repression in North Western State of Somalia Hargeisa (AX) — In the dusty echoes of North Western State of Somalia’s political landscape, a storm is brewing. The newly-minted administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, perhaps not as squeaky clean as a new pin, has already directed its gaze upon activists and journalists who dare to question or challenge the status quo. This recent crackdown has reignited worries about political oppression, even with new faces steering the…

Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia finds itself entangled in a thorny political conundrum, with rising tensions between the federal government and the southern state of Jubbaland over contentious electoral reforms. This firestorm has forced Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to call for an urgent cabinet meeting on Sunday, aiming to tackle what has become a seriously divisive cause. Jubbaland's leadership is vehemently opposing federal election plans and champions regional self-governance instead. At the crux of this simmering discord…