regional

NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — Aviation across Africa and the Middle East finds itself on the cusp of significant change. The coming decade promises a surge in passenger demand, upcoming safety regulations, and maintenance challenges that could potentially elevate operational risks. For airlines and operators navigating these high-growth yet resource-constrained environments, the margin for error is becoming increasingly slim. In this landscape, Danan Aviation Consulting, a Canadian-based aviation advisory firm, emerges as a vital…

The Electricity Crisis in Mali: A Complex Web of Debt and Dependence Mali currently stands at a crossroads, grappling with a staggering debt of over $94 million owed to the agency responsible for managing the Manantali Dam, a crucial hydroelectric power source. This facility doesn't solely serve Mali; it also supplies electricity to neighboring Senegal and Mauritania. The implications of this financial strain are profound, and some experts have deemed it "a question of life and death" for the dam's ongoing operations.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a development that has captured the attention of political observers, the much-anticipated National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, initially set to commence Thursday in the heart of Mogadishu, has been postponed to Monday, May 5. This decision, reached after a series of consultations among the nation's leadership, underscores the complexities of the current political landscape. The Office of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre issued a statement confirming that the decision to delay the meeting was…

Somalia’s Warm Reception of the DRC-Rwanda Declaration: A Step Towards Regional Harmony In an encouraging turn of events, Somalia has expressed its approval of the recent Declaration of Principles signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. This agreement marks a potentially transformative moment for the Great Lakes region, offering a renewed hope for peace, stability, and collaborative engagement. Issued on a Sunday, a statement from…

Trade Tensions in Southern Africa: Tanzania vs. Malawi & South Africa In a significant escalation of trade tensions within the East and Southern African regions, Tanzania has recently instituted reciprocal import restrictions on agricultural products originating from both Malawi and South Africa. This decisive action is a direct response to previous import limitations imposed on Tanzanian exports by these two neighboring nations. It’s intriguing how trade relationships, which should ideally foster cooperation and…

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…

Support for Zimbabwe's Debt Resolution Initiative: A Regional Imperative The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has boldly declared its support for Zimbabwe's debt resolution initiative, prioritizing it as a crucial endeavor for not just the nation itself, but for the entire southern African region. In an era where economic integration and trade are paramount, this development carries profound implications for the future of the region. During a poignant dialogue on the sidelines of the 2025 IMF/World Bank Group…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a sunny Tuesday, the atmosphere at Villa Somalia was more than just pleasant; it buzzed with the excitement of possibility. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed Souleiman Hassan Waberi, a notable figure in the football world who wears many hats—President of the Djibouti Football Federation, Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and member of the FIFA Council. Their meeting wasn't just a standard diplomatic affair; it was a conversation brimming with potential for the…

In Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, heads of state from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have convened for a pivotal meeting. This gathering comes in response to a significant development: three member nations have announced their intent to withdraw from the bloc in January. As the discussions unfold, the leaders aim to explore the complexities surrounding the countries' exit and its broader ramifications for ECOWAS agencies. ECOWAS, a cornerstone of regional cooperation, has consistently upheld…

Dialogue and Diplomatic Ties: Somalia's Regional Engagement In a landscape where the echoes of history continuously shape the present, the recent discussions between Somali and Egyptian officials shone a spotlight on broadening alliances and nuanced diplomacy. Somalia and Egypt, in their deepening dialogue, navigated topics that resonate beyond their immediate borders, touching upon aspirations for collective peace and integration in the broader region. Interestingly, the possibility of trilateral cooperation with…