Sparking

It’s an interesting time in the world of oil, particularly in Nigeria, where the national petroleum company and the Dangote refinery— the country’s pride, with a staggering $20 billion investment and an impressive capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd)— have recently shifted their sourcing strategy. In a surprising twist, they are now turning to the U.S. crude oil market. According to data from Bloomberg's ship tracking, this decision is set to take effect in 2025, marking a significant change in their operational…

Urgent Call to Action: The Future of Peacekeeping in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — Just recently, the United Nations Security Council faced a significant setback by not authorizing a crucial funding framework for the African Union’s (AU) ambitious peace mission in Somalia. This oversight means that while the clock continues to tick, hope for a streamlined transition remains perilously uncertain. AUSSOM: A New Chapter or an Unwritten Story? Enter the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to…

Prisoner Exchange Raises Hope for Peace in Somalia LAS ANOD, Somalia — In the dust-choked streets of Las Anod, where history whispers tales of unrest and resilience, a new chapter seems to be unfolding. Reports have surfaced about the SSC-Khaatumo State and North Western State of Somalia engaging in talks to facilitate a prisoner exchange. This isn't just a mere logistical arrangement; it signals a glimmer of hope for those longing for peace. Although the details, including the number of prisoners to be exchanged, remain…

The Brewing Storm in Somalia’s Political Landscape As the dust settles after the abrupt halt of what could have been a critical parliamentary session, reflections turn to the simmering tensions that grip Somalia's political stage. In a peculiar twist of events, opposition MPs were poised to challenge Barre’s government with a no-confidence motion. An air of suspense lingers as the motion, though not officially presented, casts a long shadow over the current political climate. Quorum failure—what does it say about 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…

KISMAYO, Somalia - Recent weeks have witnessed a stormy political landscape in Somalia, as Jubaland has decided to walk away from its relationship with Mogadishu. Alongside Northeastern State, it becomes the second of the five states to voice dissatisfaction with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's leadership and his push for significant constitutional reforms. The leadership of Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe in Jubaland halted collaboration with the federal government, declaring an end to cooperation following a crucial meeting…

In a significant escalation of its conflict with Hezbollah militants, Israel has broadened its military targets across Lebanon, leading to the deaths of at least 21 individuals in a recent airstrike in the northern region. Health officials reported this casualty figure, while millions of Israelis took refuge, protecting themselves from retaliatory projectiles launched from the Lebanese side of the border. The focal point of Israel's military endeavors has primarily been the Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon, along with the…