stand

The recent visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to South Africa was abruptly curtailed due to a devastating Russian airstrike on Kyiv. This unfortunate event not only marked a significant turn in Zelensky's itinerary, but it also highlighted a deeper strategic maneuver by Ukraine aimed at countering Moscow's growing influence in Africa. In an era where geopolitics continuously reshape international relationships, such events carry layers of complexity and implications. "I am canceling part of the…

Trade Unions Applaud ICA's Courageous Stand Against Child Trafficking The Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) has thrown its weight behind the Immigration and Citizenship Agency of Somalia (ICA) following their recent, impactful action against trafficking rings. These organized criminals have been covertly transporting young Somali girls and boys to the Gulf States and Europe, deceitfully cloaked under promises of meaningful employment. How often must we look the other way before such harrowing…

Standing Firm Against Adversity "You are the shield between our people and terror," Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared to the fighters assembled before him. His voice resonated with a determined confidence, as he promised, "We will not rest until Al-Shabaab's grip is broken and the pain they've inflicted on our communities is brought to an end." The president's appearance on the battlefield was more than symbolic. It came right on the heels of a lightning trip back to Mogadishu. There, behind the closed doors of the…

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has firmly declared that he will not be intimidated, despite a court ruling that has placed him under arrest pending trial in a corruption investigation. "Together, we will stand united against this blow, this dark mark on our democracy... I remain resolute; I will not be subdued," Mr. İmamoğlu stated in a recent post on X. This ruling came just four days after his detention ignited the worst civil unrest Turkey has seen in over a decade. Currently, Mr. İmamoğlu is among 100 individuals being…

In recent years, the landscape of global funding has been tumultuous, prompting African nations to grapple with the consequences of dwindling foreign aid. The ripple effects of changes in American policy, particularly under the Trump administration, pose a grave threat to essential health, education, and economic stability initiatives crucial for various countries on the continent. A notable example is President Donald Trump's executive order, which quelled new government spending on foreign assistance for a staggering 90…

Recently, the militia group known as M23 made a surprising announcement, coinciding with a surge of violence that has tragically claimed over 700 lives within a mere few days. This escalation has not gone unnoticed; international aid organizations and human rights advocates have expressed serious concerns regarding the state of affairs in the region. In their statement, the M23 rebels cited humanitarian issues as the driving force behind their latest actions, particularly following their seizure of Goma. This city, a…

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is poised to make history as the first UK leader to participate in a European Council gathering since Brexit. This significant moment comes as he aims to rally European leaders in their resolve against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Starmer, after a crucial discussion with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, expressed his anticipation for the informal EU leaders' retreat in Belgium, where vital issues will take center stage. At this gathering, the prime minister plans to delve into the…

The beleaguered aviation titan Boeing is gearing up for yet another challenge as it heads into a civil trial next week regarding the devastating crash of an Ethiopian Airlines flight in March 2019, which tragically claimed the lives of 157 individuals. This trial, set to unfold in federal court in Chicago, initially featured six plaintiffs, but according to sources close to the case, "all but one" have reached settlements. This leaves just a lone plaintiff pressing forward with claims against the aviation giant. Unless a…

Gabon is gearing up for a significant referendum on November 16, where citizens will cast their votes concerning a newly proposed constitution. This impending decision has ignited a spectrum of reactions across the political landscape. One noteworthy aspect of the proposed constitution is that it would enable military leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to mount a campaign for the presidency. This particular element has raised eyebrows and prompted intense backlash from various opposition factions. The draft…

ADDIS ABABA - The head honcho of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal General Birhanu Jula, contends that standing toe-to-toe with Ethiopia is beyond Somalia's reach. In his perspective, Somalia lacks the prowess and manpower to challenge Ethiopia effectively. During a much-broadcast interview, General Jula minced no words criticizing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, articulating doubts about his capability to protect Mogadishu from the al-Shabaab insurgents. "He should worry about guarding the sea…