world

Imagine a future where the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg no longer grapples with widespread power outages, or where Cape Town can confidently manage its water resources. South Africa is making strides toward this reality with a transformative initiative valued at a staggering $3 billion. Presented in partnership with the World Bank, this concerted effort promises to renew essential services and powerful infrastructures in key urban centers across the country.…

Imagine trying to juggle several items in the air, only to discover you’re constantly a step behind your peers. This is essentially the predicament Nigeria found itself in after a recent evaluation by the World Bank. A comparison was drawn between Nigeria’s statistical apparatus and those of several countries, such as Mexico, Colombia, South Africa, and Brazil. These nations, by the Bank’s standards, seem to soar higher in terms of statistical proficiency. It’s a stark reminder that, in the global arena,…

The journey toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup is well underway, with Match Day 6 fast approaching. As several African national teams prepare to take the field, a mix of tension, excitement, and aspiration fills the air. With some teams striving to solidify their positions, others are desperate for a revival, hoping to breathe new life into their qualification dreams. Particularly intriguing this day are five matches that analysts suggest will be pivotal. One such encounter features Ghana, currently perched at the top of Group…

The Ocean Stars: Turning the Tide in World Cup Qualifying In what can only be described as a monumental breakthrough, the Ocean Stars of Somalia etched their names into the annals of history by securing their first-ever point in World Cup qualifying. In the heart of Morocco, they held their ground against a formidable Guinea, drawing 0-0. Rarely does an event ripple through a nation as this achievement has, invigorating a team and its legion of supporters. The burning question on every fan's mind now is, could their…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an unexpected yet exhilarating twist, Somalia clinched their first-ever point in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. What unfolded on Friday at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan was not just a goalless draw against Guinea but a story of sheer resilience and unyielding spirit. Why, you might wonder, is this such a big deal? Against a backdrop of skepticism and doubt, Somalia delivered a disciplined defensive performance that left spectators, pundits, and even their opponents in disbelief. It…

The stakes have never been higher as African teams converge in a heated contest for one of the nine coveted spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an expansion from the previous five. This monumental tournament, set to unfold across the landscapes of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has ignited a passionate fervor among nations eager to showcase their talent on the global stage. As anticipation mounts, the latest results from Matchday 5 have painted a vivid picture of the current standings. It’s a thrilling time for…

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to unfold in the vibrant landscapes of the United States, Canada, and Mexico—has already seen four thrilling rounds of qualification matches. As we gear up for Match Day 5, anticipation builds with an array of compelling clashes on the horizon. On Wednesday, March 19, soccer enthusiasts can expect four captivating encounters. The spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Liberia, who will face Tunisia, the current frontrunners in Group H. This match presents an opportunity for Liberia to…

The Turning Tides of Somali Football Mogadishu (AX) — There's a palpable buzz in the air around Somalia's national football scene as Yusuf Ali Nur steps into the role of head coach, shouldering the weight of hopes and dreams ahead of the key 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Facing off against Guinea and Botswana later this month, Ali Nur takes on the mammoth task following the exit of Moroccan coach Rachid Lousteque. Lousteque's tenure, spanning two seasons, unfortunately, did little to illuminate the…

Ever wondered why Coca-Cola is everywhere, why Nike is a global fashion statement, or why so many people dream of strolling through Paris or catching a Hollywood premiere? That’s the power of influence, soft power, to be exact. Soft power is a country’s ability to influence global perceptions, behaviours, and alliances, not through force, but through attraction and persuasion. According to the Brand Finance's Global Soft Power Index, it’s measured through a nation’s impact on business,…

Is it truly possible to capture the depth of destruction in mere numbers and figures? A comprehensive report co-authored by the World Bank, United Nations, and European Union posits the financial burden of rebuilding the Gaza Strip is staggering — a colossal $53.2 billion over the upcoming decade. While numbers carry their own weight, they barely scratch the surface of the economic devastation wrought by the recent conflict. The aptly titled 'Gaza and West Bank Interim Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (IRDNA)' provides a…