years

Human Rights Watch has made a compelling appeal to Niger's military junta: they demand the immediate release of former President Mohamed Bazoum, who was abruptly ousted in a military coup in 2023. Under the command of General Abdourahamane Tiani, army officers dismantled the governance structure and apprehended both Bazoum and his wife. Such actions raise serious questions about the future of democracy in Niger. Ilaria Allegrozzi, a researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphatically remarked, “Every day that former President…

Four decades after Live Aid transformed the musical landscape, Evelyn O'Rourke reflects on ten significant ways this legendary event made history. "A weird and wonderful crusade." This is how BBC journalist Michael Buerk characterized the Band Aid project initiated by Bob Geldof, Midge Ure, and their fellow musicians during Christmas 1984. He pointed out that even though many of the participating pop stars were immensely wealthy, they displayed remarkable public empathy for the suffering of the Ethiopian people. It all…

Ghana's Inflation Trends: A Positive Shift Recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service indicates a significant decrease in annual inflation, which saw a sharp drop to 13.7% in June, a notable change from the preceding figure of 18.4% in May. This development marks the sixth consecutive month of decline and represents the lowest inflation rate recorded since late 2020. On the bustling streets of Accra, the cedi has held steady at 10.35 to the dollar as of 10:19 a.m. this morning. Observing the currency's…

Celebrating 65 Years of Independence: A Testament to Resilience and Unity Mogadishu (AX) — This year's celebration resonates with a unique vibrancy as the Federal Republic of Somalia marks its 65th Independence Anniversary. Recently, James Swan, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, alongside Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, extended their warm congratulations to the Government and people of Somalia. It is a moment rich with historical…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a moment steeped in historical significance, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud graced a high-profile ceremony on Tuesday night, held at the Office of the Prime Minister. This gathering was dedicated to honoring the 65th anniversary of Somalia’s Independence and National Unity Day. On such a poignant occasion, the past resonates with fresh meaning, igniting a sense of solidarity that encapsulates the essence of national pride. The evening, organized under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister…

Somalia at 65: Celebrating Resilience Amidst Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia - June 26 marks a momentous occasion as the Federal Republic of Somalia proudly commemorates its 65th anniversary of independence. Throughout the country, the vibrant flutter of flags serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit and resilience of its people, even as they continue to navigate complex security challenges and political hurdles. Yet, amidst this celebration, Somalia faces a poignant reality. The resurgence of Al-Shabaab has seen the…

Mogadishu (AX) — On Tuesday, a vibrant atmosphere enveloped Somalia as the nation joyously celebrated its 65th Independence Anniversary. The festivities took center stage in Mogadishu, where a high-profile national ceremony unfolded, highlighted by a spectacular military parade and awe-inspiring aerial displays orchestrated by the Somali Air Force. The scene was set at Daljirka Square, an emblematic location that resonates with history and significance. Here, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, flanked by senior…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a vibrant evening filled with a sense of unity and national pride, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stood at the forefront of a poignant ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of Somalia's independence and unity. Alongside senior commanders of the Somali National Army and various government officials, the President welcomed a gathering that was far more than just an event—it was a heartfelt homage to Somalia's enduring spirit and the sacrifices made along the path to independence. The ceremony, bathed in…

Celebrating Djibouti: 48 Years of Independence Djibouti (AX) — On a vibrant Thursday, President Ismail Omar Guelleh gathered not just with government officials, but with hundreds of enthusiastic citizens, all to celebrate a significant milestone—the 48th anniversary of Djibouti's liberation from French colonial rule. The air was filled with excitement and pride, encapsulating a journey marked by struggle, resilience, and unity. The national celebration, observed on June 27 each year, serves as a poignant…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a memorable Wednesday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took center stage during the 65th Independence Week celebrations in Mogadishu. The event was a heartfelt tribute to Somalia’s long and arduous journey toward freedom, marking not just a historical milestone, but a collective call for renewed unity and national reconciliation among its people. The ceremony was a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of history, marked by the presence of senior government officials, distinguished…