East Africa

North Western of Somalia's Search for Global Recognition: Recent Events Explored In a major breakthrough, North Western of Somalia's President revealed Ethiopia's plan to acknowledge the region as an independent state. This declaration was made during the 33rd anniversary celebration of North Western of Somalia's self-proclaimed independence from Somalia. Although the Ethiopian government has not issued an official statement confirming this diplomatic advancement, recent ambassadorial appointments hint at the shift.…

In Mogadishu, Federal and State leaders are analyzing the effects of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops as they pull out of the nation. At least 5,000 ATMIS soldiers have departed so far under the Somali Transition Plan (STP), with another 5,000 scheduled to leave by June 2024. The remaining troops are expected to exit by December 2024, transferring security duties to the Somali National Army (SNA). In Dhusamareb, regional state ministers for security and police met with central government…

The Republican Guard and police in the DRC blocked a road during an attempted coup in Gombe, Kinshasa on May 19, 2024. American citizens were part of the unsuccessful coup in the Democratic Republic of Congo that resulted in at least three deaths, a military representative told CNN. The failed coup was aimed at the residence of politician Vital Kamerhe and the presidential palace, led by opposition leader Christian Malanga, who was killed in a gunfight between the rebels and the presidential guards, according to General…

Frances Brown became the fresh face at the National Security Council's African affairs department on May 20, 2024. Kenya stands out as the White House's pick for the inaugural state visit by an African leader for myriad reasons, particularly because of its increased global presence. Kenya has volunteered troops for a UN mission in Haiti, demonstrating leadership on the world stage. Anita Powell of VOA snagged an interview with Frances Brown, who dished on tech, climate, debt, democracy, health, and more before Kenyan…

Residents impacted by floods and mudslides in Narok South have received donations of food and essential items worth Sh3 million from Nairobi Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Temple. The consignment was sent off by Narok County Governor Patrick Ntutu to assist residents of Narok South and the nearby Maasai Mau Forest affected by the natural disasters. Nunu Shangani, Arun Rabadia, and Prakash Pindoria spearheaded the temple's efforts, donating various items including mattresses, blankets, Crocs slippers, Unga, UHT milk, and…

The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his defense chief, and three Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes. After seven months of conflict in Gaza, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan stated that he had reasonable grounds to believe that these five men are responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Arrest warrants have been sought for Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, Netanyahu, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, Hamas military leader…

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently had a meeting with the Russian Ambassador, Mikhail Golovanov, in Mogadishu. The discussions mainly revolved around security, social, and humanitarian issues. President Mohamud expressed his gratitude towards Russia for their generous support in Somalia's HIPC debt relief process. However, the details of the meeting were not disclosed by the Somali government. In March, Somalia successfully managed to cancel 99% of its debt owed to the Paris Club of creditor nations. Countries…

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not undermining Sudan mediation talks, according to South Sudan. Recent conflicts between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) prompted the allegations. Juba denies the claims against Abu Dhabi, calling for accountability on both sides. South Sudan has been leading the mediation talks, closely watched by the world. Mubarak Ardol accused a UAE official of visiting rebel areas in South Kordofan after Juba, trying to disrupt an agreement on delivering aid. Minister…

North Western of Somalia Sends Troops and Weapons to Sool Area Amid Tensions In an unexpected turn of events, North Western of Somalia has begun deploying soldiers and heavy artillery to the outskirts of Oog in the Sool region. This move comes as tensions rise with SSC-Khatumo forces, raising the specter of potential conflict. The atmosphere has been fraught since North Western of Somalia was defeated and driven out of the area by SSC-Khatumo forces on August 25 last year. The dispatch of troops and heavy artillery signals…

Northeastern State's Information Minister, Mohamud Aydid Dirir, is facing backlash for his recent comments regarding Southwest State in Somalia. Describing the region as an "Ethiopian protectorate" on social media has sparked anger and criticism from various sources. The statement has caused a stir among the region's leaders and the general public, with many taking to social media to condemn it as disrespectful and misleading. This controversy arises shortly after the National Consultative Council meeting in Mogadishu,…