West Africa

On Saturday, Femi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), made a significant announcement regarding the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC). The forthcoming closure of the refinery is described as a temporary measure, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the refinery's long-term viability. Reflecting on the situation, Soneye stated, “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) wishes to inform the general…

Mogadishu: A Tense Standoff Between Government and Opposition Mogadishu (AX) – On Friday, the Somali government articulated a fierce rebuttal to opposition leaders who have critiqued the Council of Ministers for what they perceive as a failure to uphold security in the capital. This unfolding narrative speaks volumes about the intricate dance of power, accountability, and national sentiment in a city that has long wrestled with its stability. State Minister of Defense Omar Abdi Ali took center stage, vehemently…

In a momentous announcement last Friday, Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Faqi declared that the national armed forces have successfully liberated the entire Middle Shabelle region from the grips of the Al-Shabaab movement—a group critically linked to Al-Qaeda. This significant victory marks a pivotal turn in the ongoing battle against extremist insurgents in the region. In his public statement, Minister Faqi expressed deep admiration for the valor and tenacity displayed by the Somali armed forces and the local…

**Garowe (AX)** – A significant land dispute has erupted between the Northeastern State and SSC-Khaatumo administrations over contested territory along their shared border, igniting tensions that could have far-reaching implications for both regions. It’s essential to understand the historical context behind these disputes, as they often run deeper than mere geography. On Friday, the situation escalated when Northeastern State authorities took the controversial step of deploying troops to the Shaxda area, located…

Exploring the Unjust Reality of Visa Rejections for African Applicants In 2024, African applicants found themselves at the unfortunate crossroads of costly visa applications and repeated rejections, losing nearly €60 million (approximately $67.5 million) in non-refundable Schengen visa fees. This staggering figure comes from the LAGO Collective, a London-based research organization dedicated to understanding global mobility trends. It’s a harsh reality when we think about the dreams and aspirations that often lie behind…

In a significant development that underscores the ongoing challenges of security in the region, two Kenyan men were found guilty on Thursday for their involvement in the tragic 2019 attack on a luxury hotel complex in Nairobi. This harrowing event claimed the lives of 21 individuals, including foreign nationals, stirring a nation and highlighting the pervasive threat of terrorism. The verdict was delivered by Judge Diana Kavedza in a Nairobi court, who articulated the gravity of the situation with a palpable sense of…

In an exciting collaboration, the South African tourism company Tourvest has partnered with LTR, aiming to tap into the burgeoning airport travel market across Africa. With a solid foundation already established in West and East Africa, this partnership signals a promising new chapter in the region's travel retail landscape. Currently, LTR's operations span six African nations: Benin, Gambia, Gabon, Mauritania, Senegal, and Tanzania. This diverse geographical footprint illustrates the company’s commitment to…

For over two decades, advocates have been waging a determined battle against misinformation, particularly within the Somali community where this misinformation has contributed to a troubling uptick in measles cases. Amid this persistent struggle, one question lingers: can more research help bridge the gap between myth and reality? Leading the charge is Mahdi Warsama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Somali Parents Autism Network (SPAN). In a recent interview, he reflects on their mission—not just to provide support for…

As ECOWAS approaches its golden anniversary, a pressing question looms large: Do the people of West Africa still believe in an organization that was once the bedrock of regional identity and cooperation? In an era where diplomatic ties are being tested, the emergence of the Alliance of Sahel States—comprised of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—stands out. This coalition, dominated by military regimes, poses not merely a provocative challenge but a seismic shift in the regional landscape. Sahel researcher Komlan Avoulete,…

Turkey's Military Expansion in Somalia: A New Chapter in Regional Security As dawn breaks over Mogadishu Sea Port, the presence of the Turkish Navy Ship F514 symbolically anchors a new phase in international military collaboration. Turkish marine forces stand guard with a palpable sense of purpose. On April 23, 2024, the strategy for Somalia's security landscape takes a decisive turn as Turkey deploys 500 troops to reinforce its military efforts against the persistent threat of al-Shabaab. The stakes could not be higher.…