Author: Abdihakim Kalale

Efforts to promote lasting peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea are gaining momentum, with growing optimism that the Eritrean government may reconsider its stance and engage in constructive dialogue with Ethiopia. Observers argue that if Asmara commits to genuine peace and mutually beneficial cooperation—similar to the diplomatic progress seen in 2018—it could pave the way for long-term regional stability. Experts stress that past conflicts between the two nations have resulted in destruction rather than progress, urging leaders in both countries to adopt a new approach focused on shared interests and peaceful coexistence. The strained relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have deep…

The Maasai are one of Africa’s most renowned ethnic groups, known for their distinctive customs, striking red garments, and deep-rooted traditions. Predominantly residing in Kenya and Tanzania, the Maasai have maintained their rich cultural identity despite modernization. This article explores the history, customs, and contemporary significance of the Maasai people. Maasai Tribe Origins and History The Maasai belong to the Nilotic ethnic group, originating from the Nile Valley region. They migrated southward into present-day Kenya and Tanzania around the 15th century. Known as fierce warriors and skilled cattle herders, the Maasai resisted colonization and maintained their independence longer than many…

After 35 years, Somalia has paid off its financial obligations to the United Nations, regaining its voting rights. This significant development has removed the country from the list of debtor nations, strengthening Somalia’s position in the international community. According to the UN Charter, a country’s voting rights are suspended if it fails to pay its membership dues for an extended period. However, Somalia has resolved its debts, removing this obstacle and gaining the opportunity to play a more active role in international diplomatic processes. The Somali government emphasized that this step would enhance the country’s economic stability and integration with…

The African Union (AU) has elected Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as the new chairperson of its executive body, the African Union Commission (AUC). His leadership begins at a critical time, as the continent faces increasing internal and global challenges. A Tough Election Battle The AU summit in Addis Ababa saw a significant political shift as Youssouf replaced outgoing chair Moussa Faki from Chad. The election process was competitive, with Youssouf narrowly securing victory over veteran Kenyan politician Raila Odinga after seven rounds of voting. This marks the first time an East African leader has headed the AUC. Youssouf, who has…

Technology is transforming Africa at an unprecedented pace, reshaping industries, improving livelihoods, and driving economic growth. From artificial intelligence (AI) to fintech, renewable energy, and e-commerce, technological advancements are solving real-world challenges across the continent. This article explores how technology is changing Africa in 2025 and the key innovations shaping its future. Fintech Revolution: Africa’s Digital Banking Boom Mobile Money DominanceM-Pesa continues to dominate mobile transactions in Kenya, Tanzania, and beyond.New fintech platforms like Flutterwave, Chipper Cash, and Opay are expanding cross-border payments.Cryptocurrency adoption is rising, with countries like Nigeria and South Africa leading in digital asset use. Financial Inclusion…

Egypt and Kenya have strengthened their collaboration in space technology, focusing on satellite development, localization, and capacity building to advance Africa’s space sector. During an official visit, a high-level Kenyan delegation, led by Brigadier Hilary Kipkosgei, CEO of the Kenya Space Agency, met with Professor Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency. The discussions centered on deepening cooperation in satellite technology and fostering expertise to support Africa’s long-term space goals. The meeting, held at the Egyptian Space Agency headquarters, highlighted Egypt’s role as the host of the African Space Agency, positioning it as a hub for regional space…

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has seen a surge in violence, with recent events highlighting the humanitarian crisis gripping the nation. Shelling in North Darfur’s Zamzam camp on Saturday resulted in at least 16 deaths and 42 injuries, according to camp officials. The camp, home to nearly two million displaced people, has faced repeated attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), forcing thousands to flee and exacerbating food shortages. In a separate incident, a marked ambulance belonging to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) was attacked while transporting a woman in labor from Zamzam camp to the Saudi Hospital in El Fasher.…

Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has announced a $30,000 cash reward for information leading to the arrest of Yusuf Mohamed Hussein, widely known as Jeeri-Arab, a senior operative of Al-Shabab. Jeeri-Arab is reportedly a pivotal member of the group’s bomb disposal unit and has been linked to multiple heinous attacks in the Banadir region. NISA described him as instrumental in planning suicide missions, conducting reconnaissance, and defusing explosives for Al-Shabab. The agency highlighted his involvement in major attacks in Mogadishu, targeting Villa Rosa, Banadir’s regional headquarters, and popular establishments such as Pearl Beach, SYL Hotel, Beach View, and…

Wad Madani, a vital city in Sudan, holds immense strategic importance due to its geographical location, its role in the agricultural economy, and its connection to critical transportation routes. Situated approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, Wad Madani serves as a key crossroads for several important supply routes. These roads connect various regions within Sudan, including the Blue Nile, White Nile, and Sennar states, making the city an essential hub for transportation and logistics. The city is particularly known for its fertile land, which makes it a significant agricultural center in Sudan. Its potential for farming…

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemetti), plan a press conference in Nairobi on Monday, intensifying scrutiny over Kenya’s controversial ties with the paramilitary group. This follows Hemetti’s last visit to Kenya, during which Sudan recalled its ambassador in protest of Nairobi’s alleged support for the RSF. Kenya has faced growing criticism for its perceived role in regional conflicts. Observers accuse the country of being “on the wrong side of history,” citing its alleged support for apartheid in South Africa, complicity in genocide in Sudan through backing the RSF, and links to atrocities in the Democratic…

Puntland State has launched a major offensive targeting Daesh militants entrenched in the Almiskaad mountains of Somalia’s Bari region. Over 7,000 heavily armed soldiers are engaged in the operation, named “Hilaac” (lightning), aimed at eradicating the militants, including their leader Sheikh Abdulkadir Mumin. Puntland Minister of Information Mohamed Aidiid announced that significant progress has been made, with forces dismantling several Daesh hideouts and capturing key supplies, including weapons and food stockpiles. A drone used by Daesh for surveillance was also shot down. Military officers reported clearing over 70 kilometers of mountainous terrain and neutralizing logistical hubs that sustained the group.…

Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, known for her outspoken criticism of the government, was abducted in Nairobi by armed men on Sunday but released hours later. She confirmed her release in a video to her followers, appearing visibly distressed but expressing relief, saying, “I have been saved.” The incident has sparked concerns about cross-border operations targeting dissenting voices. The president of the Law Society of Kenya, Faith Odhiambo, revealed that legal efforts were instrumental in securing Tsehai’s release, warning against Kenya being used for such acts. Tsehai, a prominent advocate for land rights and freedom of expression, has been critical…

Somalia has declared its candidacy for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) for the 2025–2028 term, emphasizing its commitment to regional and continental priorities. In its announcement, Somalia highlighted the need for equitable representation, noting its absence from the AU PSC since its establishment in 2004. It argued that its inclusion would ensure fairness within the organization. The nation also pointed to the alignment between its future role on the United Nations Security Council (2025–2026) and the AU, which could help advance African interests globally. Somalia further underscored its historical contributions to Pan-Africanism and…

Azerbaijan has called on Eritrean authorities to release three detained Azerbaijani-flagged vessels and their 18 crew members, held since November 7, 2024. The ships reportedly entered Eritrean waters due to adverse weather while en route to Abu Dhabi through the Suez Canal. The detained vessels, CMS Pahlian, CMS İgid, and CMS-3, are operated by Caspian Marine Services B.V.’s Azerbaijani branch. Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ayxan Hajizada stated that Eritrean officials cited incomplete documentation as the reason for the detention. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Azerbaijan sending formal notes through its embassies in Ethiopia and Russia. Authorities aim to secure the…

Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives has approved a new law enabling the government to recover assets linked to undeclared income. Initially presented in June 2024, the legislation underwent extensive review by the Legal and Justice Standing Committee before receiving final approval on January 9, 2025. The law introduces a robust framework to reclaim assets tied to criminal activities, targeting both tangible and intangible properties, including bank credits, stocks, bonds, and other economic holdings. Retroactive measures allow the government to seize assets acquired within the past decade, provided their unexplained value exceeds 10 million birr. A key feature of the legislation…

Several foreign Daesh fighters have reportedly surrendered to authorities in Puntland, Somalia, according to the region’s Information Minister, Mahmoud Aided Dirir. The minister confirmed that the surrender process is underway, with international organizations such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Red Crescent aiding in their repatriation to their home countries. However, specific details about the number of fighters, their nationalities, and a timeline for their return remain undisclosed. Dirir emphasized that Puntland’s legal approach ensures all individuals involved in criminal activities, whether Somali or foreign, will face equal justice. He also dismissed rumors that foreign fighters would…