Author: Abdihakim Kalale

Ramadan in Africa is a time of spiritual reflection, unity, and charity, celebrated with diverse traditions across the continent. Muslims and non-Muslims alike participate in grand Iftar gatherings, fostering interfaith harmony. Across Africa, Ramadan strengthens bonds beyond religion. In countries like Senegal, Mali, and Ethiopia, large public Iftars welcome everyone, reflecting Africa’s deep-rooted hospitality and inclusivity. Mosques and community centers organize meals where people of different faiths gather, promoting peace and togetherness. Ramadan cuisine varies by region. Morocco’s Harira soup, Senegal’s Cheb Bu Jen, Egypt’s Fatta, and Nigeria’s Jollof rice are staple Iftar dishes. In East Africa, Somalis enjoy Bariis…

Prateek Suri has solidified his position as Africa’s richest Indian billionaire, with a net worth of $1.4 billion. This milestone comes after his company, Maser Group, gained international recognition with affordable smart televisions, selling over 800,000 units across Africa. Maser Group’s recent $5 billion acquisition of SCG Asia has played a pivotal role in increasing his wealth. Born in New Delhi, Suri studied mechanical engineering before founding Maser Group in 2012. His entrepreneurial journey led him to launch MDR Investments, a venture capital firm with interests spanning mining, infrastructure, shipping, and artificial intelligence. Alongside his business success, Suri has made…

Tanzania is taking significant steps to become a key player in the global critical minerals industry by emphasizing industrial development and value addition. The Tanzania Mining & Investment Forum 2024, held from November 19 to 21 at the Julius Nyerere Convention Center, attracted over 1,500 participants from various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and North America. The event was led by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and Minister of Minerals Anthony Mavunde, with key contributions from regional leaders, industry professionals, and investors. A highlight of the event was the session titled “Energy Transition Minerals: Focusing on Midstream and…

Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Badr Abdelatty, met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to discuss regional security and cooperation. Both leaders reiterated their rejection of any foreign military or naval presence in the Red Sea, emphasizing that only littoral states should manage the region’s security. Abdelatty’s visit to Eritrea was part of efforts to activate a tripartite coordination mechanism between Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia, which was established during an October 2024 summit in Asmara. The committee’s first meeting took place in Cairo in January, and preparations are underway for the second meeting in Eritrea. During their discussions, the two sides…

Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele emerged victorious at the Tokyo Marathon on Sunday, completing the race in 2 hours, 3 minutes, and 23 seconds. He surged ahead with about 4 km remaining, securing his first major marathon title and improving his personal best by one second. His compatriot Deresa Geleta finished second in 2:03:51, while Kenya’s Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich claimed third place with a time of 2:04:00. “The weather wasn’t an issue; I felt comfortable throughout,” Takele remarked emphasizing his ambition to improve further in future races. In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede successfully defended her title, finishing in 2:16:31.…

Fashion designer Áwet Woldegebriel returned to Asmara, Eritrea, to showcase Áwet New York’s Fall 2025 collection, an homage to his homeland. The collection, titled Asmara, blends Eritrean craftsmanship with Italian tailoring, drawing inspiration from Asmarino and Asmarina men and women, including Woldegebriel’s father, master tailor Goitom Woldegebriel. “Returning to Asmara after so many years is a profound moment for me. Asmara is not just a city – it’s a living museum of resilience, creativity, and identity.” Woldegebriel, who left Eritrea in 1998 and sought asylum in the U.S. in 2000, launched Áwet New York in 2020. His return to Asmara…

The Port of Lamu is set to play a bigger role in regional trade following an agreement between Kenya and Ethiopia to facilitate imports through the facility. President William Ruto announced the deal, emphasizing that it will create jobs and drive economic growth in the region. Speaking in Lamu County, Ruto stated that Kenya’s second-largest port is now ready for expanded use, with three modern berths fully completed. He added that the government has allocated KSh1.7 billion to compensate local fisherfolk affected by the port’s construction. Lamu Port is a key component of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor,…

Somalia and Azerbaijan have taken a significant step toward strengthening their energy relations with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Oil and Gas Sector. The agreement was announced by Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, via his X account, highlighting the importance of this new partnership for both nations. In his post, Shahbazov noted that discussions with Dahir Shire Mohamed, Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, revolved around exploring opportunities for energy cooperation. The two ministers agreed to leverage Azerbaijan’s extensive experience in oil and gas projects to enhance the development of Somalia’s…

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed upon his arrival in Mogadishu. Their discussions will focus on strengthening security cooperation, expanding trade relations, and fostering deeper diplomatic engagement. This visit underscores both nations’ commitment to regional peace and economic collaboration. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit follows efforts to restore diplomatic ties after tensions arose over Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. A high-level Ethiopian delegation led by Abiy Ahmed is in Mogadishu as part of broader efforts to finalize and implement the Ankara agreement, a peace deal mediated by Türkiye. Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia escalated after…

The Berber culture is one of the oldest and most vibrant civilizations in North Africa, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. The Berbers, also known as the Amazigh people, have preserved their traditions, language, and customs despite historical challenges. Their influence can be seen in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, Niger, and even parts of Egypt and Mauritania. This article explores the origins, traditions, and modern-day significance of Berber culture. Origins and History The Berbers are the indigenous people of North Africa, with historical roots dating back at least 4,000 years. Ancient Egyptian records mention them, and…

Somali government forces launched a large-scale military operation in Middle Shabelle, eliminating more than 70 Al-Shabaab militants, including senior commanders. The offensive, involving airstrikes and ground assaults, targeted key militant strongholds to prevent planned attacks on civilian and security sites. According to the Ministry of Information, the operation took place in Adow-Guray (Hiiraan), El Ali Ahmed, and Al Kowsar (Middle Shabelle). Somali National Army (SNA) troops, supported by local Ma’awisley militia, disrupted Al-Shabaab’s movements, killing dozens and forcing the remaining fighters to flee. Security forces also seized weapons, ammunition, and destroyed militant armored vehicles. Government officials described the mission as…

Somalia is set to sign an agreement with Türkiye on 1 March for onshore oil exploration, expanding their existing energy cooperation. This deal will mark a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to develop its oil sector with Turkish investment and expertise. Türkiye’s Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar confirmed that the agreement will grant Türkiye exploration rights for Somalia’s onshore oil reserves, building on their ongoing offshore exploration efforts. On 25 October 2024, Türkiye’s Oruç Reis seismic research vessel arrived in Somalia after a five-month journey, starting offshore oil and gas exploration in three maritime blocks. So far, 50% of the offshore…

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…