Author: Abdihakim Kalale

Yohannes Alemayehu, a prominent leader and spokesperson for Gojjam Fano, was confirmed dead following a clash near Washera. He had been a key figure in Fano insurgents Yohannes Alemayehu, a leader and spokesperson of Gojjam Fano, was killed in action during a battle near Washera on the night of January 20-21. The Gojjam Fano group confirmed his death through a social media update, marking a significant loss for the group. Alemayehu served as the chairperson of the Amhara Fano Second Teferra Division and was known for his speeches to Media. He had been involved in several battles in Gojjam, including…

Eritrea Caught in Global Powers’ Geopolitical Tug-of-WarEritrea has become a focal point of geopolitical competition, drawing criticism for its ties with Iran, Russia, and China, while also facing pressure from the United States and Israel. This complex interplay has left the small Horn of Africa nation entangled in global rivalries that prioritize foreign agendas over the well-being of its people and region. The detention of Azerbaijani ships on November 7, 2024, highlights the extent to which Eritrea is being exploited as a pawn in larger power games. Iran’s influence in Eritrea, reflected in its use of Eritrean waters for military…

Tiryaki Agro Food Industry and Trade Inc., one of Türkiye’s leading agricultural exporters, has signed a significant agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to enhance its operations in Africa. This partnership focuses on supporting Tiryaki Agro’s expansion efforts, including the development of a port storage facility in Djibouti, which will play a crucial role in improving food trade in the region. The port storage facility will streamline logistics for vital food products, such as wheat and grains, and is expected to reduce waiting times for ships, thus increasing food trade between Djibouti and neighboring countries. This project also aims…

Kenya’s central bank governor, Kamau Thugge, has indicated that U.S. President Donald Trump’s focus on boosting domestic oil and gas production could positively influence Kenya’s inflation. The potential increase in global energy supply might reduce fuel costs, indirectly benefiting Kenya’s economy. Trump’s commitment to expanding the United States’ energy output, encapsulated in his pledge to “drill, baby, drill,” is expected to lower global oil prices. With Brent crude already dropping below $80 a barrel, this trend could ease price pressures in Kenya, which relies entirely on imports to meet its annual petroleum consumption of 5.5 million cubic meters. Governor Thugge…

A recent safety review has highlighted the top African nations, with Tanzania securing a spot as one of the safest destinations for travelers in 2025. The ranking, compiled by Altezza Travel, showcases the continent’s growing appeal as a secure and inviting place for tourism. The review, conducted in January 2025, aimed to dispel misleading perceptions of Africa as a risky region. According to Dickson Muganda, Assistant Director of Altezza Travel, the analysis revealed that many African countries offer better safety than several European nations. 8. TanzaniaTanzania ranks eighth, known for its political stability and unique attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro and…

Petra Diamonds has finalized an agreement to sell its entire 75% stake in Tanzania’s Williamson Diamonds Limited (WDL) to Pink Diamonds Investments, a company affiliated with Taifa, for up to $16 million. The remaining 25% of WDL is owned by the Tanzanian government. This deal includes the transfer of shareholder loans owed to Petra, with the $16 million consideration being paid from WDL’s distributable cash. Petra will receive 20% of WDL’s annual distributable cash until the full amount is paid. However, the company noted that the full payment is not guaranteed. Richard Duffy, Petra Diamonds’ CEO, emphasized the strategic decision…

The World Bank has withdrawn its $150 million funding for a project aimed at increasing tourism in Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park following allegations of human rights violations by park authorities. The project’s suspension highlights concerns about the potential displacement of thousands of residents in areas affected by plans to expand the park. The initiative, known as the Resilient Natural Resource Management for Tourism and Growth (REGROW), was intended to boost tourism revenue in southern Tanzania’s parks, which receive fewer visitors compared to northern parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. However, plans to enlarge Ruaha National Park, first announced in 2008 and…

The Sudanese army launched a multi-directional offensive, advancing towards critical locations, including areas near the Khartoum oil refinery, approximately 70 kilometers north of the capital. This marks the first confirmed presence near the facility since the conflict began in April. The military reported intense bombardments targeting the refinery area, with explosions resonating across the Nile in Omdurman. Videos surfaced online allegedly showing army troops near Al-Jeili crossing gate, located between Khartoum and River Nile states. This location, about 20 kilometers southwest of the refinery, has been under RSF control since the conflict erupted. On the eastern front, army units reportedly…

Abu Dhabi-based Phoenix Group has signed an 80-megawatt power purchase agreement (PPA) with Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) to support its bitcoin mining expansion in Africa. The energy supply is set to commence in the second quarter, marking Phoenix’s first major venture into the African market. The agreement, developed in partnership with cybersecurity firm Data7, reflects Phoenix’s global diversification strategy. While details on the facility’s location remain undisclosed, CEO Munaf Ali emphasized the company’s commitment to expanding its mining capabilities and preparing for a potential Nasdaq listing. Phoenix Group operates mining facilities across the UAE, the U.S., and Canada, with Abu…

In Mogadishu, a remarkable scene is turning heads: Shukri Osman Muse, Somalia’s first female equestrian, confidently riding a horse through streets crowded with tuk-tuks and motorbikes. Her presence challenges societal norms in a conservative nation and highlights her determination to achieve her dreams. Dressed in a black cowboy hat and a full-length abaya, the 25-year-old began horse riding just a year ago and now aims to represent Somalia in international equestrian competitions. Muse overcame numerous obstacles, including societal expectations and limited access to resources, to pursue her passion. After months of rigorous training, Muse is now a skilled equestrian with…

The African Union Commission (AUC) has voiced concern over the U.S. decision to exit the World Health Organization (WHO), a move announced by President Donald Trump. Highlighting America’s long-standing contributions to global health initiatives, AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki emphasized the significance of U.S. support in shaping WHO’s policies and fostering international health collaborations. Faki pointed out the critical partnership between the U.S. and Africa, particularly through the establishment of the Africa CDC, which has worked closely with WHO to address public health emergencies on the continent. The AUC underscored the global reliance on WHO to uphold public health security, describing…

Sudan is intensifying efforts to recover priceless cultural artifacts stolen during the ongoing conflict. Many of these items are believed to have been smuggled across borders, particularly into South Sudan, or sold internationally through private dealers. The looting began with the National Museum in Khartoum, a repository of artifacts chronicling Sudanese civilization from the Stone Age to the Islamic period. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been accused of plundering the museum, with reports of items being transported in large trucks through Omdurman to western Sudan and beyond the borders. However, officials face significant challenges in accessing the museum due…

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a deadly attack on villages in North Darfur, leaving 29 dead and displacing thousands. The offensive, described as targeting specific ethnic groups, has drawn calls for urgent international intervention. El Fasher, Darfur’s capital, remains a key battleground amid intense fighting. At least 29 people have lost their lives, and dozens more sustained injuries in a brutal assault carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on villages located east of El Fasher in North Darfur. The attacks on January 18, which targeted the Um Kadada locality, led to mass displacements, with thousands seeking refuge…

Ethiopia has recorded a significant rise in export revenues during the first half of its fiscal year, exceeding government expectations by a wide margin. The nation’s export earnings reached $3.2 billion between July and December 2024, reflecting a 45% growth compared to projections. Officials are optimistic that exports will surpass $6 billion by the end of the fiscal year, doubling last year’s earnings. This growth comes despite the recent decision to float the Ethiopian Birr, which has caused a sharp currency devaluation. While imports have become costlier, the depreciation has boosted the global competitiveness of Ethiopian exports. Coffee remains the…

Kenya has introduced a new directive allowing citizens from almost all African nations to visit without prior approval. This move replaces the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system that had been in place since last year, which required most visitors to obtain online authorization before departure. The cabinet announced that the ETA would no longer apply to citizens of all African countries, except Somalia and Libya, citing security concerns. This policy shift aims to boost regional integration, encourage tourism, and support the “open skies” initiative. Although the new rule simplifies travel for most African nationals, Kenya’s standing in the 2024 Africa…

Ethiopia has unveiled a major discovery of natural gas reserves in the Somali region, signaling its emergence as a significant energy player. State Minister of Mines, Million Mathewos, announced that extensive exploration involving 19 drilled wells revealed a total reserve of 21.336 billion cubic meters of natural gas. The government plans to initiate production within a year, highlighting Ethiopia’s commitment to swiftly harness its natural resources for economic growth. This discovery aligns with Ethiopia’s broader energy strategy, which includes tapping into its other oil and gas-rich areas like Mekele, Metema, South Omo, and Gambella. Mathewos emphasized the reserves’ strategic importance…