Ethiopia and Somalia spent most of 2024 at odds after Ethiopia made a deal with Somaliland in January. This deal gave Ethiopia access to ports and military bases, which Somalia saw as supporting Somaliland’s claim to independence. Somalia obviously fiercely oposes this position. Tensions grew as both sides stood firm. Turkey stepped in to mediate […]
Gold mining in Tanzania poses significant environmental challenges that affect local communities and ecosystems. One of the most pressing issues is the soil erosion and contamination of water due to the use of chemicals like mercury and cyanide during gold extraction. These toxic substances often find their way into rivers and groundwater, harming human health […]
In 2024, Nairobi experienced a troubling rise in abductions, mainly targeting government critics, protesters, and social media activists. This surge is largely linked to the government’s crackdown on dissent, particularly after anti-government protests began in June. Human rights organizations have reported that security forces, often in plain clothes, have been involved in abducting individuals suspected […]
Hind Meddeb’s SUDAN REMEMBER US screens at Marrakech International Film Festival Hind Meddeb presented her striking political documentary SUDAN REMEMBER US at the 21st Marrakech International Film Festival — running from November 29th to December 7th — where it is in the running for the festival’s coveted Golden Star. The film’s sold-out screening was followed […]
Mekki Center for African Affairs Thaks: Institute of Oromo studies and Journalist Zinabu Asrat The Oromo people have many fascinating cultural festivals celebrated in an open space. One among others is the festival held on the eve or dwan of Birraa, literally a new year for Oromo. During this time people who meet each […]
Thanks to: Institute of Oromo Studies, thanks to Journalist Zinabu Asrat What is Irreechaa? Irreechaa is Oromo people’s Thanksgiving Day, celebrated twice a year at malka/river or lake and Tullu/mountains top or hill. Irreecha Malkaa /Birraa is celebrated during the last week of September, which is the end of winter season and the beginning of […]
In a firm rebuttal, the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) has dismissed recent accusations by the Ethiopian government that it has ties to Al-Shabaab, labeling the claims as baseless. The OLA clarified that its goals are wholly incompatible with those of the extremist group and suggested that any allegations linking them are politically motivated. As tensions […]
A Ugandan court has found former Lord’s Resistance Army commander Thomas Kwoyelo guilty on 44 war crimes charges, marking a critical moment in addressing the country’s troubled history. Kwoyelo’s conviction sheds light on the painful legacy of Joseph Kony’s insurgency, which left deep wounds across Uganda. While the verdict is a step towards justice, It […]
Egypt’s reopening of its newly constructed embassy in Mogadishu represents a bold and strategic move, signifying a deep commitment to its ties with Somalia. This development, coupled with EgyptAir’s recent launch of direct flights between Cairo and Mogadishu, isn’t just about diplomacy, it’s also a step towards encompassing deeper political, economic, and security cooperation that […]
Rwandans in Belgium recently celebrated Umuganura alongside the 10-year anniversary of Umuganda in their community. The event, held in Zeebrugge, Brugge, was organized by Rwanda’s Embassy and included traditional Rwandan foods, dances, and an exhibition of Rwandan-made products. Attendees included embassy officials, local authorities, and members of the Rwandan diaspora from France and Germany. This […]
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