Somalia sees surge in tourism despite insecurity

Somalia, long synonymous with conflict and piracy, is quietly emerging as a niche destination for adventurous travelers. In 2024, around 10,000 tourists visited—a 50% increase from the previous year—drawn by curiosity, extreme travel challenges, and unique experiences. While Mogadishu remains dangerous, tourists’ experiences are heavily managed, involving stays within secure Green Zones and movement only in armed […]
Three African nations eliminate measles and rubella

Cabo Verde, Mauritius, and Seychelles have made a landmark public health achievement by eliminating measles and rubella, becoming the first sub-Saharan African countries to reach this milestone. The WHO’s Regional Verification Commission confirmed that the three island nations have halted endemic transmission of both viruses for over 36 months while maintaining robust surveillance systems to detect […]
Randrianirina outlines ambitious rebuilding plan for Madagascar

Madagascar’s new transitional leader, Michael Randrianirina, has delivered his first national address nearly a month after taking office. During the televised speech, Randrianirina recounted the tense, youth-driven uprising that brought him to power. He rejected accusations that Andry Rajoelina’s ouster was a coup, stressing that no violence occurred and that ongoing investigations target corruption, not political revenge. […]
Côte d’Ivoire reports increased influx of Malian refugees

Côte d’Ivoire is tightening security along its northern border in response to an unusual flow of refugees fleeing neighboring Mali. The Ivorian government attributes this surge to violent attacks on civilians by armed groups in southern Mali, which is grappling with a prolonged jihadist insurgency. In response, the National Security Council has directed the nation’s military […]
Central African court clears seven candidates to challenge Touadera

The stage is set for a highly competitive presidential election in the Central African Republic after the nation’s highest court approved the candidacies of two prominent former prime ministers. President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who is seeking a third term after the abolition of term limits, will now face six rivals. The court dismissed attempts to block the candidacies […]
Benin’s parliament backs constitutional reforms

Benin’s political landscape is set for a significant transformation following parliament’s approval of a major constitutional reform. The newly passed amendment extends the terms for the president and lawmakers from five to seven years, though the two-term limit remains intact. Passed by a 90–19 vote, the amendment also establishes a new legislative body, the Senate, composed […]
DR Congo stun Nigeria to keep World Cup hopes alive

The Democratic Republic of the Congo kept its World Cup dream alive after defeating Nigeria 4–3 on penalties following a tense 1–1 draw in the African qualifying playoffs in Morocco. Nigeria struck early through Frank Onyeka, but Meschack Elia pulled DR Congo level before halftime, setting the stage for a cautious but hard-fought contest. With extra time […]

