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Tag: Egypt

  • FULL LIST: Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, others top African countries with strongest naval fleet in 2026

    FULL LIST: Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, others top African countries with strongest naval fleet in 2026

    African naval capabilities often receive less scrutiny than land and air forces, yet maritime power across the continent is steadily advancing. With thousands of kilometres of coastline and sea lanes critical to global commerce, coastal states have expanded their fleets to defend territorial waters, protect offshore assets and curb piracy.

    From the Mediterranean corridor to the Gulf of Guinea, naval forces are playing a growing role in strengthening maritime security and underpinning economic stability. Governments have invested in platforms and surveillance systems aimed at securing borders and safeguarding natural resources.

    Modern African navies now extend beyond conventional defence roles. They support trade protection, conduct sea patrols, escort commercial vessels and participate in multinational exercises that foster regional cooperation and peacekeeping.

    Global Firepower’s 2026 naval assessment indicates that several African countries operate increasingly capable fleets, including submarines, offshore patrol vessels and advanced monitoring systems configured for both combat readiness and search-and-rescue operations.

    Here are the top 10 African countries with the strongest naval fleets in 2026:

    1. Nigeria – 152 naval vessels (22nd globally)

    2. Egypt – 149 naval vessels (23rd globally)

    3. Algeria – 111 naval vessels (34th globally)

    4. Morocco – 100 naval vessels (38th globally)

    5. South Africa – 63 naval vessels (52nd globally)

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    6. Tunisia – 37 naval vessels (61st globally)

    7. Mozambique – 36 naval vessels (62nd globally)

    8. Angola – 32 naval vessels (65th globally)

    9. Kenya – 27 naval vessels (72nd globally)

    10. Eritrea – 23 naval vessels (76th globally)

  • Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Kafayat Oyetola, has recused a 36-year-old Osun indigene, Titilayo Oluwaseun, who was stranded in Cairo, Egypt.

    The Nation recalled Oluwaseun called for government’s help in a video alleging that the person who facilitated her travelling seized her travelling passport and forced her into hard labour. 

    Mrs Oyetola intervened and ensured the retrieval of Titilayo’s passport as well as arranged for her flight back to Nigeria. 

    She arrived Nigeria on Sunday and was received by the Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Remi Omowaiye. 

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    Addressing newsmen after her arrival, Omowaiye disclosed that the rescue was facilitated by Mrs Kafayat who had been an advocate of good life for women and children in and out of government. 

    He said: “When the wife of the Minister heard the predicament of Titilayo, she moved her foundation, Ileri-Oluwa Women and Children Support Initiative to investigate the matter and reach out to her in Cairo. It was established that Titilayo wanted to return to Nigeria. 

    “We secured her passport and also the flight that will take her back to Nigeria. Finally she is back in Nigeria today.”

    Omowaiye charged Nigerians to probe anybody offering to take them out of the shores of Nigeira so that they will not fall in hands those who will force them into hard labour and prostitution. 

  • Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, others join Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’

    Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, others join Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’

    The foreign ministers of eight countries – Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) – have welcomed United States President Donald Trump’s invitation to their leaders to join the “Board of Peace” for Gaza.

    “The ministers announce their countries’ shared decision to join the Board of Peace,” said a joint statement issued by the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

    “Each country will sign the joining documents according to their respective relevant legal and other necessary procedures, including the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates, that have already announced to join,” the statement said.

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    The ministers, it said, reaffirmed their countries’ support for the peace efforts led by Trump and reiterated their commitment to supporting the implementation of the mandate of the Board of Peace as a transitional administration, as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict and endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803.

    The plan seeks to consolidate a permanent ceasefire, back Gaza’s reconstruction, and foster a just and lasting peace rooted in the Palestinian right to self-determination and statehood in accordance with international law, thereby promoting security and stability for all states and peoples of the region.

    Last week, the White House announced the formation of the Board of Peace alongside the approval of a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, one of four bodies designated to manage the transitional phase in the enclave.

    The creation of the board coincided with the launch of phase two of a ceasefire agreement, which halted Israel’s war on Gaza that has killed more than 71,000 people and injured over 171,000 others since October 2023.

  • AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman benched as Nigeria face Egypt in third-place playoff

    AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman benched as Nigeria face Egypt in third-place playoff

    Nigerian stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will not start for the Super Eagles in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 third-place playoff against Egypt.

    Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle opted to rotate his squad for Nigeria’s final game of the tournament in Morocco, making five changes to the team that lost on penalties to Morocco in the semi-finals. Alex Iwobi has also been named among the substitutes.

    Paul Onuachu will lead the line for Nigeria while Moses Simon takes over the captain’s armband and starts on the wing. Samuel Chukwueze, who missed his penalty in the semi-final shootout defeat, is handed a starting role as Chelle looks to freshen up his attacking options.

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    In defence, Igoh Ogbu is the only change, coming in for the suspended Calvin Bassey. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also starts as Nigeria aim to end the tournament on a positive note.

    The Super Eagles are chasing a ninth bronze medal in AFCON history and boast an impressive record in third-place matches, having never lost one.

    Super Eagles Starting XI

    Stanley Nwabali; Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel; Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon (C); Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu.

  • Egypt, Nigeria seek improved trade, investment relations – Envoy

    Egypt, Nigeria seek improved trade, investment relations – Envoy

    The Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Nigeria, Mohamed Fouad, has reaffirmed that deepening trade and investment relations between Egypt and Nigeria remain a top priority for both nations.

    Speaking during the 73rd National Day celebration of Egypt over the weekend in Abuja, Ambassador Fouad noted that both countries are committed to building a modern, forward-looking partnership grounded in shared values and mutual goals.

    “Scaling up our trade and investment relations is a priority for our two governments,” he stated. “We are proud of the numerous Egyptian companies that have operated in Nigeria for years, particularly in construction, energy, and communications, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and creating jobs.”

    He further highlighted areas of bilateral cooperation, including security, counter-terrorism, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, and technology, adding that both countries are moving with determination to strengthen collaboration across key sectors.

    He said, “We are proud of the growing people-to-people exchange between Egypt and Nigeria, which has significantly intensified over the last few years through tourism, business, and education, constituting a solid foundation for our bilateral relations.”

    He said, “Egypt, today, is a nation on the move. Under the “New Republic” Vision of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, we are embarking on an ambitious journey of comprehensive development and modernisation across all sectors.

    “We are building new cities, investing in sustainable energy, expanding our industrial base, and prioritising education and healthcare, all to create a prosperous and inclusive future for all Egyptians. Our economy is diversifying, our infrastructure is rapidly evolving, and our commitment to regional stability and global cooperation remains steadfast.”

    He added today, at a time of profound uncertainty, Egypt and Nigeria are cognizant of the imperative of redefining and further developing their bilateral relations to meet emerging common challenges and priorities.

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    “Against this backdrop, the third round of our bilateral political consultations was convened for the first time at the level of Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Cairo last January. Our two Ministers of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Badr Abd-Elatty and H.E. Youssef Tuggar, discussed numerous regional and bilateral issues of mutual interest. The two Ministers also signed a joint statement elevating our bilateral relations to the level of a comprehensive partnership.”

    The envoy added that: “Our respective compatriots in Egypt and in Nigeria play a crucial role in advancing the various facets of our partnership. They will continue to serve as the engine advancing our common objectives.”

    He also said historical ties that link Egypt to Nigeria date back centuries ago with Cairo’s leading Al-Azhar AlShareef University established a few centuries ago, “The Borno Pavilion” dedicated to students arriving from Northern Nigeria.

    He noted that generations of Nigerians sought knowledge at the esteemed University of Al Azhar, and as of today, hundreds of Nigerian students are enrolled in Egyptian universities, fostering a new generation of leaders who will contribute to Nigerian society and will undoubtedly strengthen the ties between our two nations.

  • Egypt, Nigeria, others’ start-ups top fund raise

    Egypt, Nigeria, others’ start-ups top fund raise

    Start-ups in Egypt is currently topping the charts in terms of start-up investments (exc. exits) this year so far with 31per cent ($330million) of the funding raised, followed by South Africa (26per cent), Nigeria (15per cent), and Kenya (12per cent).

    According to a report entitled: Africa: The Big Deal, released yesterday, start-ups in Africa raised just “north” of a quarter of a billion dollars ($254million) last month. While this is not breaking any records, it is making March’s poor performance look more and more like a blip. With over $1billion raised in the first five months of the year, 2025 compares very favourably to 2024 ($750million over the same period, +40per cent) for instance.

    What’s also encouraging is that start-ups in Africa have raised $2.5billion over the past 12 months (June 2024-May 2025), the highest total for a 12-month period since early last year.

    A total of 36 start-ups announced funding over $100k+ in May (exc. exits), slightly lower than in the past few months. On the positive side though, it means the median deal value was higher. No less than seven ventures raised over $10million last month. The largest deal was Egypt-based Nawy’s $75million raise ($52million Series A round led by Partech + $23million in debt), by far the largest proptech deal on the continent ever.

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     Egyptian start-ups were on a roll last month, as they were responsible for 6 of the seven over $10million announcements: on top of Nawy, Tasaheel – part of MNT-Halan (fintech) – finalised Egypt’s largest corporate bond issuance ($50million); Valu raised $27million from Saudi investors and is on track to list publicly imminently; Thndr (fintech, again) raised over $15million round, and so did Sylndr (Series A, mobility); finally Money Fellows (… fintech) secured a $13m pre-Series C to expand outside of Egypt. The only outlier on this list was South African healthtech AURA who raised a $15million Series B, co-led by Partech and CAIF, to expand to the US.

    Finally, four exits were also announced in May, and guess what… three of them involved Egyptian ventures with MaxAB-Wasoko acquiring Fatura, Miran and Welnes merging, and the first ever SPAC merger in the country happening with Catalyst Partners Middle East acquiring Qardy for an estimated $23million. Over in West Africa, BioLite acquired a majority stake in Baobab+.

  • Egypt’s Al Ahly earn record-extending 45th  league title

    Egypt’s Al Ahly earn record-extending 45th  league title

     Al Ahly clinched a record-extending 45th  Egyptian Premier League title with a 6-0 rout of Pharco after Wesam Abou Ali scored four goals in their final game .

    Abou Ali also provided the assist for the fifth goal, scored by Hussein Elshahat, with Imam Ashour wrapping up the win in added time as Al Ahly earned a third consecutive league crown.

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    Yesterday’s  win brings Al Ahly’s tally to 58 points, two ahead of their closest rivals Pyramids.

    Local media reported that Pyramids have gone to the Court of Arbitration for Sport demanding three points to be deducted from the champions for failing to show up for a match against arch-rivals Zamalek.

    The Egyptian Professional Football Club Association had punished Al Ahly with a three-point deduction for not playing the match in March – after the club’s request for foreign officials was turned down – but backed down after the Cairo-based club complained to the local Olympic Committee.

  • FULL LIST: African countries that attracted most tourists in 2024

    FULL LIST: African countries that attracted most tourists in 2024

    Tourism in Africa continues to grow steadily, showcasing the continent’s diverse appeal to travellers worldwide. From the ancient wonders of Egypt to the vibrant markets of Morocco and the stunning safaris of East and Southern Africa, millions of tourists are exploring what the continent has to offer.

    In 2024, Africa recorded significant growth in international arrivals, with some countries experiencing a sharp rise in visitor numbers compared to 2023.

    This upward trend highlights Africa’s increasing global appeal, boosted by improved infrastructure, enhanced digital connectivity, targeted marketing campaigns, and a growing appetite for cultural, adventure, and eco-tourism experiences.

    North African countries like Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia continue to dominate the rankings, driven by a combination of historical landmarks, Mediterranean coastlines, and accessibility for European travellers.

    At the same time, East and Southern African nations such as Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zimbabwe remain top picks for nature enthusiasts and safari lovers.

    This list breaks down the most visited African countries in both 2023 and 2024, showing year-on-year changes and shedding light on the continent’s evolving tourism landscape. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, investor, or policymaker, understanding these trends can help you see which destinations are rising and why.

    Here are the African countries that attracted the most tourists in 2024

    1. Morocco – 17.4 million tourists

    Morocco topped the chart in 2024, thanks to its rich culture, historic cities, and scenic landscapes.

    2. Egypt – 15.7 million tourists

    Egypt remained a global favourite for its ancient pyramids, Nile cruises, and Red Sea resorts.

    3. Tunisia – 10.25 million tourists

    Tourists flocked to Tunisia for its Mediterranean beaches and Roman ruins.

    4. South Africa – 8.92 million tourists

    Wildlife safaris, wine tours, and Cape Town’s beauty kept South Africa in high demand.

    5. Algeria – 3.5 million tourists

    Algeria’s unique mix of desert landscapes and historical sites attracted growing interest.

    6. Kenya – 2.4 million tourists

    Kenya continued to draw visitors with its iconic savannahs and coastal experiences.

    7. Tanzania – 2.14 million tourists

    Serengeti safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro boosted Tanzania’s numbers.

    8. Zimbabwe – 1.55 million tourists

    Victoria Falls and national parks kept Zimbabwe on the tourism map.

    9. Mauritius – 1.382 million tourists

    Luxury resorts and pristine beaches made Mauritius a top island destination.

    10. Uganda – 1.372 million tourists

    Gorilla trekking and eco-tourism gave Uganda a solid spot in the top 10.

    11. Cape Verde – 1.2 million tourists

    This island nation charmed visitors with its beaches, music, and volcanic terrain.

    Africa’s Most Visited Countries – 2023

    1. Egypt – 14.9 million tourists

    Egypt led the continent in 2023 with its timeless archaeological appeal.

    2. Morocco – 14.5 million tourists

    Morocco remained a traveller favourite, particularly among European visitors.

    3. Tunisia – 9 million tourists

    Tunisia maintained strong tourist numbers with its blend of culture and coast.

    4. South Africa – 8.5 million tourists

    A go-to for adventure and leisure seekers from around the world.

    5. Algeria – 3.3 million tourists

    Algeria’s numbers grew steadily as tourism slowly opened up.

    6. Tanzania – 1.797 million tourists

    National parks and Zanzibar continued to attract global travellers.

    7. Kenya – 1.75 million tourists

    Safari lovers and beachgoers kept Kenya busy in 2023.

    8. Zimbabwe – 1.6 million tourists

    Consistent interest in natural wonders like Victoria Falls drove visits.

    9. Rwanda – 1.4 million tourists

    Known for clean cities and gorilla tourism, Rwanda drew eco-conscious travellers.

    10. Mauritius – 1.3 million tourists

    A high-end beach destination with strong international appeal.

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    11. Uganda – 1.27 million tourists

    A rising star in East Africa for nature and adventure tourism.

    12. Nigeria – 1.2 million tourists

    Mostly driven by diaspora visits, business, and cultural events.

    13. Botswana – 1.183 million tourists

    A favourite for luxury safari experiences and untouched wilderness.

    14. Mozambique – 1.154 million tourists

    Its Indian Ocean coastline and marine parks drew niche interest.

    15. Ghana – 1.15 million tourists

    A key destination for heritage tourism, especially among African Diasporas.

    16. Cape Verde – 1 million tourists

    Island charm and vibrant culture made it a growing favourite.

  • Egypt’s legendary coach tips Salah to win AFCON 2025

    Egypt’s legendary coach tips Salah to win AFCON 2025

    The time has come for Mohamed Salah to lift the Africa Cup of Nations, says Egypt coach Hossam Hassan, who aims to lead the country to the 2026 World Cup just like he did as a player.

    Hassan won the Nations Cup three times as a player and is desperate to claim the title as a coach. He can call on a distinguished squad, including Liverpool’s Salah and fellow forward Omar Marmoush, who joined Manchester City in January.

    Salah, 32, has twice finished runner-up in the continental tournament – in 2017 and 2021 – but has yet to win the title.

    “It’s time for Salah to lift the Africa Cup of Nations trophy, and he deserves it. The competition is tough, but we are capable of winning it,” Hassan told Reuters in an interview.

    “He is a great player and deserves his current status. Having him with us is wonderful. Everyone in the team, led by Salah, is doing their best to fulfil the hopes and ambitions of the Egyptian people,” the former striker added.

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    Egypt have been drawn in Group B with South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe at the Dec. 21 to Jan. 18 tournament in Morocco

    Hassan declined to choose between winning the Nations Cup and qualifying for the World Cup, having tasted both in his storied career as his country’s most prolific striker.

    It was his goal that secured Egypt’s spot in the 1990 World Cup and now, as a coach, he hopes to match that achievement.

    “The two goals are extremely important. Winning the Africa Cup of Nations after a long absence (would be) fantastic for the national team, especially for this outstanding generation that deserves it,” he said.

    “Also, reaching the World Cup and advancing to the later stages would be even more wonderful and would highlight the performance of this generation and the coaching staff and, of course, bring joy to the Egyptian fans who deserve so much”.

    Egypt drew with Ireland and Netherlands at Italia 90 but failed to progress after a 1-0 defeat by eventual semi-finalists England. They also made it to Russia in 2018 but lost all three group games against the hosts, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

    Egypt have a four-point lead atop African World Cup qualifying Group A with six rounds of matches left. The group winners qualify directly for next year’s finals.

  • Palestinians, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UK, others reject Trump’s plan to ‘own Gaza Strip’

    Palestinians, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UK, others reject Trump’s plan to ‘own Gaza Strip’

    World leaders and Palestinian authorities have rejected United States President Donald Trump’s plan to elongate his takeover list as he shared his wish to ‘own’ war-ravaged Gaza Strip.

    The Arab countries, who are also U.S. allies, as well as United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Spain France, Germany and others have rejected the proposal of relocating the Gazans to other countries while the war-torn state is rebuilt.

    Trump made the remarks on Gaza during a joint press conference in the White House with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu standing beside him.

    He also suggested that the U.S. develop the land but gave no details on who would be allowed to live there.

    He proposed that all Palestinians currently living in Gaza — around 2 million people — should leave and be placed in other countries in the Middle East.

    But, the Palestinian Authority said it has categorically rejected Trump’s proposal to relocate the residents of the Gaza Strip.

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    Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, said the Palestinians will not relinquish their land, rights and sacred sites, and that the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the land of the State of Palestine, along with the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

    “The Palestinian leadership affirms its firm position that the two-state solution, in accordance with international legitimacy and international law, is the guarantee of security, stability and peace,’’ Hussein al-Sheikh said.

    Al-Sheikh is the Secretary-General of the executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), wrote on X yesterday.

    Hamas, which sparked the war with its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, said Trump’s proposal was a “recipe for creating chaos and tension in the region.”

    Islamic Jihad declared that “Trump’s positions and plans are a dangerous escalation that threatens Arab and regional national security, especially in Egypt and Jordan, which the U.S. administration wants to put in confrontation with the Palestinian people and their rights.”

    The two-state solution provided for Israel and a Palestinian state to coexist as independent states.

    The Palestinian leadership “affirms its rejection of all calls for the displacement of the Palestinian people from their homeland.