Salem Solomon
Verified
Award-winning Editor, Reporter @VOANews /Founder @Africa_Talks @AT_eLearning /Former Adjunct Prof. @USFSP / salemsolomon.com /RTs ≠ endorsements
Articles by Salem Solomon
Chinese Officials Arrested for Bribery Amid Kenya’s SGR Corruption Inquiry
Kenyan authorities have arrested seven officials with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) for bribing investigators looking into corruption tied to the Standard Gauge Railway, the Daily Nation, one of Kenya’s largest newspapers, reported Sunday. The arrests mark the first time Chinese officials have faced charges linked to the SGR, which has garnered controversy since the inaugural run between Nairobi, the capital, and Mombasa, a major coastal city, in mid 2017.
When U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton rolled out the United States’ new Africa strategy last week, he used the occasion to identify China as an imminent threat to both American and African interests. At different points in prepared remarks delivered at the Heritage Foundation, Bolton characterized China’s presence in Africa as predatory, opportunistic and power-hungry.
Kenyan Government Faces Backlash After Chinese Contract Leaks
The Kenyan government is struggling to respond to revelations that a multi-billion dollar contract with China may imperil its sovereignty, according to The Daily Nation newspaper. Details of the loan for the Standard Gauge Railway, Kenya’s largest infrastructure project since independence, emerged Sunday when The Nation published excerpts from a 2014 contract between the Export-Import Bank of China and the Republic of Kenya.
US counterterror official warns of growing global threat
A senior U.S. counterterrorism official is cautioning that the threat from global jihadists has expanded significantly, although the resources to counter them have declined. Sebastian Gorka, deputy assistant to President Donald Trump and senior director for counterterrorism, on Feb. 11 told a Washington conference organized by the American Foreign Policy Council that he based the current threat assessment on several factors.
East Africa leaders call for peace in DRC amid conflict that has displaced thousands
By Salem Solomon Ongoing fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern region between the army and M23 rebels has displaced thousands of people, with many seeking refuge in places like neighboring Rwanda. As the humanitarian crisis worsens, East African leaders are urging immediate action to bring peace and stability to the region. VOA's Salem Solomon has more.
DR Congo conflict displaces thousands, endangering women, children
Violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has forced many families to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in places such as neighboring Rwanda. As the humanitarian crisis worsens, East African leaders are urging immediate action to bring peace and stability to the region. Salem Solomon has this report on the impact the conflict is having on civilians. Camera: Austere Malivika and Jimmy Shukrani Bakomera.
Report: 67 journalists jailed for their work across Africa
At least 67 journalists are imprisoned across Africa, reflecting the continent’s ongoing struggle for a free press, according to a report released Thursday. The cases in Africa contribute to a global total of 361 journalists jailed as of Dec. 1, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ. It is the second-highest number ever recorded by CPJ.
Laporan CPJ: 67 Jurnalis Dipenjara di Afrika Karena Pekerjaan Mereka
This image contains sensitive content which some people may find offensive or disturbing. Images Multimedia Embedded Content Comments Link has been copied to clipboard Teruskan Laporan CPJ: 67 Jurnalis Dipenjara di Afrika Karena Pekerjaan Mereka Setidaknya 67 jurnalis dipenjara di seluruh Afrika, yang mencerminkan masih perlunya perjuangan berkelanjutan di benua itu untuk mencapai kebebasan pers, menurut sebuah laporan yang dirilis pada Kamis (16/1).
Angola: Lobito Corridor Takes Center Stage - Angolans Pin Hopes On Biden's Visit
U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to Angola highlighted the potential of the Lobito Corridor, a 1,300-kilometer, multinational railway project intended to connect markets and jumpstart trade. The presidential visit raised hopes but also drew skepticism from some Angolans who spoke to VOA about their daily struggles and the need for economic development. In Luanda, the capital, Angolans told VOA why they are anxious for the benefits they think will come from the investment. "We are suffering a lot.
Lobito Corridor takes center stage, Angolans pin hopes on Biden's visit Original
U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to Angola highlighted the potential of the Lobito Corridor, a 1,300-kilometer, multinational railway project intended to connect markets and jumpstart trade. The presidential visit raised hopes but also drew skepticism from some Angolans who spoke to VOA about their daily struggles and the need for economic development. In Luanda, the capital, Angolans told VOA why they are anxious for the benefits they think will come from the investment. "We are suffering a lot.
VOA Exclusive: Niger’s Samira Sabou wins International Press Freedom award
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Nigerian investigative journalist and activist Samira Sabou is being honored with an International Press Freedom award for her work reporting on Niger’s governance issues. Reporter Abdoul-Razak Idrissa recently met with Sabou in Niamey, Niger for this story, narrated by Salem Solomon.
Daughter of jailed Eritrean journalist continues to fight for his release
Journalist Betlehem Isaak, the daughter of journalist Dawit Isaak — a dual Eritrean-Swedish citizen imprisoned without trial in Eritrea since 2001— accepted the 2024 Edelstam Prize on her father's behalf Tuesday during a ceremony at the House of Nobility in Stockholm. The prize honors Dawit for his "outstanding courage" in championing freedom of expression. The judges noted his commitment to advocating for democracy in Eritrea despite harassment, threats and repeated interrogations.
Nigerien journalist fights for press freedom despite challenges
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. In Niger, where press freedom faces challenges, journalist Samira Sabou has become a symbol of resilience. The investigative journalist and activist is being recognized with an International Press Freedom Award. Reporter Abdoul-Razak Idrissa met Sabou in the capital, Niamey. VOA’s Salem Solomon has this story.
Kako se u SAD prenosi vlast sa jednog predsjednika na drugog
The code has been copied to your clipboard.
Kako se Amerika priprema za transfer vlasti, ključni trenutak u njenoj demokratiji?
Dok se novoizabrani predsednik Donald Tramp sprema da preuzme dužnost, sprovodi se pažljivo koordinisan proces prenosa političke vlasti sa odlazeće administracije na novu. Reč je o mirnom procesu, dugovečnoj tradiciji, čvrstom obećanju - važnom obeležju američke demokratije. Nakon izbora američkog predsednika, sledi niz aktivnosti pre polaganja zakletve.
Tranzicija vlasti kao tekovina američke demokratije
The code has been copied to your clipboard.
SHBA përgatit transferimin e pushtetit; Mekanizmi i ka fillesat në vitin 1797
Ndërsa presidenti i sapozgjedhur Donald Trump bëhet gati për të marrë detyrën, një proces i koordinuar me kujdes është duke u zhvilluar, për të transferuar pushtetin nga administrata që po largohet tek ajo e re. Korrespondenti i Zërit të Amerikës, Salem Solomon na sjell këndvështrimet e ekspertëve se si qeveria federale po përgatitet për këtë moment kyç në demokracinë amerikane.
US prepares for presidential transition, a process that dates to 1797 Original
As President-elect Donald Trump gets ready to take office, a carefully coordinated process is under way to transfer power from the outgoing administration to the new one. Experts share their perspectives on how the federal government prepares for this pivotal moment in American democracy. VOA’s Salem Solomon has more. Video editor: Salwa Jaafari Share US prepares for presidential transition, a process that dates to 1797
Cameroon: Ban On Reporting About President's Health Puts Cameroonian Journalists On Edge
Cameroonian journalists say they are grappling with a new government directive prohibiting public discourse or media coverage of President Paul Biya's health. The ban, issued by Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji on October 9, follows media speculation about the 91-year-old president's absence from public view.
Ban on reporting about president’s health puts Cameroonian journalists on edge
Cameroonian journalists say they are grappling with a new government directive prohibiting public discourse or media coverage of President Paul Biya’s health. The ban, issued by Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji on October 9, follows media speculation about the 91-year-old president’s absence from public view.
UN Concerned Over Breast Ironing Aimed at Delaying Puberty in Girls
Young girls on the African continent and around the world are increasingly subjected to an lesser known but dangerous practice known as breast ironing. The procedure, also known as breast flattening, the involves the flattening or massaging of a young girl's developing breasts using hot objects, like heated stones or spatulas, to delay the onset of puberty in girls to deter sexual attention.
Burkinabe Journalist Speaks Out Against Gender-Based Violence
Wracked by conflict and unrest, Burkina Faso is a tough environment for journalists, with issues like rape and sexual violence often taboo. But Mariam Ouedraogo is pushing back to provide a platform through her reporting, for those affected by unrest. While in Washington to receive an award, she spoke with VOA’s Salem Solomon about her career.
Congolese Voters Share Hopes, Expectations of Next DRC Leader Original
Vote counting is underway in the Democratic Republic of Congo after Wednesday's presidential and parliamentary elections, which have been extended into Thursday. Incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi is vying for a second term amid a backdrop of instability and conflict, particularly in the eastern provinces.
Against the Odds, Burkina Faso Journalist Gives Voice — and Hope — to Survivors
Wracked by conflict and unrest, Burkina Faso is a tough environment for journalists, with issues like rape and sexual violence often taboo. But Mariam Ouedraogo is pushing back to provide a platform through her reporting, for those affected by unrest. While in Washington to receive an award, she spoke with VOA’s Salem Solomon about her career. Camera: Betty Ayoub Share Against the Odds, Burkina Faso Journalist Gives Voice — and Hope — to Survivors
Burkina Faso Journalist Gives Voice to Conflict Survivors Telling Difficult Stories
In the past two years, Burkina Faso has experienced two coups, a rise in extremist violence and an increasingly hostile environment for media. Despite those tough conditions, one local reporter has not been deterred from covering the issues affecting the most vulnerable people in her country. Mariam Ouedraogo, who reports for Burkina Faso’s daily French newspaper Sidwaya, says she sees it as her mission to shed light on often-overlooked social issues.
Africa: Can African Union's Permanent Membership in G20 Bring About Real Change?
In a historic move, the African Union has secured a permanent place in the Group of 20, also known as the G20, a development that could have major implications for Africa's role in global geopolitics. As the continent faces an array of challenges, ranging from climate change to political instability and economic inequality, experts disagree on how big an impact G20 membership will have as the AU joins 20 of the world's largest economies.
Mengukur Dampak Keanggotaan Uni Afrika di G20
Images Multimedia Embedded Content Comments Link has been copied to clipboard Teruskan Mengukur Dampak Keanggotaan Uni Afrika di G20 Lewat sebuah langkah bersejarah, Uni Afrika telah berhasil memperoleh satu posisi permanen di grup negara-negara G20, sebuah perkembangan yang bisa jadi akan memberikan dampak besar, bagi peran negara-negara Afrika di kancah geopolitik global.
Can African Union's Permanent Membership in G20 Bring About Real Change?
In a historic move, the African Union has secured a permanent place in the Group of 20, also known as the G20, a development that could have major implications for Africa’s role in global geopolitics. As the continent faces an array of challenges, ranging from climate change to political instability and economic inequality, experts disagree on how big an impact G20 membership will have as the AU joins 20 of the world’s largest economies.
Gabon's Decadeslong Dynastic Leadership in Jeopardy After Coup
Gabon, an oil-rich coastal country in Central Africa, has found itself at the center of global attention as military officers in the nation declared they had seized power in an apparent coup on Wednesday. The announcement made on state-run television is perhaps the most significant threat to the country's dynastic leadership and highlights the underlying power struggles that have been simmering for years.
Gabon's Decadeslong Dynastic Leadership in Jeopardy After Coup
Gabon, an oil-rich coastal country in Central Africa, has found itself at the center of global attention as military officers in the nation declared they had seized power in an apparent coup on Wednesday. The announcement made on state-run television is perhaps the most significant threat to the country's dynastic leadership and highlights the underlying power struggles that have been simmering for years.
Nigeria Warns Possible Anthrax Outbreak
Nigerian authorities are calling on herders in the West African nation to inoculate their cows while urging citizens to reduce consumption of cooked animal hides, a delicacy known as “pomo,” in reaction to an anthrax outbreak in Ghana. For more, reporter Gibson Emeka produced this report that was narrated by VOA’s Salem Solomon which spotlights reactions by Nigerian authorities, citizens and veterinarians.
In State Visit, Eritrea and China Signal Deeper Partnership Original
When Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki arrived in China for a four-day state visit, he was greeted with fanfare that included a red carpet, a guard of honor military procession and a 21-gun salute. Analysts say Eritrea and China need each other and are working to strengthen already-existing ties.
Observers Say Russian Support in Zimbabwe Is Transactional
Russian-built helicopters arrived in Zimbabwe on May 18 in what authorities say is part of an effort by Russia to strengthen relations between the two countries. Analysts say Russia is rewarding Zimbabwe for not joining with nations seeking to isolate Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine. Keith Baptist attended the event in Harare and Salem Solomon has this story.
Hopes Dashed as Violence Engulfs Sudan
On April 15, Sudan’s capital turned into a battleground. But how did the country get to this point? VOA looks back at the critical years that led to the war between two top generals.
The Inside Story - Crisis in Sudan | Episode 91
Generals at war take battle positions in the capital city, Khartoum. How did we get here, and what is Washington saying about the conflict? This week on The Inside Story: Confronting the Climate Crisis
Russia’s Wagner Group Reportedly Involved in Sudan's Conflict
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. U.S. authorities have express concern following reports of Russia-linked paramilitary organization Wagner Group possibly fueling the conflict in Sudan by supplying weapons to one of the warring parties. VOA’s Salem Solomon has more.
Experts Say Wagner Group Could Fuel the Conflict in Sudan
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Reports emerged this week that the Kremlin-linked Wagner Group could be supplying weapons to one of the warring parties in the conflict in Sudan. Salem Solomon has the story with Patsy Widakuswara contributing.
Sudan: Russia's Wagner Group Could Fuel Conflict in Sudan, Experts Say
Washington — Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of a Russian government-backed paramilitary group, has offered weapons to one of the warring parties in Sudan, according to several media reports. Since the fighting began in April, there have been unconfirmed reports and diplomatic sources who spoke to news outlets saying that Wagner fighters are supporting the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces and supplying them with weapons.
Pakar: Kelompok Wagner Rusia Bisa Picu Konflik di Sudan
Yevgeny Prigozhin, kepala kelompok paramiliter yang didukung pemerintah Rusia, telah menawarkan persenjataan kepada salah satu pihak yang berperang di Sudan, menurut laporan sejumlah media.
Kakva je uloga ruskog Vagnera u konfliktu u Sudanu?
VAŠINGTON - Jevgenij Prigožin, vođa paravojne grupe Vagner koju podržava ruska vlada, ponudio je oružje jednoj od zaraćenih strana u Sudanu, prenose mediji. Otkako su borbe u toj zemlji počele, bilo je nepotvrđenih izveštaja i navoda diplomatskih izvora da borci Vagnera podržavaju sudansku paravojnu grupu poznatu kao Snage za brzu podršku(RSF), i snabdevaju ih oružjem.
Russia’s Wagner Group Could Fuel Conflict in Sudan, Experts Say
Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of a Russian government-backed paramilitary group, has offered weapons to one of the warring parties in Sudan, according to several media reports. Since the fighting began in April, there have been unconfirmed reports and diplomatic sources who spoke to news outlets saying that Wagner fighters are supporting the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces and supplying them with weapons.
Sudan: Refugees Trapped Amid Fighting in Sudan Say, 'Please Be Our Voice'
As the conflict in Sudan escalated this week, refugees, many of whom had fled violence in neighboring countries, found themselves trapped in Khartoum and other cities. In interviews with VOA, many said they fear for their lives and are in need of help, but nobody seemed to be listening to their pleas. Aster Tariku, an Ethiopian refugee and a mother of two children, described the chaos in Khartoum: "The city is in havoc. There are airstrikes. It's terrifying.
Refugees Trapped Amid Fighting in Sudan Say, 'Please Be Our Voice' Original
As the conflict in Sudan escalated this week, refugees, many of whom had fled violence in neighboring countries, found themselves trapped in Khartoum and other cities. In interviews with VOA, many said they fear for their lives and are in need of help, but nobody seemed to be listening to their pleas. Aster Tariku, an Ethiopian refugee and a mother of two children, described the chaos in Khartoum: "The city is in havoc. There are airstrikes. It's terrifying.
Gruesome Murder of Cameroonian Journalist Reveals Corruption Network
"He came to my office, and he said 'they are going to kill me,'" Mana told VOA. "'They’re also coming after you,'" Zogo warned Mana. But, at the time, Mana thought the threats were a "bad joke." Zogo had been receiving death threats for several weeks and his colleagues reported that he feared for his safety. On Jan. 17, he sensed he was being followed and went to a nearby police station hoping for protection. He found none.
Cameroon Killing a Reminder of Risks for Media
The killing of Cameroonian journalist Martinez Zogo earlier this year brought into focus the threats media face. VOA's Jackson Mvunganyi and Salem Solomon have the story.
Burkina Faso Banning Free Press ‘Bit by Bit,’ Journalist Says
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Burkina Faso’s military government suspended the international broadcaster France 24 after it had aired an excerpt of an interview with the head of a regional al-Qaida affiliate. VOA’s Salem Solomon spoke to the journalist who conducted the interview.
Central African Republic: 'Woman of Iron' Honored for Protecting the Constitution
Central African Republic: 'Woman of Iron' Honored for Protecting the Constitution analysis By Salem Solomon State Department — In March 2022, Daniele Darlan, then-president of the Central African Republic's Constitutional Court, faced intense pressure to modify her country's constitution to allow the president to run for a third term in office. The pressure came from local politicians and Russian diplomats, but she was unwavering in her belief that the constitution could not be undermined.
Burkina Faso Banning Free Press ‘Bit by Bit,’ Journalist Says
The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Burkina Faso’s military government suspended the international broadcaster France 24 after it had aired an excerpt of an interview with the head of a regional al-Qaida affiliate. VOA’s Salem Solomon spoke to the journalist who conducted the interview.
Burkina Faso Banning Free Press 'Bit By Bit', Says France 24 Journalist After Broadcaster's Suspension
Washington — The journalist whose interview with a terrorist organization resulted in Burkina Faso suspending France 24 has spoken with VOA about what he says is a decline in media freedoms in the country. Burkina Faso's military government suspended the international broadcaster after it aired an excerpt of an interview with the head of a regional al-Qaida affiliate earlier this month.
Burkina Faso Banning Free Press 'Bit by Bit,' Says France 24 Journalist After Broadcaster's Suspension
The journalist whose interview with a terrorist organization resulted in Burkina Faso suspending France 24 has spoken with VOA about what he says is a decline in media freedoms in the country. Burkina Faso’s military government suspended the international broadcaster after it aired an excerpt of an interview with the head of a regional al-Qaida affiliate earlier this month.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Salem
Contact Salem, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack