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Sharmarke Issa stands accused of orchestrating a staggering $7.6 million of the $50 million heist from the Feeding Our Future (FOF) nutrition program. Out of this, he pocketed a whopping $3.5 million, which he must repay as restitution.A former Somalian refugee and the chair of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA), Issa, 40, of Edina, admitted to federal wire fraud charges on Wednesday. Court records reveal he masterminded a complicated money-laundering scheme that siphoned funds meant for feeding children during…

General Michael Langley, the head of US Africa Command (AFRICOM), touched down in the States on Monday after finishing up his East Africa swing through Kenya and Somalia. A prominent US Marine Corps leader has committed to ongoing investments in Africa's security frameworks. General Langley, helming AFRICOM, emphasized that, in an increasingly intricate security landscape, the United States stands as a reliable ally dedicated to assisting African nations in forging their own path toward lasting peace and security. Gen…

 FILE - A collection of weapons showcased in Mogadishu after a security raid. Mogadishu (AX) — The Somali Federal Government has come down hard on Ethiopia, accusing it of illicitly slipping weapons into Northeastern State—a move they believe jeopardizes national security and tramples over Somalia's sovereignty.Friday saw the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation release a statement claiming two trucks brimming with weaponry crossed into Northeastern State from Ethiopia sans any diplomatic heads-up or…

Baidoa (AX) — The Somali Federal Government and the South West State have struck a tentative deal to cool down the intensifying friction regarding Ethiopian troops' presence. The conflict has been heating up, causing fears of greater instability. Both parties have vowed to dial down the heated remarks and will reconvene for more talks at the National Consultative Council meeting in Mogadishu later this month. General Mahad Abdirahman Adan, who heads the Somali Correctional Forces, traveled to Baidoa to spearhead the peace…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somali National Army (SNA) has taken down numerous Al-Shabaab militants in the southern regions, affirming they've reclaimed pivotal villages from the extremists. Collaborating with regional troops, government forces executed impactful operations in Bakool and Lower Jubba, leading to a significant elimination of enemy forces, as per state-run media. During these offensives, myriad ammunition, RPGs, and heavy weaponry were seized. Several militants were captured and will promptly face military…

Back in 2006, Ethiopia was the big player in the Horn of Africa. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi's leadership brought about a time of unprecedented political stability. The EPRDF held the reins tightly, and the economy was on fire with an average growth rate of 8% annually, thanks in no small part to Western aid. Ethiopia's robust military and economic boom made it a linchpin for the U.S. in the War on Terror, which gave it the green light to meddle in Somalia. Using its formidable military, Ethiopia thrust itself into Somalia…

Jowhar (AX) – On Saturday, a security sweep in the Middle Shabelle region ended with the Hirshabelle police nabbing five hooligans on the road nestled between Jowhar and Bal’ad districts. The police spokesperson reported that the ruffians got pinched while preying on civilians cruising through. Authorities are adamant about bringing these thugs to justice. "We've caught the goons terrorizing folks, and scooped up loot pilfered from them. They’ll face the court soon," stated a Hirshabelle officer.The force also pledged to…

Egypt to Bolster Somalia's Military Strength CAIRO, Somalia - The Egyptian government has reaffirmed its steadfast intention to support Somalia’s federal government in its stabilization mission. The priority on the table is to modernize Somalia's military, especially given the looming threat posed by the resurgence of Al-Shabab militants. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister, emphasized that backing vital institutions, particularly the military, is crucial for Somalia. Such support empowers Somalia to defend…

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia addressed his nation with a Friday sermon, cautioning the populace about the dangers posed by foreign entities aiming to splinter the country and reaffirming the government's stern opposition to illicit arms trafficking. (Photo: Villa Somalia) Mogadishu (AX) — Delivering a message of urgency, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphatically warned against the possession and trade of illegal arms, underscoring the government's unwavering intent to clamp down on such activities. During…

Over the past year, more than 1,500 civilians in Somalia were either killed or injured by 600 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), as revealed in a recent UN report.In a statement late Thursday, James Swan, UN Secretary-General's Acting Special Representative for Somalia, underscored the severe threat IEDs pose to Somalia as it strides toward self-reliance and sustainable national security."The gravity of this threat isn't lost on any of us. Our primary goal is to safeguard your comrades in the Somali National Army (SNA).…