East Africa

Nairobi (AX) — Authorities at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport detained three Kenyan citizens over the weekend for trying to sneak gold into India. Samira Abdi (37), Feiza Hassan (25), and Fardowsa Abdi (30) were caught upon their arrival from Addis Ababa on an Ethiopian Airlines flight. They headed for the red channel counter at Terminal 2, claiming to possess 2.540 kilograms of gold. However, a thorough inspection uncovered a total of 3 kilograms, surpassing their declared amount by 460 grams. Upon…

In a recent development, the Presidents of Southwest, Jubbaland, and Galmudug states arrived in Mogadishu amid ongoing regional disputes. They gathered for the National Consultative Council meeting to discuss terrorism and constitutional reforms. The arrival of these regional leaders is a crucial step in promoting dialogue at the national level. They were warmly received by a delegation led by Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Hosh upon their arrival in Mogadishu. This meeting follows several delays and setbacks, including the…

In Hargeisa, the Somaliland military is determined to retake the Sool region, including the city of Lasanod, lost to local forces backed by Puntland. After suffering a major loss in August 2023, Somaliland forces were driven out of much of the Sool region, including Las Anod. Commander Nuh Ismail Tani of the Somaliland military highlighted the preparedness and resilience of his troops, despite recent setbacks. "Our soldiers, who bravely defend our nation, remain strong and steadfast," Tani stated in an interview with…

In Beledweyne, the Hawadle community's leader, Ugas Yusuf Ugas Hassan Ugas Khalif, became the 21st chief of the Hawadle clans in a vibrant ceremony in Hiiraan. Many attended, including federal and regional leaders, elders, held in the Dara Ugas neighborhood on the outskirts of the Halgan district. Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo congratulated the new chief, urging him to carry on the legacy of past chiefs for Somalia's progress, peace, and unity. Last year, Somali army forces and local militias freed the…

Somalia: SNA Expands Offensive Against Al-Shabaab in Rural Areas In Mogadishu, Somalia, the Somali National Army (SNA) has broadened its campaign against al-Shabaab rebels in central regions as part of ongoing efforts to eradicate the group, which has caused chaos in the region for over 16 years. Recent reports indicate that the military has been stationed in Middle Shabelle for several months, actively pursuing Al-Shabaab in various secret locations where they launch their attacks. The militant group still retains control…

Ethiopia has welcomed its first shipment from Lamu port in Kenya, showcasing a strong partnership and commitment to the LAPSSET initiative. The MV Abbey II vessel arrived with 60,000 tonnes of fertilizer, marking a milestone in the project initiated during Mwai Kibaki's presidency. Kenya Ports Authority's Managing Director, William Ruto, hailed this event as a significant step towards enhancing business ties between the two countries. With the largest consignment ever seen in Kenya's history, Ruto emphasized the importance…

Gunmen lobbed grenades at two homes in Baidoa, the temporary administrative hub of Southwest state, on Sunday night. One grenade was aimed at Kurow Amhar's house, a member of the regional Darwish army. Another explosion targeted the residence of the former Minister of Information in the Southwest administration, Ilyas Ali Noor, who now heads the Tubsan Agency. No one has taken credit for the attacks, and security forces have not released any details, with no reported injuries.

In Las Anod (AX), the head of SSC-Khatumo, Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali Firdhiye, reorganized his team by appointing new members on Sunday through an official decree. Former Chief of the Somali Police Force, General Abdi Hassan Hajaar, and other prominent figures were included in the reshuffle. President Firdhiye, serving a two-year term, has been in power for nearly a year, overseeing ongoing restructuring efforts. The newly appointed ministers are listed as follows: 1. Abdiqani Hussein Haji Hirad - overseeing Finance 2. Dr.…

In Manchester, Arsenal's Leandro Trossard scored a crucial goal against Manchester United, leading to an intense finish for the Premier League title race. Arsenal now sits on top of the standings, pushing defending champions Manchester City to the final match of the season. Mikel Arteta's team secured a 1-0 victory against United, preventing City from clinching the title early by moving one point ahead in second place. For United, this defeat adds to their struggles under manager Erik ten Hag, who has faced criticism for…

Several pirates were captured by naval forces following an attack in the Gulf of Aden. The incident involved a skiff with suspected pirates firing at a merchant vessel, which was successfully fended off by the ship’s security team.The European Union Naval Force’s Operation Atalanta responded to the attack and apprehended the pirates. They were treated for injuries and taken to the Seychelles for legal action, as part of the agreements between Atalanta and the nation.There are believed to be multiple pirate groups operating…