East Africa

Brigadier General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin, head of the Somali National Army, convened with Colonel David Haskell from the US Special Forces. According to reports from the Somali news agency (SONNA), discussions revolved around boosting counter-terrorism initiatives. At the meeting, the Somali army leader sought assistance from US forces for an upcoming military mission targeting the Al-Shabaab group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, as per SONNA.

The 'Better Lives' initiative aims to provide impactful health and nutrition services, such as immunisation and maternal care, for Somalia's vulnerable populations. Launched by the UK government, this £38m project focuses on improving the well-being of women and children in Somalia through a partnership with the Federal Government. With a strong emphasis on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, the programme will also enhance the capabilities of local health authorities to effectively manage service delivery. In…

In Beledweyne (AX), the President of Hiiraan State and Chief of the Public Defense Forces, Ali Jeyte Osman, has pointed fingers at al-Shabab militants for provoking the recent inter-clan skirmishes along the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. Osman, part of the federal government delegation working to resolve the conflict, emphasized that the militias of the neighboring communities have a common adversary, specifically al-Shabab. "I appeal to the youth to let me join the battle against the Khawarij. We need to stand…

Vinícius Júnior notched a brace for Real Madrid against Bayern Munich in a thrilling Champions League semifinal first leg match in Munich. Bayern had control but Madrid hung on, setting up an intriguing second leg in Madrid on May 8. The spotlight was on English stars Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, along with Toni Kroos facing his former club. However, it was Vinícius who stole the show with his eye-catching green boots lighting up the game. The Brazilian forward scored against the run of play in the 24th minute and then…

Perched on the remains of her parents' abode, Nancy Wanjiku witnessed the devastating aftermath of nature's wrath. President William Ruto urged Kenyans in flood-prone areas to evacuate as more heavy rain looms, emphasizing the imminent danger. The ongoing rainy season has proven deadly, claiming at least 170 lives, with Mai Mahiu disaster being the worst hit as homes were obliterated. Survivors like Nancy Wanjiku, with tears in their eyes, mourned the loss of loved ones while sifting through the debris of what used to be…

The State of Qatar joined the sixth quint group meeting on Somalia in London, alongside the United States, the UAE, the UK, Turkey, and Somalia itself. Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab, representing Qatar, led the delegation at the meeting. Discussions focused on security, politics, and coordinating actions for Somalia. Faisal emphasized the need to enhance efforts in supporting security, stability, unity, and sovereignty across Somalia. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation among the participating countries.

Hargeisa (AX) - The government of Somaliland reaffirmed its dedication to finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia within the next two months, despite international pressure on Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to scrap the agreement.Speaking to Deutsche Welle, Somaliland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Isse Keyd Mohamud, emphasized that discussions between the two nations are still ongoing. Technical committees have been set up to streamline the process of reaching a consensus between President Muse Bihi…

In Mogadishu on April 30, 2024, Ibrahim Kalın, the leader of Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization (MIT), met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The head of MIT and Somalia's President conversed in the Somali capital about enhancing strategic cooperation between Türkiye and Somalia in various critical areas. During the meeting, they discussed strengthening security measures, intelligence sharing, collaborative counter-terrorism strategies, and efforts to promote stability in the region. Also attending the…

On Tuesday, April 30, 2024, the Somaliland government announced that within the next 2 months, they will finalize the agreement with the Ethiopian government. Somaliland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Cisse Keyd Mahmoud, in an interview with a German newspaper, confirmed that the agreement reached between Somaliland and Ethiopia will be completed in the next two months. "We are on track to conclude the historic agreement that will see Ethiopia lease 20 kilometers of its coastline to Somaliland, further solidifying…

Somalia's Impact on Kenya and Uganda's Economy In the midst of corruption and insecurity, Somalia's efforts to stabilize have shown positive results. The country has become a hub for foreigners, with many seeking work or investing in the nation. Recent reports reveal that remittances from Somalia to Kenya total $180 million and $21 million to Uganda. This showcases the influx of East Africans moving to Somalia for employment opportunities. Approximately 35,000 Ugandans are currently in Somalia, sending back up to $60,000…