West Africa

Military Operations in Wargaadhi: A Resilient Stand Against Al-Shabaab In a recent turn of events that underscores the complexities of the security landscape in Somalia, General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, the commander of the Somali National Army's (SNA) land forces, declared a significant victory over Al-Shabaab. “The national army and local units remain in control of Wargaadhi. Al-Shabaab was dealt a significant blow,” he stated confidently. This statement is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing tensions in…

The recent developments within ECOWAS mark a significant turning point, particularly after the formal withdrawal of the Sahel states—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—from the regional bloc earlier this year. This departure not only deepens the existing political rift but also signifies a substantial shift in the regional dynamics and strategic operations of ECOWAS. An extraordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Ghana addressed these pressing concerns, as future relations with the three now-excluded…

Mogadishu (AX) — Recently, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) took a bold step by conducting an airstrike targeting a stateless vessel off the coast of Somalia. This action, aimed at a vessel reportedly transporting advanced weaponry to the militant group Al-Shabaab, marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle against maritime smuggling in the region. It’s not often that airpower is deployed in such a way, creating ripples of interest and concern across military and political circles. Officials from both the Somali…

African Aviation: A New Era of Connectivity Africa is embracing the skies like never before. Once characterized by a scarcity of direct routes and the burden of lengthy layovers, the aviation landscape across the continent is undergoing a captivating transformation. Have you ever imagined how the mere act of taking flight can reshape destinies? Well, this is precisely what is happening as the continent becomes more connected by air. With tourism on the rise and business connections…

Garowe (AX) — In a striking display of regional autonomy, Northeastern State has decisively rejected a federal initiative aimed at centralizing the registration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and coupling humanitarian aid with a nationwide system. This move, they argue, could destabilize Somalia's already delicate federal structure and risks politicizing the very relief efforts that are meant to provide support to the most vulnerable. The backdrop to this conflict consists of recent discussions involving the Somali…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a Wednesday that held the promise of progress, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened the third Somalia-European Union Partnership Meeting in the heart of Mogadishu. This gathering wasn’t merely ceremonial; it was a reaffirmation of the robust relationship between Somalia and the European Union (EU), a bond fortified by mutual aspirations outlined in the Joint Operational Roadmap, an ambitious guide launched back in May 2023. As the sun filtered through the windows of the meeting room,…

In our increasingly interconnected world, the strength of a nation's currency serves as a critical indicator of its economic health and global standing. More than mere numbers exchanged in markets, currency values echo the vitality of a country's governance, economic strategy, and overall competitiveness. As the late economist Paul Samuelson famously noted, "Good economics is good politics." This quote rings particularly true when we consider the complex interplay between currency strength and national policy decisions.…

Mogadishu (AX) — The early hours of Thursday morning in the Wargaadhi area of the Middle Shabelle region were filled with the sounds of chaos and conflict. Somali army forces successfully thwarted a significant assault by the militant group Al-Shabaab on a crucial military base. The air was thick with tension as explosions erupted shortly after the morning prayers, marking the beginning of a coordinated ground offensive by Al-Shabaab fighters. This particular base is not just any military outpost; it serves as a vital link…

Strengthening Ties: Sisi's Visit to Djibouti On a significant Wednesday, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi embarked on a diplomatic journey to Djibouti. This visit was not merely a routine check-in; it represented a concerted effort to cultivate deeper political ties and foster mutual cooperation between Egypt and Djibouti amid the evolving dynamics of the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. Upon his arrival, Sisi engaged in comprehensive discussions with his Djiboutian counterpart, Ismail Omar Guelleh. These…

Gorée Island, a cherished UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled off the coast of Senegal, serves not only as a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade but also as a vibrant community steeped in life and history. It’s a place where the echoes of the past resonate powerfully, inviting reflection and contemplation. At the heart of the island's narrative lies the Maison des Esclaves, or the Slave House, a solemn museum that attracts thousands of visitors annually. Among these are many individuals from diverse corners…