West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — In a pointed statement that resonates beyond the borders of the Gedo region, Governor Mohamed Hussein Al-Qaadi has issued a clear and firm warning to the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC). His message was unequivocal: any attempt to initiate voter registration or conduct election-related activities in Gedo, without prior coordination with the Jubbaland administration, would be deemed illegitimate—and met with resistance. Speaking to local media on Wednesday, Governor Al-Qaadi…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development on the night of Wednesday, a precision airstrike executed in collaboration with the Somali National Army (SNA) resulted in the elimination of at least 12 Al-Shabaab militants, including several high-ranking commanders, in the Aden Yabaal district of the Middle Shabelle region. This strategic move was officially reported by the Somali government on Thursday. The operation was a joint effort from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Somali forces, specifically targeting a compound…

In recent years, the relationship between Türkiye and Somalia has blossomed, evolving into a robust partnership across a range of sectors. This transformation is attributed to the diligent efforts of both nations, particularly highlighted by the insightful words of Somalia's Foreign Minister, Ali Mohamed Omar. He emphasizes the growing areas of cooperation that have nurtured these ties, particularly praising Türkiye's pivotal role as a mediator in addressing regional challenges. One only needs to look at a Turkish…

Somali Forces Withdraw from Aboorey: A Tactical Retreat or a Cause for Concern? Of late, the conflict in Somalia has taken yet another turn. Somali government troops, along with allied local militia, have withdrawn from Aboorey, a critical town in the Hiiraan region of central Somalia. This decision came after two weeks of intense combat with Al-Shabaab militants, a group that has long posed a significant threat to stability in the region. The announcement, confirmed by defense officials on Wednesday, leaves many…

In the ever-evolving landscape of conflict and security, the situation in Somalia continues to unfold, casting a shadow over hopes for a peaceful future. As detailed reports emerge, we learn of an unsettling scenario where casualty figures remain ambiguous, yet whispers from local sources indicate that both sides may have suffered fatalities as well as injuries. It's a stark reminder of the toll taken in the theater of war, where human lives hang in the balance, often lost without the assurance of justice or recovery.…

As a father to a remarkable 24-year-old son who is autistic and as a co-founder of Daryeel, I have experienced, firsthand, the transformative power that dedicated support can bring to individuals and families. The recent event, held on April 11, 2025, in London, was more than just an occasion for raising awareness; it was a heartfelt celebration of neurodivergent excellence and an earnest confrontation of the systemic barriers that persist within our communities. Section 1: Transformative Highlights 1.1 The Power of…

In a recent incident along the Yemeni coastline, a vessel’s master made a decisive maneuver, altering the ship's course to avoid a small craft that had approached with curious intentions. Moments later, the small craft retreated, and the vessel resumed its journey, continuing toward its next port of call, as noted in an incident report by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). This situation raises questions about what exactly transpired. Was it a benign interaction, or was there a more sinister motive at…

The Complex Dynamics of North Western State of Somalia and Somalia: A Fork in the Road Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development reverberating throughout the Horn of Africa, the self-declared republic of North Western State of Somalia has formally ceased negotiations with the federal government of Somalia. The announcement, made by North Western State of Somalia’s Council of Ministers this past Wednesday, comes on the heels of a contentious visit by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to Las Anod—a city marked by…

The recent adjustment in fuel prices by Dangote Refinery has turned heads in the economic landscape. With a notable reduction of ₦30, the price now stands at ₦835 per litre, marking a total drop of ₦45 from the relatively recent figure of ₦880 just a mere six days ago. This change, while appearing simple on the surface, has profound implications for consumers and the broader economy. Anticipations abound regarding how this price cut will ripple through the market. Retailers, especially partner stations like MRS,…

On a recent Sunday, US President Donald Trump made a bold declaration regarding terrorism and its presence in Somalia. He stressed that the United States would not stand idly by while “terrorists” attempted to blend in among innocent civilians in the Somali landscape. “We will support the Somali People,” he stated emphatically on social media. His call to action was directed at the Houthis, a group based in Yemen that has been targeting Israeli-affiliated vessels as part of their campaign of solidarity with Gaza, a region in…