West Africa

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. Mogadishu (AX) – In the dawn of a recent Saturday, the serene landscapes of the Boos Hareri area in the Middle Shabelle region witnessed a drastic turn of events. The Somali National Army, with the invaluable support of local clan militia, confronted and successfully neutralized a threat posed by at least 20 Al-Shabaab militants. This tale of bravery and strategy underlines a significant military operation aimed at ensuring peace in a land long haunted by unrest. It…

Signs of Hope: The Unveiling of Baardheere’s Flight Ban Lift In a world where policy changes often spark heated debates, it's refreshing to witness a wave of positivity. Enter former Somali Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon, whose recent nod to the Federal Government of Somalia demonstrates the transformative power of progress. With the ban on flights to Baardheere district in the Gedo region now lifted, once impassable skies are open once more. The days of airspace silence resulting from governmental discord with…

On the vast and dynamic continent of Africa, women play an indispensable role; they form a significant portion of the population, yet often grapple with structural hurdles that dampen their ability to engage completely in the formal economic scene. But don't these barriers beg the question—just how much economic power and potential are we collectively missing out on by limiting women's full participation? As we pause today to observe International Women's Day, it's a…

It's often said, "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." On a decisive Thursday in Dhusamareeb, courage took the form of a meticulously executed military operation by the Somali National Army (SNA). This operation unfolded in the Geerile area of the Galgaduud region, where the balance of power is constantly in flux, teetering between stability and insurgency. On that fateful day, the 85th Unit of the 77th Brigade found themselves at the forefront of a strategic assault against the notorious…

Isn't stress a peculiar creature? It knows no borders yet feels so different depending on where you bring up the subject. Ever wondered why stress affects people differently across the globe? Perhaps it's the myriad circumstances that shape our daily lives, but stress manifests uniquely in each corner of the world. Let's embark on an insightful journey, examining how stress varies profoundly between nations by delving into the detailed insights offered by the CEOWORLD magazine’s Global Emotions Report 2025. What could…

In a significant development over the skies of Somalia's Middle Shabelle region, Ethiopian military aircraft recently launched airstrikes targeting Al-Shabaab strongholds. As confirmed by Somali Defense Minister Abdukadir Mohamed Nur on Thursday, this operation marks another chapter in the complex security landscape of the region. Addressing the nation via Somali National Television, Minister Nur articulated the careful diplomatic choreography involved in these airstrikes. "It is impossible to conduct airstrikes inside…

Recently, the Global Mind Project unveiled its extensive report on mental health, drawing from over a million responses collected online from participants in 76 different countries. The data revealed a rather unsettling truth: in wealthier countries, the mental well-being of those aged 18 to 34 is on a downward trend with little sign of recovery in sight. However, there's a silver lining. In parts of Africa, youth are demonstrating a remarkable resilience that stands out globally. Who would've thought? Tanzania,…

Somalia: The Nation of Poets On the easternmost edge of Africa lies Somalia, a country often dubbed the "Nation of Poets" or the "Nation of Bards." This evocative label resonates deeply with Somalis, who possess an intrinsic flair for poetry and a profound respect for storytelling. For as long as anyone can remember, poetry has been the lifeblood of Somali culture. Its roots trace back to the 18th century with revered meditations like those of Sheekh Cali Cabduraxmaan. But what of today? Is this timeless tradition…

Imagine defending a castle with crumbling walls against an unknown adversary keen on breaching its defenses. This metaphor reflects the precarious situation faced by many African nations, where a significant lack in the tank fleet can create substantial security vulnerabilities. With insurgencies, territorial disputes, and cross-border tensions simmering like a pot on a low boil, having a robust armored presence is not a mere luxury; it's a critical necessity. Picture this: a weak or aging…

Ghana, a beacon of hope in West Africa, is not without its challenges and triumphs woven into its rich tapestry of history. Beyond the surface of its recent economic hurdles lie stories from a more clandestine past, stories that edify or caution us, depending on the light in which they are cast. Some issues hide in the shadows of our shared history. Not long ago, President John Mahama brought one such narrative to the forefront during Ghana's Independence Day celebrations—a reminder of certain concealed episodes…