West Africa

Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs during a past function. PHOTO/PRINT In a resolute and somewhat complex maneuver, Kenya has decided to send Somali elders to their homeland to negotiate the release of four Chiefs and an Assistant Chief. These officials, entrusted with great responsibility, were tragically abducted by Al-Shabaab militants in the heart of Elwak, Mandera County. One might ask, why such a delicate approach? The truth lies in the intricacies of ensuring their safe return. Despite a joint security operation being…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the heart of the Doolow district in the Gedo region, a resonant outcry has emerged from the corridors of the Jubbaland regional parliament. The lawmakers’ ire is directed toward a recent incident they describe as an unprovoked and provocative assault by Somali federal forces on the very core of the local government machinery in Bardhere. One dramatic event in the ongoing tale of Somalia's political complexities? Or a tipping point in an already strained relationship? Amidst the fervor of a press…

In an ambitious stride toward bolstering online safety, TikTok has taken significant action by eradicating nearly 11.9 million videos across nine African nations. This impressive effort touches Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Algeria, Somalia, Libya, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Morocco, with the goal of upholding integrity, advertising, privacy, and safety standards on its platform. Egypt emerges as the country with the most removals, tallying an astonishing 2.75 million videos. This figure underscores the challenges platforms like…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent move that draws attention to the complex geopolitics of the region, the Turkish Parliament has given its nod to an important presidential motion. This decision greenlights the continued deployment of Turkish naval forces in certain strategic waters: the Gulf of Aden, the waters off the Somali coast, the Arabian Sea, and nearby regions. Scheduled to remain in effect until February 10 next year, this extension underscores Türkiye’s unwavering resolve in tackling the maritime threats lurking in…

In a move that speaks volumes about evolving diplomatic ties, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev touched down in the heart of Somalia—Mogadishu. This official visit, shrouded in anticipation, marks a significant chapter in Azerbaijan-Somalia relations. The moment Rafiyev stepped off the plane at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport, he was warmly welcomed by Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, alongside Fathudin Ali Mohamed, Somalia's non-resident…

In a strategic move that signals an intent to enhance governance, President Bola Tinubu has appointed retired Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin as the new Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB). This decision comes at a time when effective leadership in these sectors is more necessary than ever. Jibrin’s considerable experience in both military and civil capacities may provide the fresh perspective needed to navigate the complexities of these vital services. Jibrin steps…

In the heart of Mogadishu, amidst the bustling tales of the city, a grim story unfolded this Wednesday, steeped in tragedy and political tension. Mohamed Ilyas Caagane, the federally appointed commissioner of Bardhere district, breathed his last amidst fierce combat between federal government troops and forces loyal to Jubbaland in the district of Bardhere, nestled within the contentious Gedo region. For those who call Bardhere home, the echoes of conflict reverberated through the air, although the full extent of the…

The long-standing tradition of U.S. airstrikes in Somalia has extended into President Donald Trump’s renewed tenure. During his inaugural address, Trump declared, "My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker." Yet, a skeptic might ask, can a leader claim to be a peacemaker when the engines of war continue to hum? On February 3, 2025, President Trump addressed reporters from the Oval Office, the weight of his decisions evident in the furrows of his brow (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images). Recently, he ordered…

The relentless pillage of yellowfin tuna in Somali waters is a troubling saga, unravelling as a grim tale affecting local livelihoods and looming ominously over global food security. The ripples of this exploitation stretch far and wide, touching ecosystems and economies in profoundly unsettling ways. But, how did this come to pass? One can't help but wonder about the brazen illegal activities by Chinese vessels, which have become a stark symbol of unchecked ambition and disregard for maritime laws. These vessels prowl…

In an unsettling turn of events, residents of Halfooley woke up to the grim news of a tragic killing that has sent shockwaves throughout the region. According to accounts from officials and eyewitnesses, armed assailants, reportedly hailing from the Middle Shabelle area, were behind the vicious act. The motive? A deep-seated clan dispute that has simmered for weeks, if not months. Why do age-old grievances persist as the ghosts that haunt the living? In this particular instance, those grudges targeted…