West Africa

Baidoa (AX) – In a dramatic turn of events that might leave one pondering the age-old adage, "even thieves fall out," an intense bloodbath broke out among al-Shabab's ranks, culminating in the demise of at least 40 of its members. Picture this: a fierce showdown that paints the usually secretive corridors of power with a messy, open confrontation. What sparked this lethal flare-up in the otherwise tranquil setting of Bakol's dusty plains? Well, the answer is, unsurprisingly, money—the fuel of much discord throughout history.…

Mogadishu (AX) – Steeped in courage and relentless determination, the Northeastern State Dervish forces are making waves in the Bari region's rugged mountains, engaged in a daring operation to root out ISIS hideouts. Their valiant efforts have not gone unnoticed, especially by Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, who recently heaped praises on the troops for their tenacity and strategic acumen. Speaking from the heart of Mogadishu on a fresh-faced Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Barre put forward a strong message of…

Imagine the vibrant scene in Addis Ababa: Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed warmly shaking hands with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as the sun casts its golden light over the city. This meeting marks a significant turn in the diplomatic tango between Ethiopia and Somalia, offering a glimmer of restored unity. After months steeped in diplomatic drama, an avenue for collaborative futures is finally emerging. The winds of change have brushed away those stormy clouds hanging over African Union's mission in Somalia…

Along the sun-drenched shores of Qaw in Northeastern State, northeastern Somalia, a lone member of the Somali security forces patrols diligently, casting an ever-watchful eye across the vast landscape. It's December 18th, 2016. This snapshot, courtesy of AFP, paints a vivid picture of vigilance and resilience against the relentless backdrop of security threats. Fast forward to the bustling capital of Mogadishu, where the hum of daily life mingles with the palpable tension of ongoing military maneuvers. Somali security…

Mogadishu (AX) — Picture this: a bustling capital city where modern technology meets age-old traditions. Somalia is not just a country on the horn of Africa known for its rich cultural tapestry and, admittedly, its complex history. It's a nation on the move, charging headlong into the digital age with an ambitious new tool – a Civil Registration Management and Vital Statistics System (CRMVS), courtesy of Pakistan's very own National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). This technological leap isn’t just a fancy…

Hargeisa (AX) — In an enthralling archaeological twist straight out of a historical tome, a group of tireless archaeologists is shining a light on a possible ancient enigma: the legendary "Land of Punt." This elusive kingdom is rumored to have thrived in the Horn of Africa many moons ago, and North Western State of Somalia's soil might just be keeping its secrets. Isaaq Yusuf, the leading light from North Western State of Somalia's Archaeology Organization, is steering this bold venture. Picture Indiana Jones,…

In the heart of Somalia's South West State, something quite dramatic is unfolding. Picture the bustling town of Baidoa, a place that hums with life and the rhythmic chaos typical of Central Africa. Here, amidst its vibrant streets and the aromatic wafts of local cuisine, a rather serious initiative is taking root—a crackdown that has set tongues wagging and fingers pointing. In an unscripted dance between custodians of law and the digital frontier, the South West State's security apparatus has swung into action, detaining…

Mogadishu (AX) – Picture a bustling airport, the hum of anticipation mingling with the clamor of last-minute announcements. Now, swap the airport for the Iraqi border, where the stakes are not about missed flights, but about national security. That’s the scene as a Somali government delegation, led by the thoughtful and determined Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, touched down in Iraq. Their mission? To tighten the knots of security cooperation between the two nations. Accompanying Minister…

In a tragic turn of events, human rights organizations are up in arms over a recent series of army airstrikes in Nigeria's northeast region, where military forces have been embroiled in a longstanding conflict against various armed insurgents. These air raids, described as "accidents" by military leaders, have led to the heartbreaking deaths of at least 15 innocent civilians—an event that has sparked outrage and disbelief among local communities and international observers alike. General Christopher Musa, the army chief, is…

Kismayo (AX) – In a move resonating with hope and determination, the Jubbaland regional state administration has lauded the ongoing military efforts targeting ISIS militants in the rugged terrain of Northeastern State's Bari region. This campaign isn't just another chapter in Somalia's lengthy struggle against terrorism—it's a pivotal moment that could redefine the nation's future. From the heart of the Jubbaland Presidential Palace, President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, widely known as Ahmed Madobe, passionately articulated the…