West Africa

Egyptian military advisors, instructors, and commandos are assisting Somali forces in battling Al Shabab militants.From left, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. Photo: AFPEgypt is amplifying its military presence in Somalia ahead of Ethiopia's December 31 deadline to withdraw, concurrently training and aiding Somali forces against Al Qaeda-affiliated militants, sources revealed to The National on Tuesday.Both Egypt and Somalia, belonging to…

President Bola Tinubu has joyfully received the national soccer team's, the Super Eagles, safe return to Nigeria after they endured a distressing situation at a Libyan airport. The team was poised to compete in another qualifying match against Libya, vying for a spot in the upcoming African Cup of Nations. Upon arrival, the Super Eagles found themselves allegedly "abandoned" at the airport. They faced a dire situation lacking basic necessities such as food, water, and even phone service following an unexpected diversion of…

In Mogadishu, a fresh chapter of camaraderie opened as Somalia's Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education unveiled scholarship opportunities for 30 students from Sudan eager to pursue academic goals in Somalia. Tuesday's announcement shed light on the historical bond between Sudan and Somalia, highlighting Sudan's generous past support during times when Somalia found itself without a functional government. " Sudan stands out as a steadfast ally, one of those unforgettable supporters," expressed the Ministry,…

Today marks Global Handwashing Day, an occasion designed to elevate public consciousness about the vital role of handwashing with soap in safeguarding health and preventing disease. Failure to wash one’s hands properly with soap and clean, flowing water significantly heightens the risk of various illnesses. This year's theme, "Why Are Clean Hands Still Important?", underscores the ongoing relevance of hand hygiene in thwarting the spread of outbreaks and pandemics, particularly in areas where healthcare resources are…

At the helm: Former Somali Foreign Minister, Ambassador Ahmed Issa Awad, didn't mince his words while criticizing Somalia’s freshly minted alliance with Egypt and Eritrea, calling it a reckless shot in the dark. Below: Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea's leaders clasp hands during a diplomatic rendezvous. Ahmed Issa Awad has thrown caution to the wind, cautioning that Somalia's new alliance with Egypt and Eritrea was hasty and destined to be short-lived. He pointed out the vast chasm in their governing styles and clashing…

In Kismayo, United Nations envoy James Swan and Jubbaland's head honcho, Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe), shook hands and dove into Somalia's political big picture. They chewed over state-building, the quagmire with Al-Shabaab, and the prep work for the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) hoo-ha.Mogadishu (AX) — On a Sunday powwow, James Swan, the UN's point person, nudged Jubbaland's President Ahmed Madobe back into Somalia's National Consultative Council. They focused their chat on building an effective state and…

Across the African continent, a multitude of national squads are engaged in a thrilling round of qualifying matches, all vying for a coveted spot at the continent's premier soccer showcase, the African Cup of Nations, set to unfold in vibrant Morocco. This Tuesday promises a crucial clash as Nigeria's renowned Super Eagles aim for early qualification from Group D, facing off against the formidable Mediterranean Knights, Libya. Yet, not all’s smooth for the Nigerian team; certain officials have hinted at a potential boycott…

A DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone is buzzing in the air. It's just like those now banned from flying within five nautical miles of Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport due to new safety rules from the Somali Civil Aviation Authority.Mogadishu (AX) — In light of heightened security troubles, Somalia's Civil Aviation Authority has grounded all drones within a five-nautical-mile circle around Mogadishu's Aden Abdulle International Airport. This move aims to secure the area and smooth out flight operations at the nation's…

President Joseph Boakai has officially accepted the resignation of Commerce Minister Amin Modad. This decision came in the wake of significant public backlash regarding Modad's acquisition of a vehicle that surpassed the established price ceiling. "His actions demonstrate a serious lapse in judgment and an insensitivity to the prevailing economic circumstances in our nation," Boakai remarked, emphasizing the need for accountability in leadership. The former Minister of Commerce defended his choice, explaining that the…

Picture this: a computer screen flashing a cyberattack warning. A group of cyber bandits swiped a whopping $350,000 from a Somali solar energy company by rerouting their funds. Mogadishu (AX) — In a daring cyber-heist revealing alarming flaws, hackers drained over $350,000 slated for a Somali solar venture. The hit spotlighted gaps in security at India-based International Solar Alliance (ISA). The intended recipients, Hayle Barise Energy Solutions, are paving the way for solar development in Somalia. Instead, the cash…