East Africa

Addis Ababa—The sun shone brightly over the Ethiopian capital on January 11, 2025, as an air of optimism and anticipation filled the streets. Against this vibrant backdrop, a monumental announcement was made—one that carried the promise of a brighter future for two historic neighbors. Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, stood before an attentive audience of officials and journalists, his composed demeanor hinting at the weight…

Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to restore and enhance their bilateral relations through full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals, the two nations have announced in a joint statement. This agreement on Saturday follows Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's warm reception of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where the leaders held high-level discussions focused on strengthening relations and addressing mutual priorities.

Somalia has announced its candidacy for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) for the 2025–2028 terms. In a press release issued over the weekend, Somalia outlined key reasons for its candidacy, emphasising its ”leadership in regional and continental priorities.” Somalia stressed the need for “fair representation,” noting its absence from the AU PSC since its creation in 2004. The country argued that its “inclusion is vital for ensuring equitable representation within the organisation.…

Ah, the hustle and bustle of politics and agriculture! Picture this: Egypt's top brass in agriculture, Minister Alaa Farouk, is out and about wearing his diplomatic hat, rubbing shoulders, and sipping coffee with his chums from Senegal and Somalia. They’re not just discussing the weather, mind you, but something that could put more bread on tables. We're talking turbo-charged agricultural cooperation, and not just your run-of-the-mill type—inspired once more by the thrilling surroundings at the African Union's Extraordinary…

In the heart of Addis Ababa, a significant tête-à-tête occurred. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed shook hands, opting to reboot the diplomatic ties between their countries by promising full-scale embassies in each other's capitals. This meetup happened on a bustling Saturday. "We’re working towards a shared future," explained Abiy. They both reckon that fostering cooperation in global and regional forums is a big deal. Not just talking, but laying a solid groundwork built on…

The price tag for Somali pilgrims heading to the Hajj in 2025 has shot up to a whopping $4,604. This price surge reflects the inflating costs of travel and accommodation in Saudi Arabia, as per the Somali Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs. This fee is meant to cover everything from transportation and lodging to the logistics of organizing such a pilgrimage both in Somalia and once they reach the holy land of Saudi Arabia. While officials are making a hullabaloo about their initiatives to offer top-notch services,…

Mogadishu, AX - The North Western State of Somalia government is taking decisive steps to regain authority over its own airspace, a move that's stirring the pot with Somalia. This airspace, which Somalia currently manages, had once been under global supervision before it passed into Somali hands some years back. Fuad Ahmed Nuuh, the bigwig at the helm of North Western State of Somalia's Aviation and Airport Development, declared that reclaiming control of the skies is numero uno on their to-do list. This maneuver comes…

Mogadishu (AX) — Standing firm in their stance, Egypt has boldly stated that it won’t entertain any foreign military or naval activity from nations not bordering the Red Sea. This strong message was delivered by Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, during a Saturday press briefing in Cairo. Joining him were counterparts from Eritrea, Minister Osman Saleh, and Somalia, Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, wrapping up a key trilateral meeting focused on strengthening their collaboration. This closely-knit alliance is eager to amp…

When President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down in Addis Ababa recently, it wasn't merely a standard diplomatic escapade. His mission aimed to firm up the ties between Somalia and Ethiopia, a relationship that’s as intricate as a spider’s web and just as crucial for regional peace. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a notable figure in African politics, extended a warm welcome at Bole International Airport. "It's an honor to greet President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia during this pivotal visit," Abiy expressed with genuine…

An unexpected tragedy unfolded on a sunny Friday afternoon in Malindi, a serene town along Kenya's north coast. The tranquility was abruptly shattered when a light aircraft made a dramatic crash landing on a roadside, claiming the lives of three individuals, according to local police. Kilifi County Police Commander, Joseph Ongwae, reported that the ill-fated aircraft, tagged as 5Y-CDC, departed from Malindi Airport, aiming for Wilson Airport in Nairobi. Trouble brewed shortly after takeoff when the aircraft, which was…