East Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — Like characters in the dynamic theater of geopolitics, nations vie for influence on the African stage, painting the canvas of history with choices and alliances. Recently, Ethiopia emerged as a pivotal protagonist by securing a seat on the African Union's Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) for a three-year tenure. But how did this happen? And what significance does this hold for the continent? Ethiopia's triumph at the 46th Executive Council meeting, held under the imposing shadows of Addis Ababa's…

Certainly, let's delve into the intricate tapestry of this issue with a more nuanced, professional tone. --- As the sun rose over the verdant landscape of central Kenya, painting ethereal hues on the horizon, thoughts weighed heavily on the mind of Jackson Karuiru. A man seasoned by the struggles of agriculture, Karuiru, the chairman of the Kenyan Khat Farmers Association, finds himself at the crossroads between tradition and the unforgiving march of modern economics. “How can we carry on under these circumstances,” he…

In the bustling corridors of Garissa, a heated debate unfolds—one that delves deep into the heart of identity and equality in Kenya. The contentious issue? The abolishment of the Identity Card vetting process in the northeastern region. A group of Garissa Members of County Assembly (MCAs) have found themselves in the eye of the storm, staunchly defending the president's recent proclamation. Is it time for a shift in how we perceive citizenship and security? Just last week, President William Ruto, during his tour of the…

The once impenetrable bastion of Dinsor, situated in Somalia's southwestern region and close to the frontier with Kenya and Ethiopia, crumbled under the combined efforts of African Union troops. Just days prior, they had seized Bardhere, another strategic location. These captures are significant as both towns represented the remaining strongholds of the Al-Shabaab insurgents. While these victories have offered a flicker of hope, a more complex issue looms over the horizon. U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman,…

Bosaso (AX) — Imagine the bleak horizon, a barren canvas where ambition and despair mingle. In such a landscape, one might think that dreams could flourish or wither silently, but not so in Northeastern State. Here, intelligence reports expose a story of exploitation, where ISIS employs a pernicious strategy to bolster its presence. It targets the vulnerable, preying upon those seeking hope across treacherous paths. What compels these militants to trap foreign migrants in their web of deceit and coercion? A senior…

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (AX) — In the heart of Sweden, a harrowing event unfolded that has changed the fabric of the community. Qamar Hilowle, a resilient 38-year-old mother of three, was among the ten victims in the tragic school shooting at Campus Risbergska on February 4, a day now etched in Sweden’s history. The tragedy commenced with a hail of bullets at midday, fired by 26-year-old Rickard Andersson, who was swiftly apprehended by authorities. Andersson's links to extremist ideologies have left a nation questioning: What…

Introducing Bisbas Restaurant: Exploring the Delights of Somali Cuisine in Rolando In an age dominated by digital footprints and Yelp reviews, stumbling upon culinary gems by chance has become something of a rarity. How often can we truly say we’ve been surprised by a new restaurant? I thought this as I navigated the streets of Rolando, casually glancing at the plethora of eateries lining University Avenue. That was until the alluring banner of "grand opening" paired with "Somali restaurant" got my attention. In that…

Mogadishu (AX) — Amid the scenes of bustling markets and vibrant streets in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, whispers of hope rise, echoing with the dreams of young footballers poised to make history. The anticipation is palpable. On February 13, in the heart of Cairo where grand history resides, the next chapter for Somalia’s burgeoning football talent unfolds with the draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, precisely at 13:45 local time. Is this the dawn of a new era for Somali…

U.S. Airstrikes Target Islamic State in Somalia WASHINGTON — In the enigmatic expanse of Somalia's Golis Mountains, a U.S. military operation unfolded earlier this month with precision and strategic acumen. The airstrikes, orchestrated against the ever-elusive Islamic State, have achieved a significant milestone, according to the latest assessment from U.S. military officials. Late Tuesday, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) announced the demise of Ahmed Maeleninine, a notorious architect of terror,…

The recent takeover of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, by the M23 armed group has captured global attention, reigniting discussions about the tumultuous conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While many media outlets hastily attribute the turmoil to a desire to exploit the area’s abundant mineral resources, an analysis from The New Humanitarian reveals a far more intricate web of causes. The narrative framing the conflict as a mere scramble for minerals paints an oversimplified picture. It’s alluring to…