West Africa

Turkey's Strategic Embrace of Africa: A New Chapter in Global Partnership In recent years, Turkey's foreign policy towards Africa has seen a remarkable transformation under the guidance of the Justice and Development Party (AK Party), led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This diplomatic evolution marks a profound shift towards a more inclusive partnership model with African nations, distinguishing Turkey’s approach from the exploitative footprints left by colonial powers. The Audacity of a Visit: Seeds of a New…

The Struggle for Integrity: Somalia's Passport Predicament In a world where borders are defined by paper trails and trust, the integrity of a nation’s passport becomes a beacon of its global standing. This delicate balance is under threat in Somalia, as alleged by a prominent voice in the sports arena, Omar Abdulkadir Artan, an international football referee for FIFA. His recent accusations serve as a clarion call to address what he sees as rampant corruption within Somalia’s passport system. A Call to Action In a…

A New Era of Governance and Development in Galmudug On a vibrant August morning in 2025, the air in Dhusamareb was filled with anticipation. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, alongside Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Kariye, affectionately known as Qoor-Qoor, was about to inaugurate a series of government facilities that signaled a profound shift in the region's governance and public service landscape. With local drummers filling the air with rhythmic beats, the event marked more than just the opening of…

The Fight Against ISIS in Somalia: A Mountainous Struggle for Peace Deep in the rugged terrains of the Al Miskaad Mountains, Northeastern State's forces continue their unyielding mission to dismantle a network that has plagued Somalia with its dark tentacles. The battle against ISIS in this northeastern corner of Africa has been both intense and transformative, evoking stories of determination and global implications. A Deadly Toll and a Glimpse into Militant Life In a recent statement, Northeastern State authorities…

Transforming Somalia: Hormuud Telecom’s Pioneering Role in Mobile Finance In a world increasingly driven by digital innovation, Hormuud Telecom has firmly positioned itself as a beacon of progress in Somalia. Recently, the telecommunications giant proudly announced the re-certification of its EVC Plus service by the GSMA Mobile Money Certification program, a distinction shared by only nine other platforms globally. This recognition underscores not just technological prowess but also a vital leap toward economic…

SASA Fights Back Against False Allegations In the bustling heart of Johannesburg, South Africa, tensions have risen over recent allegations linking the Somali Association of South Africa (SASA) to a bribery attempt involving Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya. The drama has unfolded amidst an atmosphere ripe with misinformation, and those at SASA are feeling the heat of unjust scrutiny. The Unfolding Controversy It all began with a post on social media platform X, where Mayor Moya shared a recorded phone call. A man on the line…

Understanding the Vicious Attacks on Somali American Politician Ismail Mohamed The world of politics is often a turbulent arena where cultural heritage meets public opinion, forging a complex interplay. Recently, Somali American state representative Ismail Mohamed found himself in the crosshairs of far-right media. What catalyzed this vitriolic response? A video, spoken in his native Somali, sparked the uproar. The Confluence of Identity and Politics Ismail Mohamed is not just a politician; he represents a tapestry of…

The Unfolding Drama of Sovereignty in the Horn of Africa January 2024 marked a significant moment in the Horn of Africa, revealing Ethiopia’s broader ambitions and Somalia's vulnerabilities. A memorandum of understanding between Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia, although paused, sent shockwaves across the region. This event has spotlighted Ethiopia's ongoing quest for regional dominance and exposed Somalia's diplomatic fragility. The Historical Context of Ethiopia’s Regional Dominance Ethiopia’s pursuit of…

The Complex Dance of Justice: Somalia's Military Court and the Fight Against al-Shabab In the vibrant and resilient cityscape of Mogadishu, a narrative of justice and retribution unfolds — one that reflects a nation's struggle against a formidable adversary. On a fateful Wednesday morning, Somalia's military court executed two men, casting a spotlight on the relentless conflict between the federal government and the al-Shabab militants threatening its stability. A Glimpse into the Execution The two men executed,…

The Delicate Dance of Diplomacy: North Western State of Somalia's Quest for Recognition Amid the swirling dynamics of the African continent, the question of North Western State of Somalia's recognition surfaces as a delicate issue. At the heart of this geopolitical puzzle is former U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Larry André, whose cautionary remarks have caught the attention of global policymakers. He warns against unilateral U.S. action, advocating a nuanced approach that respects the intricate tapestry of relationships…