West Africa

SSC-Khaatumo Faces Financial Dilemma for Upcoming National Examinations Las Anod (AX) – In a developing story that raises questions about educational equity and government support, the SSC-Khaatumo regional government has confirmed that the federal government of Somalia will not provide financial assistance for the administration of the National Secondary School Examinations in the 2024/2025 academic year. This decision has thrown a wrench into the preparations for what is a pivotal moment in many students' academic…

Jubaland Raises Alarm Over President’s Actions Garowe (AX) — In a significant political development that could have far-reaching consequences for Somalia, Jubaland’s regional government has expressed serious concerns regarding the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They accuse him of deviations from the federal constitution, suggesting that the actions he is taking may steer the nation toward a one-party system, thus jeopardizing its fragile stability amidst escalating insecurity.…

Hargeisa (AX) — A concerning wave of measles has recently emerged in North Western State of Somalia, marking an urgent public health crisis. With over 220 confirmed cases reported, the sound of alarm bells can be heard resonating through hospitals and health facilities across the region, pushing health officials to make critical calls for immediate vaccination and improved health monitoring. Just this past Thursday, the Ministry of Health Development disclosed that 227 cases had been tallied across six…

North Western State of Somalia Government Clarifies Stance on Prisoners from Las Anod Conflict Hargeisa (AX) — In a recent statement that echoes through the heart of North Western State of Somalia's local communities, the government has firmly denied reports suggesting that it plans to release prisoners captured during the tumultuous fighting in Las Anod last year. This follows a wave of public protests that have surged online, fueled by uncertainty and speculation. Interior Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab,…

Strengthening Ties: Somalia and Gulf Countries Unite Against Shared Threats In a notable move towards bolstering its national security framework, Somalia has recently inked an agreement aimed at fostering closer ties with Gulf nations, particularly with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This pact stands as a symbol of Somalia’s proactive approach in seeking reliable partnerships to combat persistent threats posed by extremist groups such as al-Shabaab and ISIS. It’s a notable step not just for Somalia, but also for the broader…

The Growing Ties Between GCC Countries and Africa The growing collaboration between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Africa is not just a trend; it’s a transformation. These nations are establishing robust partnerships through substantial investments in diverse sectors, including energy, real estate, agriculture, tourism, and humanitarian efforts. This multi-faceted engagement underscores a commitment to developing a brighter future for the continent. Recent research by…

Human Trafficking: The Dark Path from Dadaab to Europe In the sprawling landscape of hardship and hope that characterizes the Dadaab refugee camps in Kenya, a silent crisis unfolds. Trans-Saharan human trafficking syndicates are exploiting the dreams of vulnerable Somali refugees, particularly the youth who yearn for a better future. These traffickers, led by the infamous Libyan group known as Magafe, have turned aspiration into a perilous gamble, where the stakes are often unimaginable. What lies behind the allure of…

The Complex Landscape of Loyalty and Governance in Somalia In the intricate tapestry of Somali society, loyalty often finds its roots in clans, overshadowing broader civic identities. Clan affiliation, while historically a pillar of strength and survival for the Somali people, has evolved into a lens through which political dynamics are often viewed. Imagine a judge not evaluated on the fairness of his rulings, but rather on the clan he represents. Alternatively, think of a minister whose competence is overshadowed…

During a recent diplomatic mission to Brazil, Kenya's Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized an urgent call for international collaboration to tackle the ongoing crisis in Haiti. It’s a stark reminder of how global challenges often require unified responses— a reflection of our interconnected world. Mudavadi, representing Kenya's leadership in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, urged the international community—particularly the United Nations and the United States—as well as other…

Three years ago, on May 15, 2022, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected as the President of Somalia following a lengthy indirect electoral process. This marked his return to the presidency—notably, his second non-consecutive term—as he had previously served from September 2012 to February 2017. His comeback was widely celebrated, reflecting a collective hope that his prior experience would provide invaluable lessons. Having spent nearly five years in power and another five years in opposition, many believed he was primed to…