West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — In a whirlwind episode amid an already tumultuous expedition, seven players from Somalia's U-17 national football team have returned to their camp following a brief disappearance from their team hotel. This occurred during the ongoing TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, casting a complicated shadow over their campaign. The initial report came from Pan Africa Football, detailing how the players vanished on two separate occasions, with the latest incident unfolding just two days before their…

Mogadishu, a city resonating with the echoes of history and hope, played host to a crucial gathering. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud brought together key leaders from South West, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug states for an extraordinary meeting that many hope will steer Somalia towards a future of unity and peace. This isn't just another meeting; it's a beacon of potential change for a nation yearning for stability. Inside the halls of discussion, President Mohamud and the regional leaders embarked on a…

The expansive world of Africa's palm oil industry is swiftly evolving, with sustainability sitting squarely at the core of its transformative potential. Enter Eur Ing Hong Wai Onn, the innovative mind behind the Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership (RISEL). As a chartered chemical engineer and environmentalist, Hong offers a radically inspiring perspective on how the process of biomass valorization might just hold the key to revolutionizing the sector continent-wide. Do we dare to dream big…

North Western State of Somalia Takes Bold Step to Foster Peace in El Afwayn In an earnest endeavor to weave peace into the socio-political fabric of El Afwayn in the Sanaag region, the North Western State of Somalia government has decreed a prohibition on civilians carrying firearms. This decisive measure follows the ominous shadows of violent clashes between rival clans, raising pertinent questions about the path to sustained harmony. The ambiance at a recent community reconciliation…

In many countries, a notable aspect of governance is the presence of senior leaders across the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Their experience and knowledge significantly influence the political landscapes they navigate. But can age truly encapsulate wisdom, or does it sometimes hinder progressive governance? There's no denying the pull of executive power—the capacity to make decisions that shape the future. Yet, it's the legislature that transforms…

Ensuring Security on the High Seas: The Role of the Pakistan Navy The oceans are our planet's global highways, vast waterways connecting us all. The term "Sea Lines of Communication" might sound technical, yet it embodies something universally critical: the unhindered flow of global maritime trade. How we ensure their security is vital, and it’s within this context that the Pakistan Navy has made significant strides. "These efforts are vital to protect Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and ensure the free flow of…

Sweden's Engagement with Somalia: A Chapter Closed, A Story Continued Since 2022, a committed advocate for humanitarian and developmental efforts, Högberg, carried the torch for Sweden’s engagement in Somalia. Her mission, a formidable undertaking, focused on weaving a stronger fabric of aid and cooperation between these two diverse, yet interconnected nations. Before her endeavors in Somalia, she had carved a significant path in Sudan, laying the groundwork for what would become key strategies in international aid. But…

Türkiye's involvement in Somalia's security landscape has grown notably, bringing forth a dynamic partnership aimed at counteracting terrorism through strategic means and bolstered military assistance. This collaboration comes as part of a broader commitment to support Somalia's administration in its ongoing battle against extremist threats.The foundations of this strengthened relationship were laid during Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's recent visit to Ankara. It was more than just a formal meeting—it was a forging…

Have you ever wondered what sets apart the real trailblazers in the world of technology? It's not just about creating innovative gadgets, but truly understanding the heartbeat of the consumer. Meet realme, the mobile phone brand that has taken Africa by storm, becoming the continent’s fastest-growing mobile brand with a staggering 89% sales growth in 2024, as per Canalys. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a testament to realme's unique connection with consumers, particularly the vibrant youth.…

The Future Beckons: Somalia’s U-17 AFCON Journey Mogadishu (AX) — For Somalia's U-17 squad, the journey to the Africa Cup of Nations concluded in disappointment sooner than they had hoped. On a fateful Friday at Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi, Gambia delivered a decisive 5-1 victory, eliminating the Ocean Stars from the quest for glory. Earlier, Tunisia had handed them a 3-0 defeat, leaving Somalia with no points and firmly at the bottom of Group C. The harsh scoreline paints a picture of a team outmatched, yet it was…