West Africa

Reflections on Security Challenges in Somalia In the heart of Mogadishu, amidst the bustling streets, a tragic reminder of Somalia’s ongoing security struggles unfolded with the attack on the Cairo Hotel. This violence isn't isolated, but rather, it reverberates like a chilling echo through the corridors of numerous Somali cities. How did we find ourselves here, surrounded by the seemingly ceaseless turmoil? Himilo Qaran, a voice distinct and unwavering in the political landscape, argues that…

Armed local fighters, alongside Somali security forces, patrol a rural area near the Ceelbuur district in the Galgaduud region on March 13, 2025. Mogadishu — Axadle Times International In a resolute move against adversity, local security forces have executed a concerted assault on a notorious Al-Shabaab stronghold in the serene, yet troubled, realms of Biyo Cadle near El Buur district. The normally quiet air, often filled with sounds of daily rural life, was pierced by the determined footsteps…

PANAMA CITY (AP) Imagine fleeing your homeland to escape turmoil, only to be whisked halfway across the world to a haven that feels anything but safe. From Afghanistan to Somalia, individuals have embarked on a formidable journey, with hopes pinned on reaching the United States—a beacon of safety and opportunity. These brave souls journeyed relentlessly, through lands where the language was a mystery, across the dangerous Darién jungle, all in a bid to stand at the U.S.-Mexico border. For many, arriving at this border…

Imagine stepping into a world where the thrill of sports betting and the love for football intertwine in a captivating dance. This is where MSport, one of Nigeria's foremost online betting platforms, makes its mark. MSport isn't just another betting site. It's a dynamic force constantly breaking barriers to bring an unmatched experience to sports enthusiasts across the nation. Can we talk about the latest TV commercial from MSport? It's not merely an advertisement; it's a celebration—a symphony composed for those…

A New Chapter in Ethiopian Reconciliation: Bridging Divides Over Shared Meals In the bustling heart of Mogadishu, Ethiopia's long-standing and often volatile territorial disputes are taking a hopeful turn. This time, leaders from Ethiopia's Somali and Afar regions are determined to rewrite old narratives, anchoring their hopes in newfound diplomatic engagements. What’s the medium for this change? An inclusive communal iftar. Their goal? To heal one of the nation’s most persistent wounds—an ongoing…

From the dusty roads of Niger to the sprawling urban centers of its neighbors, a silent but significant change is unfolding—a new era of digital connectivity. You might wonder how a landlocked nation bordered by Libya and Nigeria becomes a talking point in a global tech narrative? It begins with a name that's become synonymous with space-age internet solutions—Starlink. Starlink, an ambitious venture by SpaceX, renowned for its pioneering work in space exploration, is now setting foot in…

As dawn breaks across the Horn of Africa, a region steeped in both history and conflict, Ethiopia and Eritrea—nations once unified under a shared banner—now seem to stand on the precipice of renewed strife. A casual observer might gaze upon a map, tracing the contours of these lands, asking: "Are we destined to repeat the past, or can wisdom steer us clear of calamity?" In the bustling heart of Mogadishu, a sense of unease lingers in the air, one that's palpable among both local…

Unmasking the Aerial Threat: Northeastern State's Bold Counterterrorism Operations Just yesterday, Northeastern State security forces found themselves in the midst of another significant operation. Their discovery of a fixed-wing drone, possibly utilized by ISIS militants, added another layer to the tactical chess game they've been engaged in. This unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emerged during a series of counterterrorism maneuvers, meticulously aimed at dismantling militant enclaves. Yet,…

Civic space in Africa has become ground zero for a poignant tussle, drawing government entities, activists, and citizens into a conflict over essential freedoms. It's a vivid spectacle, showcasing courage and resilience on one side, and a draconian clampdown on liberties on the other. It beckons us to ask, what value do we place on our freedom of expression, and how far are we willing to go to protect it? While there are still beacons of steadfastness, countries that cling stubbornly to the ideals of…

(ERGO) – Life in North Western State of Somalia's Awdal region has never been easy, and Jama Mohamed Hassan can tell you all about it. His eyes are weary, a reflection of the tribulations his family of 17 is enduring. Their grocery business in Ruqi—a lifeline for years—recently came to a standstill. Customers who once brought vitality to his store now only leave unpaid debts, totaling a staggering $6,000 over the last 10 months. Jama's story is not just his own. Forty other shopkeepers in the region have shuttered their…