West Africa

Understanding North Western State of Somalia’s New Residency Directive: A Call for Engagement Hargeisa (AX) — In a significant move that highlights North Western State of Somalia’s ongoing efforts to regulate its immigration policies, the government has mandated that all foreigners residing illegally within its borders must register for temporary residency or face potential legal consequences. This announcement was made by the Ministry of Interior on Thursday, setting a timeframe that requires immediate…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a bright Friday morning, a significant chapter in the lives of 431 Somali pilgrims unfolded as they departed from Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport, embarking on their journey to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj. This annual pilgrimage, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, draws millions from around the globe, each individual seeking not just to fulfill a religious duty, but to forge a personal connection with their faith. The farewell ceremony was a heartwarming gathering and a poignant moment.…

Enhancing Somalia's Diplomatic Engagement: A Step Towards a Brighter Future Mogadishu (AX) — In an engaging and insightful virtual meeting on Thursday, Somalia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, brought together the nation’s ambassadors, permanent representatives, and consuls general. The main goal? To enhance diplomatic coordination and strengthen international relationships. An endeavor that is both ambitious and vital for the nation's future. The meeting served as a…

Strengthening Ties: Somalia and China Explore New Horizons in Fisheries Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant display of international camaraderie, Somalia’s Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Aden, welcomed a delegation led by Chinese Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu, on a promising Tuesday afternoon. This meeting, held within the stately walls of the Ministry's headquarters in Mogadishu, served not merely as a formality but as a vibrant discussion focused on expanding bilateral economic cooperation,…

Strengthening the Somali National Army: A New Chapter in Defense Collaboration Mogadishu (AX) — On a pivotal Wednesday, the Somali Ministry of Defense welcomed a fresh influx of military resources courtesy of the United States. This shipment is poised to fortify the Somali National Army (SNA), particularly bolstering the elite Danab commando unit as they engage in ongoing operations against the al-Qaeda-linked militant group, al-Shabaab. The handover ceremony, which illuminated…

Roads are often the unsung heroes of thriving economies. They facilitate the seamless movement of people, goods, and services, serving as the very arteries of trade and interaction. Imagine a small farmer in rural Africa, his harvest waiting to be transported to the market. Without reliable roads, his efforts may go unrewarded. Roads are not simply pathways; they are lifelines that connect communities, stimulate economies, and create opportunities. Each day, hundreds of thousands of workers travel to factories,…

Turkey's Strategic Oil Deal with Somalia: A Turning Point In an unexpected twist in the global energy market, recent discoveries off the shores of Somalia, projected to contain up to 20 billion barrels of commercially viable crude oil, signal a monumental shift. This development reflects Turkey's escalating interest in Somalia and the broader energy landscape of East Africa. According to the Somali Guardian, the initial yields from two pilot oil blocks have been promising. Meanwhile, a third block continues to undergo…

In a world where development is often stymied by bureaucratic inertia, Sidi Ould Tah, the former Finance Minister of Mauritania, stands at the precipice of change. As he sets his sights on the presidency of the African Development Bank (AfDB), his vision for reform promises not just a shift in policy but a fundamental evolution in how the institution operates. Tah's aspirations will take center stage during the upcoming Board of Governors meeting in Abidjan, where critical decisions affecting the financial landscape of the…

In a moment that marked not just a diplomatic engagement but also a tribute to shared history, the President of the Republic of the Congo, Denis Sassou-Nguesso, was warmly welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin during their recent meeting. The occasion was held in Moscow to commemorate the Great Patriotic War, a pivotal event that shaped the destiny of nations. “I would like to cordially welcome you to today’s meeting, which is taking place as part of our Victory Day commemoration of the Great Patriotic War,” Putin…

Parliamentary Challenges in Somalia: A Closer Look Mogadishu (AX) — In a surprising turn of events, the Somali Lower House Parliament found itself unable to convene on Wednesday. The absence of a sufficient number of lawmakers—only 120 attended, falling 19 short of the necessary 139—highlights the growing tensions within the political landscape. This scenario unfolds against the backdrop of an anticipated no-confidence motion targeting Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur, affectionately known as Madoobe. Speaker Madoobe…