West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – In a charged atmosphere of growing political tension, Somali Minister of Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag has thrown serious accusations against Ahmed Madobe, the President of Jubbaland State. Fartaag, in a fiery address delivered in the heart of Mogadishu on Saturday, painted Madobe as not merely a political rival but a profound obstructionist, hampering the painstaking fight against the militant group, al-Shabaab. His words resounded with palpable frustration. Fartaag sparked a blend of intrigue…

Northeastern State’s Vigilant Stand: A New Chapter in the Fight Against ISIS On January 30, 2025, amidst whispers of courage and resilience, the Northeastern State Security Forces paraded a newly trained unit through the streets of Bosasso, located in Somalia's Northeastern State region. Gleaming equipment accompanied them, a show of strength and preparedness dedicated to combating the looming threat of ISIS in the Bari Region. Reuters captured this profound moment—one that might signal a pivotal shift.…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a move set to shape the future fabric of Somali society, the Somali Council of Ministers recently ratified two pivotal cooperation agreements with Azerbaijan, focusing on education and energy. During Thursday’s meeting in the heart of Mogadishu, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, who presided over the proceedings with a thoughtful gaze, underscored the profound significance of these accords. "These agreements will enhance education and energy collaboration, laying the groundwork for long-term…

Mogadishu (AX) – Is it truly feasible or ethical to propose relocating individuals from one troubled land to another? A recent initiative, put forth by U.S. President Donald Trump, suggests resettling Palestinians from the embattled strip of Gaza to the distant lands of Northeastern State, a self-governing region in northeastern Somalia, and the self-proclaimed autonomous state of North Western State of Somalia. Phrased with enticing adjectives as "far safer and more beautiful," this proposal has sparked considerable debate…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the vibrant city of Kampala, a significant meeting unfolded between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. Their conversation was peppered with discussions on deepening the bonds between their nations, with an emphasis on security, economic growth, and collaborative measures against the specter of terrorism. The dialogue between the two leaders wasn't merely a formal exchange. Instead, it was imbued with the kind of warmth and understanding that often arises…

International diplomacy often finds its most compelling narratives in the intimate settings of academia. It was in such an environment that the Somali Ambassador to Pakistan, Sheikh Noor Muhammad Hassan, graced the University of Engineering and Technology Lahore (UET) with his presence on February 6, 2025. The day was not just a formal visit; it was a confluence of cultural dialogues and intellectual exchanges, captured beautifully in an evocative photograph where Vice Chancellor Dr. Shahid Munir handed a souvenir to the…

At the Mandera border post, a tense yet hopeful scene plays out between Kenya and Somalia. The border symbolizes more than just a geographical demarcation; it reflects the complex ties and tumultuous past shared by these two nations. Recently, in an unexpected twist of events, Kenya dispatched a multi-agency delegation, championed by wise community elders, to Somalia. Why, one might ask? Their mission is clear yet perilous: to negotiate the safe return of five local chiefs who were abducted under mysterious and troubling…

In Beledweyne, a dawn of uncertainty painted the skies on Friday, cloaked in the echoes of heavy artillery. Somber yet resolute, Somali government forces, in a coalition with the spirited Ma'awisleey clan militias, engaged in a fierce confrontation with al-Shabaab fighters. The Hiiraan region was the theater of this formidable clash, its outcome pivotal in shaping local dynamics. The operation did not emerge from thin air; rather, it was a meticulously planned offensive aimed at dismantling the fortified positions of…

In an unexpected twist on the global political stage, Israel is contemplating a plan that could potentially see Gazans relocated to Northeastern State, an autonomous region nestled within Somalia. This controversial proposal arose from Donald Trump’s rather bold initiative, promising to resettle Gazans in areas he depicted as “far safer and more beautiful.” Interestingly enough, last Thursday saw Israel’s foreign minister, Israel Katz, instruct the Israel Defense Forces to gear up for the "voluntary" relocation of…

Kampala (AX) — Against the backdrop of an overcast Kampala sky, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down on Ugandan soil this past Friday. His visit marks a pivotal moment, one intended to weave tighter threads of diplomacy and cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, especially in realms such as security, commerce, and socio-economic development. An anecdotal account from President Mohamud’s entourage whispered that when you pause to think, diplomacy really is an art; an intricate dance between nations, played…