West Africa

North Western State of Somalia Embarks on a Visionary Peace Initiative in the Sanaag Region In a strategic move towards broader peace and stability, North Western State of Somalia has embarked on an initiative to integrate clan militias into its national forces—a project rippling with both pragmatism and hope. This effort, primarily focused on the Sanaag region, sees the North Western State of Somalia government acquiring vehicles and weaponry from local clan militia groups, heralding not just a transfer of…

On a pleasant Monday in Istanbul, the bustling city that straddles both Europe and Asia, a significant diplomatic meeting took place. Somali Ambassador to Türkiye, Fathudin Ali Mohamed, arriving with a vision and a purpose, engaged in a crucial dialogue with Kubanychbek Omuraliyev, who serves as the secretary-general of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The meeting unfolded within the walls of the organization's headquarters, a space that has witnessed numerous similar encounters charting the future of regional…

Ethiopia, a large and diverse nation, is in pursuit of a goal many consider essential for its economic vision: a solid hold on maritime access. This aspiration took a noteworthy turn in 2023 when Ethiopia struck a deal with North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared republic. The deal, which found Ethiopia trading recognition of North Western State of Somalia's independence for a coveted 20-kilometer coastal stretch, soon sparked geopolitical unrest in the region. Not surprisingly, the course of this agreement has…

Ali Adan Mumin: A Voice Liberated Amidst Controversy On a recent day that began like any other, social media commentator and political blogger Ali Adan Mumin found himself in the center of a storm, though one might argue storms are nothing new for those who dare to speak openly. Mumin spent two restless nights in police custody, arrested under allegations of threatening national security and defaming government officials—a charge heavy with implications. His unexpected detention sparked a wave…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. Mogadishu (AX) — In the swirling complexities that define air travel decisions today, Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways have deemed it necessary to suspend their flights to Mogadishu, prompted by security warnings from the U.S. Embassy. This move echoes a familiar yet unsettling melody for travelers in and out of Somalia — the ever-looming potential for threats at the Aden Adde International Airport. It's a decision steeped in caution. The Embassy, acting as an…

AFRICOM's Tactical Engagement in Somalia: A 2025 Overview Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International–Monitoring An Unexpected Revelation in the Numbers In a year where the winds of change are blowing across the African continent, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) has unveiled a crucial piece of information. As of March 5, 2025, AFRICOM has affirmed its execution of ten airstrikes within…

It was a crisp morning on February 4th, when history unfolded in the rugged terrains of Northeastern State, Somalia. As dawn broke, the air rippled with tension—the prelude to a fierce battle between Northeastern State's resilient forces and the entrenched militants of the Islamic State. The militants responded with a fury of drones, suicide attacks, and infantry charges, determined to hold their ground. But the drama had only just begun. By sundown, the scene near the village of Qurac had…

The Backbone of Ground Forces: Tanks in Africa Tanks serve as an integral backbone for ground forces across the globe. These mighty machines are not just heavily armed and well-armored vehicles; they represent critical strategic assets that can tip the scales in conflicts. One might wonder, why do we place so much emphasis on these steel giants? The answer lies in the profound influence they exert on both national defense and international diplomacy. In today's complex…

A Journey Through Africa's Economic Prosperity: Unveiling Key Exports and Future Potential Each nation, in its own unique way, weaves its resources into the fabric of the global economy. But have you ever paused to think about what makes a country's wealth tick? What products propel them forward in the complex dance of international trade? Africa, endowed with a wealth of natural treasures, stands proudly on the world stage as a significant player in global commerce. However, beyond its…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring Mogadishu (AX) — In a world increasingly plagued by conflict and humanitarian challenges, one question continues to reverberate across global discussions: How do we address the unfolding crisis in Gaza? Amidst the turmoil, Somalia's Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, took a significant stand. Joining hands with Arab leaders in Cairo, he amplified Somalia’s steadfast commitment to the Palestinian cause, marking a pivotal moment in the region's ongoing struggle. The…