West Africa

In a strategic move that signals an intent to enhance governance, President Bola Tinubu has appointed retired Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin as the new Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB). This decision comes at a time when effective leadership in these sectors is more necessary than ever. Jibrin’s considerable experience in both military and civil capacities may provide the fresh perspective needed to navigate the complexities of these vital services. Jibrin steps…

In the heart of Mogadishu, amidst the bustling tales of the city, a grim story unfolded this Wednesday, steeped in tragedy and political tension. Mohamed Ilyas Caagane, the federally appointed commissioner of Bardhere district, breathed his last amidst fierce combat between federal government troops and forces loyal to Jubbaland in the district of Bardhere, nestled within the contentious Gedo region. For those who call Bardhere home, the echoes of conflict reverberated through the air, although the full extent of the…

The long-standing tradition of U.S. airstrikes in Somalia has extended into President Donald Trump’s renewed tenure. During his inaugural address, Trump declared, "My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker." Yet, a skeptic might ask, can a leader claim to be a peacemaker when the engines of war continue to hum? On February 3, 2025, President Trump addressed reporters from the Oval Office, the weight of his decisions evident in the furrows of his brow (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images). Recently, he ordered…

The relentless pillage of yellowfin tuna in Somali waters is a troubling saga, unravelling as a grim tale affecting local livelihoods and looming ominously over global food security. The ripples of this exploitation stretch far and wide, touching ecosystems and economies in profoundly unsettling ways. But, how did this come to pass? One can't help but wonder about the brazen illegal activities by Chinese vessels, which have become a stark symbol of unchecked ambition and disregard for maritime laws. These vessels prowl…

In an unsettling turn of events, residents of Halfooley woke up to the grim news of a tragic killing that has sent shockwaves throughout the region. According to accounts from officials and eyewitnesses, armed assailants, reportedly hailing from the Middle Shabelle area, were behind the vicious act. The motive? A deep-seated clan dispute that has simmered for weeks, if not months. Why do age-old grievances persist as the ghosts that haunt the living? In this particular instance, those grudges targeted…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an unforeseen twist of events, Somalia's Ministry of Finance has decided to suspend the controversial health card fees that had left travelers bewildered and frustrated. Those fees, imposed on January 28, 2025, by the Ministry of Health, were meant to serve as a financial buffer for vaccinations and other health-related travel requisites. Yet, their introduction was anything but smooth. Chaos erupted as passengers found themselves unexpectedly asked for payments, with no prior announcement, leading to…

Garowe (AX) — In a development that's sending ripples through the ranks of the Islamic State (ISIS), a key figure has voluntarily laid down arms and surrendered to the Northeastern State security forces. This move represents a significant blow to ISIS as Somali authorities drum up efforts to eviscerate the insurgency's intricate web of operations. Abdirahman Shirwac, more infamously known by his clandestine alias "Laahoor," approached security operatives quietly in the remote Unuun area near the serene, yet strategically…

Mogadishu (AX) — A moment reminiscent of the intricate politics that ripple through Somalia played out on Monday, as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reinstated Colonel Ibrahim Moalim Abdullahi. Abdullahi, the erstwhile intelligence chief of Mogadishu within the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), found his military rank and privileges restored. But what does this signify in the grand scheme of Somalia's tumultuous political landscape? Does this mark the dawn of a new era of reconciliatory politics, or is it…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the hushed hours of Monday night, an air of uncertainty enveloped the Bardhere district within Somalia's Gedo region. Jubbaland regional forces quietly slipped back into the district headquarters, reclaiming control after federal government troops departed under the veil of night. It’s a development that leaves one pondering: What really happened to prompt this calculated withdrawal? The reasons for the federal forces' exit stay shrouded in mystery, hinting at complex underlying tensions.…

In a setting as tranquil as an early Kenyan morning, an unexpected tremor of terror rippled across the vast stretches of Mandera County. Just as the rising sun cut through the morning mist, five government officials vanished, taken by the elusive hands of Al-Shabaab militants. The clock had barely ticked past dawn on Monday when the rugged paths leading from the small outpost of Wargadud to Elwak town witnessed this chilling event. Could anyone there have foreseen such an alarming start to the day? Julius Njeru, Mandera…