West Africa

In the bustling heart of Mogadishu, a piece of exciting news has recently emerged. Somali-Canadian actress Sabrina Dhowre Elba, a name already illuminated by its silver-screen glow, steps into a new frontier. She's set to star in "Nuur," an eagerly anticipated feature film. Helming this cinematic voyage is Lula Ali Ismaïl, a brilliant director with roots as diverse as her narrative threads, merging Canadian and Djiboutian influences. Her oeuvre is punctuated by the groundbreaking film "Dhalinyaro," a tale that resonated…

In a meeting that underscores evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, Maj. Gen. Nim’an Yusuf Osman, North Western State of Somalia’s military chieftain, engaged in strategic dialogues with Lt. Gen. Eisa Saif Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces. Their discussions centered on military cooperation and fostering robust security partnerships. But what does this mean for the region? Is it the harbinger of newfound alliances or simply another chapter in the storied interaction between…

Hargeisa (AX) — What would a city like Hargeisa be without the rhythm of its music echoing through its vibrant streets? For a fleeting moment, it seemed we might find out. The regional administration of Maroodi Jeeh stirred quite the cacophony when it initially issued a decree aimed at silencing the melodies of live music in Hargeisa. Yet, just as swiftly as the silence descended, it was uplifted. How did we get here? Let's explore. The initial announcement, unveiled by Governor Ahmed Mohamed Adaad on February 19, 2025,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a shifting tapestry of global diplomacy, the United Kingdom has unveiled Charles Nicholas King as its new envoy to Somalia. This announcement, made public on a hushed Wednesday afternoon, comes as Somalia stands at a critical juncture, grappling with both peril and promise. King is scheduled to take over ambassadorial duties in May 2025, stepping into the shoes of his predecessor, Michael Nithavrianakis. Charles King is not a stranger to diplomatic labyrinths. Since 2004, he has navigated the…

Rethinking Governance and Identity in Somalia Peter Drucker, the trailblazing management consultant, often initiated his dialogue with companies with a question that was more profound than it seemed: “What business are you in?” This inquiry exposed a startling truth for many businesses and organizations—they simply did not understand their own purpose. If we transpose Drucker’s approach to Somalia, the picture painted is bleak. The question of identity and purpose in governance appears unanswered, both…

“What is politics but the art of pulling wool over the eyes of the people?” mused a seasoned diplomat over coffee once. With these words echoing in my mind, let me delve into a story that adds another layer to the intricate tapestry known as Somali politics. On a balmy Thursday, the air was heavy with anticipation at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The reason? The unexpected arrival of Mohamed Hussein Roble, a man who once steered Somalia from the turbulent raft as its Prime Minister. This, however, was…

AA Archive: A photograph capturing the Somali army's remarkable victory accompanies this narrative—a testament to their indomitable spirit. In a gripping tale of valor and community solidarity, the Somali National Army (SNA), with crucial support from local citizens, managed to thwart an audacious attack perpetrated by the militant group Al Shabaab. More than 130 insurgents met their demise in this intense encounter, Somali authorities have confirmed. The assault unfolded at the break of dawn, targeting several strategic…

The quiet offices of Mandera's administration were a crucible of tension, buzzing with rumors and suspicion. Whispers of nefarious activities floated through the town like an ill-wind, leaving dread in their wake. An Assistant Chief, a man who some might say epitomized trust, was now shrouded in alleged misdeeds. Was there truth in the accusations, or was this yet another shadow cast in the complex web of Mandera's security challenges? Kenyan police forces were especially vigilant, with their eyes glued to any movements…

The Liberian government finds itself grappling with a troubling fiscal landscape. Recent cancellations of key initiatives backed by USAID, the U.S. agency renowned for its global development efforts, have exacerbated an already precarious situation. With the current U.S. administration opting for a 90-day hiatus to reevaluate the agency’s initiatives, the ripple effects are being keenly felt in Liberia. Finance Minister Augustine Ngafua has been vocal about the ramifications of these funding cuts. He noted with palpable…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was an ordinary morning in Garowe when the news broke. The atmosphere, typically buzzing with the cadence of daily life, took on an air of urgency. This change emanated from a single pronouncement by Northeastern State’s regional President, Said Abdullahi Deni. Why now, and what prompted this decisive action, you might ask? In response to unsettling reports of foreign nationals finding their way into ISIS-Somalia, Deni decreed a stringent crackdown on illegal immigration. The influx, he warned, could no…