West Africa

Mogadishu (AX) — In a tumultuous scene that echoed through the halls of Somalia's parliament, prominent opposition figures including former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have spoken out vehemently against the violent altercation that unfolded during Wednesday’s session of the House of the People. Their unified stance not only highlights the gravity of the situation but also emphasizes the urgent need for integrity within Somalia’s political…

In a decisive move aimed at ensuring public safety, a curfew has been instated in Okahandja, effective immediately. The president of the nation, Nandi-Ndaitwah, has taken to the airwaves to reassure citizens that security forces are fully engaged in restoring a sense of normalcy and safety. This isn't simply an administrative response; it’s a concerted effort to safeguard communities that have been on edge. Have we ever considered just how fragile our sense of security is? Too often, it takes a crisis for us to truly…

Mogadishu (AX) — On Thursday, Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madoobe, the Speaker of Somalia’s Lower House, embarked on a significant journey to Algeria. He is set to participate in the forthcoming Arab Parliament Speakers Summit. This event promises a convergence of legislative leaders from across the Arab world, offering a platform for dialogue on pressing issues such as regional cooperation and the alignment of legislative frameworks. Yet, amidst this important diplomatic undertaking, Somalia finds itself in a tumultuous…

In a significant political development, Mali’s military leader, General Assimi Goïta, has garnered the support of influential political allies, paving the way for his declaration as president for the next five years. This action is reminiscent of the recent decisions made by leaders in similarly governed nations, such as Niger and Burkina Faso. Together, these countries form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), all under military rule, creating a landscape that raises questions about democracy in the region. Earlier this…

Economic freedom. At first glance, this term may conjure images of spreadsheets, policies, and perhaps even the dusty pages of an economic textbook. Yet, peel back the layers, and you'll find that it is far more than an academic concept. Economic freedom intricately weaves its way through our lives, influencing the jobs we can secure, the quality and variety of goods available for purchase, the education our children receive, and even the very air we breathe. The Index of Economic Freedom,…

The Fight Against Terrorism: A Collective Journey Towards Peace Since re-assuming my presidential duties in 2022, my unwavering commitment has been to confront the threats posed by Al-Shabaab and ISIS head-on. We are implementing a comprehensive strategy that tackles them on two critical fronts: ideology and finance. This dual approach is not just an operational necessity; it is a moral imperative. Ideological Defense: Unmasking the Falsehoods On the ideological front, we have gathered over 300 esteemed…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant turn of events, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur, widely known as Aden Madoobe, the Speaker of the House of the People in Somalia, has announced the suspension of 20 lawmakers from participating in upcoming parliamentary sessions. This decision, rooted in security concerns following a recent outbreak of unrest within the legislature, has sent ripples through the political landscape. On Wednesday, the Speaker issued a formal directive to parliamentary staff, instructing them to prevent the suspended…

In a significant turn of events, the Somali federal government announced a ban on the entry, transit, and exit of travelers holding Taiwanese passports. This decision, driven by a steadfast commitment to the "one China" policy as delineated in United Nations Resolution 2758, raises various questions regarding the implications for international relations, national sovereignty, and individual freedoms. On April 22, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority released a notice declaring that all passports and travel documents issued…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a resolute response to the growing tide of misinformation, the Somali government has issued a pointed warning directed at both individuals and social media platforms engaged in disseminating false information that poses a threat to national security and undermines public trust. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Information released a statement aimed at addressing recent claims circulating in online spheres. These claims alleged that a mortar attack by the extremist group Al-Shabaab had struck the heavily…

Somali Cookbook Returns: Asha Mohamoud Guled’s Culinary Classic Updated for a New Generation In a world where culinary traditions are often lost amid modernization, the return of Asha Mohamoud Guled’s beloved Somali Cookbook feels like a warm embrace. This culinary classic, cherished for generations, has undergone a thoughtful update, ensuring that it resonates with today’s generation while honoring its rich heritage. As we delve into the pages of this revitalized cookbook, we find not merely recipes but a…