Eye on Africa

Introducing Bisbas Restaurant: Exploring the Delights of Somali Cuisine in Rolando In an age dominated by digital footprints and Yelp reviews, stumbling upon culinary gems by chance has become something of a rarity. How often can we truly say we’ve been surprised by a new restaurant? I thought this as I navigated the streets of Rolando, casually glancing at the plethora of eateries lining University Avenue. That was until the alluring banner of "grand opening" paired with "Somali restaurant" got my attention. In that…

Mogadishu (AX) — Amid the scenes of bustling markets and vibrant streets in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, whispers of hope rise, echoing with the dreams of young footballers poised to make history. The anticipation is palpable. On February 13, in the heart of Cairo where grand history resides, the next chapter for Somalia’s burgeoning football talent unfolds with the draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, precisely at 13:45 local time. Is this the dawn of a new era for Somali…

In a stringent move, authorities in North Western State of Somalia have restricted local businesses from advertising on Universal TV, issuing stern warnings of potential legal repercussions for those who fail to adhere. "All commercial entities must cease advertising on Universal TV," the official statement declared. "Non-compliance will prompt legal action." The order comes amid mounting tensions between the government and the broadcaster over alleged breaches of licensing agreements. Initially, in October 2010, Universal…

U.S. Airstrikes Target Islamic State in Somalia WASHINGTON — In the enigmatic expanse of Somalia's Golis Mountains, a U.S. military operation unfolded earlier this month with precision and strategic acumen. The airstrikes, orchestrated against the ever-elusive Islamic State, have achieved a significant milestone, according to the latest assessment from U.S. military officials. Late Tuesday, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) announced the demise of Ahmed Maeleninine, a notorious architect of terror,…

On a brisk morning in February, the azure skies over Baku embraced a new chapter in diplomatic relations. February 11 marked the arrival of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, esteemed President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, as he embarked on a significant journey to Azerbaijan. Why, one might wonder, is this trip momentous? The answer might lie in the potential collaboration between these two nations, charting a path toward economic and political cooperation. As President Mohamud's plane touched down at Heydar Aliyev…

The recent takeover of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, by the M23 armed group has captured global attention, reigniting discussions about the tumultuous conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While many media outlets hastily attribute the turmoil to a desire to exploit the area’s abundant mineral resources, an analysis from The New Humanitarian reveals a far more intricate web of causes. The narrative framing the conflict as a mere scramble for minerals paints an oversimplified picture. It’s alluring to…

Mogadishu (AX) – The vibrant heart of commerce in Somalia, Bakara Market, flung open its doors again on a sunny Tuesday morning, following its temporary closure for four exhausting days. This decision emerged from critical negotiations between the nation's federal officials and the indomitable spirits of the business community. A glimmer of hope appeared as a precursor to the bustling days ahead. Productive dialogues between the esteemed Banadir Regional Business Council and the voice of the people, Speaker of the House…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the heart of the bustling city of Addis Ababa, where the air hums with anticipation and the scent of spiced coffee mingles with the vibrancy of the market, the African Union’s Ministerial Committee on Candidatures convened for its routine yet crucial biannual meeting. This day was not merely another tick on the calendar but a moment for Africa to unite in its quest to carve a more pronounced space on the world's stage. As delegates shuffled into the grand hall, the walls resonated with the…

In a poignant announcement, Somalia's Minister of Finance, Bihi Iman Egeh, heralded a defining achievement: the nation has successfully cleared approximately $4.5 billion in debt. This monumental accomplishment, attained through the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative spearheaded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), perhaps turns a promising page in Somalia’s ongoing narrative. Who would have thought that such reformative strides could bring a country closer to financial stability? Egeh spoke…

For nearly a month now, the judicial system has come to a standstill, with magistrates resolute in their decision to abstain from their duties. This protest stems from persistent grievances regarding subpar working conditions and insufficient salaries. As a result, countless court cases have languished in limbo, leaving many seeking justice in a precarious state of uncertainty. The National Trade Union of Magistrates, known as SYNAMAG, has voiced strong disapproval toward the government’s apparent neglect of the judiciary.…