Eye on Africa

Somalia Stands Firm Against Relocation of Gaza Refugees In recent days, whispers and murmurs have filled the airwaves, with talk of Somalia playing host to displaced Palestinians from Gaza—a notion reported by both Israeli and British media. Yet, Somalia has promptly drawn a line in the sand, firmly refusing to be swayed by such proposals. Was it audacity or merely political theatre? Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump unveiled a plan that many found hard to digest. The plan suggested…

The diplomatic ties between South Africa and the United States have recently taken a sharp turn toward tension. Central to this escalating strain is a dramatic clash between two notable figures: Elon Musk, a South African-born entrepreneur and advisor to former President Trump, and Julius Malema, the fiery leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Tensions came to a head when Musk, calling Malema an "international criminal," demanded sanctions against him for incendiary remarks during a rally. These remarks included the…

This past weekend, regional dignitaries from southern and eastern Africa gathered in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's bustling capital. Their agenda? To address the increasingly perilous situation unfolding in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). There, M23 rebels have rapidly seized control of significant territories in a region blessed with abundant minerals. But can mere discussions truly pave the way for peace amidst such turmoil? Experts observing the proceedings noted a deeply entrenched discord among the leaders,…

Garowe (AX) – In the heart of Northeastern State, religious leaders are raising a resonant call for unity among communities, urging them to rally behind the military efforts against ISIS insurgents entrenched in the rugged Al-Miskaat Mountains of the Bari region. The clerics passionately advocate for both financial and moral backing to fortify the Northeastern State of Somalia Army's resolve and bolster their strength against an elusive adversary. Reflecting on a recent sermon, Sheikh Mohamud Haji Yusuf spoke fervently…

Mogadishu—In a fervent declaration of hope and determination, Somali Lower House Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe articulated a vision this Monday. The vision was for a Somalia where every voice counts—a nation transitioning to an electoral system where one person equals one vote. Imagine a democratic renaissance, where each Somali citizen can directly elect their leaders; it's not just reform—it’s a transformation of a nation's soul. Isn’t it time for such a progression? During a spirited gathering in…

Binti Ali Wardhere’s story begins with a quiet loss: irreparable, yet all too common amid Mogadishu’s wartime tumult. The tragedies she faced on an otherwise unremarkable October day in 1993 echo through her every thought, a reminder of the events tied to the notorious moniker "Black Hawk Down." Surprisingly, this phrase—popularized by a Hollywood blockbuster—synonymizes with the infamous 1993 U.S. military catastrophe in Somalia. On October 3rd, eighteen American soldiers perished, accompanied by the anguished…

Saudi Arabia Rebukes Netanyahu's Proposal on Palestinian State In an intensifying geopolitical landscape, the ever-complex dynamics between Israel and its neighbors have experienced yet another ripple, courtesy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's remarks that have sparked controversy. On a somber Sunday morning, the Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a firm response to Netanyahu's suggestion, accusing him of attempting to “divert attention” from what they describe as Israel's ongoing "crimes" in Gaza,…

In a pivotal moment for South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA), an annual address that sets the tone for the country's political and economic landscape. This year, his speech centered on the pressing themes of economic rejuvenation, job creation, and infrastructural development, all while aiming to alleviate the burden of rising household expenses. Notably, Ramaphosa's remarks also included a diplomatic rebuttal to recent statements from the U.S., emphasizing the importance…

Beledweyne (AX) – In the often tumultuous chessboard of Somalia, where tactics and survival mingle intricately, the ebb and flow of conflict has confounded yet again. Al-Shabaab militants, those elusive insurgents with their unslakable thirst for turmoil, have found a new haunt—nestled by the murmuring banks of the Shabelle River in the Mahaday district, they plan their next move. Local inhabitants mutter about seeing swarms of militants sweeping into the area, battered from recent fierce skirmishes in Hiiraan. It’s as if…

Just two days have passed since President William Ruto faced an unexpected chorus of boos during his recent four-day tour of the Northeastern region. In response, leaders from the Somali community have reached out with heartfelt apologies, seeking to mend any rift. It's often said that words have power, and it's evident that this community recognizes this timeless truth.Taking center stage at a press conference in Isiolo on a quiet Sunday afternoon, the elders, led by Abdulkadir Shariff—who wears the mantle of the…