Eye on Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent move that draws attention to the complex geopolitics of the region, the Turkish Parliament has given its nod to an important presidential motion. This decision greenlights the continued deployment of Turkish naval forces in certain strategic waters: the Gulf of Aden, the waters off the Somali coast, the Arabian Sea, and nearby regions. Scheduled to remain in effect until February 10 next year, this extension underscores Türkiye’s unwavering resolve in tackling the maritime threats lurking in…

In a move that speaks volumes about evolving diplomatic ties, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev touched down in the heart of Somalia—Mogadishu. This official visit, shrouded in anticipation, marks a significant chapter in Azerbaijan-Somalia relations. The moment Rafiyev stepped off the plane at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport, he was warmly welcomed by Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, alongside Fathudin Ali Mohamed, Somalia's non-resident…

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…

As the sun reluctantly rose over Goma, painting the sky in hues tinged with both hope and despair, the air was thick with an unsettling silence. Was this the calm after the storm or merely an interlude before the next tempest? The Red Cross team moved purposefully, carrying the staggering weight of grief as they began the solemn task of laying to rest the victims of clashes between the M23 rebels and the Congolese army. At the ITIG Cemetery, shadows of bereavement stretched long over the ground that holds more stories than…

In just a few days, President Cyril Ramaphosa will take center stage to deliver his eagerly awaited State of the Nation Address (SONA). This occasion holds added significance, as it will be the inaugural SONA since the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa. Anticipation runs high as the nation looks to Ramaphosa to illuminate his administration's roadmap for the coming year. The tone of his address is expected to revolve around pivotal themes such as economic rejuvenation, job generation,…

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…