Eye on Africa

Joint Operation Against Al-Shabaab: A Tactical Endeavor On a significant Monday in Mogadishu, the Somali National Army (SNA) Danab Commandos orchestrated a noteworthy mission. Teaming up with Jubbaland's Dervish forces, they embarked on a carefully planned military operation, focusing their efforts against well-entrenched Al-Shabaab militant strongholds in the northern territories of the Lower Juba region. This operation, no small feat, zeroed in on crucial areas where Al-Shabaab exerted its influence, unjustly…

Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International – Monitoring. In a dramatic sweep of athletic prowess and undeniable determination, the football clubs Manchester City and Aston Villa both clinched their places in the FA Cup semifinals this past Sunday. The journey wasn't just about dodging defenders or scoring goals; it was about the essence of football itself – a microcosm of strategy, skill, and sheer willpower. And, as we explore these matches further, we find ourselves asking: in sport, as in life, what does it…

Berbera: A Tale of Geopolitics and Sovereignty The city of Berbera sits at a vantage point on the Gulf of Aden. This strategic location has long made it a focal point of geopolitical interest. Here, history and modern politics entwine, painting a vivid landscape of opportunity and conflict. North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared independent region of Somalia, recently found itself at the heart of a geopolitical storm. As Somalia's central government attempted to grant the United States exclusive…

In a fervent address at the Consecration and Installation Ceremony of Rev. Harrison Munyua at the Redeemed Church in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Rigathi Gachagua, former Deputy President, offered a spirited critique of the current political scene. He voiced apprehensions concerning President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to the Mt. Kenya region, raising the question: “What tangible benefits will this visit bring for the people of Mt. Kenya?” Gachagua, in his animated speech, advised the residents of Mt. Kenya to…

There's a vivid reminder of the fragility of peace in Somalia. On March 18, a bomb blast narrowly missed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's convoy, underscoring the ever-present danger posed by Al-Shabaab within Mogadishu itself. This incident serves as a wake-up call, illustrating the volatile nature of a conflict that many believed was nearing resolution. Just days earlier, Somali security forces, perched on their open trucks, stood sentinel by the Syl Hotel. This location has become a grim testament to the ongoing…

Eid-Ul-Fitr: A Time of Reflection, Unity, and Celebration in Kenya In the tranquil, early hours of March 30, 2025, Muslim communities across Kenya gathered at various locations to celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. This day isn't just another date on the calendar for Muslims worldwide. It is an opportunity for spiritual renewal, deep reflection, and an embrace of unity and compassion. The experiences during Ramadan leave an indelible mark on many, as they engage in fasting from…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the world of medicine, there are individuals driven not merely by duty but by passion and a deep love for humanity. Dr. Mohamed Abdullahi Hassan, a seasoned Somali physician residing in the United Kingdom, is one such figure. Picture him nestled among the rolling hills of the Al Miskaad region in Northeastern State, where he has ventured to lend a hand to local medical teams. The aim? To care for soldiers injured in the current skirmishes against the Islamic State militants—a mission fueled…

North Western State of Somalia's Pursuit of Sovereignty: A Journey of Persistence and Hope Imagine a land striving to carve its place on the global stage, unyielding in its quest for recognition. This is the story of North Western State of Somalia, a region that declared independence from Somalia back in 1991 amid the collapse of Mogadishu's central government. From then on, North Western State of Somalia embarked on a path few anticipated it would navigate so adeptly. Picture this: While much of the Horn of…

Africa stands out in the financial world, boasting the highest average Brand Strength score globally at 80.21, signifying that African banking brands typically shine with an AAA rating. The narrative of African banking brands is one of remarkable success and ambition. The latest Brand Finance Global 500 rankings highlight the formidable position of Africa’s financial institutions, proving them to be pivotal in steering a sustainable and inclusive economy across the continent. But what drives these banking powerhouses?…

Somalia's Road to Democracy: A Complex Vision The echo of "conducting free and fair direct elections" has been a familiar refrain among Somali officials since 2009. Along with ambitious ventures like "completing the constitution" and "eliminating terrorism," these aspirations have been part of national discourse. Yet, over a decade and a half later, these goals remain elusive. One can't help but wonder: Why are these dreams still unrealized? The answer might lie in their intricate interdependencies and the unique…