Eye on Africa

Mogadishu (AX) – On Wednesday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud kicked off the National Consultative Council (NCC) gathering in Mogadishu, aiming squarely at tackling key political and security concerns. Over the course of two days, this meeting pulls together heavyweights from four regional states - Jubaland, Hirshabelle, Southwest, and Galmudug. The mayor of Mogadishu, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and his deputy are also in attendance. Per the federal government's insights, the agenda is crammed with…

AllAfrica proudly presents its latest creative endeavor: an eight-part podcast series titled "Wild Basil." This captivating series showcases remarkable women who have made significant strides in fostering peace and facilitating development through innovative endeavors in biodiversity and conservation throughout Southern Africa, including nations such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Angola, Botswana, and South Africa. Isn’t it curious how most podcasts that celebrate extraordinary accomplishments often spotlight men? The…

In the past nine years, Angola has reported a concerning 200 instances of human trafficking. Ana Celeste Januário, the Secretary of State for Human Rights and Citizenship, shared these alarming statistics during a thematic meeting in Luanda focused on the Program for the Promotion of Human Rights. Januário highlighted that the provinces particularly beset by this grave issue include primarily border regions as well as the capital, Luanda. She strongly encouraged citizens to follow established laws and engage in commerce…

The Minneapolis Police Department bolstered its ranks by welcoming 23 new officers, among whom two made history. Meet Ikran Mohamed, a Somali-American woman and Lesly Vera, who moved from Mexico to the U.S. at the tender age of four and now holds permanent residency. Despite these promising additions, Chief Brian O'Hara expressed his frustration to WCCO’s Adam and Jordana, highlighting the influx of animosity aimed at these trailblazers. "It’s appalling," O'Hara lamented. "I failed to foresee the sheer repulsiveness,…

Mogadishu (AX)— This year, Somali National University witnessed its biggest turnout ever as nearly 4,000 students took part in the National University Admission Test. The historic event was highlighted during the exam's opening ceremony. Minister of Education Farah Sheikh Abdulqadir reminisced about the university's remarkable journey since it was revived a decade ago. He highlighted that the participation of 3,924 students symbolizes a renewed fervor for education and the rising aspirations of Somali youth to attain higher…

FILE - U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, at the helm of U.S. Africa Command, partakes in a military drill in Agadir, Morocco, May 30, 2024. The Islamic State in Somalia has doubled its strength in the past year, reveals the head of U.S. Africa Command in a chat with VOA. “Northern Somalia is on my radar due to the uptick in ISIS numbers,” AFRICOM commander Gen. Michael Langley mentioned in a candid interview, using the acronym for the terrorist group. Langley refrained from disclosing the U.S.'s exact figures on…

Authorities have taken one individual into custody for interrogation regarding the tragic mass shooting in Lusikisiki, in which 18 lives were lost in the Eastern Cape. This horrific incident unfolded at a homestead within Ngobozana village, where a family was in the midst of preparing for a traditional ritual. This ceremony was designed to signify the conclusion of a mourning period for a mother and daughter who had been tragically killed in August of the previous year. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his…

Men gather around candidate Abdi Daisane (right), who's gunning for Minnesota State Representative. Here, he shares his campaign vision at the Waamo Café on Aug. 30 in St. Cloud. Credit: Paul Middlestaedt | MPR News Minnesota’s Somali community has grown significantly, flexing newfound political strength—especially in St. Cloud, where their numbers have surged. More than 20 years after the first Somali refugees arrived in St. Cloud, some are diving into governance and politics. This includes shaking up traditional…

Four years have zipped by since George Floyd’s tragic passing, shaking the law enforcement community. During that span, scores of officers departed, and fresh recruits were sparse. City officials announced a turning point last month, with recruitment numbers finally climbing.Sitting amidst her fellow graduates at the American Indian Center, Ikran Mohamed beams, fresh from completing the Minneapolis Police Department’s training. Credit: Matt Sepic | MPR NewsThis piece is brought to you courtesy of MPR News in tandem with…

Mogadishu (AX) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has urged the Somali diaspora to engage more actively in fostering economic prosperity and regional stability. This appeal was made during the 10th International Somali Diaspora Conference held in Istanbul.The assembly saw representatives from the Somali diaspora meet with international allies. IGAD's Health and Social Development Director, Fathia Alwan, highlighted the vital role of remittances in supporting the economies of IGAD member nations.…