Somalia

In the ever-evolving theater of conflict that is northern Somalia, a recent development has once again captured international attention. On an otherwise silent Saturday, high above the enigmatic Togga Miraale, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) executed an airstrike with surgical precision. Their target? ISIS militants, notably entrenched in the Calmiskaad Mountains, an area long considered a bastion for the group. This strike is just one chapter in the ongoing narrative aimed at unravelling the very core of this militant group’s…

UN Appoints James Swan as Key Envoy to Somalia: Building Bridges in Complex Times The hustle and bustle of the United Nations headquarters today mirrored a momentous occasion. António Guterres, the esteemed Secretary-General, made an eagerly anticipated announcement: James Swan, from the United States, will step up as his Special Representative for Somalia. What's more, Swan will helm the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia, affectionately known in diplomatic circles as UNTMIS. It's no…

Mogadishu (AX) – With a determined stride towards stability and peace, the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced on an otherwise typical Saturday that they successfully eliminated at least 21 members of the Al-Shabaab militant group. This was not just another operation; it was an intricate blend of air and ground efforts that unfolded in the vast, challenging landscapes of the Geelgub area within the Middle Shabelle region. Interestingly, among those neutralized were some senior leaders of the…

Somalia's Firm Resolve: A Commitment to Eradicate Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - As the sun dipped below the horizon on a typically vibrant evening in Mogadishu, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre stood before the nation with a resolute promise. "Al-Shabaab militants will be defeated," he declared with unwavering conviction. It's not just a political statement but a pledge to restore peace and stability, a mission critical to Somalia's future. But how do you dismantle the roots of such a threat that has lingered for years,…

Hargeisa (AX) – In a development marked by geopolitical significance and a touch of international drama, the administration of North Western State of Somalia has firmly rejected an alleged offer from the Somali federal government to the United States concerning the use of the strategic Berbera port. This rejection was characterized as a "desperate and meaningless attempt" to hamper North Western State of Somalia's ongoing quest for international recognition, a goal to which it has been dedicated for over three decades.…

If there ever was a moment for unified action, it is undoubtedly now. The former Somali intelligence chief, Fahad Yasin Haji Dahir, extends an urgent appeal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. His call? To bring together a national forum where minds meet and formulate a robust, collective strategy against the persistent menace of terrorism. The message is clear: unity is not a choice, but a necessity. Sharing his thoughts openly on X, which many of us still fondly recall as Twitter, Fahad Yasin earnestly proposed…

In the current tapestry of global economics, Africa finds itself at a fascinating junction. As the continent embarks upon a journey marked by both challenges and opportunities, it faces the daunting forces of global inflation, pervasive unemployment, and sluggish growth that seemingly hinders its stride. These challenges echo a stark narrative where maintaining a low debt profile with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) becomes an imperative not only for economic stability but also for national dignity. One may…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a confidential letter uncovered recently, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made an audacious offer to the then U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposal, which is nothing short of groundbreaking, seeks to grant exclusive operational control to the U.S. over crucial military airbases and key ports in Somalia. But is it a move towards strengthening bilateral ties, or does it open Pandora's box of internal strife? This letter, penned on March 16, 2025, outlines an invitation for the U.S.…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a show of solidarity that underscores the intricate web of international alliances, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia's government and national army. This reaffirmation transpired during an insightful phone conversation with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on a breezy Tuesday evening. It's moments like these that remind us of the palpable strength that can arise from unity. El-Sisi has always been a man of thoughtful words and strong…

Somalia's Strategic Offer to the United States In a significant diplomatic move, Somalia has proposed an offer to the United States, granting it exclusive access to crucial air bases and seaports. This proposition was detailed in a letter from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed to President Donald Trump, as confirmed by a regional diplomat privy to the matter. The proposed agreement includes air bases in Balidogle and Berbera, alongside the ports of Berbera and Bosaso. Reuters reported on the…