Somalia

Garowe (AX) — In a concerning turn of events, the Northeastern State regional police have successfully apprehended a former officer, Abdirahman Mohamed Ali, in connection with a shocking attack that claimed the lives of four individuals, including three police officers, in Garowe city this past Thursday. The situation unfolded when Abdirahman launched a violent assault on officers from the Garowe Local Government Police Force while they were diligently performing their duties. This grave incident not only highlights the…

EXCLUSIVE: Villa Somalia's Quiet Influence within the Somali Salvation Forum By Axadle In the ever-shifting landscape of Somali politics, the Somali Salvation Forum, or Golaha Samata-bixinta Soomaaliyeed, is widely perceived as a beacon for reform and unity. Yet, recent insights suggest a narrative veering away from its honorable mission. Intriguingly, Villa Somalia seems to have woven itself seamlessly into the fabric of this forum, aligning with some of the most ambitious political figures. Why does this matter?…

The Impact of IMF Debt on African Nations: A Path to Economic Independence The International Monetary Fund (IMF) plays a significant role in providing immediate financial relief during periods of economic turmoil. Yet, the implications of sustained IMF debt can often overshadow its short-term benefits. For African nations, the pursuit of fiscal independence and enhanced economic credibility is a goal well worth striving for. As we explore this dynamic, the question arises: what does it truly mean to navigate the…

Somalia: Federal Troop Deployment Sparks Fears of Renewed Conflict in Gedo Region GARBAHAREY, Somalia — In the complex tapestry of Somali politics and security, recent developments in the Gedo region have caught the attention of many. The Somali federal government has orchestrated the deployment of a significant number of security forces to this contentious area. This strategic move comes on the heels of escalating tensions that have seen the border town of Balad Hawo at the heart of conflict, deftly…

Strengthening Ties: Ministerial Meeting between Somalia and Azerbaijan Baku (AX) — Recently, the Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalan Abdi Ali, engaged in pivotal discussions with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, in the vibrant city of Baku. Their meeting served as a platform to explore avenues for deepening diplomatic ties and enhancing collaboration across vital sectors. During their conversation, both ministers shared a vision for fostering stronger connections…

Istanbul (AX) — In the vibrant setting of the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025, Somali Minister of Defense Ahmed Moallin Fiqi engaged in a pivotal bilateral meeting with his Djiboutian counterpart, Minister of Defense Hassan Omar Mohamed. This gathering, framed by the latest innovations in defense technology, underscored an urgent yet hopeful dialogue centered around the shared security interests of both nations. The conversations initiated by Minister Fiqi were not merely routine diplomatic exchanges;…

Sea World Detained: Navigating the Complexities of Northeastern State and Federal Relations The cargo ship Sea World currently finds itself stranded in the waters near Northeastern State, laden with military equipment that has ignited a tense standoff between Northeastern State’s regional government and Somalia's federal authorities. This perplexing situation raises numerous questions about governance, national security, and the intricacies of international arms dealing. Jama Deperani, Northeastern State’s spokesperson,…

Although the U.S. has significantly ramped up airstrikes in Somalia, it’s the operations conducted by regional allies that seem to bear the most devastating impact on civilians. Photograph: Alamy Mogadishu (AX) — The escalated drone campaign initiated during the presidency of Donald Trump has become a focal point of sharp criticism, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that, rather than fulfilling his commitment to end America's “forever wars,” Trump has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis unfolding on the…

Landmark Cooperation Agreement Strengthens Ties Between Taiwan and North Western State of Somalia Hargeisa (AX) — A significant step forward in maritime collaboration occurred when Taiwan and North Western State of Somalia signed a coast guard cooperation agreement on Thursday. This momentous occasion strengthens maritime security while aiming to expand blue economy initiatives. It underscores an evolving relationship between two unrecognized governments, both seeking to broaden their global partnerships. The agreement,…

The Complex Landscape of Somalia’s Political Future As we traverse the rugged terrain from Garowe, the capital of Northeastern State state in northern Somalia, to the bustling port city of Bosaso, we find ourselves navigating not just geographical challenges, but political and security landscapes fraught with tension. This road, though vital for trade and connectivity, meanders through territories dominated by two of the world's most formidable jihadist groups. To the east lies an outpost of Islamic State (IS), while to…