Somalia

Hormuud Telecom: Pioneering Somalia's Digital Transformation MOGADISHU, Somalia — Picture a condensed timeline of progress in Somalia's telecommunications landscape, and you'll find Hormuud Telecom at the forefront. On April 17th, the largest privately-owned telecom provider in Somalia took to its official X account, previously known as Twitter, to share a profound message. It boldly highlighted its role in transforming Somalia’s digital market, an endeavor that continues to gain momentum and…

Mogadishu (AX) — As the sun rises over the bustling streets of Mogadishu, a vital moment in Somalia's democratic evolution is at hand. The National Independent Electoral Commission has announced a crucial extension of the political association registration deadline, adding an extra nine days for parties to ready themselves for a monumental occasion—the first one-person, one-vote local elections in over fifty years, scheduled for late June. Commission Chairperson Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan articulated this development, stating…

The Premier League Title Race: A Journey Through Triumph and Heartbreak On a crisp April day in 2025, the football gods offered us yet another chapter in the gripping saga of the English Premier League. Liverpool faced off against Leicester City in a match that would have profound implications for both teams. While the Reds achieved a crucial 1-0 victory, Leicester was plunged into despair, marking their swift return to the Championship. Reflecting on the highs and lows of football, one cannot help but ponder: how does…

Mogadishu (AX) — Saturday witnessed an unprecedented upheaval in Somalia's Lower House of Parliament, where lawmaker interactions spiraled into chaos. This turmoil erupted over the contentious removal of MP Dr. Abdullahi Hashi Abiib, which has reignited discussions on accountability and governance in the nation. The backdrop to this fracas was the Speaker's declaration last month that Abiib's seat was vacated due to repeated absences, igniting a firestorm of dissent among opposition lawmakers. Opposition members swiftly…

Somalia’s Historic Journey to One-Person, One-Vote Elections Mogadishu (AX) — This past Saturday marked a significant milestone for Somalia as the National Independent Electoral Commission announced the expansion of voter registration to three additional districts in Mogadishu. It is a pivotal moment, signaling the country’s march toward its first one-person, one-vote elections in more than half a century. The news sparked enthusiasm across the capital, with residents from Hamarweyne, Boondheere, and Shibis…

The Tensions in Elasha Biyaha: A Closer Look at Recent Developments Nestled roughly 15 kilometers from the bustling heart of Mogadishu, Elasha Biyaha is more than just a geographical marker on the map; it serves as a critical junction between the capital and militant strongholds entrenched in southern Somalia. This seemingly tranquil area has transformed into a focal point of conflict, with recent activities igniting palpable unease among its residents. Last month, unsettling reports surfaced of Al-Shabaab…

Political Dialogue in Northeastern State: A Call for Unity and Reassessment Mogadishu (AX) — Recent developments in Somalia have ushered in a crucial moment for regional dialogue and cooperation. Opposition leaders in Northeastern State are urgently advocating for a comprehensive political conversation following the Somali federal government’s formal recognition of the SSC-Khaatumo administration. The Northeastern State Political Forum (PPF), a coalition comprised of influential opposition figures, views this recognition…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant development for Somalia's ongoing battle against extremism, Northeastern State security forces have reported the elimination of more than 40 ISIS fighters while reclaiming a pivotal stronghold in the northeastern Bari region. This decisive encounter unfolded during a 24-hour offensive and is seen as a landmark achievement in their campaign against the militant group. The operation, which commenced late Friday night in the rugged Togga Miiraale valley, is part of the third and final phase of…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an important meeting at Villa Somalia, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon convened to discuss pressing national security issues and the ongoing efforts to bolster state institutions. Their dialogue underscores the paramount importance of stability in a region that has faced its fair share of challenges over the years. The atmosphere of the meeting was charged with urgency, as both leaders recognized the critical need to enhance the Somali National Army's…

Tragic Loss of Ethiopian Consulate Official in Somalia The heart of Somalia beats with both resilience and tension, as evidenced by recent events in Las Anod, the administrative center of SSC-Khaatumo. Here, in a city where tradition and tensions often brush shoulders, a tragedy unfolded, shaking both local and international communities. A Life Cut Short Farah Aidid Jama, or "Baris" as he was fondly called by those who knew him, was much more than an official of the Ethiopian Consulate in Garowe, Puntland. Described by…