Somalia

Cuban doctors treating a patient in Mandera County, 2019 In the quiet yet resilient towns of Mandera County, Kenya, two Cuban doctors, Assel Herrera Correa and Landy Rodríguez Hernández, embarked on a journey that remains tragically unfinished. Their mission, like many before them, was to heal. But in 2019, under circumstances that remain both mysterious and heartbreaking, they were kidnapped—a distressing chapter that continues to be written.…

Hargeisa (AX) — In a recent development that has stirred political waters, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s visit to Las Anod has been met with staunch criticism from North Western State of Somalia's opposition parties. The visit, they argue, constitutes a breach of North Western State of Somalia’s territorial sovereignty and could potentially escalate tensions. Abdiweli Sheikh Suufi, a prominent figure within the Kulmiye party, did not mince words. He accused the Somali federal government of orchestrating what he…

Mogadishu (AX) — The vibrant city of Mogadishu stands at the precipice of a significant democratic advancement. As the capital of Somalia, it is gearing up for a transformative event in its political landscape. The Banadir Regional Administration, the governing body overseeing the capital, has officially announced the commencement of voter registration for upcoming local government elections, slated to begin on April 15. This initiative marks an important leap toward establishing a one-person, one-vote electoral system in…

Voter Registration to Commence in Mogadishu Amid Diverging Opinions in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - It seems President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is ready to advance without engaging in extensive political dialogues. While some might question the efficacy of such a move, he is set on initiating a voter registration exercise. This decision, however, surfaces amidst palpable tension and disagreements with some federal states. Slated for May 2025, the National Consultative Council (NCC) posse…

Las Anod (AX) — At the heart of Somalia's political landscape, a dynamic initiative is emerging. Federal Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Ali, known affectionately by many as Ali Xoosh, has announced a development that could reshape the course of the nation. A new chapter unfolds as the SSC-Khaatumo administration gears up to take a center-stage role in the anticipated National Consultative Council meeting, poised to convene in Mogadishu this coming May. Could this mark a turning point for Somalia's unity and progress?…

Starlink's Journey to Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia – Excitement and anticipation ripple through the airwaves as SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service sets its sights on a new frontier: Somalia. Yes, on a seemingly ordinary Sunday, Elon Musk, the enigmatic and ever-inventive entrepreneur, announced via the social media platform X that Starlink is now officially available in Somalia. Yet, behind this announcement lies a tale of collaboration, ambition, and a shared vision. "We have been in talks with this…

A Historic Turning Point: PM Hamza's Visit to Las Anod and the Precarious Promise of Unity In the tapestry of history, there are moments when change seems to hover on the horizon, like the first glimmers of dawn. Prime Minister Hamza’s visit to Las Anod is one such instance, remarkable not merely for the symbolic gesture it represents but for the deeper currents it stirs within the community. As with any significant event, it's essential to ask ourselves: what promises are born from such a journey?…

North Western State of Somalia's Strategic Play in Global Politics: An Ambitious Bid for U.S. Partnership In the complex tapestry of international relations, where opportunities are intricately woven with risks, North Western State of Somalia appears to be navigating its path with a fresh perspective—particularly echoing the reputation of former President Donald Trump, often seen as a pragmatist negotiator. This political gambit raises intriguing questions: Could North Western…

The memories of historical tensions from my elementary and secondary school days bring Djibouti, the Somali Coast, to mind. Recently, I came across several articles on social media that discussed how people were busy with fleeting pursuits, like finding signals in Djibouti, rather than focusing on significant historical narratives. Such commentary often lacks the decorum and depth reminiscent of Djibouti’s historical role in Somali politics and nation-building, supported immensely by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh’s political…

Somali Army's Potential in Tackling Threats: A Deep Dive MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia stands at a pivotal moment in its history, where potential and ambition converge with unprecedented challenges. The Somali National Army (SNA) is, according to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), ready to bear the mantle of safeguarding the nation. As we mark the 65th anniversary of the SNA, there's an air of hopeful anticipation mixed with a solemn remembrance of a tumultuous past. Can this…