Somalia

Al-Shabaab Forces Burundian Troops to Retreat from Strategic Somali Town MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a significant shift, Al-Shabaab, the notorious militant group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has successfully ousted Burundian forces from the strategically vital town of Xawaadley in Middle Shabelle. This event unfolds barely a month after the Somali National Army faced its own setback in Adan Yabaal. Reports abound of Burundian troops and local allies being compelled to vacate their posts in Xawaadley, situated roughly 50…

Bolstering North Western State of Somalia’s Quest: A Meeting of Diplomatic Significance On a warm Monday in Nairobi, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga greeted North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro with a firm handshake, signaling solidarity amid complex geopolitical currents. This high-profile meeting on June 2, 2025, held in the tranquil setting of Karen, was more than just a simple farewell gathering; it was a defining moment for North Western State of Somalia in its ongoing journey…

Strengthening Ties: Somalia's Strategic Diplomatic Engagements Mogadishu (AX) – In a world where diplomatic relations can shift as quickly as the tides, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud embarked on a significant phone conversation with Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on Monday. The primary focus? Fortifying the bonds between their two nations. It’s a timely endeavor, reflective of the intricate dance of international diplomacy where every conversation can have far-reaching implications. Apart from…

Al-Shabaab Secures Control of Xawaadley Village Amid AU Forces Withdrawal In the intricate dance of military strategy and unexpected natural calamities, Xawaadley village has emerged as a spotlight. Nestled northeast of Mogadishu, this village became a focal point on Monday when Al-Shabaab militants seized control just hours after African Union (AU) forces withdrew. The withdrawal followed severe flooding, compelling the troops to prioritize safety. Why is Xawaadley crucial, one might ask? Positioned in…

Bosaso (AX) – In a significant development in the ongoing anti-terrorism efforts, recent U.S. airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of at least ten ISIS militants. This strategic operation focused on militant hideouts nestled within the rugged mountainous terrain between the Balade and Miraale valleys, as reported by Northeastern State's anti-ISIS operation command in a statement released on Tuesday. The airstrikes, executed by the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), specifically targeted groups of militants who had sought…

On a crisp Monday morning, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as Prime Minister Mark Carney convened with Canada's provincial and territorial premiers. This meeting marked his first official gathering with them since his resounding election victory in April, setting the stage for transformative discussions aimed at fortifying Canada’s economy amidst growing international pressures. Carney, standing at the forefront of a nation weathering the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs, unveiled an ambitious legislative…

The State of Somalia: Reflections on Leadership and Future Directions The history of Somalia is not without its scars, bearing the weight of troubled times and painful misfortunes. It is a narrative marked by the early promise of one-person-one-vote elections, which spiraled into a military coup and years of dictatorship. The aftermath saw a violent civil war that dismantled the very fabric of the Somali state, leaving a legacy of instability and dependence on foreign aid and clan-based divisions. The toll…

A thought-provoking adage reminds us, “Whoever desires to raise a high building must strengthen and perfect its foundation.” Initially, this wisdom applies to architecture, yet its resonance echoes deeply within the spheres of politics and diplomacy. Take, for instance, the unfolding narrative of North Western State of Somalia. This self-declared state, seeking international recognition and broader engagement, must establish a sound domestic foundation for its foreign policy to be effective. It’s imperative to recognize…

SOMALI PRIME MINISTER HAMZA ABDI BARRE (LEFT) MEETS WITH DJIBOUTIAN PRESIDENT ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH (RIGHT) AT THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE IN DJIBOUTI ON JUNE 2, 2025. THE LEADERS DISCUSSED REGIONAL SECURITY AND EFFORTS TO STRENGTHEN BILATERAL COOPERATION BETWEEN SOMALIA AND DJIBOUTI. Djibouti City, Djibouti (AX) — In a significant meeting held on Monday, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre engaged with Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh. The focal points of their discussion centered around enhancing bilateral…

Engaging in Dialogue: A Commitment to Somalia’s Future The recent remarks made by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo highlight a pivotal moment in Somalia's political landscape. “I welcome the timeline for the national consultative dialogue proposed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud concerning critical national issues, particularly elections, security, and the Constitution,” he expressed. This sentiment reverberates through the hearts of many Somalis who yearn for a cohesive and sustainable political…