Somalia

Travel Ban Sparks Concerns Across Africa In the heart of Addis Ababa, where the vibrant pulse of Africa beats steadily, the African Union (AU) finds itself at a crossroads. Troubling news stirs apprehension within its corridors: a newly announced travel ban by U.S. President Donald Trump, targeting 19 countries — many of which are part of the African family. The AU Commission released a statement expressing its deep concern over this development. They have "taken note” of the latest U.S. government proclamation, which…

Mogadishu (AX) - Each year, as a myriad of souls unite in devotion, a profound spectacle unfolds. Nearly two million Muslim pilgrims converged on the sacred slopes of Mount Arafat in western Saudi Arabia this past Thursday, marking the spiritual zenith of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. This moment isn’t just a ritual; it embodies centuries of faith, hope, and the collective ache for divine connection. Clad in simple white garments, symbolizing purity and equality, these pilgrims began to arrive at Arafat under the quiet…

PRESS RELEASE Mogadishu, June 5, 2025 – Premier Bank is thrilled to unveil its upgraded direct SWIFT payment platform—a significant leap forward in the realm of international money transfers. This innovative service will enable both businesses and individuals in Somalia to send and receive funds globally with unprecedented speed, simplicity, and security. For over two decades, the complications surrounding cross-border transactions have lingered like a cloud over the economic landscape. Now, with the launch of this direct…

On a recent Wednesday, a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy occurred. President Donald Trump officially enacted a new travel ban that casts a wide net over 12 countries, predominantly situated in Africa and the Middle East. This decision, part of a larger crackdown on immigration, has sparked both concern and debate across the nation. “We don’t want them. We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm,” Trump declared in a video message that accompanied the announcement. His words…

Building Bridges: A New Era of Cooperation Between North Western State of Somalia and Kenya Recently, I had the profound pleasure of visiting Nairobi, where the warmth of the welcome I received not only lifted my spirits but also underscored the enduring spirit of African solidarity. This invitation mirrored the unfolding potential for regional partnerships that can significantly benefit our nations. Meeting with President William Ruto on May 29 was more than just a diplomatic handshake; it was a powerful affirmation that…

MOGADISHU, Somalia – An Urgent Appeal from the Degodia Community Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International – Monitoring In the bustling heart of Mogadishu's Xamar Jajab district, a simmering crisis calls for urgent attention. The Degodia (Dagoodiye) community has penned a heartfelt appeal to international ambassadors, raising the alarm about alleged human rights violations, land grabbing, and ongoing marginalization. Is it possible to turn a blind eye when people's dignity is at stake? In a passionate letter…

Most of us probably don’t spend our days contemplating how much time we have left on this Earth. Yet, the average life expectancy in a given country offers more than a mere count of potential birthdays. It serves as a crucial lens into the health of a society, reflecting its healthcare quality, living conditions, educational opportunities, nutritional standards, and even the political landscape. Around the globe, life expectancy varies dramatically based on geographical and socio-economic factors. According to…

Mogadishu's Turbulence: A Glimpse into Recent Events Mogadishu, the vibrant capital of Somalia, is a city that resonates with the echoes of both its rich history and the challenges it faces today. Recently, in an event that underscores the ongoing struggles against extremism, Somali police apprehended several individuals suspected of affiliation with Al-Shabaab following a dramatic explosion in the Dayniile district. A Fractured Calm On Thursday, the residents of the Barwaaqo neighborhood experienced a…

Revised Travel Ban Raises Concerns Across Borders On a notable Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump reintroduced a hallmark policy from his initial term. A swift decision was made to enforce a substantial travel ban, affecting citizens from twelve countries, among them Somalia. This decision signals a return to contentious policies that many may remember from years past. The Associated Press sheds light on this development, noting that precautions have been taken to prevent the chaos experienced in airports…

Condemning Violence: A Call for Humanitarian Respect in Sudan In an era where collaboration and coalition-building are more essential than ever, the ALPS group—a diverse alliance inclusive of the United States, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, along with pivotal players like the African Union and the United Nations—has voiced profound dismay. How do we navigate such tragedies in a world leaning towards peace? "We extend our deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and communities of…