Somalia

Hargeisa (AX) — What would a city like Hargeisa be without the rhythm of its music echoing through its vibrant streets? For a fleeting moment, it seemed we might find out. The regional administration of Maroodi Jeeh stirred quite the cacophony when it initially issued a decree aimed at silencing the melodies of live music in Hargeisa. Yet, just as swiftly as the silence descended, it was uplifted. How did we get here? Let's explore. The initial announcement, unveiled by Governor Ahmed Mohamed Adaad on February 19, 2025,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a shifting tapestry of global diplomacy, the United Kingdom has unveiled Charles Nicholas King as its new envoy to Somalia. This announcement, made public on a hushed Wednesday afternoon, comes as Somalia stands at a critical juncture, grappling with both peril and promise. King is scheduled to take over ambassadorial duties in May 2025, stepping into the shoes of his predecessor, Michael Nithavrianakis. Charles King is not a stranger to diplomatic labyrinths. Since 2004, he has navigated the…

Rethinking Governance and Identity in Somalia Peter Drucker, the trailblazing management consultant, often initiated his dialogue with companies with a question that was more profound than it seemed: “What business are you in?” This inquiry exposed a startling truth for many businesses and organizations—they simply did not understand their own purpose. If we transpose Drucker’s approach to Somalia, the picture painted is bleak. The question of identity and purpose in governance appears unanswered, both…

“What is politics but the art of pulling wool over the eyes of the people?” mused a seasoned diplomat over coffee once. With these words echoing in my mind, let me delve into a story that adds another layer to the intricate tapestry known as Somali politics. On a balmy Thursday, the air was heavy with anticipation at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The reason? The unexpected arrival of Mohamed Hussein Roble, a man who once steered Somalia from the turbulent raft as its Prime Minister. This, however, was…

Mogadishu: A New Chapter in UK-Somalia Relations "Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions." - Winston Churchill The political sands of Somalia are once again shifting, and at the heart of the change is the appointment of Charles Nicholas King as the new UK ambassador to this vibrant yet complex nation. As Kaab TV (perhaps surprisingly) initially reported, King takes over from Michael Nithavrianakis MVO, promising a fresh wind in bilateral relations. Scheduled to…

BOSASO, Somalia - The crackle of gunfire and the echo of strategic commands reverberated through the eastern stretches of the Cal-Miskaad mountains as the Northeastern State Defense Forces, fueled by a steadfast resolve, made a landmark advance. What’s unfolding here, you might ask? It is an audacious campaign against the entrenched forces of ISIS. These formidable terrains, once bastions of militant fortification, are now being reclaimed at a pace the world cannot ignore. What drives these forces, often operating with…

AA Archive: A photograph capturing the Somali army's remarkable victory accompanies this narrative—a testament to their indomitable spirit. In a gripping tale of valor and community solidarity, the Somali National Army (SNA), with crucial support from local citizens, managed to thwart an audacious attack perpetrated by the militant group Al Shabaab. More than 130 insurgents met their demise in this intense encounter, Somali authorities have confirmed. The assault unfolded at the break of dawn, targeting several strategic…

The quiet offices of Mandera's administration were a crucible of tension, buzzing with rumors and suspicion. Whispers of nefarious activities floated through the town like an ill-wind, leaving dread in their wake. An Assistant Chief, a man who some might say epitomized trust, was now shrouded in alleged misdeeds. Was there truth in the accusations, or was this yet another shadow cast in the complex web of Mandera's security challenges? Kenyan police forces were especially vigilant, with their eyes glued to any movements…

Somali Army Repels Al-Shabaab Attack, Kills 130 in Middle Shabelle Region Report By Ali MusaAxadle Times International – Monitoring MOGADISHU, Somalia – In the dim light of dawn, a clash unfolded between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the relentless Al-Shabaab insurgents. What occurred this Thursday was not a mere confrontation but a detailed chapter in the ongoing saga of resilience and sovereignty. Officials confirmed the attack was thwarted by…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was an ordinary morning in Garowe when the news broke. The atmosphere, typically buzzing with the cadence of daily life, took on an air of urgency. This change emanated from a single pronouncement by Northeastern State’s regional President, Said Abdullahi Deni. Why now, and what prompted this decisive action, you might ask? In response to unsettling reports of foreign nationals finding their way into ISIS-Somalia, Deni decreed a stringent crackdown on illegal immigration. The influx, he warned, could no…