Somalia

Helicopter Incident in Somalia Highlights Security Challenges Mogadishu (AX) – A recent episode in the tumultuous Middle Shabelle region underscores the precarious intersection of natural disasters and militant activity in Somalia. Al-Shabaab militants brazenly displayed a helicopter that crash-landed near their territory—an aircraft embroiled in a chaotic evacuation operation performed by Burundian troops as part of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This incident…

Kenya's Elite Troops in Action: A Bold Strike Against Al-Shabaab NAIROBI, Kenya - In a daring display of precision and resolve, Kenya's Special Operations Group (SOG) has once again demonstrated its prowess in the battle against terrorism. This time, the site was Garissa, where four Al-Shabaab militants were neutralized. This successful operation not only highlights the ongoing collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts but also sends a strong message of hope and determination in a region often under threat.…

Northeastern State's Dervish Forces Take Bold Action Against ISIS in Bari Region On a decisive Tuesday in Bosaso, Northeastern State’s elite Dervish forces achieved a remarkable milestone in their ongoing battle against ISIS. In a meticulously planned military operation, they reportedly eliminated over 35 militants, among them several foreign fighters, in the rugged terrain between Miraale and Balade in the Bari region. This operation was not simply a statistic; it marked a strategic shift…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant move towards fostering national dialogue, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently gathered a diverse group of civil society representatives at the Presidential Palace. This meeting, held on Tuesday, is a pivotal step toward the much-anticipated National Consultation Forum scheduled for June 15, 2025. The initiative, as highlighted by Villa Somalia, is part of a series of inclusive consultations aimed at securing widespread participation and promoting consensus in shaping Somalia’s…

Somali Language Marks a Landmark Moment at Hajj Pilgrimage Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development for Somali-speaking Muslims around the world, Somali will be introduced as one of the official languages for translating key sermons during the Hajj pilgrimage. This groundbreaking announcement was made this past week by Somalia’s Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, marking a monumental step for Somali pilgrims participating in one of Islam’s most esteemed rituals. Minister Mukhtar Robow Ali made this…

Burundian Peacekeepers Evacuate Xawaadley Amid Severe Flooding Mogadishu (AX) — This week, the town of Xawaadley in Somalia witnessed an unexpected twist of fate. As heavy rains led to extensive flooding that overwhelmed the base of Burundian peacekeepers, the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) promptly executed an evacuation. This event, which took place on a seemingly regular Monday, serves as an important reminder of the challenges faced in regions grappling with both…

Security Forces in Garissa County: Recent Operations Against Al-Shabaab Recently, the tense atmosphere in Garissa County witnessed a dramatic encounter between security forces and suspected militants. This confrontation unfolded when four individuals, thought to be associated with the notorious Al-Shabaab group, resisted arrest. In response, the security personnel were compelled to return fire, ultimately resulting in the deaths of all four suspects at the scene. This event shone a light on the ongoing…

Strengthening Bonds: President Irro’s Diplomatic Mission in Kenya NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of North Western State of Somalia has recently wrapped up a significant diplomatic voyage to Kenya, a journey that he hailed as a resounding success. This venture not only aimed to bolster North Western State of Somalia’s regional presence but also underscored a steadfast commitment to democratic ideals. In our increasingly interconnected world, how vital are these…

Somalia's Military Court Takes a Stand Against Al-Shabaab Mogadishu (AX) — In a landmark case that underscores the ongoing battle against militant forces in Somalia, the military court has sentenced a key Al-Shabaab operative, Abdinasir Mohamed Hassan, to life in prison. This ruling comes as part of a broader initiative to dismantle the intricate web of support networks that enable such extremist groups to operate. Hassan's conviction marks a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism…

Russia Expands Its Influence in Somalia: A Diplomatic Dance Unfolds In a world where diplomacy often weaves the unexpected, this week offered a new chapter in the narrative of international relations. Amid the complexity of global politics, Vyacheslav Volodin, Russia's State Duma Speaker known for his proximity to President Vladimir Putin, welcomed Somalia's Upper House Speaker, Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, to Moscow. This meeting isn't just a footnote in history—it's a testament to Russia’s evolving presence in…