Somalia

Al-Shabaab's Evolving Tactics Amidst Intensifying Pressures Recently, an intriguing development has emerged in the complex narrative of Al-Shabaab, a group that has cast a long shadow over Somalia's peace efforts. Notably absent this year are the public displays that once were a cornerstone of Al-Shabaab's propaganda machinery. It's a subtle yet profound shift, raising pressing questions about the group's current state and its capacity to project power. "In the face of tumultuous times, even the mighty must…

Inspiration During the Holy Month of Ramadan In a world that often seems engulfed in hustle and bustle, it's the quiet bravery within that sometimes speaks the loudest. As I reflect on the connections I've made this past Ramadan, their impact is nothing short of profound. People I have encountered inspire and challenge perceptions of resilience and dedication. Each individual I met during this sacred month carried their unique story—each one intensely personal yet universally…

From the sun-drenched dunes of North Africa to the opulent skylines of the Gulf, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has woven an intricate tapestry of influence stretching across the Arab world and beyond. This ambitious choreography of power unfolded in the wake of the Arab Spring, which served as a stirring catalyst for such a significant shift. Earlier this month, tensions heightened as Sudan's government launched legal proceedings against the UAE, alleging “complicity in genocide” amidst the Sudanese civil…

There’s an intriguing intersection where the realms of art and politics collide, and it's right there that Yusuf Abdullahi Muse steps into the spotlight. Better known by audiences as Yusuf Ceegaag, the acclaimed Somali actor has now declared his intent to transition from the fabric of fictional narratives to the tangible world of political service. For those familiar with Ceegaag’s screen work, this new development is both fascinating and perplexing. After years of interpreting the role of a fictional legislator, the…

Mogadishu (AX) – It's fascinating how diverse the celebrations of Islamic culture can be, even within a single country. On the sunlit morning of Monday, a unique event unfolded as Somalia's moderate Islamist organization, Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jama'a (ASWJ), marked the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr. This observance came a day later than the majority of Somalia, echoing the rhythms of individual tradition and belief. Amidst the vibrant tapestry of the Muslim world, these variations in marking the end of Ramadan add layers of…

MOGADISHU (Axadle Times) — In the face of one of the most severe droughts the Horn of Africa has witnessed in recent history, the Hassan Kobac Foundation (HKF) emerges as a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to provide critical relief to thousands of struggling families in the Hiiraan region of central Somalia. The relentless sun may parch the land, but the spirit of community shines through as HKF steps up its mission, armed with emergency water trucking assistance and food rations that support those teetering on the edge…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a profound moment of consensus, former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, along with ex-Prime Ministers Abdi Farah Shirdon and Mohamed Hussein Roble, came forward to endorse President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent plea for peace dialogues. Their shared vision paints these discussions as essential steps towards reinforcing Somalia’s federal governance and the shared struggle against terrorism. Farmaajo, a vivid figure in the country's political tapestry, released a heartening statement on Sunday,…

Joint Operation Against Al-Shabaab: A Tactical Endeavor On a significant Monday in Mogadishu, the Somali National Army (SNA) Danab Commandos orchestrated a noteworthy mission. Teaming up with Jubbaland's Dervish forces, they embarked on a carefully planned military operation, focusing their efforts against well-entrenched Al-Shabaab militant strongholds in the northern territories of the Lower Juba region. This operation, no small feat, zeroed in on crucial areas where Al-Shabaab exerted its influence, unjustly…

Berbera: A Tale of Geopolitics and Sovereignty The city of Berbera sits at a vantage point on the Gulf of Aden. This strategic location has long made it a focal point of geopolitical interest. Here, history and modern politics entwine, painting a vivid landscape of opportunity and conflict. North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared independent region of Somalia, recently found itself at the heart of a geopolitical storm. As Somalia's central government attempted to grant the United States exclusive…

There's a vivid reminder of the fragility of peace in Somalia. On March 18, a bomb blast narrowly missed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's convoy, underscoring the ever-present danger posed by Al-Shabaab within Mogadishu itself. This incident serves as a wake-up call, illustrating the volatile nature of a conflict that many believed was nearing resolution. Just days earlier, Somali security forces, perched on their open trucks, stood sentinel by the Syl Hotel. This location has become a grim testament to the ongoing…