Somalia

Kenya and Ethiopia Join Forces to Enhance Cross-Border Infrastructure NAIROBI, Kenya - In a landmark move, Kenya and Ethiopia have pledged to bolster their cross-border infrastructure. This endeavor aims to foster an easier flow of people, goods, and digital services, ultimately giving a significant boost to the local economy. At the heart of this initiative is the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP). The project emphasizes the importance of improving infrastructure to…

Securing Peace in Mandera: A Pre-Dawn Victory Against Terrorism A collage of some of the guns and RPGs recovered by the elite SOG group from Alshabaab militants on June 10, 2025. Photo: Counter Terrorism Policing Mogadishu (AX) — On a quiet Monday morning in Mandera County, Kenya, the brave men and women of the Special Operations Group (SOG), an elite anti-terror police unit, launched a decisive operation that dramatically altered the course of potential violence. As dawn broke, two al-Shabab militants were neutralized,…

Al-Shabaab Struggles for Control in Central Somalia Amid Intense Clashes MOGADISHU, Somalia - The landscape of central Somalia is once again disrupted by the relentless attempts of the al-Shabaab forces to reassert their authority. These Al-Qaeda-linked militants have been engaged in heated battles, particularly on the outskirts of Moqokori village. It seems they are determined to displace government forces along with local fighters who bravely stand on the frontlines.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant diplomatic engagement, Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalan Abdi Ali Dhaay, recently met with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia W. Mudavadi. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Ministers’ Summit, a platform that not only showcases the importance of Africa on the global stage but also serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue between…

Understanding the High Cost of Living in Africa: A Crucial Economic Challenge In recent years, the issue of rising living costs has emerged as a formidable challenge faced by many African nations. Though global inflation and shifts in the market play their part, it's important to understand that factors such as poor economic management, currency devaluation, the elimination of subsidies, and an excessive dependence on imports have significantly worsened the situation. As we explore this critical topic, we…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant event for education in Somalia, a total of 41,639 students in the Banadir region participated in the intermediate-level national examinations last Monday. This marks a remarkable achievement, as it's now the sixth consecutive year that the Banadir Regional Administration has independently overseen the administration of these standardized tests. The day began with a sense of anticipation as students entered examination centers filled with nerves and hopeful energy. The Governor of Banadir…

Kismayo (AX) — In a significant step towards regional stability, Mahmoud Sayid Aden, the First Vice President of Somalia’s Jubbaland State, convened with the Governor of Mandera County in Kenya on Monday. The primary objective of their meeting was to address pressing issues concerning cross-border security and the movement of people along their shared frontier. The leaders engaged in a constructive dialogue focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in light of the increasing challenges posed by the al-Shabab…

Beledweyne (AX) — In a fervent appeal for urgent reform, Ali Jeyte Osman, the commander of Somalia’s Ma’awisley community defense forces, has directed a clear message to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. He urged the upcoming overhaul of the Hirshabelle regional administration's leadership, spotlighting officials’ apparent failure to prioritize the critical fight against al-Shabab. During a press conference held on Monday, Jeyte did not hold back in his critique of Hirshabelle President Ali Gudlaawe Hussein and his deputy.…

Revisiting the Narrative: The Somali Village at the Bradford Great Exhibition The year was 1904, a time when the landscape of Bradford transformed into a vibrant festival hub, drawing in millions eager to partake in what could be considered one of the largest public celebrations of the era. Yet, amid the jubilant fairgrounds and the displays of industrial prowess, the exhibition included an extraordinary feature that would leave an indelible mark on history—a living, breathing Somali village. For six months, roughly 100…

The Future of the African Union Mission in Somalia: A Balance of Responsibility In an era where the intricate dynamics of international relations intertwine with pressing security challenges, the future of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) hangs delicately in the balance. As President William Ruto convened with Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri and General Michael Langley, the commander of the U.S. Africa Command, the topic of funding took center stage. On June 2, 2025, during the Africa Chiefs…