Somalia

Mogadishu (AX) – In a bold statement echoing through the heart of Somalia's political landscape, the Himilo Qaran Political Party, under the leadership of former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, has brought to light serious allegations against the country’s electoral commission. They claim that students and educational institutions in Mogadishu are experiencing undue pressure to engage in an election process that the party has characterized as unilateral and fundamentally lacking in consensus. This assertion, made…

Somalia: SoDMA’s Controversial Contribution to Frontline Fighters MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a decision that has puzzled many, Somalia's government has delivered COVID-19 protective gear to frontline fighters, known as the Macawisley. This raises questions about the seriousness of efforts to combat the Al-Shabaab militants actively challenging stability in the region. The Macawisley, collaborating closely with the Somali National Army (SNA), have courageously engaged in the fight for peace. However, the…

The Human Cost of Climate Change: A Call to Action Amid the chaos of a flooded neighborhood in Wadajir district of Mogadishu, Somalia, a family navigates the turbulent waters that have engulfed their home. This heartbreaking scene symbolizes a much larger crisis—a crisis that has resulted in severe consequences for some of the world’s most vulnerable populations. Recent findings from The Independent reveal that extreme weather, driven by the climate crisis, has cost impoverished nations an alarming $156 billion (£116…

Kenya Reaffirms Somalia’s Sovereignty Ahead of North Western State of Somalia Leader’s Visit NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya has once again emphasized its respect for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In a world increasingly marked by complex geopolitics, Kenya's position serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting national borders and autonomy. Do we consistently acknowledge the sovereignty of nations, or do politics often muddy these waters? Kenya’s stance underscores…

Ethiopia has recently reported its first confirmed cases of mpox, affecting a 21-day-old infant and the child's mother in the southern border town of Moyale. This alarming news was shared by health authorities on a Sunday that many will likely remember not just for its tranquil pace but for this significant health alert. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health, along with the Ethiopian Public Health Institute, has indicated that the virus was probably introduced from neighboring nations. It appears that the infant’s father, who…

Nairobi (AX) – On a bright Monday morning, North Western State of Somalia’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro embarked on a significant multi-day working visit to Nairobi. This trip, laden with promises of collaboration, aims to strengthen the bond between North Western State of Somalia and Kenya, while also engaging global stakeholders who hold a key interest in the region. Accompanying him is a distinguished delegation, a collective of leaders that includes the Minister of the Presidency, the Minister of…

TAN TAN, Morocco — The narrative around U.S. military involvement in Africa is undergoing a profound transformation. Traditionally, the emphasis has been on promoting good governance and addressing the root causes of insurgency. However, recent developments indicate a newfound focus on empowering African allies to stand on their own. This shift was especially evident during the African Lion exercise—America's largest joint training operation on the continent. “We need to be able to get our partners to the level of…

Mogadishu (AX) – A recent proposal to deduct $500 monthly from the salaries of members of the Somali Federal Parliament has ignited considerable debate and opposition. This initiative, intended to bolster the Ma’awisley clan militia engaged in combat against Al-Shabaab in the Hiiraan region, was the central topic during a parliamentary session on Saturday. The motion, presented by the parliamentary leadership, aimed to channel financial resources directly to Ma’awisley fighters. These fighters are currently collaborating…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — In the ever-evolving landscape of Somali politics, a noteworthy development has emerged. After enduring weeks of intense scrutiny from opposition factions, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has signaled a willingness to engage in discussions with opposition leaders next month. What has spurred this decision? Accusations have been leveled against him, ranging from altering the constitution to accusations of oppressive governance. The international community's voice is neither quiet…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant development, the Somali Police Force has apprehended Sharif Mohamed Ahmed, the primary suspect in the tragic shooting of Abdifatah Abdi Osman, also known as "Arab." The former national football player and employee of Astaan TV was senselessly gunned down last Sunday morning in Mogadishu. This incident has left an undeniable mark on the community, raising profound questions about safety and justice in a country still grappling with the repercussions of violence. The police have released the…