Somalia

Mogadishu (AX) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reiterated his administration's dedication to engaging in dialogue with the leaders of Northeastern State and Jubbaland to mend ongoing political rifts.In a 25-minute discourse on Tuesday evening to lawmakers and regional heads, President Mohamud underscored the significance of harmony and collaboration as the National Consultative Council (NCC) meetings press on in Mogadishu."We intend to converse with our brethren holding dissenting views. Should they extend an…

Every four years, an eerie shadow looms over Somalia as elections, instead of heralding a new dawn, often lead to political turmoil and strife. The outcome of these elections should ideally reaffirm the federal government's authority through peaceful and legitimate processes, yet, more often than not, the opposite occurs. The last election cycle (2021-2022) put the very fabric of the Somali state at risk. Despite this, there was a palpable sense of relief among the populace when newly elected parliamentarians pledged to…

A football coach and advocate for refugees found herself sidelined from a match because of her attire, specifically tracksuit bottoms, which she insists are integral to her religious values. Iqra Ismail, the former captain of Somalia’s national team in 2019 and the founder of Hilltop FC, encountered this hiccup when she joined the grassroots squad United Dragons FC, based in Regent’s Park. This young woman, just 24 and hailing from West London, was primed to make her debut on Sunday against an East London rival. “I…

Mogadishu and Ankara Forge New Financial Ties MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a move that underscores the deepening relations between Somalia and Turkey, their governments have inked a fresh financial cooperation deal. This step marks yet another milestone in a relationship that has notably blossomed over the past ten years. The accord was formalized on Monday by Somalia’s Defense Minister Abdulkadir Nur and his Turkish…

North Western State of Somalia Gears Up for Key Presidential Election After Delays HARGEISA, Somalia - With the paramount presidential election scheduled for November 13th, North Western State of Somalia's electoral commission is working tirelessly to ensure everything is in place. This pivotal event marks a crucial juncture for Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye party, who initially postponed this casting of votes a while back. Bihi, the region’s head honcho since 2017, finds himself in the ring with the formidable Abdirahman…

Manchester United has shown Erik ten Hag the door.The news dropped like a lead balloon on Monday morning, concluding his tenure at Old Trafford after two and a half years at the helm. Sunday's Premier League loss to West Ham marked his final act.In what's been a rough start, United languishes at 14th in the standings, a whopping seven points adrift of the Champions League spots, with just three wins in nine league outings and four in fourteen across all contests.In the upheaval, the club's machinery has swung into action.…

Ethiopia as a Trustworthy Ally, Opposition Party Declares Location: HARGEISA, Somalia - In a notable endorsement, North Western State of Somalia's opposition group has voiced strong support for Ethiopia's association with the self-governing territory. They highlight how Hargeisa and Addis Ababa have fostered beneficial ties amidst the stormy waters of the Horn of Africa. Mohamed Abdullahi Omar, esteemed member of the Waddani party, relayed to Addis Standard that the faction harbors no reservations…

Beledweyne (AX) — A devastating explosion rocked the Howlwadaag area of Beledweyne town in the Hiiraan region on Tuesday, claiming the life of a civilian and injuring seven others. The blast targeted a well-loved local eating spot where young folks, especially soccer enthusiasts, often gather.The chaotic aftermath left the neighborhood reeling in disbelief. Despite an investigation launched hours later by security personnel, no apprehensions have been reported.Against a backdrop of rising unease in Beledweyne, tragedy struck…

Riyadh (AX) — In a significant move for regional business prospects, Somali Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Maalam Faqi, met with the Saudi Minister of Investment, Eng. Khaled bin Abdul Aziz Al-Falah, in the vibrant heart of Riyadh this Monday. Their goal? To explore investment and trading opportunities that could benefit both Somalia and Saudi Arabia.Engaging in lively dialogue, the ministers outlined sectors teeming with potential for economic collaboration, focusing on Somalia’s abundant resources. "Somalia offers a…

Mogadishu (AX) — Things are heating up in Yaqbariweyne as the South West State troops gear up to take on local militias, stirring worries of a fresh conflict over who calls the shots and collects taxes in the area.Folks in Yaqbariweyne have mentioned that both factions are on high alert, causing the local populace to brace for what might come. Eyes and ears on the ground hint that the South West forces are keen on tightening their grip on the town, which has, for the past few months, been pretty much under the thumb of armed…