Somalia

Strengthening Bonds: Uganda's Military Commitment to Somalia Mogadishu (AX) – On a Saturday filled with promise and potential, Lieutenant General Samuel Okiding, the Deputy Chief of the Uganda Defence Forces, stepped onto Somali soil for an official visit. This journey is not just a routine diplomatic mission; it is a vital endeavor aimed at fortifying military cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, two nations bound by shared concerns and aspirations. Upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport, Lt. Gen.…

Ugandan Deputy Defence Chief in Mogadishu: Navigating AUSSOM's Financial Hurdles MOGADISHU, May 17 – In a marked display of camaraderie and duty, Sam Okiding, the Ugandan Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, touched down in Mogadishu last Saturday. His arrival, marked by an earnest reception by senior officials from both the Somali Army and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), holds significance that goes beyond mere diplomatic courtesies. But why now? The timing of Okiding's visit is…

Burao Protests: A Complex Unfolding On a day that has now etched itself into the collective memory of many, the city of Burao in North Western State of Somalia witnessed a tumultuous episode of civil unrest. Recent reports confirm that the protest, which erupted last Thursday, resulted in the tragic loss of at least six lives. The majority of those who perished were young, spirited individuals—a stark reminder of the deep-seated tensions simmering beneath the surface in this area. Medical teams from Burao…

Turning the Tide: The Recent Assault Against Al-Shabaab “We received actionable intelligence about militant gatherings near Masaajid Ali Guduud,” declared a senior commander involved in the recent military assault. It is not often that we witness a well-coordinated strike against an enemy that has held such a tight grip over vast regions of Somalia. The commander went on to emphasize the speed and efficiency of their efforts, stating, “We acted swiftly, and the area is now under our control.” This compound experience…

Baraawe Airport Explosion: A Sobering Incident By Ali Musa - Axadle Times International – Monitoring BARAWE, Somalia — In a tragic turn of events, the quiet surroundings of Baraawe Airport were disrupted today by a devastating explosion. This incident, as confirmed by local officials, was caused by a concealed roadside bomb that claimed the lives of at least two individuals and left five others wounded. Can we ever find solace in understanding such…

Tragic Landmine Explosion Near Baraawe Airport: A Call for Renewed Vigilance On a seemingly ordinary Saturday in Baraawe, a devastating incident unfolded that left a community shaken. Reports indicate that at least one life was lost, while two others sustained injuries due to a landmine explosion in close proximity to Baraawe Airport, located in the picturesque Lower Shabelle region of Somalia. Local residents, who witnessed the tragedy, have recounted the harrowing moment, painting a poignant…

Mogadishu (AX) – As the sun rises over Baghdad, anticipation is palpable. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is gearing up to attend the esteemed 34th Arab League Summit this Saturday. This summit, taking place in Iraq’s capital for the first time in over a decade, is themed "Dialogue, Solidarity and Development," a phrase that resonates on multiple levels in today’s geopolitical landscape. The importance of this summit cannot be overstated. In a world rife with conflict and uncertainty, the commitment to address…

Unrelenting Floods Ravage Mogadishu: A Tale of Resilience In the wake of a tempestuous night, rain-soaked Mogadishu grappled with the aftermath of relentless deluges that left at least seven dead, among them two women and two children. Homes were toppled, residents trapped, and essential roads severed, officials reported on Saturday. The torrents—over 115 millimeters in an eight-hour onslaught—descended Friday night, persisting until dawn. This wall of water unleashed flash floods, paralyzing much of the city,…

Mogadishu (AX) – Last Friday, the calm of Kahda district in Mogadishu was shattered by the deafening sound of a landmine explosion, injuring at least seven people, including two government soldiers. Reports from eyewitnesses and local officials paint a vivid and distressing picture of the aftermath. The blast didn’t just disrupt the moment; it left many civilians with severe injuries—particularly affecting their legs. In isolated instances such as these, one can’t help but reflect on the fragility of life and the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the heart of Somalia's turbulent landscape, a disturbing trend unfolds—a relentless crackdown on the press. Since mid-March, security forces have reportedly arrested, harassed, or intimidated at least 41 media workers. This alarming situation has sparked outrage among rights groups, who label it a "war on the truth." The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has described the current period as an "alarming escalation" of hostilities against journalists. Among those raising the alarm are organizations…