Axadle - Breaking news and analysis from Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and across Africa.

MOGADISHU — Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud formally assumed command of the Somali National Army on Wednesday in a handover ceremony at the Ministry of Defence, as Somalia’s government pledged to accelerate military reforms and intensify operations against al-Shabab. Maj. Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Raage, the outgoing chief of the army, transferred authority in the presence of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, senior security chiefs and foreign diplomats, including Turkey’s ambassador. The…

Two opposition Members of Parliament were arrested while performing official committee duties, prompting accusations that the independence and safety of the legislature are under threat and a parliamentary boycott by the main opposition party. Opposition leaders said the arrests — of two MPs who serve on the Budget and Transport committees — took place during formal committee work and were made on allegations of corruption. They accused Speaker Sameer Suleman of failing to protect Parliament and urged him to press the…

The Breaking Siege of Kadugli: A Turning Point in Sudan's Conflict The Sudanese army has broken a paramilitary siege on the key southern city of Kadugli, signaling a significant shift in the war within the Kordofan region. This development marks a notable reversal of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) offensive strategies. The army's breakthrough was confirmed by Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Kadugli has been under siege for much of Sudan's nearly three-year conflict. The city, a focal…

North Western State of Somalia eyes trade deal with Israel after recognition HARGEISA, Somalia — North Western State of Somalia expects to sign a trade partnership with Israel after receiving formal recognition from the Middle Eastern nation and is prepared to offer access to key natural resources as part of the pact, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi told Reuters. Israel recognized North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared independent region in northern Somalia, in late December. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu…

MOGADISHU — Dr. Maryam Qasim Ahmed was elected chairperson of Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission on Wednesday after a closely contested leadership vote in the capital, officials said. Dr. Maryam secured five of the nine votes cast by commissioners, narrowly defeating fellow candidate Dr. Omar Abdulle Ulusow, who received four. A third contender, Farhan Mohamed Jimale, had registered for the race but withdrew before the ballot was held. “This is a heavy responsibility that has been entrusted to me, and I ask God to…

Death of Saif al-Islam Gadhafi Confirmed Amid Controversy Saif al-Islam Gadhafi, the eldest son of the late Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, has reportedly been killed. His lawyer, Khaled el-Zaydi, confirmed the news, although the details surrounding his death remain unclear. Saif al-Islam was a key figure in Libya prior to 2011. He was previously sentenced to death in absentia by a Libyan court. International charges were also pending against him for alleged crimes against humanity. Background and Influence…

Format Selection: Healthy Eating Rationale The source text discusses the implications of intermittent fasting, particularly highlighting which individuals should avoid this method based on health conditions and nutritional needs. It emphasizes scientific information regarding diet, nutrition, and the potential risks associated with fasting, fitting well within the framework of healthy eating. Understanding the Risks of Intermittent Fasting Intermittent fasting (IF) has attracted attention as a popular weight loss strategy,…

The best format for the source text provided is Healthy Eating. The content focuses on nutrition, specifically on food choices that can boost energy levels for older adults. It includes science-informed advice, practical tips, and culturally relevant examples related to meals and health, aligning perfectly with the Healthy Eating format. Here’s a structured version based on that format: 5 Morning Foods That Boost Energy Faster Than Coffee After 60 As we age, maintaining energy levels becomes increasingly important. While…

U.S. F-35C downs Iranian drone near carrier as tanker confrontation tests path to nuclear talks A U.S. fighter jet shot down an Iranian drone that approached the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East today, the Pentagon said, in a flare-up at sea that coincided with a separate attempt by Iranian forces to detain a U.S.-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is still expected “to have conversations with the Iranians late this week,” despite…

WHO Launches $1 Billion Global Appeal for Health Care Access in Humanitarian Crises The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched its 2026 global appeal, aiming to ensure that millions of people affected by humanitarian crises and conflicts can access essential health care. The appeal seeks nearly **US$1 billion** to address the health needs in 36 emergencies worldwide, including **14 Grade 3 emergencies** that represent the highest level of organizational response. These emergencies encompass both sudden-onset and…