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

Mogadishu (AX) — The international community is raising a red flag over the growing friction between Somalia's Federal Government and Jubaland State, urging a chill-out period and talks that bring something constructive to the table. The dispute has become another test of Somalia’s federal arrangement and the country's ability to manage political conflict through negotiation rather than escalation. This spat heated up after Jubaland's no-show at the recent National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, a forum meant to iron…

Islamic State Ramps Up Recruitment in Somalia, Targets Al-Shabaab NAIROBI, Kenya - The aggressive recruitment of foreign soldiers by the Islamic State in Somalia is highlighted in a recent United Nations report, spotlighting a growing threat across the Horn of Africa and setting off alarm bells about potential regional turmoil. Previously, IS-Somalia was cash-strapped, struggling to recruit combatants, yet now boasts an expansionist zeal surpassing Al-Shabaab, who are currently under siege by the Somali National Army and…

Archbishop Thabo Makgoba, the Anglican Primate of Southern Africa, has issued a cautionary note suggesting that we may see an uptick in reports of misconduct involving church officials, especially following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. Welby's departure came on the heels of an investigation that unveiled his failure to report allegations of abuse perpetrated by John Smyth—a barrister, educator, and director of Christian camps—during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Smyth was a prominent figure…

In a significant development following the troubling events of October 7, 2023, involving both Hamas's attacks on Israel and the subsequent military actions in Gaza, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan revealed on May 20 his intention to pursue arrest warrants for alleged war crimes tied to the conflict. "The legal dynamics are shifting," remarked an expert on international law familiar with the situation. Despite the International Criminal Court's announcement that Israel's consent is not a prerequisite for acknowledging the…

In a remarkable operation, Spanish law enforcement has successfully taken down a criminal ring operating out of Alicante, which allegedly lured Swedish and Danish youths to act as hired assassins. A married couple from Sweden, alongside their 15-year-old son, stands accused of enlisting other teenagers through the messaging platform Telegram for the purpose of orchestrating murders. This trio faces additional serious allegations, such as trafficking firearms and drugs, as well as engaging in money laundering activities.…

Former president John Mahama, who’s now the presidential hopeful for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has leveled sharp critiques against President Nana Akufo-Addo's administration. He argues that the situation of youth unemployment has taken a turn for the worse, leaving many young Ghanaians struggling to find jobs. Mahama insists that the forthcoming elections "offer a vital chance" to change the nation’s leadership and, subsequently, its direction. During a recent campaign event in the eastern part of…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a startling move, the International Criminal Court (ICC) took a dramatic step on Thursday, issuing arrest warrants against three prominent figures: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif. The charges? War crimes and crimes against humanity during the intense Gaza conflict.ICC's Pre-Trial Chamber I has articulated that there's "reasonable cause" to think Netanyahu and Gallant orchestrated policies that deprived Gaza civilians…

'Tis the season for attending holiday gatherings filled to the brim with delights like sticky toffee pudding, chocolate peppermint, sweet sugar plum candies, spiked eggnog...and the list goes on. These treats sure taste decadent but can make weight gain easy if you're not careful. While it can be tempting to indulge in every holiday cocktail, side dish, and dessert you set your sights on, a few smart habits can help you enjoy this joyous time of year without to pack on the unwanted pounds We…

Kismayo (AX) — In a dramatic turn of events, Jubaland's parliament proceeded with its leadership election on Thursday in Kismayo. This move came despite clear disapproval from the federal government, which has rejected the current electoral process in the region. Abdi Mohamed Abdirahman clinched the Speaker's position for a third term, securing a decisive 65 votes. His rival, Ismail Abdi Keerow, managed to gather only seven votes, according to the Interim Speaker Sheikh Abdi Yusuf Ali. This victory strengthens…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A heated row has erupted between two prominent Somali ministers, spotlighting corruption allegations swirling around Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre's administration. The conflict hinges on which official should serve as the nation's representative at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalin Fiqi opted for Mohamud Moalim, the current head of Somalia's disaster management agency, to take on WMO envoy duties. Meanwhile, Environment Minister Khadija Makhzoumi backed Guled…