Somalia

Joint Statement from Puntland and Jubbaland Leaders Criticizing Federal Overreach In the crisp morning air of Garowe, a pivotal message rang out from a joint press conference. Saeed Abdullahi Deni, the President of Puntland, and Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe), President of Jubbaland, took a bold step. Gathering attention, they voiced their dissatisfaction with the Federal Government of Somalia, citing a blatant misuse of constitutional power aimed at pressuring regional states that diverged politically. The…

The "Star of Unity" Concert: A Celebration of Somali Heritage The “Star of Unity” concert, a heartfelt initiative organized by the Somali Museum of Minnesota, serves as a vibrant tribute to the diverse tapestry of music and dance that has woven itself through generations and regions of Somalia. This event is not merely a concert; it’s a familial gathering that fosters bonds, nourishes understanding, and rejuvenates cultural pride. On October 22, 2023, the Ames Center in Burnsville will be alive with the sounds of…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a remarkable Wednesday at Villa Somalia, the Somali Salvation Forum convened a pivotal meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This gathering was not just another routine assembly; it represented an essential effort to navigate the intricate waters of national politics, focusing on constitutional reform, impending elections, and the pressing need to tackle terrorism. The spokesperson for the Forum, Dahir Mohamud Gelle, shared insights post-meeting that were both encouraging and thought-provoking.…

A Historic Milestone for Somalia: The Launch of Maan-Maal On June 22, 2025, Somalia experienced a remarkable transformation as Mogadishu became the backdrop for the launch of Maan-Maal, the very first Somali entrepreneurship reality TV show. The evening was a vibrant celebration steeped in promise, innovation, and the untapped potential found within the nation’s youth. Attended by over 300 guests, including key government ministers, private sector leaders, academic representatives, youth advocates, civil society members,…

Exploring the Impact of Economic Sanctions on African Nations For decades, African countries have found themselves on the receiving end of various sanctions imposed by international entities such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the United States. Why has this continent become a focal point for such measures? It's essential to recognize that sanctions are often employed to advance specific foreign policy objectives. However, the implications of these actions reach far beyond the political…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a memorable Wednesday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took center stage during the 65th Independence Week celebrations in Mogadishu. The event was a heartfelt tribute to Somalia’s long and arduous journey toward freedom, marking not just a historical milestone, but a collective call for renewed unity and national reconciliation among its people. The ceremony was a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of history, marked by the presence of senior government officials, distinguished…

Unity in the Face of Adversity: A Call for Togetherness in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — During the vibrant celebration of the 65th Independence Week in Mogadishu, Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur (Madobe), the Speaker of the House of the People, issued a heartfelt appeal to all Somalis. He emphasized the urgent need for unity in confronting the challenges posed by al-Shabab and encouraged cooperation with the government. In front of a diverse gathering of senior government officials, dignitaries, and everyday citizens, Speaker Madobe…

Heavy Fighting in Somalia's Bay Region: A Closer Look BAIDOA, Somalia - In the heart of the Bay region, the Somali National Army (SNA) and al-Shabaab militants found themselves embroiled in another deadly clash. The profound impact of this intense skirmish reverberates through communities, leaving many to ponder, "When will peace find its way back to this land?" The SNA has long been on a determined mission. Their goal: to dismantle al-Shabaab's hold in Somalia's southern territories. This…

In a world rife with tension and unpredictability, a fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel seemed to hold momentarily this Tuesday, despite early signs of faltering. U.S. President Donald Trump, known for his candid remarks, conveyed his frustration over the longstanding conflict. He remarked that both nations had fought “for so long and so hard” that they had seemingly lost their way. Is it possible, one might ponder, for prolonged conflict to ultimately obscure the path to peace? As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin…

Opposition, Dissent, and the Tension in Somali Politics Mogadishu (AX) — In the bustling heart of Somalia's capital, a profound conflict is thrilling the political landscape. Dr. Mohamed Aden Koofi, the Secretary General of the Somali Salvation Forum, has made some striking accusations aimed directly at the federal government. In a time when unity is vital, how precarious is the balance between power and opposition? On Monday, in a press conference brimming with urgency, Koofi recounted an unsettling incident from his…