Somalia

Growing Security Threat: Somalia and Yemen Address Militant Alliances London, United Kingdom (AX) — In an era defined by complex geopolitical shifts, Somalia and Yemen have recently raised urgent alarms concerning a burgeoning security threat. This concern arises from the unsettling connections forming between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and extremist factions operating within Somalia. A high-profile diplomatic meeting held in London on Tuesday highlighted these issues and underscored the need for immediate action. The…

The Rise of Omar Fateh: Navigating Challenges and Possibilities In the heart of Minneapolis, a significant moment in political history is unfolding. Somali-American state senator Omar Fateh is campaigning to become the city's next mayor. As he embarks on this journey, he faces a wave of Islamophobic and racial attacks that emanate from far-right detractors. These voices seek to undermine his credibility by questioning his loyalty, heritage, and legitimacy as a candidate. Rather than dampening his spirit, these…

Accusations of Instability: Northeastern State vs. Somalia’s Federal Government AXADLE, Somalia — In a pointed declaration on Monday evening, Northeastern State’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Farah Juha, openly criticized Somalia’s federal government. His statement addresses a significant issue: the alleged incitement of violence within Northeastern State’s peaceful borders, purportedly orchestrated by federal authorities. As articulated by Juha, “We strongly condemn the Federal Government, which in recent days…

Northeastern State Accuses Somali Federal Government of Destabilizing Peaceful Regions AXADLE, Somalia — On a calm Monday night that would, in ordinary circumstances, pass without note, Northeastern State’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Farah Juha, addressed the nation with a tone of both surprise and urgency. He publicly accused Somalia’s federal government of sowing discord and disturbing the tranquility that Northeastern State had fought so hard to maintain.…

The disparities in how fragility is defined point to significant shortcomings in our understanding of conflict and vulnerability. This situation begs the question: how can we refine our global metrics to better encompass the complexities of fragile states? A revealing report by the World Bank classifies Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations (FCS) as nations grappling with weak institutions, persistent violence, or challenges in post-conflict recovery. But what does being ‘fragile’ truly mean for the people…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an exciting development for Somalia's democratic landscape, the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has announced an extension of voter registration in the Banadir region by one month. This decision comes as public interest and participation reach unprecedented levels ahead of Mogadishu's first direct elections in over fifty years. The newly established deadline of August 15, 2025, is a response to the remarkable turnout witnessed across various districts in the capital. Abdikarim Ahmed…

U.S. Imposes 3.5% Tax on Foreign Remittances, Sparking Global Concern WASHINGTON—In a significant policy shift, the United States has introduced a 3.5% tax on international money transfers sent by non-citizens. This decision is expected to deeply impact countless families worldwide who depend on these remittances for essential needs like food, education, and healthcare. Imagine the countless conversations, punctuated by sighs and silent heartaches, and you begin to fathom the change's profound human cost. The measure,…

Transforming Lives Through Self-Sufficiency Life can sometimes feel like an unending struggle, especially when circumstances conspire against you. Such was the case for a 75-year-old man named Hassan, who spent five long years relying on cash assistance from various organizations. However, his story took a remarkable turn when he ventured into entrepreneurship. Today, Hassan runs a shop where he sells fresh vegetables and construction timber, generating an income that ranges between eight and ten dollars daily—a modest…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Coordinated Efforts Lead to Key Advances Against Al-Shabaab In a significant development in the ongoing struggle against Al-Shabaab, at least 15 fighters, including some key commanders, were eliminated in Somalia's Hiiraan region. This collective effort highlights the vital coordination between the Somali National Army (SNA), US Africa Command, and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The operation, marked by precision and…

Coordinated Sanctions Target ISIS Financing Across Africa Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant show of international cooperation, the United States, alongside six Gulf nations, has implemented coordinated sanctions against three individuals believed to be deeply entrenched in financing and facilitating ISIS operations across Africa. These individuals include Abdiweli Mohamed Yusuf, who has been identified as the longstanding leader of ISIS’s Somali affiliate. The announcement, made on Monday by the Terrorist Financing…