Somalia

Kismayo (AX) — In a significant step towards regional stability, Mahmoud Sayid Aden, the First Vice President of Somalia’s Jubbaland State, convened with the Governor of Mandera County in Kenya on Monday. The primary objective of their meeting was to address pressing issues concerning cross-border security and the movement of people along their shared frontier. The leaders engaged in a constructive dialogue focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in light of the increasing challenges posed by the al-Shabab…

Beledweyne (AX) — In a fervent appeal for urgent reform, Ali Jeyte Osman, the commander of Somalia’s Ma’awisley community defense forces, has directed a clear message to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. He urged the upcoming overhaul of the Hirshabelle regional administration's leadership, spotlighting officials’ apparent failure to prioritize the critical fight against al-Shabab. During a press conference held on Monday, Jeyte did not hold back in his critique of Hirshabelle President Ali Gudlaawe Hussein and his deputy.…

Revisiting the Narrative: The Somali Village at the Bradford Great Exhibition The year was 1904, a time when the landscape of Bradford transformed into a vibrant festival hub, drawing in millions eager to partake in what could be considered one of the largest public celebrations of the era. Yet, amid the jubilant fairgrounds and the displays of industrial prowess, the exhibition included an extraordinary feature that would leave an indelible mark on history—a living, breathing Somali village. For six months, roughly 100…

The Future of the African Union Mission in Somalia: A Balance of Responsibility In an era where the intricate dynamics of international relations intertwine with pressing security challenges, the future of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) hangs delicately in the balance. As President William Ruto convened with Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri and General Michael Langley, the commander of the U.S. Africa Command, the topic of funding took center stage. On June 2, 2025, during the Africa Chiefs…

On June 6, 2025, a disturbing scene unfolded in Kyiv as fire and smoke billowed into the sky, following a relentless Russian drone strike. The situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions that have gripped Ukraine, as Russia intensifies its military operations. In the face of this turmoil, U.S. intelligence has been actively monitoring developments. According to U.S. officials, there is a palpable sense of foreboding surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin's threats of retaliation against Ukraine following…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a remarkable display of tactical precision, the elite Danab commandos of the Somali National Army have successfully neutralized at least 25 Al-Shabaab militants, including three high-ranking commanders. This significant military operation unfolded in the village of Gaalware, which lies a mere four kilometers east of Sabiid and Caanoole in the Lower Shabelle region. The Ministry of Defense officially confirmed the operation on Sunday, shedding light on its remarkable outcomes. Alongside the elimination…

Makkah (AX) – In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties, Somali Minister of Endorsements and Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, convened an important meeting on Sunday with Prof. Dr. Ali Erbaş, the esteemed President of Türkiye’s Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı). This important dialogue took place at the Turkish Hajj Affairs Office, nestled within the holy city of Makkah, a location imbued with profound spiritual significance for Muslims around the globe. Sheikh Robow…

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, thousands of Syrian refugees in Türkiye eagerly flocked to border crossings. This year marked the first Eid al-Adha since the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, and the anticipation was palpable. The significance of this holiday, a time of reflection, reunion, and hope, was woven into the very fabric of their plans. Local media captured poignant scenes: long lines of families waiting at border gates days before June 6, ready to embrace the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a noteworthy display of international camaraderie, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan engaged in a phone conversation with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This exchange served not merely as a diplomatic gesture but as a reaffirmation of Turkey’s steadfast support for Somalia—support that encompasses not only developmental goals but also critical facets of security and democratic aspirations. The dialogue between the two leaders was more than just a routine check-in. According to a statement…

A Tragedy in Northern Nigeria: Lives Lost and Communities Uprooted In the north-central heart of Nigeria, a tragedy unfolded as relentless downpours claimed the lives of over 150 souls. The flooding inundated a bustling market town, painting a grim picture that Saturday witnessed, according to reports from local emergency services. Imagine waking up one morning to find your world submerged. In Mokwa, a town nestled over 180 miles west of Abuja, that became a harsh reality for more than 3,000 residents, as floodwaters…