Somalia

The Perilous Journey to Saudi Arabia: A Story of Hope and Despair Crossing deserts on foot, engaging with unscrupulous smugglers, braving the treacherous sea—these are the harsh realities faced by countless migrants attempting to reach Saudi Arabia. Their journey often entails enduring abuse from armed factions and navigating highly fortified mountain borders, which have long been the backdrop of conflict. In 2023, a report by Human Rights Watch shed light on the egregious abuses allegedly perpetrated by Saudi border…

Tragic Attack in Mandera: Quarry Workers Killed by Suspected Al-Shabaab Militants MANDERA, Kenya - In a deeply unsettling event, at least five quarry workers lost their lives at the hands of suspected Al-Shabaab militants in the quiet village of Bur Abor, near the Kenya-Somalia border. This harrowing attack unfolded a mere two weeks after the militants had released five local administrators, raising intense concerns about the region's security. The attack occurred at dawn, around 7 AM East African Time. Armed fighters…

The Harrowing Struggles of Laqaanley Village The plight of those in Laqaanley village is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by communities in drought-stricken areas. Farhiyo, a local resident, shared her experience, revealing the agonizing process of seeking credit from shopkeepers for the food her family desperately needs. Speaking candidly with Radio Ergo, she described a scene fraught with desperation. “The problem is worse for humans than for livestock. We have debts…

Charting North Western State of Somalia's Democratic Journey: A Ground-Level Perspective Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring GAROWE, Somalia (Kaab TV) – In a vibrant telling of how North Western State of Somalia is carving out its democratic landscape, Kaab TV's most recent "Ardaa" episode brought audiences insights into the local pulse—a stirring exploration of Somalia’s democratization from the bottom up. Against the backdrop of Puntland’s rise as a promising…

The Complex Landscape of Somali Politics: A Humanitarian Gesture or Political Strategy? Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of Somali politics, a notable event unfolded earlier this month—a moment that many believe could reshape the future of the region. The SSC-Khaatumo administration recently released 25 prisoners to Somalia's federal government, coinciding with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s groundbreaking visit to Las Anod. Such a visit had not been made by a sitting Somali prime minister in over 50 years. It is…

Somalia’s President Applauds Northeastern State Forces’ Achievements Against ISIS Introduction In a compelling op-ed featured in Al Sharq Al Awsat, an international publication, Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, celebrated the commendable achievements of Northeastern State's forces. His article, aptly titled “Protecting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden”, weaves a narrative of triumph, intelligence, and the ever-looming threat of regional instability. Revealing Deep Connections It's intriguing how sometimes the most…

Despite global efforts to eradicate it, female genital mutilation (FGM) continues to pose a significant threat to the health and rights of millions of girls. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning: while cases of FGM have declined globally, the alarming trend is that healthcare professionals are increasingly becoming the perpetrators. As of 2020, an estimated 52 million girls and women worldwide—approximately one in four—have faced this harrowing procedure at the hands of those we trust to heal us.…

Canada’s New Political Dawn: Reflections on Leadership and National Identity In a stunning turn of events, Mark Carney, a seasoned former central banker, has transitioned from the world of finance to the intricate arena of Canadian politics. Having never held an elected office until this moment, Carney exuded a passionate defiance in his call to action, asserting that he would “fight back with everything we have.” What does this mean for Canada, particularly in relation to its largest trading partner, the United States?…

IGAD Embraces Somalia’s New Foreign Minister with Hope and Collaboration MOGADISHU, Somalia - Recently, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) extended a warm welcome to Somalia's newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdisalam Abdi Ali. In a country grappling with heightened security challenges and diplomatic hurdles, Ali's arrival is seen as both timely and crucial. Taking over the reins from Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, who has shifted to the defense portfolio under Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s…

Tragic Airstrike in Yemen: Impact on African Migrants Mogadishu (AX) — In a sorrowful turn of events, reports have surfaced indicating that Somali nationals are among the many lives claimed by a U.S. airstrike that targeted a detention facility in Saada governorate, northern Yemen. This incident, which took place on a seemingly ordinary Monday, has elicited a great deal of concern and outrage both locally and internationally, as the implications of such military actions continue to ripple through communities.…