Somalia

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…

North Western State of Somalia's Political Future: A Critical Meeting at the Presidential Palace In a significant stride towards reinforcing national unity and safeguarding the integrity of North Western State of Somalia, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro convened a pivotal meeting this Tuesday. Gathering the leaders of the region’s three primary political parties—Waddani, Kulmiye, and UCID—this closed-door dialogue took place at the majestic Presidential Palace. It marked the first official…

Northeastern State Parliament Expels Former Speaker as Arrest Warrant Is Issued AXADLE, Somalia – In a significant political move on Tuesday, lawmakers within the semi-autonomous territory of Northeastern State, Somalia, made a decisive decision. They voted overwhelmingly to expel former parliamentary speaker, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril, in a session that unfolded with an intensity rarely seen in Garowe, the region's capital. The vote—38 in favor, one dissenting, with four…

Somalia’s Diplomatic Renaissance: Expanding Horizons DAR ES SALAAM, 12 July 2025 — Somalia, once a sidelined voice on the global stage, is now emerging with a renewed vigor and determination. This transformation is evident through a series of strategic diplomatic endeavors, spotlighting its commitment to forge strong regional and international ties. Helming this ambitious effort is Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan. His dual role as Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and Permanent Representative to the East African Community…

The recent report by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) sheds light on a troubling reality: eight African nations are grappling with some of the most overlooked humanitarian crises in the world. These crises—rooted in ongoing conflict, climate shocks, and displacement—are often sidelined by limited funding, inadequate media coverage, and insufficient response from the global community. What does this mean for the lives of millions? In many cases, these crises unfold in obscurity, far removed from the pages of…