advocates

Somalia: President Hassan Sheikh Defends Push for Direct Elections MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a pivotal moment for Somalia, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has passionately defended his initiative for direct elections. He argues persuasively that Somalis deserve a transparent electoral process where everyone can participate equally in choosing their leaders. This position, while bold, has generated significant controversy and discourse. Imagine a country emerging from decades of turmoil.…

Northeastern State's President Calls for Comprehensive Dialogue Over Symbolic Gatherings In a moment that resonates deeply within Somalia's political landscape, Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni has firmly rejected the national consultation forum initiated by Somalia’s federal government, deeming it little more than a symbolic gesture. His challenge emphasizes the need for a more substantive gathering that facilitates genuine collaboration and yields national consensus. The backdrop to this unfolding drama…

As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made a passionate plea to the citizens, especially media professionals and content creators. He urged them to adopt a balanced approach in portraying the nation, emphasizing the importance of sharing not only our challenges but also our successes. A conversation with Business Insider Africa allowed Mr. Idris to share invaluable insights into the nation’s achievements over the years. It’s…

Tánaiste Simon Harris has formally requested that the EU's trade commissioner, Maroš Šefčovič, consider exempting crucial Irish sectors—including aviation, medical, agrifood, and the equine industry—from potential retaliatory tariffs on US products, should the ongoing trade negotiations falter. In a letter obtained by RTÉ News, Harris emphasized the need for careful deliberation, especially given the potential impact of such tariffs on Northern Ireland. As the former Brexit negotiator for the EU, Šefčovič is positioned to…

The Journey of Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG): A Hopeful Yet Shaky Future In a recent statement reflecting its ongoing commitment to the nation, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed a distinct interest in Zimbabwe's new currency, ZiG. The organization has articulated its desire to see this currency evolve into a “fully recognized national currency.” This development is part of broader considerations regarding placing Zimbabwe under a staff-monitored program. But what does this mean for the everyday…

AU Criticizes Expanded Travel Ban Recently, the African Union (AU) expressed serious concerns regarding a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which imposes sweeping travel restrictions. This order affects nationals from 12 countries, including Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Sudan, and Somalia—nations that have often faced challenges in the realm of immigration and security. Beyond these 12, there are additional implications for individuals from seven…

In the digital age, visuals can encapsulate stories that words sometimes struggle to convey. The poignant photo collage featuring activists Agather Atuhaire and Boniface Mwangi vividly highlights their brave stand against adversity. Yet, behind the smiles and determination, there lies a harrowing tale that continues to affect not just the individuals involved, but the broader fabric of civil rights in the region. Recently, a coalition of human rights organizations has taken on the monumental task of advocating for…

Engaging in Dialogue: A Commitment to Somalia’s Future The recent remarks made by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo highlight a pivotal moment in Somalia's political landscape. “I welcome the timeline for the national consultative dialogue proposed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud concerning critical national issues, particularly elections, security, and the Constitution,” he expressed. This sentiment reverberates through the hearts of many Somalis who yearn for a cohesive and sustainable political…

The Future of Open-Source Models: Governance and Collaboration In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, a salient topic of discourse unites researchers, tech executives, and policymakers: the governance of open-source models. These models, characterized by their free accessibility and capacity for modification, offer incredible potential but also pose significant questions about ownership, accountability, and ethical standards. How can we strike a balance that fosters innovation while…

Northeastern State Advocates for Broader Political Dialogue Over NCC Participation AXADLE, Somalia – In a bold and decisive move, Northeastern State of Somaliaof Somalia has opted out of rejoining the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) talks in Mogadishu. Instead, they are calling for a more inclusive and comprehensive political conversation that goes beyond the current setup. But why this divergence? As Abdifatah Abdinuur, the State Minister for the Presidency of Northeastern State, explained to BBC Somali,…