aid

In a remarkable twist of events, one of former President Donald Trump's initial actions upon entering the White House was to freeze nearly all overseas funding for a period of 90 days. The administration argued that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was not only inefficient but also misaligned with U.S. interests. Critics within the administration referred to the agency as being "run by radical lunatics," a statement that surely left many citizens pondering the future of foreign aid. With an…

On the sun-drenched edges of Mogadishu, lies a place many would rather forget, yet can't afford to. It's the Al-Hidaya camp, a testament to both resilience and despair. Here, beneath an unforgiving sky, Somali mothers shield their little ones, desperately trying to ward off the harshness of their reality with mere cloth scraps. As the capital of Somalia looms in the distance, a cruel irony unfolds: proximity to potential aid, but separated by a chasm of systemic hurdles. Once, the thought of fleeing from the…

Tuesday unfolded under a poignant cloud of uncertainty for humanitarian organizations and those dependent on food aid throughout Somalia. In a world where every grain counts, such anxieties ripple through the community, stirring both concern and confusion. The following day brought a mix of relief and bewilderment. Officials articulated that the Trump administration had shifted gears, opting to reverse previously announced, sweeping cuts to emergency food assistance for several nations. However, this decision did…

The Reinstatement of International Aid: Balancing Acts and Humanitarian Needs In a world where the need for international aid is as pressing as ever, the decisions made by governments can ripple far and wide. Such decisions were recently brought to light regarding the reinstatement of four awards to the International Organization for Migration in the Pacific region. This change in course sheds light on a narrative filled with challenges, missteps, and eventual corrective action. Two sources with insider…

Mogadishu (AX) – Can you imagine the palpable relief felt when an impending disaster is averted? Such relief was witnessed in Somalia, between the years 2021 and 2024, thanks to the resolute and scaled-up efforts of United Nations humanitarian agencies and their partners. Despite facing daunting operational hurdles, their combined endeavors succeeded in staving off what could have been a catastrophic famine. This critical information was revealed in a recent independent evaluation that beckons us to ponder: what does it…

USAID's Role in Africa and the Recent Policy Impacts USAID, an abbreviation that might not ring a bell for everyone, stands for the United States Agency for International Development. Over the years, it has essentially woven itself into the developmental tapestry of Africa. From health to education, and from economic growth to humanitarian aid, USAID has been like a helping hand that you didn't even realize kept so many things from slipping. But here’s a twist in the tale: recent shifts in U.S. policy have made this hand…

Mogadishu (AX) — The path to Mogadishu is fraught with challenges. Once-thriving towns now lay shattered, with makeshift outposts marking territories—changing hands one too many times, too quickly to remember. A new report from the insightful Soufan Center has painted a stark picture: Al-Shabaab's newest offensive in central Somalia threatens to destabilize Mogadishu. The capital stands vulnerable as Somalia’s forces—spread far too thin—grapple with an alarming surge in militant activities. Since February 2025, a chilling…

In an increasingly interconnected world, the call for unity resonates with even greater urgency. This sentiment was echoed profoundly when President Museveni met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They issued a compelling plea to the international community, rallying support for the Somali Security Development Plan. Why does this appeal hold significant weight? Let’s dive into the dialogue and unravel the nuances. Imagine a future where Somalia stands resilient, safeguarded by its own dedicated security forces.…

Türkiye's involvement in Somalia's security landscape has grown notably, bringing forth a dynamic partnership aimed at counteracting terrorism through strategic means and bolstered military assistance. This collaboration comes as part of a broader commitment to support Somalia's administration in its ongoing battle against extremist threats.The foundations of this strengthened relationship were laid during Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's recent visit to Ankara. It was more than just a formal meeting—it was a forging…

For decades, USAID has been a cornerstone of numerous development projects across Africa. This support has primarily focused on the critical areas of health, education, economic growth, and humanitarian aid. Each of these sectors serves as a life raft for communities striving to rise above poverty and illness. Yet, let us ponder for a moment—what happens when the tide of support suddenly shifts? The Trump administration, bringing a gust of new policies, stirred these…