Baidoa

**Baidoa, Somalia (AX)** — In a shocking display of force, Al-Shabab militants unleashed a wave of mortar attacks late Sunday night against a military base situated in the Barujed area. This base lies on the periphery of Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of Somalia’s Southwest state. What is particularly chilling is that the base represents one of the most fortified installations near Baidoa, underscoring the escalating tensions in a region that has seen a worrying uptick in militant activity in recent weeks. The…

Conflict Erupts Again in Baidoa: A Closer Look Baidoa, Somalia — On a seemingly ordinary Monday morning, the calm was shattered by the unmistakable sounds of conflict. Intense fighting erupted between Somali government forces and the militant group al-Shabab, as the latter launched a brazen assault on a military base located just outside Baidoa. This incident, which unfolded in the early hours, has already left its mark on the local community and raised urgent questions about the ongoing security challenges in the region.…

Unpacking Justice: A Firing Squad Execution in Baidoa Baidoa (AX) — A somber chapter unfolded in the South West state of Somalia on Sunday, when authorities executed a man by firing squad. This was not an ordinary occurrence; the execution transpired less than 24 hours after the court had convicted the individual for taking the life of a young office worker. The urgency of this case has left many pondering the balance between swift justice and due process in a tumultuous legal landscape. The Incident That Sparked Swift…

The Struggles of Displaced Families in Baidoa: A Glimpse into Their Lives In a world where the echoes of hope often clash with the harsh realities of survival, we find compelling stories of resilience and despair. In the IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camp situated in Baidoa, Somalia, the plight of families like that of Quresho Adan Ishaq captures attention. A widow who has been blind since birth, Quresho is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who fight against dire odds to nurture the next generation.…

Baidoa (AX) — In a significant meeting held on Wednesday, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, engaged in discussions with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed, commonly known as ‘Laftagareen,’ and his cabinet. The focus was on critical issues that resonate deeply within the Somali context: national political dialogue, security operations, electoral planning, and the pressing need for humanitarian assistance. Following the meeting, Swan addressed the media, emphasizing…

Tragic Incident in Baidoa: A Heartbreaking Loss Baidoa, the interim capital of Somalia's Southwest Administration, has once again become the backdrop of sorrow and despair. On a seemingly tranquil Saturday, a devastating attack shocked the community when mortar shells, allegedly fired by Al-Shabaab militants, struck a residential neighborhood. In this tragic event, a mother and her young child lost their lives, while four other children were left injured. How do we reconcile such moments of profound…

Al-Shabaab's Ominous Return: Farmers in Fear in Somalia's Bay Region Mogadishu (AX) — In a troubling development that has stirred anxiety among local communities, heavily armed al-Shabaab militants are asserting their presence once again in rural areas surrounding Baidoa, located in Somalia's Bay region. A growing number of residents reported on Saturday that these militants have taken to the fields, explicitly warning farmers to abandon their livelihoods. “You cannot visit or go to work on your farm,”…

Breaking News: Ground Forces Successfully Engage Al-Shabaab in Baidoa Mogadishu (AX) — In a bold and determined effort to curb the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab, Somali government forces, along with regional Darwish units from the South West State, effectively neutralized more than 35 militants in a carefully coordinated military operation near Baidoa. This decisive action was confirmed by military officials on Thursday. The operation was strategically centered on Baay Burjeed, a rural locality situated…

Somali Forces Successfully Repel Al-Shabaab Attack in Gasarta Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of resolve, Somali government forces, alongside local militias, thwarted an attempted attack by the militant group Al-Shabaab in the Gasarta area, a crucial route linking Baidoa and Deynuunay. This encounter unfolded on Wednesday, resulting in the death of at least ten militants, as reported by military officials. An official from the Somali National Army (SNA) stated, "The Khawarij terrorists tried to carry out an…

Baidoa (AX) – In a heartfelt turn of events, the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) showcased on Sunday a poignant moment of redemption and transformation. Ten individuals, previously enmeshed in the Al-Shabaab insurgency, have taken the brave step of surrendering themselves in Baidoa, the administrative heart of the Bay region. The path to change is seldom easy, but for these young men, this decision heralds the beginning of a new journey filled with hope and possibility. The complexity of…