commits

The African Union (AU) remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering peace and stability in Somalia, even as it grapples with significant financial hurdles impacting its peacekeeping mission in the Horn of Africa. This dedication is not merely a bureaucratic obligation; it's a pressing moral imperative driven by the multi-layered struggles of the Somali people. Can we truly imagine a future where these challenges are met with unwavering resolve? At the forefront of this initiative is the Chairperson of the African Union…

In a commendable display of leadership and commitment, Angolan President João Lourenço has announced a voluntary contribution of $5 million to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This decision is not merely a financial gesture; it represents a pivotal step towards strengthening regional health security and promoting sustainable health financing across the continent. This noteworthy announcement emerged from a high-level meeting held recently in Luanda, where President Lourenço engaged in…

Eswatini's Commitment to OACPS Reform: A Meeting of Minds In a significant display of diplomatic engagement and strategic foresight, Eswatini has once again underscored its commitment to reform within the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). This pivotal moment occurred on Wednesday when Prime Minister Russell Dlamini sat down with Moussa Saleh-Batraki, the newly appointed OACPS secretary general. Their conversation was not just another meeting; it was a crucial step toward redefining the future of…

UK Strengthens Commitment to Somalia’s Security: Additional $3.9 Million Announced Picture this: A young Somali soldier, wounded and stranded at a frontline outpost, urgently needing medical evacuation. A precarious situation, one that has played out too many times, yet resolved swiftly and safely due to crucial international support. It's these often untold and human moments that highlight the importance of steady, reliable partnerships in Somalia's security journey. In a statement shared on Monday, the United Nations…

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently expressed a willingness to consider US President Donald Trump’s proposal for a month-long pause in military action against energy infrastructure in Ukraine. This limited ceasefire is something Ukraine has indicated it is open to evaluating. Despite this development, it's noteworthy that Russia did not provide the full 30-day cessation of hostilities that the United States had advocated for. Experts suggest that President Putin may be using this moment to gain time as Russian…

As we look ahead to the future, envisioning Ghana in 2025, we find ourselves in a dance with both challenge and opportunity. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson recently stepped into the spotlight to unveil the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, offering a roadmap that promises to address the pressing issue of food security amidst soaring inflation. Dr. Forson stood before Parliament, his voice firm yet hopeful, laying out the government's…

UNESCO's Ambitious Water Conservation Project Imagine standing at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peaks glistening under the sun. This isn’t just a majestic scene; it’s a call to action. According to UNESCO's Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, this pristine landscape is in danger, and its very existence is crucial for over two million people. Isn't it fascinating how a simple geographical feature like Mount Kilimanjaro holds so much significance for communities? To preserve…

U.S. Pledges Enhanced Support to Somalia's Northeastern State in ISIS War MOGADISHU, Somalia - The intricate tapestry of war in Somalia gains another layer, as the United States reaffirms its commitment to supporting Northeastern State in its arduous battle against ISIS militants. Just a stone's throw from pulling its troops, the Pentagon seemingly pauses, readying to bolster efforts alongside allies. As a senior Pentagon member whispered to the VOA, "We are here, and we are stepping up our game."…

Mogadishu: A Step Towards Universal Suffrage In a decisive announcement during an interview with VOA Somali, the Somali Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalin Fiqi, made a firm commitment: the Somali federal government is poised to hold universal suffrage elections by the year 2026. This promise marks an ambitious step to encompass all regions, including the often-contentious territories of Northeastern State and Jubbaland. Why is this noteworthy? Let's rewind a bit. Post-1969, Somali elections have hinged on indirect voting…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the ever-beating heart of Somalia, a passionate fervor echoed through the grand hall last week as the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) wrapped up its Fifth Quadrennial Congress in Mogadishu. This assembly wasn't just a meeting; it was a clarion call, a seminal gathering aimed at fortifying the nation's labor movement for the coming years. With a captivating theme—"Empowering Workers' Voice for Justice"—the two-day congress attracted 328 delegates. These included fervent representatives…