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Austrian authorities have announced the arrest of 15 individuals in connection with a disturbing series of hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ community. Following coordinated raids across the country, the police apprehended 12 men and three women who are suspected of engaging in assaults and robberies masquerading as acts of "vigilante justice." In a statement, law enforcement officials noted that the suspects claimed their actions were intended to “combat paedophiles.” These individuals allegedly resorted to creating…

Somali Army's Strategic Advances Against Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - In recent months, there's been a palpable shift in Somalia's ongoing campaign against the notorious militant group, Al-Shabaab. The Somali National Army (SNA), in collaboration with local forces, has been at the heart of it all, engaging in daring operations across the central and southern regions of the country. But why now? What’s driving this momentum toward stability?…

Beledweyne Community Unites for Democratic Elections and Al-Shabaab Resistance In an inspiring turn of events, the Hawadle community of Somalia has thrown its weight behind the federal government's vision to introduce one-person, one-vote elections. After years of indirect voting processes, this marks a significant departure. Yet, what spurred this shift in political culture? Perhaps it’s the timeless truth that voices directly cast are the echoes of genuine democracy. During a momentous gathering on a sunny…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. TORONTO, Canada (AX) — In a city bustling with diversity and stories, Toronto is poised to turn a page that many in its vibrant Somali community have long awaited. The federal government's recent pledge of $20 million to bring the Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation (SCCR) to life in the Rexdale neighborhood represents not just financial support but a recognition of decades of advocacy by Black and Muslim communities within Canada's most populous city. This…

Community Support and International Cooperation in Northeastern State's Battle Against ISIS Twin Cities attorney Abdifatah Mohamed passionately addressed a gathering in Minneapolis, urging members of the community to rally behind Northeastern State's efforts in combatting the rising threat of ISIS. His message resonates particularly with Minnesota's Somali community, many of whom trace their roots back to the turbulent but resilient land of Northeastern State. Can we begin to fathom the complex ties that bind…

NAIROBI, Kenya — In a vivid tableau of anticipation and pride, Hormuud Telecom, a stalwart in Somalia's telecommunications landscape, emerged victorious once more. The prestigious accolade of Excellence in Telecommunications and Community Service Award was bestowed upon them at the Future Grow Forum hosted in Nairobi, on a breezy February 6th, 2025. Have you ever pondered what it takes to excel in the world's most formidable industry landscapes? Presented by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, this…

In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, there’s a campus event that, year after year, breathes life into the rich tapestry of Somali culture. This Saturday, The Ohio State University’s Somali Students Association (SSA) will host its shimmering 20th anniversary celebration, featuring the celebrated Somali Night—a cultural resurgence for those near and far. Picture this: two decades ago, an intimate, unassuming gathering marked the humble beginnings of what would become a cornerstone for cultural celebration. Now, it blooms into a…

Beledweyne (AX) –  Against a backdrop of dust and determination, Somali National Army (SNA) forces, hand in hand with local clan militias, valiantly reclaimed the Beera Yabaal area on Monday after a fierce tango with Al-Shabaab militants that lasted for hours. This reclaimed territory sits snug between Buula Burte and Halgan districts, standpoints lately rumored to be Al-Shabaab's cozy rendezvous spots. Cheers echo for these triumphs, yet linger questions like shadows – what's next? Nestled in the heart of Hiiraan, Beera…

It’s hard to look away from the tumultuous scene unfolding in the aftermath of the October 2024 elections. Protests have erupted across the country; citizens, disillusioned with the electoral process and fed up with heavy-handed police tactics, are expressing their anger in the streets. However, as Borges Nhamirre eloquently argues for the Institute for Security Studies, these chaotic demonstrations and the police’s indiscriminate crackdowns aren’t the root of the issue—they’re merely the visible symptoms of a much deeper…

With the dawn of 2025, I found myself embarking on a nostalgic weeklong journey back to my roots – the small town of Buuloburte. The last time I set foot in this quaint dot on the map was back in August 2023, when a break from the daily grind led me here for a refreshing week. This time, however, I was playing the role of dutiful son, escorting my mother back home after a delightful, yet languorous, stay in the hustle and bustle of Mogadishu. Imagine our arrival at Buuloburte airport on January 2nd—an airstrip bustling with…