Community

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…

Tigray Muslims Speak Out on Hijab Ban in Schools ADDIS ABABA - The Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council is sounding the alarm over a new prohibition on hijabs in the Axum area, and they're not just going to sit back. They are brainstorming "further peaceful steps in consultation with believers" to tackle this quandary. "We urge for adherence to the dress code regulations set forth by the Federal Ministry of Education for Muslim students," the Council advised in a communiqué from Mekelle, Tigray's regional capital. The…

Recent reports have emerged of new cholera cases at the Gache Gache fishing camp and Nyamhunga village, not long after the previous outbreak was officially declared over. Alarmingly, this situation raises concerns about the potential for the highly mobile fishmongering community to facilitate the disease's spread throughout Kariba and its neighboring regions. Tragically, one individual has succumbed to the illness, while 14 others are suspected to be infected. In response, the health ministry has actively engaged…

On October 31, Mali's transitional national council approved a law that criminalizes homosexuality, a move that casts a long shadow over the nation’s LGBTQI+ community. This newly minted legislation heightens the dangers of stigma, discrimination, and violence against individuals identifying as part of this community across Mali. This isn't just a recent shift; Mali's human rights landscape has dramatically declined since January. The government has rolled out harsh measures targeting opposition groups, mainstream media,…

Reporters from Bush Radio, a community radio station based in South Africa, are currently sharing their insights live from New York as part of an ambitious 14-month initiative. This project, aptly named "Strengthening Democratic Values through Cross-Cultural Journalistic Collaboration," seeks to enhance journalistic ties between South Africa and the United States. At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to nurturing up-and-coming journalists from both countries. Together, they aim to tackle the pervasive issues of…