convene

U.S. and Russian envoys met in Miami for the latest talks aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, with Moscow’s representative calling the discussions “constructive” as the Trump administration seeks to coax both sides toward a deal. Kirill Dmitriev, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special envoy, told reporters the meeting with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, was productive and would continue. A White House official said the talks had concluded for the day. “The…

KISMAYO, Somalia — A coalition of Somali opposition leaders on Saturday gave President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud one month to convene an inclusive national dialogue on elections, warning they will move to organize an alternative process if he fails to act by Jan. 20, 2026. In a communiqué issued after a three-day meeting in Kismayo from Dec. 18–20, the Somali Future Council (SFC) said an urgent, consensus-based agreement is needed to avert a “constitutional vacuum, security crisis and the threat of terrorism.” The newly formed…

Somali Political Leaders Hold Closed-Door Talks in Kismayo KISMAYO, Somalia — Senior Somali political figures held closed-door meetings Friday at the Jubaland presidential palace in the southern city of Kismayo, in what participants described as a pivotal bid to shape the country’s political path and the 2026 elections. Officials briefed on the discussions said the talks centered on finalizing the structure and mandate of a proposed body called the Future Council of Somalia, which backers say is intended to guide the…

Somalia’s fragile federal compact faces a test as Mogadishu convenes regional leaders on 2026 elections MOGADISHU — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud will host a carefully staged meeting in Mogadishu this week with leaders from three federal member states, a gathering that officials say is aimed at salvaging a badly strained process for the 2026 national elections. Expected to attend are Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen) of South West, Ahmed Abdi Kariye (Qoorqoor) of Galmudug, and Ali Gudlawe Hussein of HirShabelle. But…

Top brass of the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) recently converged at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo. Their mission? To unpack strategies and beef up the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) with fresh insights and tactical savvy. This powwow, taking place over four intense days, is dubbed the “Lessons Learned” workshop. Its goal is to amplify UPDF’s victories in bringing stability to Somalia, while also tackling the uphill battles still on the horizon.…

“Catch a glimpse of the gathering in Nairobi as Eric Rutto, President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, presided over a crucial meeting at Ecobank’s CEOs Forum on November 8.”In the hustle and bustle of Kenya's capital, top executives gathered to brainstorm fresh strategies for taking Kenyan businesses to new heights. Imagine expanding not just within the region, but globally! This conversation aligns closely with the ambitious African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). With the AfCFTA on the…

Kismayo (AX) — A cohort of more than 30 Somali lawmakers recently convened in Kismayo for a pivotal meeting orchestrated by Jubbaland's head honcho, Ahmed Madobe. The agenda? To chew over the fascinating nuances of Somalia's political landscape and its various storms. Originally penciled in for Friday, the shindig got rescheduled. Why the delay, you ask? They needed some extra MPs, who were currently chilling outside Somalia, to join the discussions. Clock's ticking, but better late than never, right?In a show of strong…

Sure, let's breathe some life into this piece with a more engaging tone and varied structure. Tensions Rise as Jubbaland and Federal Government Clash In a twist of political developments, a wave of federal lawmakers from Jubbaland made their way to Kismayo on Thursday. The reason? To dive into a pivotal consultation meeting orchestrated by none other than Ahmed Madobe, the head honcho of Jubbaland. The temperature is rising as anticipation builds for these discussions. Now, you might be wondering, what's the big deal…

This week, leaders from the Commonwealth, a global organization primarily comprised of former British colonies, have convened in the picturesque Pacific island nation of Samoa. After two decades of waiting, it’s Africa’s turn to fill the Secretary-General role. However, the agenda is igniting debate, particularly regarding the contentious topic of reparations. In the spotlight are three contenders fiercely competing for the esteemed position: Ghana's Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey; the erstwhile trade and…

Upon touching down in Uganda, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was treated to a lavish welcome at Entebbe International Airport, courtesy of Uganda’s Foreign Affairs head honcho, General Jeje Odongo. CREDIT Villa SomaliaMogadishu (AX) — Intent on bolstering key alliances, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud embarked on a mission to Uganda this past Saturday. This trip signifies Somalia's resolve to forge deeper connections with regional pals as it inches towards taking the reins of its security from African Union…