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By Mohamed Sheikh Omar Ibrahim Tuesday, July 29, 2025 In Somalia, we find ourselves caught between two stark realities: a landscape rich with potential and one fraught with despair. This paradox raises critical questions about our current and future trajectory. With one of the youngest populations globally, Somalia also grapples with alarmingly high youth unemployment rates. Reflecting on our journey since achieving independence in 1960, it’s clear that the work of liberation transcends just geographical boundaries or…

In the heart of Kenya, a palpable tension courses through the streets as citizens gather in protest. Holding placards emblazoned with "WANTAM," a slogan that creatively encapsulates their desire for President William Ruto to serve just a single term, they assertively raise their index fingers aloft. "He must go," they declare, setting their sights on 2027, just four years away. Some even argue that three years too long. It might seem counterintuitive, but the rise of Kenya’s fifth president, Ruto, has been marked less by…

In a heartfelt display of solidarity, workers across Ireland took a moment to reflect on the ongoing violence in Gaza. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) recently called for a moment of respectful reflection during lunchtime. This initiative is a simple yet powerful way to remember the lives lost over the past 18 months. As Owen Reidy, ICTU General Secretary, aptly stated, “As the appalling violence in Gaza continues, our members felt it was crucial for the trade union movement to lead in reflecting on this tragic…

The Alarming State of Blocked Airline Funds: A Deep Dive Into Africa's Aviation Sector The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently published a comprehensive report that’s raising eyebrows across the globe. What’s particularly striking is that out of fifteen nations listed, twelve from Africa are responsible for approximately 65% of the total blocked airline funds, which resonates to the tune of $846 million—that's quite a hefty sum. Altogether, these funds, which stand at an alarming total of $1.3…

The Aviation Quandary: Blocked Funds in Africa’s Skies It's no secret that the aviation industry plays a critical role in connecting regions and facilitating trade. However, a recent report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) sheds light on an alarming trend: the staggering amount of funds blocked in various African nations, which paints a concerning picture for the continent's aviation sector. Among fifteen nations identified, twelve…

In recent days, the international spotlight has turned towards Somalia, where significant developments in military collaboration and strategic coordination among global powers are unfolding. Just after a notable meeting on Thursday, high-ranking officials from Italy and Turkey undertook visits that could redefine the security landscape of the country. To set the stage, let's take a closer look at the dynamic interactions between these nations and Somalia as it seeks to reclaim its sovereignty. The backdrop for these visits…

In a significant display of international support, high-ranking military officials from Turkey and Italy recently visited Somalia, emphasizing their commitment to bolstering the Somali National Army (SNA) in the ongoing struggle for national security. The visits unfolded against the backdrop of a crucial meeting that occurred on Thursday, where General Luciano Portolano, Italy’s Chief of Defense, held discussions with General Maadey Nuurey Sheikh, Deputy Commander of the SNA. These conversations delved deep into vital…

Ethiopian Prime Minister Set to Visit Mogadishu for Crucial Diplomatic Talks MOGADISHU, Somalia — There is an unmistakable air of anticipation in Mogadishu as Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed prepares for his momentous journey to the city. Until now, officials from both Ethiopian and Somali governments have remained tight-lipped, revealing only this week that such high-level talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud are indeed in the works, with…

Amidst a seemingly endless undercurrent of geopolitical tension, a group of Somali special forces captains stood stoically against the backdrop of 2022. They were part of a specialized commando unit, their faces stern as they engaged with their U.S. Army trainers. The photograph, captured by Luis Tato for The Washington Post, is a vivid reminder of the complex tapestry of military alliances woven across Africa and the Middle East. In Nairobi, recent developments have thrown a wrench into these delicate dynamics. An…

A United States district judge has taken significant steps to protect federal funding for various aid programs by extending a temporary injunction against President Donald Trump's order to freeze these vital resources. This decision, made by Judge Loren AliKhan, addressed the urgent concerns raised by the National Council of Nonprofits and others involved in the legal case, who argued that the freeze would result in "irreparable harm." Just last week, confusion reigned following an unexpected directive from the White…