influence

Behind Closed Doors: FGS and the Strategic Tug-of-War in Gedo MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has once again set its sights on the Gedo region. This area in Jubbaland is strategically vital and has sparked tensions between Mogadishu and Kismayo, areas that had enjoyed a rare period of calm. Could these new moves be stirring the pot? The intrigue deepens with whispers of the FGS resuming contact with Abdirashid Janan, a name not unfamiliar to controversy. Once a minister in…

The recent peace agreement facilitated by the United States between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo unfolded against the backdrop of a less explored narrative. As noted by Edward DeMarco, a strategist and commentator on African affairs, “Behind last week's U.S-brokered peace deal between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is a hidden storyline: Togo's quest to become West Africa's Rwanda.” This intriguing comparison draws attention to the ambitions of this small West African nation. How did Togo, a…

In an age where geopolitics are increasingly interconnected, the situation unfolding in Ukraine reflects a remarkable evolution in foreign policy, especially as Kyiv seeks to extend its influence into African geopolitics. The ongoing war with Russia is not merely a regional conflict; it's taking on global implications, reshaping alliances, and sparking new initiatives across continents. Recently, speaking to Reuters, Maksym Subkh, Ukraine’s Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa, articulated a…

Somalia Lifts Ban on Taiwanese Passports Amid U.S. Pressure and Geopolitical Tensions MOGADISHU, Somalia - Recently, the Federal Government of Somalia has made a pivotal decision to lift the ban on Taiwanese passport holders. This move is drawing significant attention, particularly due to the influence of the United States and several global stakeholders who had opposed the initial ban. The story reveals a complex interplay of international relations, where diplomacy meets geopolitics in unexpected ways. Back…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant turn of events, the Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition of opposition political figures, has made its stance clear regarding the ongoing selection of members for the National Independent Human Rights Commission. Their strong condemnation highlights serious accusations of unlawful interference by the federal government. Such a bold assertion raises important questions about governance and the integrity of democratic processes. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Forum characterized the…

China's Expanding Military Influence in Africa In recent years, China has noticeably extended its presence in Africa, particularly in nations like Tanzania, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic. One striking facet of this expansion is the establishment of military academies capable of training an ever-growing number of African officers. This change doesn't just represent a shift in military alliances; it signifies a broader and more complicated geopolitical landscape. General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S.…

The Journey of the Somali Language: A Complex Tapestry Many people often ponder a significant question: Why did it take twelve years of independence and two decades of national discussions to reach a consensus on a written Somali language? The answer, as noted by David D. Laitin, is anything but straightforward. He remarked, “Whenever the matter was raised, foreign elements came at work. The people would split into factions—some supporting Somali script for nationalistic reasons, some advocating Arabic script on religious…

A new chapter in the US-China trade conflict has emerged, bringing troubling news for nations engaged in commerce with both powers. Recent reports indicate that China has urged South Korean companies to halt exports of defense-related products to the United States if those products contain rare earth elements sourced from China. These rare earth metals, a collection of 17 elements from the periodic table, are essential for an array of technologies, ranging from smartphones to satellites, as well as key components for…

Hormuud Telecom: Pioneering Somalia's Digital Transformation MOGADISHU, Somalia — Picture a condensed timeline of progress in Somalia's telecommunications landscape, and you'll find Hormuud Telecom at the forefront. On April 17th, the largest privately-owned telecom provider in Somalia took to its official X account, previously known as Twitter, to share a profound message. It boldly highlighted its role in transforming Somalia’s digital market, an endeavor that continues to gain momentum and…

In the shadowy corners of the cryptocurrency market lies a group of sophisticated financial entities playing a pivotal role in its evolution: market makers. Their influence isn't simply about moving assets; it’s about setting the stage for the future of trading in this exciting yet tumultuous landscape. In this article, we will delve into the essentials of market making, trace its roots in traditional finance, and explore its critical function in fostering a more efficient cryptocurrency trading environment.…