initiative

In a candid discussion on February 10, 2025, Owino's words laid bare an unsettling truth: the vetting procedure imposed on Somalis had inadvertently fostered corruption. "We just created an opportunity for people to eat," he remarked, encapsulating the sentiment that this process was more a bureaucratic charade than a necessity. Isn't it ironic how measures intended to strengthen can instead unravel at the seams? Kenya's existing ID registration process, according to Owino, is robust enough, encompassing thorough…

In a resolute stride toward equity in public service, President William Ruto inaugurated Kenya's 10th immigration office on Thursday, nestled in the heart of Garissa County. This significant move aims to streamline the passport application process for the residents of Northern Kenya. But why is this such a momentous occasion? Picture a resident from Mandera, Wajir, or Tana River, trekking arduous journeys to Nairobi, Mombasa, or Nakuru merely to procure a passport. The inconvenience and costs add up, don't they? Now, with a…

Hargeisa (AX) – In the ever-complex political landscape of North Western State of Somalia, a glimmer of hope appears to be emerging. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro recently acknowledged a peace proposal extended by Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni, aimed at quelling the tumultuous disputes currently unfolding in the Sanaag region. Could this mark the beginning of a new chapter for this embattled region? In an intimate gathering held at the presidential palace on a breezy Wednesday…

Mogadishu (AX) – As the sun cast its warm rays over Mogadishu, a significant development unfolded in the ongoing battle against terrorism on the African continent. The Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, announced on Monday a remarkable stride in enhancing security within Somalia. Through a dual channel of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and a bilateral pact, Egypt is set to deploy troops on Somali soil—a strategic move aimed…

In an intertwining of diplomacy and defense, Somalia has locked in an agreement with the Egyptian Defence Forces to engage in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, affectionately dubbed AUSSOM. This mission is not merely an acronym; it stands as a symbol of solidarity against the unnerving threats posed by the Al-Shabaab militants. This collaboration between Mogadishu and Cairo is a testament to the old adage: strength in unity. With a tip of the hat and an arsenal in tow, Egypt pledged…

Baidoa (AX) — On a bright Sunday, as the sun painted Baidoa with golden hues, a delegation from Somalia's National Electoral Commission and Boundaries made its entrance, heralding a new chapter in the nation’s electoral journey. They carried with them not just paperwork and plans, but a vision to breathe life into a cornerstone of democracy—a one-person, one-vote electoral system. Yusuf Abdulqadir Mohamed, a seasoned member of the commission with a passion for political revitalization, addressed the press with a determined…

In a shocking twist that has everyone talking from tech behemoths to your savvy aunt who just got the hang of her smartphone, US President Donald Trump unveiled a jaw-dropping $500 billion partnership with Oracle, Japan's SoftBank, and OpenAI, the brain behind ChatGPT, aimed at propelling artificial intelligence infrastructure into the stratosphere. Picture this: the President alongside SoftBank's charismatic CEO Masayoshi Son, OpenAI's innovative head Sam Altman, and Oracle's tech visionary Larry Ellison, sharing grins and…

An expansive view of the bustling cityscape of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, April 24, 2024. REUTERS/Tiksa Negeri/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights In a world where financial stability often dances on the edge of chaos, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given Ethiopia reason for cheer. The IMF's executive board, like the proverbial knight in shining armor, signed off on the second review of Ethiopia's economic aid initiative on Friday. This momentous nod of approval unlocks a substantial disbursement of nearly $250…

In the heart of Baidoa, a storm is brewing. The city, the bustling capital of Southwest State, is bubbling over with frustration and fury as its residents take to the streets to voice their outrage over the alarming wave of youth trafficking that has gripped the community. Picture this: determined faces woven with worry and resilience rallying together, their voices rising in a chorus demanding justice. It's a scene that could move even the hardest of hearts. The message? Crystal clear and urgent. "This is about protecting…

MOGADISHU – In a bid that feels somewhat like pulling rabbits out of a hat, Somalia is striving to open doors for Ethiopia in the troop lineup for the newly envisioned African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, affectionately coined AUSSOM. Diving deep into these waters, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Balcad, steps into the limelight with the declaration. It’s possible you’ve already guessed: he has quite a task ahead of him. Minister Balcad, speaking with an air of resolve, pointed out that the meticulous…