leaders

Rebuilding Bridges: Macron's Historic Visit to Madagascar This recent visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Madagascar is much more than a diplomatic engagement; it symbolizes France's renewed commitment to rekindling its influence in Africa. In a landscape where its presence has waned in former colonies, this visit marks a pivotal moment for both nations. Let's consider context for a moment. France has seen its presence diminish in several African nations, including Gabon, Chad, and Niger, where military juntas…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a tumultuous scene that echoed through the halls of Somalia's parliament, prominent opposition figures including former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have spoken out vehemently against the violent altercation that unfolded during Wednesday’s session of the House of the People. Their unified stance not only highlights the gravity of the situation but also emphasizes the urgent need for integrity within Somalia’s political…

1. Martti Ahtisaari: The Global Visionary Peacemaker for Africa Martti Ahtisaari, former president of Finland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of global conflict resolution. His dedication to fostering stability, particularly across Africa, is not only commendable but also transformative. Ahtisaari's mediation efforts have played a pivotal role in Namibia's independence and in the peace processes of various other African nations. What sets his approach apart is his unwavering respect…

Mogadishu (AX) — This week saw a significant political gathering in Villa Somalia, where former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon Saacid met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The discussions centered around the pressing nature of Somalia’s upcoming elections and the precariousness of the nation’s security landscape—a topic that resonates deeply with so many Somalis today. In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, Shirdoon, who now leads the Nagaad political party,…

The TIME100 Most Influential People of 2025: Celebrating African Changemakers The highly esteemed TIME100 list for 2025 recognizes African innovators, leaders, and game-changers who are not only transforming their countries but also making a significant impact on the world stage. This annual celebration doesn't simply spotlight fame; it highlights the unsung heroes who are shaping our future in various sectors, including politics, culture, science, and beyond. What does it mean to be influential in today's interconnected…

Cairo (AX) — This past Tuesday, a significant meeting took place in the vibrant heart of Cairo, where a high-level Somali delegation had a productive dialogue with General Osama Sayyid, the Secretary-General of Egypt’s Council of Ministers. This gathering aimed to foster and enhance bilateral cooperation in the realms of public sector development and institutional reform. The discussions underscored a shared vision: strengthening the bonds between Somalia and Egypt. At the core of these talks was the aspiration to modernize…

UK Hosts Global Conference Calling for Swift End to Sudan Conflict The United Kingdom has spearheaded international appeals for an immediate end to the devastating war in Sudan, hosting top global diplomats to discuss new humanitarian aid commitments as the crisis enters its third year. The conflict, erupting on April 15, 2023, arises from a power struggle between Sudan's regular army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), headed by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Neither leader attended…

U.S. and Partners Crack Down on Al-Shabaab’s Financial Operations with New Sanctions In a fresh effort to curtail the ongoing threat from Al-Shabaab, the United States, in coordination with the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center (TFTC), recently imposed sanctions against key operatives integral to the group's financial and operational structures. While such moves are hardly new, this latest action emphasizes the growing urgency felt by international partners to disrupt Al-Shabaab's extensive financial networks. Have…

After Al-Shabaab Abduction, Mandera Chiefs Reunite With Families MANDERA, Kenya - It’s a day etched into the memory of Mandera: a day when the much-anticipated presidential visit was overshadowed by a dark cloud covering the fate of five local chiefs. Earlier this year, these community leaders found themselves in the throes of uncertainty, kidnapped by the ominous presence of Al-Shabaab. For 60 arduous days, their families grasped onto threads of hope, peering into the abyss of negotiations that spanned borders and…

Mogadishu (AX) – A fresh breeze of dialogue is about to sweep through Somalia as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extends a heartfelt invitation to the federal member state leaders. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mogadishu, the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, scheduled for May 1–2, carries with it the weight of addressing the intricate tapestry of Somalia’s political and security landscape. Villa Somalia, in its statement on Friday, captured this moment as a critical juncture,…