military

UN Envoy: Somali Government Urged to Reconsider Strategy Against Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a land where conflict has become woven into the very fabric of society, the struggle against Al-Shabaab seems far from its end. According to a United Nations special envoy, the Somali National Army (SNA) and its allies might find themselves entrenched in a seemingly endless battle. Might it be time to reimagine the strategies we've held dear? Recently, the United States, a pivotal…

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba Extends Apology to Western Diplomats KAMPALA, Uganda - In a striking turn of events, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the outspoken Chief of the Defence Forces of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has issued an apology to Western diplomats. This follows a period of tension marked by actions perceived as threats by these diplomats. General Muhoozi, known for his sometimes controversial remarks, was reportedly…

TAN TAN, Morocco — The narrative around U.S. military involvement in Africa is undergoing a profound transformation. Traditionally, the emphasis has been on promoting good governance and addressing the root causes of insurgency. However, recent developments indicate a newfound focus on empowering African allies to stand on their own. This shift was especially evident during the African Lion exercise—America's largest joint training operation on the continent. “We need to be able to get our partners to the level of…

Shifting Dynamics: UPDF Suspends Cooperation with Germany On May 25, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) made a significant announcement that sent ripples through diplomatic circles: they have suspended all defence and military cooperation with the Federal Republic of Germany. The catalyst? Allegations surrounding Germany's Ambassador to Uganda, Mathias Schauer. UPDF spokesperson Chris Magezi indicated that credible intelligence had surfaced, suggesting Ambassador Schauer's…

Villa Somalia Under Scrutiny: Allegations of Helicopter Misuse Stir Controversy MOGADISHU, Somalia - The corridors of power in Mogadishu are abuzz with a burgeoning controversy. At the heart of it lies the alleged misuse of helicopters, intended for the Somali National Army's crucial operations against Al-Shabaab, a militant group posing a persistent threat to peace. The details are still emerging, shrouded in a veil of secrecy, but what’s clear is that fingers are pointing towards Villa Somalia—the seat of the…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant show of commitment to national security, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paid a visit to the Ministry of Defense in Mogadishu this past Thursday. This engagement brought him face-to-face with key defense and military leaders, providing a crucial platform to discuss the current security landscape and the ongoing endeavors in the protracted fight against Al-Shabaab. The aim of this visit goes beyond a mere inspection. As articulated by the Presidency, it serves as part of…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a move reflecting deepening concerns over the country’s security landscape, Somali President Hassan Sheikh recently visited the Defense Ministry. This visit comes on the heels of setbacks that the national army has endured on the battlefield, notably the loss of the strategic town of Aadan Yabaal to Al-Shabaab militants just last month. Addressing Growing Concerns As Al-Shabaab continues its advances throughout central and southern Somalia, the pressure mounts on government forces. They are…

Decisive Strides Against Al-Shabaab: A Glimpse from Somalia's Battlefield Location: Kismayo, Somalia - In a country burdened with the weight of enduring conflict, hope emerges through strategic victories. The Somali National Army (SNA), with steadfast resolve, is making noteworthy progress in central and southern regions of the nation. Al-Shabaab, the militant group that has cast its shadow over Somalia for years, finds itself facing substantial setbacks due to meticulously planned military operations. Leading the charge…

International Condemnation of Suicide Bombing in Somalia In a tragic turn of events, a suicide bombing took place on Sunday near a military base in the bustling capital of Somalia, Mogadishu. This horrifying act was met with swift and strong condemnation from nations including Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Such coordinated denouncements reflect a broader commitment across the region to combatting violence and upholding peace. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry was among the first to respond, strongly denouncing…

Somali Army Embarks on Major Offensive in Central Regions MOGADISHU, Somalia - The gentle hum of the city masks the underlying tensions, where in the midst of persistent challenges, the Somali National Army (SNA) has decisively initiated a significant offensive against militant groups. These operations, pivotal in nature, aim to reclaim pivotal areas from insurgents in central Somalia. Joining forces with regional allies, the SNA has targeted Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions,…