Mogadishu

Mogadishu's Voter Registration: A New Era or More of the Same? MOGADISHU, Somalia - Amidst the sandy winds and bustling streets of Mogadishu, a transformative yet contentious journey begins. As the capital of Somalia strides toward its first local elections in over half a century, the air is thick with anticipation and lingering questions. The call for voter registration has been sounded, sparking a mixture of hope and skepticism among its citizens and politicians alike. The electoral body at the helm, an entity tangled…

In the vibrant city of Mogadishu, a significant moment in Somali politics is unfolding. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has extended a formal invitation to Abdikhadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, commonly known as Firdhiye, the esteemed leader of the interim SSC-Khaatumo administration. Firdhiye has been asked to engage in the pivotal National Consultative Council meeting set to occur in early May. This meeting is gaining considerable attention, as it promises to be a confluence of ideas and a catalyst for political change in the region.…

Voter Registration to Commence in Mogadishu Amid Diverging Opinions in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - It seems President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is ready to advance without engaging in extensive political dialogues. While some might question the efficacy of such a move, he is set on initiating a voter registration exercise. This decision, however, surfaces amidst palpable tension and disagreements with some federal states. Slated for May 2025, the National Consultative Council (NCC) posse…

Las Anod (AX) — At the heart of Somalia's political landscape, a dynamic initiative is emerging. Federal Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Ali, known affectionately by many as Ali Xoosh, has announced a development that could reshape the course of the nation. A new chapter unfolds as the SSC-Khaatumo administration gears up to take a center-stage role in the anticipated National Consultative Council meeting, poised to convene in Mogadishu this coming May. Could this mark a turning point for Somalia's unity and progress?…

Mogadishu (AX) — The delicate relationship between the Somali state and the media has reached another crossroads, underscored by recent developments involving the Shabelle Media Network. This Saturday, the Director General, Abuukar Sheikh Mohamud Abuukar, known as "Sky," alongside Deputy Director Mohamud Abdinasir Soofeysane, found themselves detained by Somali police. These arrests have amplified the ongoing debate surrounding press freedom. Initially summoned individually, both executives soon found…

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,…

The Life and Controversial Death of General Sheegow Mourners gathered in heartfelt unison, their voices echoing through the air with emotional reverberations of "Takbir," as they sought justice for General Sheegow. This was not just another funeral procession—it embodied profound discontent and an underlying quest for clarity. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr. But how does such a sentiment resonate within the unfolding story of General Sheegow? Sentenced to a decade behind…

Mogadishu (AX) — The path to Mogadishu is fraught with challenges. Once-thriving towns now lay shattered, with makeshift outposts marking territories—changing hands one too many times, too quickly to remember. A new report from the insightful Soufan Center has painted a stark picture: Al-Shabaab's newest offensive in central Somalia threatens to destabilize Mogadishu. The capital stands vulnerable as Somalia’s forces—spread far too thin—grapple with an alarming surge in militant activities. Since February 2025, a chilling…

Mogadishu Airport and Halane Camp Face Al-Shabaab Mortar Attacks MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the quiet stillness of the early hours, just as the city was rousing itself from slumber, an unexpected jolt shattered the calm. Al-Shabaab militants launched mortar attacks targeting Mogadishu’s international airport and the adjacent Halane military base. This brazen act once again raised questions about the fragile security state in this East African nation. With two civilians injured and communities rattled, there is much to ponder…

In the heart of Mogadishu, a city that has seen its fair share of tumultuous times, a tragic event unfolded once again on a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning. The city, still cloaked in the silent whispers of dawn, awoke to the harrowing sound of mortar shells slicing through the air. The intended targets? The bustling Aden Adde International Airport and the heavily guarded Halane compound, both perceived sanctuaries in a capital scarred by conflict. For those familiar with Mogadishu's rhythm, such incidents are a bitter…