peace

After decades marred by bloodshed, displacement, and unfulfilled promises, communities from four volatile wards in Northern Kenya have united with a powerful and urgent declaration: Enough is enough. At a pivotal peace-building forum convened in Archer’s Post, community elders, morans, and women from conflict-prone areas—specifically, Chari and Ngaremara wards in Isiolo County, Waso ward in Samburu County, and Laisamis ward in Marsabit County—voiced a clarion call for authentic commitment from leaders and stakeholders to…

Somali Prime Minister Facilitates Release of Prisoners in Historic Peace Effort in Las Anod In a significant step toward lasting peace, Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre recently assumed custody of 25 prisoners previously held by SSC-Khaatumo forces. These individuals were captured during the turbulent 2023 conflict in Somalia's contested Sool region. The symbolic and hopeful gesture occurred during Prime Minister Barre's milestone visit to Las Anod—a city deeply affected by conflict but now profoundly…

Ukraine has firmly communicated to the United States that limiting the size of its armed forces or compromising its military readiness crosses a "red line," according to a senior official. This assertion comes as Donald Trump seeks to broker an agreement to end the ongoing war with Russia. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his desire to see restrictions placed on the size of Ukraine's military. Furthermore, he has insisted that Ukraine renounce its aspirations to join NATO and allow Russia to…

Just recently, Russia extended a supportive hand to Algeria, asserting that the time has come for the North African nation to demand reparations from its ex-colonizer. In a world that often shies away from confronting uncomfortable histories, isn't it refreshing to see some nations stepping up? Russia, through its foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, has voiced its unanimous agreement with Algeria's quest for atonement, emphasizing the importance of holding historical wrongdoers accountable. This stance…

Mogadishu (AX) — Imagine a door as more than just wood and nails; imagine it as a fragile barrier between life and death. The film "Aano Qabiil," or "Clan Revenge," opens with a haunting scene: a man stands at this threshold, desperate, imploring for mercy—and yet, on the other side, waits a fate he might not survive. It's fiction. A story brought to life by Somali filmmakers about the tragic cycle of vendettas that plague their homeland. Yet, like so many dark tales inspired by reality, the lines between art and life…

The United States is poised to determine, in just a few weeks, the seriousness of Russia's commitment to peace in Ukraine. This statement comes from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who noted that European allies have raised concerns over Russia's apparent delays in responding to calls for a ceasefire from the Trump administration. US President Donald Trump has expressed his determination to end the ongoing conflict, now in its third year. He has consistently stated his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin is…

In the dynamic political landscape of Somalia, moments of elation often intertwine with those of contention. On a recent Wednesday in Garowe, the Minister of Information for Northeastern State, Mahmoud Ceydiid Dirir, addressed a decision echoing through the corridors of power. The Northeastern State region, he declared, will not be participating in the peace talks orchestrated by Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The reason? A relentless commitment to their current priority: confronting ISIS militants…

In a region that has seen its fair share of tumult, the impending peace meeting scheduled for April 9 between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and the Rwanda-supported M23 rebels stands as more than just a glimmer of hope. Rather, it's a potential turning point in what has proven to be one of Central Africa's most entrenched conflicts. The anticipation is palpable, as stakeholders from various quarters converge with baited breath. It brings to mind the words of Desmond Tutu: “If you want…

Somalia's Presidential Initiative: A New Dawn for National Dialogue The statement from the Maanshiil Forum was clear and resolute: "We consider the President's call a commendable and timely initiative that deserves a positive and responsible response." Their words echo a sentiment of hope and possibility, a belief that with the right steps, Somalia could conquer the political uncertainty and myriad security threats that have long plagued it. In a political landscape as turbulent and varied as Somalia's,…

Mogadishu (AX) – The sounds of bustling city life in Mogadishu blend with a unique sense of hope as the recent initiative by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud captures attention across Somalia. The president's call for national peace talks signifies a step towards unity, one that resonates deeply within the heart of Somalia’s Southwest region. In particular, the Maanshiil Forum—a coalition of opposition figures—has raised its voice in a welcoming chorus. Their optimism mirrors the sentiment of countless Somali…