President

Jubaland State Vice President Passes Away in Nairobi Hospital Nairobi, Kenya – The calm of Nairobi was pierced with the somber news of the passing of Abdikadir Haji Mohamud Lugadheere, the Second Vice President of Somalia’s Jubaland regional state. He had been receiving medical care in the bustling city, battling persistent health issues that, despite efforts, led to his tragic demise. “He was a national hero who played a…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a heartwarming gesture that echoes the spirit of unity, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently extended his heartfelt congratulations to the government and citizens of Djibouti as they celebrated the 47th anniversary of their independence. This occasion, which marks a significant milestone in Djibouti's history, was met with a message that went beyond mere pleasantries; it was a commitment to continue fostering bilateral cooperation between the two nations. In a thoughtful statement issued on…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a remarkable Wednesday at Villa Somalia, the Somali Salvation Forum convened a pivotal meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This gathering was not just another routine assembly; it represented an essential effort to navigate the intricate waters of national politics, focusing on constitutional reform, impending elections, and the pressing need to tackle terrorism. The spokesperson for the Forum, Dahir Mohamud Gelle, shared insights post-meeting that were both encouraging and thought-provoking.…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a memorable Wednesday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took center stage during the 65th Independence Week celebrations in Mogadishu. The event was a heartfelt tribute to Somalia’s long and arduous journey toward freedom, marking not just a historical milestone, but a collective call for renewed unity and national reconciliation among its people. The ceremony was a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of history, marked by the presence of senior government officials, distinguished…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a notable Wednesday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened a significant meeting at Villa Somalia, inviting esteemed figures from Somalia's political landscape, including former presidents, prime ministers, and parliamentary speakers. This gathering was not merely a formality; it represented a pivotal moment in defining Somalia’s political future. This assembly was part of the ongoing National Consultation Forum, an initiative designed to foster dialogue and build consensus on fundamental national…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a significant Tuesday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed a delegation from the European External Action Service (EEAS), a meeting that took place within the historic walls of the Villa Somalia Presidential Palace in Mogadishu. Leading this delegation was Jonas Jonsson, the Director for Africa, whose experience and insights pave the way for constructive dialogue between Somalia and the European Union. The essence of this encounter centered around fortifying the multifaceted partnership shared…

Somalia: President Hassan Sheikh Eases Position, Meets with Opposition Leaders MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a country where political landscapes shift as swiftly as the winds, a remarkable scene unfolded as opposition leaders briskly walked through the gates of Villa Somalia. Their destination: a confidential meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Could this encounter herald a pivotal breakthrough in Somalia’s enduring political impasse? It certainly appears possible. The atmosphere surrounding this meeting is charged…

Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, recently ascended to the position of chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). With this new role, he sets his sights on reinstating constitutional order and fostering a more robust democratic framework across the region. Taking over from Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who faced significant tribulations during his two terms, Bio steps into a complex landscape. Tinubu’s leadership was not without its hurdles. His tenure endured the strain of…

In a significant move within the financial services industry, Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) announced the appointment of Tareq Muhmood as the Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA). This strategic decision underscores Visa's commitment to enhancing its operations across one of the most dynamic regions globally. It’s worth noting that Muhmood will oversee the activities in over 86 rapidly evolving markets, serving more than 1,800 clients from 23 local offices throughout CEMEA.…

Kirsty Coventry has carved her name into the annals of sports history, becoming the inaugural woman and the first African to ascend to the presidency of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). On June 23, 2025, she officially took the reins, succeeding Thomas Bach of Germany, who concluded a twelve-year tenure. Coventry's election at the IOC's 144th Session, held in the picturesque backdrop of Greece in March, signified a pivotal moment for gender representation in global sports governance. Competing against a…