relief

On the crisp morning of December 13, 2024, a monumental achievement dawned upon the nation of Somalia. After years of keen perseverance and unyielding efforts, Somalia reached the Highly Indebted Poor Countries Initiative (HIPC) Completion Point, ushering in transformative debt relief from major global financial institutions like the World Bank, African Development Bank, and, of course, the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This feat not only reflected Somalia's growing resilience and determination to break free from the…

Mogadishu (AX) – In the shadow of persistent unrest, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) took a significant step to counterbalance the upheaval caused by current military maneuvers against Al-Shabaab. Picture this: eleven steadfast trucks, laden with vital food and medical supplies, carving their route to the regions of Nuur-Dugle and Aqab-Duco in Hirshabelle State. Their mission? To bring respite and hope to the inhabitants grappling with the fallout of the anti-terrorism efforts. "You have to make it tangible,"…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a move as monumental as it is symbolic, the Somali government has resolved a debt dispute with the Abu Dhabi Development Fund (ADFD) originating from the ill-fated Juba Sugar Factory project. This triumph sees $257 million etched off the slate, an encouraging milestone in Somalia's ambitious economic revival plan. Amid the opulence of Dubai and the stimulating atmosphere of the World Government Summit, a simple yet momentous act took place. Somalia’s Finance Minister, Bihi Iman Igeh, alongside ADFD’s…

In the closing moments of an electrifying Europa League duel at Old Trafford, Manchester United's captain, Bruno Fernandes, snatched victory from the jaws of a draw, propelling his team to a 2-1 triumph over Rangers. This dramatic goal was more than just a score; it was a lifeline for the team, aiming to carve a path into the tournament's knockout stages. With this crucial win, United secured fourth place in the group standings, amassing 15 points as they head into their final group match. The win rejuvenates the hopes of…

Jubaland: Aid Denial Sparks Accusations of Political Machinations KISMAYO, Somalia — Like an age-old tale of conflict, the humanitarian landscape in Somalia takes another twist in the political saga. The somber city of Kismayo, nestled on the Indian Ocean, became the stage where Jubaland’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Abdirahman Mohamed, lamented about the love-hate tango between aid and politics. The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) stands accused by Mohamed of never having sent humanitarian…

In the heart of Los Angeles, amidst the chaos of wildfire devastation, a heartwarming scene unfolded at a donation center, transforming a routine day into a vibrant tribute to community spirit. Meet Oliver Lee, a spirited six-year-old with a heart bigger than his tiny frame. Alongside his father, Danny, this little champion was busy handing out bottled water like it was candy at a birthday party. Their base of operations? The Santa Anita Park racetrack in Arcadia—right in the trenches of the Eaton Fire devastation. As…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a bid to tackle the drought and humanitarian challenges looming over Somalia, Mahmoud Macalin Abdulle, the top dog at the Somali National Disaster Management Authority (SODMA), convened with a United Nations entourage. The delegation was steered by George Conway, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the all-around UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia. At the heart of their pow-wow was the dry spell hitting various Somali regions,…

In a key move for Somalia's financial future, Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh inked a pivotal debt relief deal with Denmark's representative, Ambassador Steen Sonne Aderson, in the bustling city of Mogadishu on a vibrant Monday. This latest agreement reflects the positive outcomes from the notable discussions held by the Paris Club back in March 2024, another feather in the cap of Somalia’s ongoing economic reform crusade. The ministry enthusiastically declared, "The national reform efforts and debt forgiveness successes…

In a significant move, the Somali Minister of Finance, Bihi Egeh, placed his signature on the dotted line next to the US ambassador. (Image courtesy of the US Embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia.) Chronic turmoil involving warlords and piracy has long plagued this corner of Africa. Amidst such challenges, the USA gave Somalia a bit of financial breathing room by forgiving a hefty $1.1 billion (£860m) in debt. This reveals a new chapter for Somalia as it announces the cancellation of about a quarter of its total debt through…

Nairobi, AX — Somalia's government made waves on Thursday, announcing a significant milestone in their quest for economic stability. They've struck a deal with Japan to wipe out $100 million in debt, a move that aligns with their broader push for economic progress and debt resolution. Somalia's Finance Minister, Bihi Egeh, joined forces in Nairobi with Japanese Deputy Head of Mission Ogihara Hiroshi to seal this landmark arrangement. This act marks a substantial leap in Somalia’s debt cancellation journey. As Finance…