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Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent and impactful statement, former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has voiced his deep concerns regarding the upcoming National Consultation Forum convened by current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This public address, issued on Thursday, revolves around the critical themes of inclusivity and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the national dialogue. Farmaajo's remarks come against a backdrop of increasing anxiety regarding the political climate in Somalia. He has pointedly…

The Complex Fabric of Urban Life in Africa In many regions of Africa, urban existence weaves together a rich tapestry of opportunity and challenge. Major cities hum with the pulse of economic growth, education, and innovation. Yet, woven into this vibrant fabric are threads of adversity—persistent safety concerns that cast a shadow over urban life. How do we reconcile the promise of city living with the realities of crime? Consider the stories of countless individuals navigating the streets of Africa's bustling…

The Recent Decline in Internet Usage in Nigeria: A Deeper Look Recent data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) presents a compelling, if somewhat alarming, narrative about internet usage in the country. Between January and April, total internet consumption dropped from an impressive 1,000,930.60 terabytes to 983,283.43 terabytes. This translates to a notable 1.76 percent decline over a mere three months. How often do we stop to consider what these figures mean for everyday Nigerians?…

Somalia's National Conference on Arms Management: A Step Towards Greater Security Mogadishu (AX) — Recently, Somalia concluded a significant two-day national conference focused on arms and ammunition management, leaving many to ponder the pivotal issues at hand. Held in the vibrant capital of Mogadishu, the conference aimed to address the escalating threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), primarily employed by Al-Shabaab militants. Indeed, in a nation where the echoes of conflict still resonate, the stakes could…

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…

Garowe (AX) – In an important step towards enhancing public safety, Northeastern State Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor announced on Tuesday the impending rollout of CCTV surveillance systems throughout Garowe, the regional capital. This initiative comes in response to a troubling rise in insecurity within the city, and aims to cultivate a safer environment for all residents. During a media briefing, Vice President Lugatoor underscored the pivotal role these surveillance systems can play in addressing crime.…

The Complex Political Dynamics in Somalia: Allegations, Aspirations, and the Role of Youth MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the ever-turbulent landscape of Somali politics, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has recently stirred the pot, accusing the opposition of being puppets of foreign powers. Fascinatingly, though, these claims lack the backing of concrete evidence. The political scene remains charged as opposition factions vehemently criticize President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of autocracy and…

Hargeisa (AX) — A concerning wave of measles has recently emerged in North Western State of Somalia, marking an urgent public health crisis. With over 220 confirmed cases reported, the sound of alarm bells can be heard resonating through hospitals and health facilities across the region, pushing health officials to make critical calls for immediate vaccination and improved health monitoring. Just this past Thursday, the Ministry of Health Development disclosed that 227 cases had been tallied across six…

Recent blasts have echoed across Indian Kashmir and the Sikh holy city of Amritsar in neighboring Punjab. The Indian military has reported shooting down drones amidst some of the most intense fighting with Pakistan seen in nearly three decades. The explosions in Amritsar—marking the first such incidents in this escalating conflict—are raising concerns about a broader escalation that has caught the attention of world powers. In Jammu, the winter capital of the region, officials and a Reuters journalist observed…

In a significant move, India has announced a ban on the import of goods originating from or transiting through Pakistan, as well as on the entry of Pakistani ships. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nuclear-capable neighbors, particularly following a tragic attack that claimed the lives of tourists in the contested region of Kashmir. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade in India issued a notification stating that the ban would take immediate effect. "This restriction is imposed in the…