security

Addis Ababa (AX) — On a brisk Friday morning in the heart of Ethiopia's capital, General Michael Langley, the esteemed commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), engaged in critical discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Their meeting was not merely a formality; it emerged as a significant dialogue addressing the pressing security challenges that plague the region. In a succinct statement shared via the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, it was revealed that their conversation primarily revolved around collaborative…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a rapidly evolving global landscape, Somalia is beginning to feel the tremors of the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Surprisingly distant from the battleground yet closely linked through trade routes and economic dependencies, Somalia’s fragile economy and essential aid lifelines are increasingly threatened. How does a conflict thousands of miles away ripple through the fabric of everyday life in this East African nation? Somalia’s geographical position along the Gulf of Aden and its proximity to the Bab…

Mahad Salad's Return: A Pivotal Move in Somali Security The recent reinstatement of Mahad Mohamed Salad as the head of Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) arrives at a critical juncture. With national elections on the horizon and the persistent threat of terrorism looms large, his return promises to reshape the security landscape of the Horn of Africa nation. Salad previously garnered acclaim for his impactful leadership during his initial tenure. Under his direction, Mogadishu…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a compelling address that resonated with the aspirations of many, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently called upon his fellow citizens to take an active role in the establishment of effective governance. This appeal comes at a pivotal time when the nation is wrestling with its identity and future. He stressed that the foundation of Somalia's statehood must no longer hinge on international support. At the official handover ceremony at the National Intelligence and Security Agency…

Kismayo (AX) — In a significant step towards regional stability, Mahmoud Sayid Aden, the First Vice President of Somalia’s Jubbaland State, convened with the Governor of Mandera County in Kenya on Monday. The primary objective of their meeting was to address pressing issues concerning cross-border security and the movement of people along their shared frontier. The leaders engaged in a constructive dialogue focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in light of the increasing challenges posed by the al-Shabab…

Russia's Deepening Ties with African Nations On a significant note this Monday, the Kremlin made a bold assertion: Russia is set to fortify its relationships with African countries, delving into sensitive domains such as defense and security. This announcement comes at a time when global dynamics are shifting, making one ponder—what might this mean for the nations involved and the broader geopolitical landscape? Most notably, this declaration follows the withdrawal of the Wagner Group, a…

Mogadishu (AX) — On Monday, the Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition comprised of influential opposition leaders, conveyed its doubts about the upcoming political meetings slated for June 15 and 22. They expressed concern that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud may be pursuing a unilateral agenda regarding crucial decisions on elections and national security. This skepticism highlights a profound and ongoing tension in Somalia’s political landscape, raising critical questions about the future of democracy in the nation. In a…

The announcement from the Russian-backed Africa Corps regarding their continued presence in Mali has stirred a mix of emotions and questions. As Wagner, the notorious mercenary group, starts withdrawing its forces after three years on the ground, one can't help but wonder: What does this shift mean for Mali and its ongoing struggle against Islamist militants? Wagner's involvement in Mali began amidst a significant political upheaval. Following coups in 2020 and 2021, the military junta in…

In a momentous stride for African representation in global affairs, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Liberia have successfully secured seats on the United Nations Security Council. This achievement not only enhances the influence of these nations but also marks a significant step forward for the African continent in seeking a more prominent voice within one of the UN’s most pivotal institutions. Alongside the DRC and Liberia, three other nations were elected: Bahrain from the Asia-Pacific Group,…

Enhancing Somalia's Aviation Security: A New Era of Collaboration Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant stride towards bolstering border security and refining screening protocols at entry points, Somalia has introduced a real-time aviation data-sharing system, developed in collaboration with the United States and Interpol. This initiative, unveiled on a Monday with the Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) at the helm, is a part of Somalia’s broader institutional reforms aimed at enhancing national security. This…