security

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…

Liberia has once again claimed its place on the international stage, securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council after a lengthy hiatus of sixty-two years. In a decisive show of support, member states rallied behind the West African nation, granting it an impressive 181 votes in favor. This significant milestone not only marks a return to global diplomacy but also reflects Liberia's evolving role in the international community. The aftermath of the historic vote saw President Joseph Boakai addressing the…

SOMALI PRIME MINISTER HAMZA ABDI BARRE (LEFT) MEETS WITH DJIBOUTIAN PRESIDENT ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH (RIGHT) AT THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE IN DJIBOUTI ON JUNE 2, 2025. THE LEADERS DISCUSSED REGIONAL SECURITY AND EFFORTS TO STRENGTHEN BILATERAL COOPERATION BETWEEN SOMALIA AND DJIBOUTI. Djibouti City, Djibouti (AX) — In a significant meeting held on Monday, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre engaged with Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh. The focal points of their discussion centered around enhancing bilateral…

China has expressed strong objections to remarks made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, describing them as "vilifying." According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, such comments overlook calls for peace from neighboring nations. Specifically, China's ministry took issue with Mr. Hegseth labeling China as a threat in the Indo-Pacific region, subsequently deeming his statements at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore as "deplorable." The ministry stated, "Hegseth deliberately ignored the call for peace and…

Recently, South Africa has been added to the growing list of countries under a 'Level 2' travel alert, joining Namibia, Botswana, Belgium, Greenland, Denmark, and Germany. This classification encourages travelers to exercise increased caution while navigating these regions. As of the May 27 update, South Africa’s designation comes amidst mounting diplomatic tensions between the United States and the nation. But what does this classification truly mean for prospective travelers? A Level 2 alert indicates a…

In a significant display of international support, high-ranking military officials from Turkey and Italy recently visited Somalia, emphasizing their commitment to bolstering the Somali National Army (SNA) in the ongoing struggle for national security. The visits unfolded against the backdrop of a crucial meeting that occurred on Thursday, where General Luciano Portolano, Italy’s Chief of Defense, held discussions with General Maadey Nuurey Sheikh, Deputy Commander of the SNA. These conversations delved deep into vital…

Galkayo Prison Under Siege: A Tumultuous Morning Galkayo (AX) — In the early hours of Thursday, the quiet hum of Galkayo was shattered by an armed assault that targeted the central prison. This brazen attack appears to have been aimed at liberating high-risk inmates, yet it devolved into a fierce firefight with Northeastern State security forces. As the sun began to rise, so did a chaos that reminded many of a scene from a gripping thriller, tinged with real-life consequences. Witnesses reported a symphony of…

Somalia's Political Conference: A Critical Meeting of Minds in Mogadishu Mogadishu (AX) — On a noteworthy Wednesday in the heart of Somalia, a significant political conference convened, drawing the eyes of the nation and beyond. This gathering brought together influential opposition figures, setting the stage for an important dialogue on Somalia’s political trajectory, security environment, and electoral framework. In many ways, this moment could be pivotal in the ever-evolving landscape of power in Somalia. At…