seizes

In a troubling turn of events, the Al-Shabaab militant group has reportedly made significant inroads into the Mahas district of the Hiiraan region. This marked development unfolded following a fierce clash with the Somali National Army (SNA) and local militia forces early on Sunday morning. This escalation was not without warning. The assault commenced with a series of suicide bombings just outside the town, a chilling tactic that drew immediate attention and concern. It is a harsh reminder of the relentless shadow cast by…

Bosaso (AX) — Security forces in Somalia’s Northeastern State region recently made a significant move that raises critical questions about maritime governance and arms control in the country. They intercepted a cargo vessel, purportedly carrying military equipment from Turkey, en route to the capital, Mogadishu. This incident not only underscores the complexities of Somalia's maritime laws but also hints at the ever-evolving dynamics of regional security. The vessel in question, the Sea World, bears a Comoros flag and…

Bosaso (AX) — In a significant development, authorities in Northeastern State, a semi-autonomous region of Somalia, have successfully intercepted a cargo ship suspected of transporting a substantial shipment of weapons and military vehicles. This vessel was reportedly en route to Mogadishu, the nation's bustling capital. Described as foreign-flagged, the ship was seized near the scenic coastal area of Bareeda in the Gardafuu region. Local officials have confirmed that the Northeastern State Maritime Police Force (PMPF) is…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — A gripping scene unfolded on a seemingly quiet Monday in Somalia's central Hiiraan region, as the town of Moqokori became the epicenter of intense battles. Al-Shabaab, a notorious militant group, launched a series of strategically orchestrated attacks, sparking chaos and fear among residents. The audacity of Al-Shabaab was evident as they claimed responsibility for a well-coordinated assault, which included a shocking suicide car bombing aimed at military bases within the town.…

On a recent Monday, Judge Issa Aguibou Diallo made a pivotal ruling that has shifted the course of one of Africa's most precious mining assets. He instructed that Zoumana Makadji, a chartered accountant and former Malian Minister of Health, be appointed as a provisional administrator within 15 days. This critical move effectively places operational control of the mine into the hands of an external authority, prompting questions about the future of this vital resource. Dispute Over Taxation…

Burkina Faso has taken a monumental step toward asserting control over its natural resources by officially transferring five gold mining assets to its state-owned mining company. This move marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to enhance its sovereignty and economic position in the global mining industry. This transition was confirmed through a decree published late Wednesday, signaling the completion of a process that began in August 2023. The government’s actions reflect a growing desire to centralize management…

U.S. Military Responds to Al-Shabaab Takeover MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the ever-evolving landscape of international conflict, the unexpected capture of the Adan Yabaal town by Al-Shabaab militants has provoked a decisive response from the U.S. Africa Command. On Wednesday, during torrential rains that swept across the region, the Somali National Army (SNA) found itself outmaneuvered—losing grip on this strategically significant town. The rains posed a challenge for aerial surveillance, creating an unintended shield…

Al-Shabaab's Unyielding Grip on Southern Somalia: A Recap of Recent Developments NAIROBI, Kenya - Imagine a place where hope and despair dance an intricate tango. In Southern Somalia, Al-Shabaab has once again tightened its grip, claiming strategic territory in what feels like an unending saga of strife. Particularly in the Middle Shabelle region, they've reasserted dominance over key locations such as the towns of Al-Kawthar and Boos-Hareeri, according to individuals closely associated with the regional…

Refugees heading to the CBCA Mugunga Church, which sits within the expansive Mugunga IDP camp in Goma, offer a snapshot of resilience amidst adversity. (Photo Credit: Michel Lunanga/AFP) Mary Ashuza, burdened by the enormity of circumstances beyond her control, walked westwards from Goma. In a scene far too common in the war-ravaged landscapes of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), she and her children clutched onto the remnants of their lives packed into bundles they could carry. From the farmsteads of…

In a decisive turn of events, Republicans have seized control of the US Senate, basking in victories across key states like Montana, Ohio, and West Virginia. This triumph ensures that Donald Trump’s party will maintain a foothold in at least one chamber of Congress for the upcoming year. With a majority now sitting at a minimum of 52-48 in the Senate, Republicans have also managed to bolster their House of Representatives presence by three seats, bringing their count to 220-212. However, the fate of 51 out of the 435 House…