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Resistance Against Villa Somalia's Khaatumo Plan from Top Traditional Leaders Laascaanood (Axadle Times International) — In an unprecedented and powerful public address, two esteemed traditional leaders from Northern Somalia have posed a substantial challenge to Villa Somalia's ambitions to establish a new federal entity known as Khaatumo. Their words might stir a moment of reflection—what does true leadership demand in such complex times? Garaad Jaamac Garaad Cali and Suldaan Siciid Suldaan…

New U.S. Visa Regulations for Nigerians: What You Need to Know The recent announcement from the U.S. State Department has created quite a buzz. Effective July 8, 2025, most nonimmigrant and non-official visas issued to Nigerian nationals will be limited to single-entry status and will only be valid for three months. Such a significant change prompts us to pause and reflect on its broader implications. Under these new guidelines, applicants for visas will encounter updated terms regarding validity and entry…

African Currency and Trade Dynamics: A Comprehensive Overview In May 2025, nearly half of the currencies across the African continent experienced depreciation. This trend highlights persistent foreign exchange pressures, underscored by a range of ongoing reforms and stable economic growth. Insights gleaned from the African Export-Import Bank’s Monthly Developments in the African Macroeconomic Environment report, published in June 2025, illuminate this complex landscape. The bank's…

On the Fourth of July, US President Donald Trump proudly enacted a significant package of tax and spending cuts during an outdoor ceremony at the White House. The event was marked by military jets soaring overhead and attended by hundreds of enthusiastic supporters. This pivotal legislation was narrowly approved by the Republican-controlled House of Representatives just a day prior, with a vote tally of 218-214 following a heated debate. The bill aims to bolster Trump's immigration initiatives, make 2017 tax cuts…

Significant Progress in Somalia: A New Chapter in Child Protection Photograph that tugs at the heart strings: armed Somali children huddled behind sandbags during fighting are a grim reminder of the past. This photograph, which was snapped in an unspecified date, is a reflection of a nation struggling against the ugly facades of a war. Somalia had for years figured on the list of countries where children were conscripted and used in hostilities—such a pitiable testament to instability—but on June 17, 2025, the country…

Somalia Celebrates a Milestone in Education: The 12th Grade National Examination In a significant step forward for its education system, Somalia has successfully completed the 12th Grade National Examination for the 2024–2025 academic year. This accomplishment is a noteworthy part of the country's ongoing efforts to modernize and reform a sector that has faced numerous challenges over the years. According to the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education, a remarkable 39,382 students participated in the…

Northeastern State Forces Capture Turkish ISIS Fighter Amid Major Anti-Terror Offensive BOSASO, Somalia - In a pivotal turn of events, the Northeastern State Counter-Terrorism Forces successfully apprehended a Turkish national entrenched with ISIS militants in northeastern Somalia. This bold stride marks a momentous effort in the ongoing battle against terrorism that has intensified over the past five months. Northeastern State Defense Forces have joined forces with both the US Africa Command and the United Arab…

After President Bola Tinubu's recent tour of the $20 billion Dangote refinery complex in Lekki, Lagos, a ripple of excitement spread across the country. Aliko Dangote himself described the impending changes as a “major shakedown” poised to influence not just the refinery but the entire nation. It’s an ambitious declaration, isn’t it? What could such a "shakedown" mean for Nigeria and its citizens? Although Dangote abstained from revealing every detail, his message was clear: this impending transformation will extend far…

In a notable development, Russia has announced its advance into Ukraine's eastern Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time since its invasion began three years ago. This marks a significant territorial escalation amid ongoing, yet stalled, peace negotiations. While Ukraine's top political and military leaders have yet to respond, this potential advance represents a symbolic and strategic setback after months of difficulties on the battlefield. As Russia continues to hold the initiative across much of the front, it has…

Somalia: Northeastern State Forces Launch Major Operation Against ISIS Remnants in Cal Miskaad BOSASO, Somalia – On an auspicious morning in the Baalade Valley, the rhythmic hum of helicopter blades marked a significant step against terror. Northeastern State security forces, with air support, embarked on an ambitious offensive aimed at dislodging remaining ISIS militants entrenched in the rugged Sadow Cave area near Sadow Well. This strategic operation, as shared by local officials on Thursday, represents a…