Somali

Mogadishu (AX) – A recent proposal to deduct $500 monthly from the salaries of members of the Somali Federal Parliament has ignited considerable debate and opposition. This initiative, intended to bolster the Ma’awisley clan militia engaged in combat against Al-Shabaab in the Hiiraan region, was the central topic during a parliamentary session on Saturday. The motion, presented by the parliamentary leadership, aimed to channel financial resources directly to Ma’awisley fighters. These fighters are currently collaborating…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — In the ever-evolving landscape of Somali politics, a noteworthy development has emerged. After enduring weeks of intense scrutiny from opposition factions, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has signaled a willingness to engage in discussions with opposition leaders next month. What has spurred this decision? Accusations have been leveled against him, ranging from altering the constitution to accusations of oppressive governance. The international community's voice is neither quiet…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant development, the Somali Police Force has apprehended Sharif Mohamed Ahmed, the primary suspect in the tragic shooting of Abdifatah Abdi Osman, also known as "Arab." The former national football player and employee of Astaan TV was senselessly gunned down last Sunday morning in Mogadishu. This incident has left an undeniable mark on the community, raising profound questions about safety and justice in a country still grappling with the repercussions of violence. The police have released the…

Garowe (AX) – In a significant enforcement action, the Northeastern State security forces have apprehended 27 Yemeni fishermen, accompanied by one Somali national, for allegedly engaging in illegal fishing in the coastal waters of Northeastern State. This incident occurred on May 14, 2025, and highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities surrounding fishing regulations in the region. The Northeastern State Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources disclosed that the vessel involved, named "Maimon 1," is owned by…

Mogadishu: A Tense Standoff Between Government and Opposition Mogadishu (AX) – On Friday, the Somali government articulated a fierce rebuttal to opposition leaders who have critiqued the Council of Ministers for what they perceive as a failure to uphold security in the capital. This unfolding narrative speaks volumes about the intricate dance of power, accountability, and national sentiment in a city that has long wrestled with its stability. State Minister of Defense Omar Abdi Ali took center stage, vehemently…

In a momentous announcement last Friday, Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Faqi declared that the national armed forces have successfully liberated the entire Middle Shabelle region from the grips of the Al-Shabaab movement—a group critically linked to Al-Qaeda. This significant victory marks a pivotal turn in the ongoing battle against extremist insurgents in the region. In his public statement, Minister Faqi expressed deep admiration for the valor and tenacity displayed by the Somali armed forces and the local…

For over two decades, advocates have been waging a determined battle against misinformation, particularly within the Somali community where this misinformation has contributed to a troubling uptick in measles cases. Amid this persistent struggle, one question lingers: can more research help bridge the gap between myth and reality? Leading the charge is Mahdi Warsama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Somali Parents Autism Network (SPAN). In a recent interview, he reflects on their mission—not just to provide support for…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a move reflecting deepening concerns over the country’s security landscape, Somali President Hassan Sheikh recently visited the Defense Ministry. This visit comes on the heels of setbacks that the national army has endured on the battlefield, notably the loss of the strategic town of Aadan Yabaal to Al-Shabaab militants just last month. Addressing Growing Concerns As Al-Shabaab continues its advances throughout central and southern Somalia, the pressure mounts on government forces. They are…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a warm Thursday afternoon, the bustling atmosphere of Adden Adde International Airport was tinged with anticipation as two prominent figures in Somali politics, former Prime Ministers Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and Hassan Ali Khaire, touched down in Mogadishu. Their arrival is not just a mere homecoming; it's a signal of increasing political activity within the capital, as they prepare for an important opposition conference set to unfold in the coming days. The reception was marked by the presence of…

Kismayo (AX) – In a significant achievement for the Somali National Army, the elite Danab Commandos, in collaboration with the Jubbaland Dervish forces, have made substantial strides in the fight against extremism. On Thursday, the Federal Government announced that 48 al-Shabaab militants were killed during a vigorous two-day offensive in the Lower Juba region. As communities continue to grapple with security concerns, such efforts aim to restore a sense of safety and stability. The operation primarily focused on the…