Somali

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International - Monitoring Mogadishu (AX) – On a brisk Tuesday morning, Somali Army forces, alongside dedicated local militia fighters, orchestrated a series of remarkable military offensives. These operations, sweeping across the diverse landscapes of the Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and Lower Shabelle regions, culminated in the reported demise of at least 30 militants associated with the infamous Al-Shabaab group, a detail proudly shared by the Ministry of Defense. Let us pause and consider…

Las Anod (AX) – In the intricate tapestry of Somali politics, the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre to Las Anod serves as a focal point of tension and responsibility. The SSC-Khaatumo administration has taken it upon themselves to ensure the security of the Prime Minister during his visit, despite escalating tensions following stern warnings from the North Western State of Somalia administration. Is this a bold move toward asserting sovereignty, or simply a necessary step in a complicated dance of diplomacy?…

Somali Forces and Local Militias Push Back Al-Shabaab Movement The backdrop of yet another tense night in Beledweyne set the stage for an unfolding narrative of resilience and tension in the Hiiraan region. Imagine the stillness of the night shattered at the stroke of midnight on Monday when the familiar, foreboding echoes of conflict re-emerged. In a place where communities strive tirelessly for peace, the rise of Al-Shabaab's attacks transforms hope into a stark reminder of prevailing adversities.…

Somali Government's National ID Card Initiative Faces Opposition MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a bold move that is stirring more than just government halls, the Somali government has rolled out a mandate that requires every citizen to obtain a National Identity Card, known as NIRA, to gain access to essential services like passports, birth certificates, and educational documents. Announced on Tuesday, this directive is hitting a wall of opposition, particularly in Northeastern State and Jubaland, the self-governing…

Imagine yourself at the bustling Kenya-Somalia border, a place where the lives of countless travelers and locals interweave against a backdrop of uncertainty and resilience. The border, which stretches from one point to the customs area in Mandera County, plays a significant role in the lives of those who inhabit this region. Recently, news from this area has been disconcerting. Armed militants, reportedly linked to the infamous Al Shabaab terror group, have abducted five chiefs from Mandera. Their ominous demand? A…

In the heart of Mogadishu, a city that has witnessed both turmoil and resilience, a poignant chapter concluded on Monday night at Digfeer Hospital. Sheegow Ahmed Ali, a Somali military officer of notable repute, succumbed to the ravages of liver failure and complications tied to Hepatitis B, according to trusted Somali health officials. His passing, however, left lingering questions not just about his health but also about the circumstances enveloping his final days. It's worth pondering how…

Suspicion of Al-Shabaab Infiltration in Somali Army After Colonel Nur Farey's Tragic Death MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the wake of the shocking news, questions loom large over the tragic demise of Colonel Nur Farey. What transpired that fateful day has shaken the Somali National Army (SNA) to its core, leaving many to wonder: Could Al-Shabaab have found a crack in the army's armor? The circumstances surrounding the colonel's fatal shooting unfolded like an unsettling narrative. As reports…

In an increasingly interconnected world, the call for unity resonates with even greater urgency. This sentiment was echoed profoundly when President Museveni met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They issued a compelling plea to the international community, rallying support for the Somali Security Development Plan. Why does this appeal hold significant weight? Let’s dive into the dialogue and unravel the nuances. Imagine a future where Somalia stands resilient, safeguarded by its own dedicated security forces.…

Imagine stepping into a room in Minneapolis, where the air is thick with anticipation and cultural melodies. A group of Somali musicians, bonded by shared heritage, encircles a trove of instruments. Among them is Ahmed Ismail Yusuf, their passionate leader. They play tunes steeped in emotions as deep as the Indian Ocean, a rhythm echoing the nostalgic cafes of Mogadishu. This is "Somali blues," a sound as soulful as it is historic. "The lyrics are just showing you what it means," Ahmed muses, his voice a tapestry…

Support Builds for Somalia's Unified Strategy Mogadishu (AX) — A significant coalition of international allies has stepped forward to endorse Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's recent initiative for a comprehensive political dialogue. This comes at a crucial time as the nation seeks to unify its efforts against the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab and to bolster the federal governance structure. Isn't it intriguing how global interests converge, even from diverse corners of our planet? On Monday, a joint…