Somali

In a significant development for the security landscape in Somalia, recent military actions have unfolded in the underbrush of El-Dhere—a location bordering the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. This area, which has long been associated with Al-Shabaab activity, has once again become a focal point for both the Somali National Army (SNA) and various allied local forces. It’s heartening to witness coordinated efforts in regions long plagued by insecurity. The orchestrated military operations over the past few…

Resilience Against Al-Shabaab: A Step Forward in the Bakool Region Baidoa (AX) — In a significant military operation that spanned three days, Somali government troops have successfully dismantled several Al-Shabaab bases situated in the Bakool region. This endeavor, confirmed by security officials on a recent Monday, underscores the ongoing struggle to reclaim territory from militant groups. Leading this coordinated offensive was Capt. Elmi Adan Isaaq, a determined commander of the Somali…

Somali President Opens Forum Amidst Notable Absences MOGADISHU, Somalia — In the bustling heart of Mogadishu, a significant, albeit challenging, step was taken on Monday. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud inaugurated a national dialogue conference, a gathering intended to unify a nation often at crossroads. Yet, the absence of prominent opposition figures and two key federal member states, Northeastern State and Jubaland, loomed large. The reasons for their absence echoed familiar concerns. Transparency was questioned, and…

Somalia’s National Consultation Forum: A Complex Landscape of Political Engagement In the evolving political arena of Somalia, recent events surrounding the national consultation forum reveal deep-seated complexities and challenges. As described by Koofi, a prominent figure in the opposition coalition, the lack of communication from the federal government has raised eyebrows and questions. "We asked for a clear agenda and a full list of participants ahead of the meeting," he noted. Yet, the response was conspicuously…

Somali National Army Achieves Significant Gains Against Al-Shabab Mogadishu (AX) – In a decisive military operation launched in the Lower Shabelle region, the Somali National Army (SNA), alongside local militia forces, successfully eliminated several Al-Shabab militants and confiscated an impressive stash of weapons. This significant development, confirmed by officials on Sunday, highlights the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across Somalia. The complexities of Somalia's socio-political landscape always…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a moment brimming with significance, Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, welcomed Turkish Ambassador Alper Aktaş to a luncheon that resonated with promise and collaboration. This gathering, held in the bustling heart of Mogadishu, celebrated the successful completion of a monumental seismic survey mission by the Oruc Reis, a Turkish oil exploration vessel. After an extensive 234 days surveying off the scenic coast of Somalia, this luncheon was not merely a social event but a testament to…

Somalia's Muhidin Abubakar Makes History at UAE Warriors 60 ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AX) — On an electrifying Friday night, Muhidin Abubakar, the trailblazing fighter from Somalia, made his mark in martial arts history by defeating Victor “Sombra” Nunes from Brazil by unanimous decision at UAE Warriors 60. This victory not only secured him the interim flyweight title but also made him the first Somali fighter to ever clinch a championship within this promotion. Competing at the impressive Space 42 Arena in Abu…

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AX) — After a two-day hiatus marked by protests against rampant extortion, Somali-run spaza shops in Khayelitsha's Site C township reopened on Friday. The decision to shut down wasn’t made lightly; local traders felt compelled to act as the threat from gangs escalated to levels that were simply unbearable. Imagine a community reliant on small, informal shops for daily essentials, which suddenly find themselves devoid of those crucial resources. June 11 and 12 felt particularly bleak for many…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent development that has raised eyebrows within diplomatic circles, former Somali Foreign Minister, Ambassador Ahmed Isse Awad, has voiced strong opposition to a letter issued by the Somali government. The letter calls for the dissolution of the C6+ international coordination framework, a move that Awad has critically labeled as both diplomatically irresponsible and detrimental to Somalia’s standing on the global stage. During an engaging televised debate on Universal Somali TV this past Saturday,…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a significant Saturday for Somalia, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided over the handover ceremony at the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), an event that symbolizes not just a change in leadership but also a fresh chapter in the country's enduring quest for security. The mantle of leadership passed from Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbaloolshe to Mahad Mohamed Salad, who now takes the reins as the new director. The ceremony unfolded at NISA headquarters in Mogadishu, drawing an assembly…