Somali

Mogadishu (AX) — Internet personality Ramsey Khalid Ismael, infamously recognized by his online moniker "Johnny Somali," finds himself the center of controversy in Japan and South Korea. His offensive antics have not only triggered public outcry and legal repercussions but have also riled up the Somali diaspora. They believe his actions have unjustly stained their community's name. Though Ismael sports the nickname "Johnny Somali," he lacks Somali roots—he has openly expressed that he is of Ethiopian descent. At just…

Somali Lawmakers Convene in Kismayo to Challenge Central Government's Voting Proposals KISMAYO, Somalia — Over 30 legislators from across Somalia have assembled in Kismayo, Jubbaland's current administrative hub, to express discontent with the national government's approach. Initially slated for Friday, the meeting was rescheduled, aiming to enhance participation, as per local broadcasts. Organized by Jubbaland's President, Ahmed Madobe, the convening sought to tackle growing differences between regional leaders and…

The bustling city of Mogadishu recently witnessed a significant diplomatic rendezvous at its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On Thursday, Somali Foreign Minister Ambassador Ahmed Moalim Fiqi sat down with his Egyptian counterpart, Ambassador Mohamed El-Baz, to explore opportunities to enhance the bonds between their nations. This gathering wasn't just a run-of-the-mill diplomatic meeting, but rather, a crucial dialogue to fortify the ties that have such rich, historical roots. Within the hushed conference room, shaded by the…

In the intense tapestry of Somalia's ongoing struggle against al-Shabab, recent clashes have painted a stark picture of both victories and the persisting threat of this militant group. It's reported that over 20 al-Shabab fighters fell during a skirmish, marking another chapter in this lengthy conflict. A regional official remarked on the encounter, hinting at its pivotal outcomes: "This was a significant blow to the militants." Let's rewind to last year, when Somali forces orchestrated a high-stakes operation in the…

NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — "The sorrow of a father knows no bounds when faced with the unthinkable." That's how one could describe the heartache of Abdi Moalin Nur, whose daughter, Deka Abdinoor Qorane, became a victim of a grisly crime. Deka's dismembered remains were heartbreakingly discovered near Nairobi's Langata Cemetery, leaving her family grappling with unimaginable grief. Her suspected killer, a man now associated with a string of savage murders targeting Somali women in Kenya, brings Nur's nightmare into sharp, painful…

Mogadishu (AX)— In an intriguing turn of events, the former head honcho of the Somali intelligence agency, Fahad Yasin, is urging PM Hamza Abdi Barre to roll up his sleeves and tackle the brewing political discord with Jubaland's top dog, Ahmed Madobe. According to Yasin, this situation is a pivotal moment for Hamza's administration—a "crucial test" if you will. For those unfamiliar with Yasin, he's been a bit of a lightning rod in Somali politics, known for his close ties with ex-President Farmajo. But he's dropping some…

Mogadishu (AX) — Donald Trump's return to the presidency has sent shivers through immigrant groups across America, especially among Somali communities now wrestling with fresh anxieties over deportation. His campaign emphasized a stringent approach toward undocumented migrants, pledging historic levels of deportation. This has stirred alarm particularly among Somali families who view North America as a sanctuary and now fear their settled lives might face upheaval. Many are considering the possibility of relocating to…

In the bustling heart of Salt Lake City, tucked away at 1578 West and 1700 South, there's a vibrant hub for Somali refugees trying to find their footing in a new world—a place that offers more than just services, it's a lifeline. "The Somali Community Self-Management Agency is here to help African refugees transition smoothly into their new communities," says Abdirizak Ibrahim, the inspired mind and executive director guiding this initiative. Ibrahim describes this haven as more than an agency: "We’ve carved out a…

Garowe (AX) — The drama unfolded Wednesday when Northeastern State's Minister of Information, Eng. Mohamud Aydid Dirir, threw shade at Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Dirir flat-out accused the President of giving the nod to deportation actions against Somali asylum seeker peeps in Germany. Yep, you heard it right! Not only that, Dirir is also fuming over what he claims to be the President’s involvement in booting low-income families out of their humble abodes in Mogadishu. Why? To hand over the land to private…

In a recent encounter that brought together minds from opposite ends of the global spectrum, Somalia's Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, sat down with Mathieu Briens, the European Union's Deputy Managing Director for Africa. This wasn't just a meeting of suits and ties but a convergence of ideas and aspirations aimed at putting Somalia on a robust path to a brighter future. The Somali national news agency, SONNA, was right on the scene, painting a picture of diplomatic engagement. Amidst the backdrop of this high-profile…