Somali

Challenges and Changes: The Somali Army in its Fight Against Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - Recent weeks have presented daunting challenges for the Somali National Army (SNA), as it struggles to maintain its footing across various strategic frontlines. The fall of Adan Yabaal starkly exemplifies the difficulties faced by a force striving to assert itself, despite significant investments from international partners. Amidst dwindling financial support, spearheaded by the United States, the SNA grapples with a…

In a significant turning point for Somalia's democracy, voter registration has officially commenced in the capital city, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s long-standing journey towards direct elections. This initiative, coupled with the establishment of electoral frameworks and legislation, is more than just procedural; it symbolizes an essential shift away from decades of clan-based voting systems. Historically, lawmakers were not elected directly by the people but rather selected through indirect consensus,…

Strengthening the Somali National Army: A New Chapter in Defense Collaboration Mogadishu (AX) — On a pivotal Wednesday, the Somali Ministry of Defense welcomed a fresh influx of military resources courtesy of the United States. This shipment is poised to fortify the Somali National Army (SNA), particularly bolstering the elite Danab commando unit as they engage in ongoing operations against the al-Qaeda-linked militant group, al-Shabaab. The handover ceremony, which illuminated…

Parliamentary Challenges in Somalia: A Closer Look Mogadishu (AX) — In a surprising turn of events, the Somali Lower House Parliament found itself unable to convene on Wednesday. The absence of a sufficient number of lawmakers—only 120 attended, falling 19 short of the necessary 139—highlights the growing tensions within the political landscape. This scenario unfolds against the backdrop of an anticipated no-confidence motion targeting Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur, affectionately known as Madoobe. Speaker Madoobe…

Editorial: A Posed Image Is Not Somali Unity Editorial- Today marks the opening of a political conference in Mogadishu, uniting leaders from Somalia's Federal Government and the Federal Member States, such as South West, Galmudug, HirShabelle, the Banadir region, and the newly acknowledged SSC-Khaatumo administration. But let's pause here. What does this gathering truly represent? Who's absent, and what can we realistically hope to achieve? To start, the absence of Northeastern State and Jubaland looms large. Northeastern…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an exciting development that highlights the evolving landscape of international military collaboration, nearly 100 delegates from over 40 African nations, including esteemed officers from Somalia, are embarking on a remarkable 10-day military exchange program in China. This initiative represents a growing commitment by Beijing to deepen defense ties across the continent. From May 6 to May 15, participants will engage in a rich tapestry of activities that includes leadership workshops, visits to military…

Somali President Highlights Multi-Pronged Approach to Combat Al-Shabab, ISIS MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a heartfelt address, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud articulated Somalia's relentless commitment to eradicating the threats posed by Al-Shabab and ISIS militants. His words revealed a nuanced strategy that combines military might with diplomatic engagement, underscoring his relentless pursuit of stability in a nation long-fractured by violence. At the forefront of this campaign, the Somali National Army (SNA),…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a marked victory for the Somali government, local community fighters, and security forces, a significant confrontation unfolded on Saturday along the border between the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. This clash resulted in the deaths of at least 50 Al-Shabaab militants, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defense. The fierce fighting erupted in several rural areas, including Muqliga Ali, El-Hareeri, Hareeri Madoobe, and Garas Magan. Here, Al-Shabaab directly attacked a Somali army base, but the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development in the realm of international relations, Somalia’s Defense Minister, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, made a compelling statement on Saturday concerning the federal government’s recent ban on Taiwan-issued passports. This decision, he explained, stemmed from an intended visit by senior Taiwanese officials to North Western State of Somalia—a move that Fiqi describes as a potential infringement upon Somalia's sovereignty. During an event held in the heart of Mogadishu, Fiqi, who recently…

The Journey of the Somali Language: A Complex Tapestry Many people often ponder a significant question: Why did it take twelve years of independence and two decades of national discussions to reach a consensus on a written Somali language? The answer, as noted by David D. Laitin, is anything but straightforward. He remarked, “Whenever the matter was raised, foreign elements came at work. The people would split into factions—some supporting Somali script for nationalistic reasons, some advocating Arabic script on religious…