Somalia

As the clock ticks down to Somalia’s presidential and parliamentary elections in May 2026, the nation once again finds itself at a significant crossroads. In just twelve months, a myriad of uncertainties hangs precariously over the political landscape. Deepening political divisions threaten to pull us apart, while the rules governing the electoral process remain frustratingly ambiguous. In the shadow of rising insecurity and international partners who are showing signs of fatigue after years of engagement, it’s little wonder…

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, the significance of diplomacy cannot be overstated. Recently, North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro made a noteworthy visit to Nairobi, Kenya, where he engaged with Kenyan President William Ruto. This meeting represents a crucial effort to fortify the ties between North Western State of Somalia and Kenya, echoing the sentiment of collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world. During his time in Nairobi, President Irro…

Remembering General Mohamed Said Hirsi Morgan: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice It is with profound sorrow that we reflect on the life and legacy of General Mohamed Said Hirsi Morgan, a stalwart figure in Somalia’s military history, who passed away on May 28, 2025, in a hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. This news, delivered through an official statement by Somali MP Abdullahi Aden Kulane, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have defended our nation's sovereignty. “With great sorrow, I extend my…

Somalia: Sheikh Sharif Criticizes Government Allegations as Unfounded Mogadishu (AX) - In a stirring declaration at a pivotal conference held in Mogadishu, former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed fervently refuted the federal government’s recent accusations. These claims, suggesting that opposition figures support the militant group Al-Shabaab, have been labeled by Sharif as unfounded and politically charged. He paints these allegations as a strategic maneuver to muffle critical voices and curb…

Kenya has once again expressed its steadfast respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Somalia, even as it actively engages in diplomatic and commercial relationships with Somalia’s sub-national regions—Jubaland and North Western State of Somalia. This nuanced position represents a delicate balancing act, one that demands careful consideration and strategic engagement. In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs made it clear that Kenya recognizes…

The Alarming Funding Crisis in Somalia: A Call to Action In a landscape where immediate humanitarian assistance is akin to a lifeline, the recent funding crisis poses a dire threat to vulnerable communities, particularly in regions like Somalia. It's a sobering reality; major donors, notably the United States, have momentarily halted portions of their foreign aid budgets, figuring prominently among the affected programs are those spearheaded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The…

Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia stands at a critical juncture. The country risks losing millions in unspent reform funds unless it accelerates a much-needed governance overhaul supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB). It's a timely reminder of how the window for progress can close faster than we anticipate. Eighteen months into the $13 million Institutional Support for Economic Governance Project (ISEGP), only 15.2% of the funds have been utilized. This dismal pace has left federal finance officials scrambling to triple…

Kenya Halts North Western State of Somalia Office Opening in Nairobi, Reaffirms Support for Somalia’s Unity NAIROBI, Kenya - In a move that echoes diplomatic finesse, Kenya has chosen to halt the inauguration of North Western State of Somalia's liaison office in Nairobi. This decision aligns with its commitment to uphold Somalia’s unity and territorial coherence. North Western State of Somalia, while operating as a self-proclaimed independent entity, has yet to gain broad international recognition. Its ties…

Strengthening Security in Somalia: A Milestone Handover of IFVs In the bustling heart of Mogadishu, a pivotal ceremony unfolded as the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) chief transport officer, Manon Richard, presided over the handover of Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) to the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF). With a tone of gratitude, Richard lauded the professionalism and discipline exhibited by the UPDF contingent. “We appreciate the unit’s excellent training and collaboration. These vehicles will enhance…

Navigating New Alliances: Somalia's Bid for Stability Amid Global Shifts In recent years, Somalia has increasingly sought to forge a dynamic partnership with Turkey in its ongoing struggle against al-Shabab. As the global focus on Africa diminishes—exemplified by America’s shifting priorities—the alignment between Mogadishu and Ankara has become increasingly pivotal for the Horn of Africa. Take, for instance, the November 2022 drive through Masjid Ali Guduud, undertaken by Somalia's…