Somalia

Hargeisa (AX) — What would a city like Hargeisa be without the rhythm of its music echoing through its vibrant streets? For a fleeting moment, it seemed we might find out. The regional administration of Maroodi Jeeh stirred quite the cacophony when it initially issued a decree aimed at silencing the melodies of live music in Hargeisa. Yet, just as swiftly as the silence descended, it was uplifted. How did we get here? Let's explore. The initial announcement, unveiled by Governor Ahmed Mohamed Adaad on February 19, 2025,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a shifting tapestry of global diplomacy, the United Kingdom has unveiled Charles Nicholas King as its new envoy to Somalia. This announcement, made public on a hushed Wednesday afternoon, comes as Somalia stands at a critical juncture, grappling with both peril and promise. King is scheduled to take over ambassadorial duties in May 2025, stepping into the shoes of his predecessor, Michael Nithavrianakis. Charles King is not a stranger to diplomatic labyrinths. Since 2004, he has navigated the…

Rethinking Governance and Identity in Somalia Peter Drucker, the trailblazing management consultant, often initiated his dialogue with companies with a question that was more profound than it seemed: “What business are you in?” This inquiry exposed a startling truth for many businesses and organizations—they simply did not understand their own purpose. If we transpose Drucker’s approach to Somalia, the picture painted is bleak. The question of identity and purpose in governance appears unanswered, both…

AA Archive: A photograph capturing the Somali army's remarkable victory accompanies this narrative—a testament to their indomitable spirit. In a gripping tale of valor and community solidarity, the Somali National Army (SNA), with crucial support from local citizens, managed to thwart an audacious attack perpetrated by the militant group Al Shabaab. More than 130 insurgents met their demise in this intense encounter, Somali authorities have confirmed. The assault unfolded at the break of dawn, targeting several strategic…

Mogadishu (AX) – The brisk air of anticipation electrified Mogadishu on Wednesday as the Somali government embarked on an ambitious journey to battle the increasing cancer burden gripping the nation. Cancer, an insidious foe, has steadily made its presence felt across the country, impacting lives and challenging the healthcare system. But is it not time we drew a line in the sand?At the heart of this significant initiative was an inaugural event, a gathering of minds and spirits, held in the bustling capital city. It drew a…

BOSASO, Somalia - The town of Bosaso, nestled in the arid expanse of Somalia's Northeastern State region, has long endured the ominous shadow of militant threats. But in a twist that locals consider a watershed moment, the dragnet has tightened around notorious Islamic State (Daesh) members accused of criminal activities that have plagued this area. Colonel Abdikadir Jama Dirir, the steely-eyed Bari region Police Commander, revealed to reporters on a brisk Wednesday morning how the orchestrated sweep played out.…

A Delicate Dance: Ethiopia and Somalia's Diplomatic Dialogue ANKARA, Turkey — In a development bristling with diplomatic intrigue, Ethiopia and Somalia initiated pivotal discussions on Tuesday, maneuvering through a maze of complex geopolitical tensions. These technical talks between high-ranking diplomats marked a significant moment, emerging from a contentious pact involving Ethiopia and the self-proclaimed autonomous region of North Western State of Somalia. A situation reminiscent of a chess match…

On a somber afternoon that seemed no different from the rest, a chilling event unfolded that changed the uneasy rhythm of life in the quiet precinct of Maxamed Mooge. Captain Cabdi Cali Nuur, a devoted leader and the commander who many said had a heroic sense of duty, met a tragic end. He was mercilessly slain under circumstances that continue to baffle both the mind and the heart. Serving his community with an unwavering spirit, Captain Nuur was a figure of strength, embodying unwavering loyalty to the law. But today, the…

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (AX) — In a landmark decision, a Swedish court handed down prison sentences to four men accused of engagement with the Islamic State (IS). The charges involved recruitment, weapons training, and spreading propaganda, though the court acquitted three of a purported plan for domestic violence. This resonates with a sentiment once shared by the philosopher Karl Popper: "Unlimited tolerance must lead to the disappearance of tolerance." And thus, the law acts to preserve society's peace. The Nacka District…

ANKARA, Turkey - In the heart of Turkey's capital, Ankara, a fascinating chapter unfurls as technical teams from Somalia and Ethiopia convene for pivotal talks initiated by President Tayyip Erdogan’s diplomatic orchestration. This marks a continuation of the dialogue after the landmark agreement between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, a pact imbued with promises of collaboration and mutual respect. Daudi Aweis, Somalia's vibrant minister for information, announced the arrival of these teams, confirming that the discussions…