Somalia

Hargeisa (AX) — An investigation has been kicked off by North Western State of Somalia's intelligence folks into some hot-headed fans of the Kulmiye party. These lads reportedly strutted around a Monday night rally in Hargeisa armed to the teeth with pistols and rifles, raising eyebrows and heart rates.The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) let the cat out of the bag, mentioning that live rounds were popped off in a Hargeisa neighborhood, sending the crowd into a tizzy."Those hooligans toting shotguns and causing mayhem…

Riyadh (AX) — In a significant move for regional business prospects, Somali Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Maalam Faqi, met with the Saudi Minister of Investment, Eng. Khaled bin Abdul Aziz Al-Falah, in the vibrant heart of Riyadh this Monday. Their goal? To explore investment and trading opportunities that could benefit both Somalia and Saudi Arabia.Engaging in lively dialogue, the ministers outlined sectors teeming with potential for economic collaboration, focusing on Somalia’s abundant resources. "Somalia offers a…

 Hargeisa (AX) — The Election Commission of North Western State of Somalia is wrapping up essential preparations for a pivotal election designed to attract the attention of over a million voters. This event is a significant barometer of transparency and impartiality, reflecting the region's growing dedication to democratic principles.Marking the second joint voting event in as many years, this election presents the electorate with a chance to choose from three presidential hopefuls and ten political entities vying for…

What's Next for AU Mission in Somalia? MOGADISHU, Somalia - The destiny of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) hangs like a storm cloud, largely due to anxieties over transferring power, Ethiopia-related friction, and a lack of financial support from donors who've backed this initiative for quite a spell. Monetary shortfalls persist, leading to an unfortunate predicament where soldiers haven't seen paychecks in many moons. Meanwhile, Ethiopia's alleged territorial ambitions stir the pot, causing…

In Mogadishu (AX), the Somali federal government's ambition to transition from a clan-based election process to a universal suffrage by 2026 has stirred the political pot, all while the nation faces a pesky al-Shabaab resurgence. On October 2, during a National Consultative Council (NCC) powwow, Somali bigwigs mapped out a reform strategy, eyeing extended terms for state presidents. This plan, however, pulled back the curtain on deep-seated rifts among regional honchos, as tensions simmer amid rising insurgency woes.…

Mogadishu (AX) — During a lively event in Mogadishu, Somalia's federal government rolled out a new map that has ruffled some feathers, especially in the territories of Northeastern State and Hirshabelle. The focus of the gathering was to welcome a Turkish oil exploration vessel, but the map showcasing various areas as "disputed" areas quickly took center stage. Leaders from Northeastern State and Hirshabelle took issue, arguing it undermines the self-governance and clearly established borders of their lands. Northeastern…

Clash Over Voting Reforms Intensifies in Somalia Against Evolving Al-Shabaab Danger MOGADISHU, Somalia — With al-Shabaab continuing its menacing activities, the conversation around voting reforms in Somalia is turning into quite the wildfire. The heart of the matter? Whether the country should stick to indirect elections or make a bold shift to letting every citizen cast their vote in the 2026 elections. The political bigwigs gathered again at the presidential palace, their heads bent over talks on national security and…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant move towards bolstering Somalia's defense potential, Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur shook hands on a financial defense pact with Turkey's Defense Minister, Yaşar Güler.The ceremonious event held in Turkey on Monday saw representatives from both Mogadishu and Ankara converge, underscoring the agreement's potential to both enhance Somalia’s defense infrastructure and elevate the two nations’ partnership.According to reports from Somali state-owned outlets, this fresh accord…

Northeastern State Refutes Allegations; Labels FGS’s Oil Exploration Accusations as "Outlandish" AXADLE, Somalia - In a war of words, Northeastern State has fiercely denied any opposition to Somalia's oil exploration efforts, scoffing at what it calls the "preposterous and baseless accusations" from the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). Northeastern State remains committed to the nation's stability and growth. Abdifitah Mohamed Nur, Northeastern State's minister of state and top aide in presidential affairs,…

JOHANNESBURG - South Africa and Somalia have vehemently denounced Israel's recent assault on Iran, asserting that it endangers regional stability. In a late Saturday statement, the South African Foreign Ministry remarked, "This strike is an intolerable breach of Iran's sovereignty." The ministry added that alongside the atrocities in Gaza, Israel’s relentless attacks on Lebanon and its ongoing annexation of the West Bank have cultivated a dire humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East. The call for an immediate…