Somalia

Hargeisa (AX) – In an exciting move that has drawn attention across the dusty streets of Hargeisa and beyond, North Western State of Somalia—a self-declared autonomous region—has unveiled a 50% salary bump for its armed forces. This comes as President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro sticks true to his campaign vow about making their salaries more than just pocket change, aiming to bolster their spirits along with their financial standing. On Wednesday, a presidential directive brought this promise to life, scheduling the…

WASHINGTON — It was a grim scene over two relentless days of tumult in Somalia’s Northeastern State territory where recent skirmishes claimed the lives of over 20 individuals and left a further ten nursing battle scars. The security forces clashed with Islamic State insurgents in a fierce showdown, as shared by officials on Tuesday. Speaking to VOA’s Somali Service, the steely Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed, who orchestrates Northeastern State's security responses, painted a stark picture of the skirmish. He…

Imagine the sweltering sun beating down mercilessly or the sky opening with relentless rain, leaving you with nothing but the clothes on your back. That’s the stark reality for many in Somalia grappling with natural calamities. In a moving display of humanity, Qatar Charity has rolled out the literal red carpet, or rather, the canvas tarpaulins, for those most impacted by Mother Nature’s wrath. This week, arriving with the kind of military precision any general would envy, two mammoth…

BOSASO, Somalia - In the rugged terrains of the Bari region, a fierce battle unfolded between the Northeastern State Security Forces and Islamic State fighters, leaving a trail of sorrow in its wake. Over 20 souls, unfortunately, were claimed in a conflict that has intensified under the sweltering Somali sun. The fight against extremist forces was not devoid of valor though, as clear gains were made by the Northeastern State forces, reclaiming significant terrain from the rebels over a grueling week of combat.…

In a bold and transformative step, the Kenyan government has declared the elimination of Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) and visa requisites for travelers from across the African continent. Well, almost everyone—from the sands of Senegal to the shores of South Africa—can rejoice, except for those residing in Somalia and Libya, a decision influenced by persistent security concerns that linger like an unwelcome guest. This ambitious initiative aims to bolster regional integration and fuel tourism, promoting the idea that…

NAIROBI, Kenya - In a surprising twist that got everyone talking, Kenya has decided to roll out the welcome mat for travelers from across the African continent. But, here's the kicker: the mat seems to stop short of the borders of Somalia and Libya. Strange decision? Perhaps. But let's take a closer look at this diplomatic dance. Following a cabinet pow-wow in the lush landscapes of Kakamega, President William Ruto, with his top brass, laid out plans for a continental hug—oops, I meant, policy shift. By nixing…

In a vibrant twist to the ever-evolving travel narrative, Kenya has revealed a groundbreaking shift in its visa policy, electing to ax eTA and visa obligations for its African brethren. Well, almost all—Somalia and Libya find themselves on the outskirts of this diplomatic accord, left in the visa-requiring zone due to discernible security qualms. Opening Borders, Opening Hearts Kenya's latest gambit isn't just a tale of policy shifts. It's a heartfelt invitation, a clarion call for vibrant unity across a continent brimming…

BOSASO, Somalia - A New Dawn as Key ISIS Figure Surrenders to Northeastern State Forces It's not every day you hear about militants throwing in the towel, but that's precisely what happened when a senior ISIS leader handed himself over to the Northeastern State Defence Forces this Tuesday. Talk about turning the tables! Senior officials, bursting with pride, lauded the relentless pursuit encompassing the rugged Bari region. For nearly a month, Northeastern State's gallant…

NAIROBI, Kenya - In the swirling political landscape of the Horn of Africa, a recent development has been stirring the pot. Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, the head honcho of Jubaland, took a rather bold and unannounced trip to Kenya. This little escapade has caused quite the stir within Villa Somalia, the political heart of the country, and now there's a storm a-brewing. Word on the street is that Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has found himself in a bit of a pickle with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They can't seem to see…

Jubaland: Aid Denial Sparks Accusations of Political Machinations KISMAYO, Somalia — Like an age-old tale of conflict, the humanitarian landscape in Somalia takes another twist in the political saga. The somber city of Kismayo, nestled on the Indian Ocean, became the stage where Jubaland’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Abdirahman Mohamed, lamented about the love-hate tango between aid and politics. The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) stands accused by Mohamed of never having sent humanitarian…