Somalia

Breaking Chains and Smashing Barriers Through Organised Defence of Women Journalists’ Rights in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - Imagine a world where a woman's voice in journalism echoes safely and powerfully, yet still struggles to break through a sombre cloud of oppression. On this International Women’s Day, the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) shines a light on the indomitable spirit of Somali women in media – women who bravely mold public opinion, hold those in power accountable, and bring the…

In the vibrant heart of the Federal Republic of Somalia, an act of profound compassion unfolded this past Monday. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, known as KSrelief, embarked on a transformative mission within the Banaadir region, offering sustenance to those who yearn for hope amid adversity. In an awe-inspiring gesture, 1,200 food baskets were distributed, touching the lives of 7,200 individuals. But have you ever wondered how a simple basket of food can ripple through a community, restoring dignity and…

Heightened Military Presence: Ethiopia's Bold Steps Near the Somalia Border Mogadishu (AX) – In recent times, the Ethiopian government has astutely made a strategic decision to deploy a significant contingent of Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) near the border town of Feerfeer, effectively situating them along the porous Ethiopia-Somalia border. This significant military action was reported by Ethiopian media on Saturday and has sparked discussions on regional stability and the battle against…

MOGADISHU, Somalia – With hope-laden words echoing through the chambers of a mosque nestled within the sacred grounds of Villa Somalia, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended a renewed hand of amnesty to the warriors of Al-Shabaab. "It's time to come home," his voice seemed to say, urging those tangled in the insurgency's web to break free, to step into the light of society's embrace without the shadows of retribution creeping behind them. Picture this scene: the scent of incense curling to meet the lofty arches of…

Mogadishu (AX) – Tensions yet again escalated in the Buqdharkayn district on Friday, as North Western State of Somalia forces and the SSC-Khatumo administration found themselves at crossroads, each attributing blame to the other for sparking the latest bout of heavy fighting. Such conflicts, especially in areas which have enjoyed relative calm, raise questions about the enduring quest for peace in the region. The Ministry of Interior of North Western State of Somalia released an intriguing narrative: it was SSC-Khatumo…

Al-Shabaab's Unyielding Grip on Southern Somalia: A Recap of Recent Developments NAIROBI, Kenya - Imagine a place where hope and despair dance an intricate tango. In Southern Somalia, Al-Shabaab has once again tightened its grip, claiming strategic territory in what feels like an unending saga of strife. Particularly in the Middle Shabelle region, they've reasserted dominance over key locations such as the towns of Al-Kawthar and Boos-Hareeri, according to individuals closely associated with the regional…

In this photograph, Somali Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Fardowsa Osman Egal, participates actively in a government meeting in Mogadishu. Mogadishu (AX) — Nestled on the beautiful shores of the Indian Ocean, Mogadishu has recently faced turbulence in its air relations. The skies over Somalia's capital have become quieter following a warning issued by the U.S. Embassy regarding potential threats by terrorist factions. But here's where the plot thickens: the Somali government, exhibiting both poise and resilience,…

U.S. Pledges Enhanced Support to Somalia's Northeastern State in ISIS War MOGADISHU, Somalia - The intricate tapestry of war in Somalia gains another layer, as the United States reaffirms its commitment to supporting Northeastern State in its arduous battle against ISIS militants. Just a stone's throw from pulling its troops, the Pentagon seemingly pauses, readying to bolster efforts alongside allies. As a senior Pentagon member whispered to the VOA, "We are here, and we are stepping up our game."…

Ethiopian Airstrikes Hit Al-Shabaab Targets in Somalia, Minister Confirms Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International – Monitoring MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a significant show of military coordination, Ethiopia's air force launched strategic airstrikes against Al-Shabaab targets within Somalia's volatile Middle Shabelle region. A region fraught with conflict, it has been a battlefield for those intent on quelling the activities of the militant group.…

A Call for Reform: An Incident Sparks Debate in North Western State of Somalia In a world increasingly shaped by the lens of a smartphone camera, actions and their consequences unfold before our very eyes, sometimes with alarming speed. Just recently, this was the case in Hargeisa, when a video surfaced showing a police officer—an enforcer of the law by profession—slapping a young woman. The video spread like wildfire, sparking outrage and disbelief among viewers and prompting the North Western State of Somalia police to…