Somalia

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…

Ugandan Officers in Hot Water Over Helicopter Mishap in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - It seems that the storms aren't just in the air as three Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) officers find themselves caught up in legal turbulence. Following the unfortunate helicopter crash in September 2024, these officers have been accused of negligence by a military court-martial. The ill-fated aircraft was tasked with shuttling troops from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia…

Somalia Refutes Envoy Recall Amidst Airspace Intrusion Claims MOGADISHU, Somalia - Picture the scene: a tale of airborne diplomacy amid political currents. The Federal Government of Somalia has put its foot down against swirling rumors, like a parent dismissing teenage gossip, about calling back its diplomatic representative in Kenya. Ambassador Jibril Abdulle, they assert, is still on Kenyan soil, despite whispers suggesting he’d been yanked back home due to an airspace debacle over Jubaland President Ahmed Islam Mohamed…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a city buzzing with political anticipation and the scent of change on the breeze, Somalia's National Electoral Commission and Boundaries dropped a significant bombshell on Monday. They've flung open the doors for political groups to sign up for the much-anticipated one-person, one-vote election coming down the pike. Seated at the helm of this pivotal announcement, Commission Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan took the stage in Mogadishu, laying down the law amid camera flashes. "Political organizations,…