Somalia

Evolving Dynamics: Somalia and Ethiopia's Diplomatic Chessboard Amidst a tapestry of international dialogues and palpable tension, Turkey confidently stepped into a pivotal diplomatic role. Under the watchful gaze of the world, Turkey masterfully facilitated negotiations between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, leading to the landmark Ankara Declaration on December 12. This significant pact was not just a declaration of mutual respect for each nation's sovereignty; it was also a gateway to more substantive talks…

UN cargo aircraft rests on its nose after a landing gear failure at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on April 1, 2025. This image, almost like a slumbering giant reduced to humility, serves as a poignant reminder that mishaps, while unfortunate, demand proactive measures. Mogadishu (AX) — In an earnest bid to address growing apprehensions surrounding air safety, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation of Somalia has mandated a comprehensive round of emergency safety inspections and…

The buzz of a bustling city outside is always welcoming, but within the quiet chambers of diplomacy, significant conversations unfold that shape the future. Recently, Hamsa Abdi Barre, the seasoned Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Abdullah Al Otaibi. Al Otaibi, an instrumental figure as the Head of the Arab League Mission to Somalia, was on a mission quintessential to the interests of both parties involved. Their meeting wasn’t merely a diplomatic formality; it was a…

The decisions surrounding the U.S. presence in Somalia are as complex as the country itself. With the recent escalation of conflict in Somalia, some officials from the U.S. State Department are advocating for the closure of the embassy in Mogadishu. This suggestion stems from the growing strength of Al Shabab militants, but it's a move not without its risks. Reflecting on the turbulent successes and failures in foreign policy, one must ponder—what does withdrawing mean for Somalia’s stability? Echoing the traumatizing…

“This agreement is fundamental to re-engagement with the fund and reinforces Somalia’s reform agenda,” Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh articulated with a notable blend of optimism and resolve. He portrayed the agreement as a "critical milestone" pivotal to Somalia’s broader debt relief efforts. On a forthright note, he elaborated that this deal aligns seamlessly with the government’s long-term aspirations for sustainable development and economic propulsion. Reflect for a moment: How does a nation rebuild after…

Turkey Signs Onshore Oil Exploration Deal with Somalia Amid Security Concerns In an era of dynamic international collaborations, yet another compelling chapter unfolds between Turkey and Somalia. On Thursday, the two nations came together to ink a groundbreaking agreement that charts paths into the uncharted territories of onshore oil and gas exploration. This momentous occasion, held in the heart of Ankara, extends seismic survey rights to Turkey’s state-run energy titan across three…

U.S. Diplomatic Deliberations: The Future of Its Embassy in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia — Amid the swirling sands of political turmoil and on the cusp of a military maelstrom, U.S. State Department officials are at a crossroads. Recent advances by Al-Shabaab, the militant insurgent group that has long haunted the Horn of Africa, have led to palpable tensions within the corridors of the State Department. Some officials are now suggesting that the American embassy in…

Somali Army's Growing Proficiency Through International Cooperation The journey of the Somali army toward enhanced competence has been significantly shaped by its collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) over the years. This partnership, institutionalized through years of combined efforts, has been a cornerstone in Somalia's strategy to combat terrorism. Their joint mission echoes a broader narrative of shared values and goals, resonating deeply in the tumultuous corridors of…

Somalia Embraces a New Chapter with $306 Million Debt Relief Edited By Ali Musa, Axadle Times International–Monitoring MOGADISHU, Somalia - A significant financial agreement has unfolded this week, as Somalia's government, following a pact with the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF), secured an impressive $306 million debt relief package. This development is a result of relentless economic reforms that the nation's treasury has been advocating for, aiming to set the…

Tuesday unfolded under a poignant cloud of uncertainty for humanitarian organizations and those dependent on food aid throughout Somalia. In a world where every grain counts, such anxieties ripple through the community, stirring both concern and confusion. The following day brought a mix of relief and bewilderment. Officials articulated that the Trump administration had shifted gears, opting to reverse previously announced, sweeping cuts to emergency food assistance for several nations. However, this decision did…