Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - On a cloudless morning, defense heads from Ethiopia and Somalia reached a landmark consensus that could shift the region’s dynamics. They have sanctioned the deployment of Ethiopian soldiers into the African Union's latest undertaking, the AUSSOM mission. The discussions, permeated with a cautious optimism and underscored by a joint communiqué released on Sunday, also saw them promising to draft a detailed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) aimed at delineating the operations of these bilateral forces…

Military Diplomacy in Somalia: A Visit with Intent MOGADISHU, Somalia — Modern diplomacy sometimes unfolds far from the gilded halls of embassies, finding its stage amidst the sands of complex regions. On a wholly unpredictable Sunday, Ethiopia's army chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, descended upon Mogadishu with an air of quiet determination. But what goal lies beneath this curtain of spontaneity? Accompanying Birhanu was Redwan…

Hargeisa (AX) – In the bustling heart of North Western State of Somalia's capital, Hargeisa, a new movement is unfolding. As the sun creeps over the horizon, the bustling markets and narrow streets begin to swell with activity. There’s perhaps an unnoticed rhythm to the city’s awakening—a blend of smells, sounds, and an intertwining of languages and cultures. Yet, amid this lively tapestry, a deeper narrative is emerging. Just as groups connect through shared…

FILE PHOTO Mogadishu (AX) — In the intricate web of international relations, two neighboring nations, Ethiopia and Somalia, have taken a significant step forward, fostering their military collaboration within the framework of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Imagine a vivid tapestry, each thread representing the nuanced, complex layers of diplomacy and defense strategy. Here, the threads intertwine to form a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), setting the stage for…

In a meeting that underscores evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, Maj. Gen. Nim’an Yusuf Osman, North Western State of Somalia’s military chieftain, engaged in strategic dialogues with Lt. Gen. Eisa Saif Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces. Their discussions centered on military cooperation and fostering robust security partnerships. But what does this mean for the region? Is it the harbinger of newfound alliances or simply another chapter in the storied interaction between…

Hargeisa (AX) — What would a city like Hargeisa be without the rhythm of its music echoing through its vibrant streets? For a fleeting moment, it seemed we might find out. The regional administration of Maroodi Jeeh stirred quite the cacophony when it initially issued a decree aimed at silencing the melodies of live music in Hargeisa. Yet, just as swiftly as the silence descended, it was uplifted. How did we get here? Let's explore. The initial announcement, unveiled by Governor Ahmed Mohamed Adaad on February 19, 2025,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a shifting tapestry of global diplomacy, the United Kingdom has unveiled Charles Nicholas King as its new envoy to Somalia. This announcement, made public on a hushed Wednesday afternoon, comes as Somalia stands at a critical juncture, grappling with both peril and promise. King is scheduled to take over ambassadorial duties in May 2025, stepping into the shoes of his predecessor, Michael Nithavrianakis. Charles King is not a stranger to diplomatic labyrinths. Since 2004, he has navigated the…

Rethinking Governance and Identity in Somalia Peter Drucker, the trailblazing management consultant, often initiated his dialogue with companies with a question that was more profound than it seemed: “What business are you in?” This inquiry exposed a startling truth for many businesses and organizations—they simply did not understand their own purpose. If we transpose Drucker’s approach to Somalia, the picture painted is bleak. The question of identity and purpose in governance appears unanswered, both…

AA Archive: A photograph capturing the Somali army's remarkable victory accompanies this narrative—a testament to their indomitable spirit. In a gripping tale of valor and community solidarity, the Somali National Army (SNA), with crucial support from local citizens, managed to thwart an audacious attack perpetrated by the militant group Al Shabaab. More than 130 insurgents met their demise in this intense encounter, Somali authorities have confirmed. The assault unfolded at the break of dawn, targeting several strategic…

Mogadishu (AX) – The brisk air of anticipation electrified Mogadishu on Wednesday as the Somali government embarked on an ambitious journey to battle the increasing cancer burden gripping the nation. Cancer, an insidious foe, has steadily made its presence felt across the country, impacting lives and challenging the healthcare system. But is it not time we drew a line in the sand?At the heart of this significant initiative was an inaugural event, a gathering of minds and spirits, held in the bustling capital city. It drew a…