southern

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 a world interconnected by complex socio-economic forces, the closure of the UN's Southern African bureau stands as a significant decision that reverberates across continents. As we delve into this development, one cannot help but ponder the ramifications on both global and local scales. Positioned amidst an evolving diplomatic climate, the relationship between South Africa and the United States finds itself under scrutiny. At this pivotal moment, the closure of the bureau, largely funded by U.S. contributions,…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a brisk morning in the Ba’adweyne district of southern Mudug, the sense of anticipation was palpable. The Somali army forces, together with Galmudug Dervish forces and vigilant local militias, embarked on a meticulously planned security operation. Their mission? To dismantle the lurking menace of Al-Shabaab that had embedded itself in this heartland, exploiting innocent civilians through extortion and fear. One might wonder: how does a community…

Mogadishu (AX) – Gathered in the vibrant city of Dar es Salaam, leaders from across East and Southern Africa came together in a pivotal summit, as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visibly immersed himself last Saturday. The extraordinary meeting was a collective endeavor by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a bold attempt to untangle the turbulent web of conflict that has recently engulfed the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The…

In the aftermath of what some are calling "one of the fiercest storms ever recorded," northern Mozambique is reeling from the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido. Over 70 lives have tragically been lost, as reported by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD) of the country. The storm wreaked havoc across multiple districts in the Cabo Delgado province, with the city of Pemba bearing the brunt of the destruction. According to UNICEF, the cyclone has not only destroyed or severely damaged upwards of…

Israel has intensified its airstrikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon, launching a series of attacks just one day after Lebanese officials hinted at their consideration of a US-mediated ceasefire. This conflict is deeply rooted in a web of alliances, with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Islamic Jihad enjoying the backing of Iran, Israel’s primary adversary. Notably, Iran has expressed its eagerness for a rapid conclusion to the ongoing hostilities that have gripped Lebanon for nearly two months. Since September 23, Israel has…

Israel's military has unleashed a series of intense airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, marking one of the most significant daytime assaults in the region. This ramped-up offensive comes after the Israeli defense minister made clear there would be no ceasefire until their objectives were fully realized. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over Beirut as approximately ten airstrikes rained down throughout the morning hours. In a warning distributed via social media, the Israeli army informed locals of their…

Even with a rising tide of awareness regarding children’s rights, the latest findings from UNICEF unveil some serious educational hurdles faced by kids in Eastern and Southern Africa. The figures are eye-opening and provoke serious thought. Research has shown that a staggering 87% of children recognize their rights. Yet, awareness doesn’t equate to adequate support or access. Take Tanzania, for instance, where youngsters are vocal about their need for better digital literacy and vocational training opportunities. They see…

Government and Al-Shabaab Forces Clash, Resulting in Loss of 11 Soldiers in Southern Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia — A fierce firefight near Wayaanta, some 60 kilometers from Kismayo, claimed the lives of at least 11 soldiers from both Somali regional and federal units on Wednesday. The area, located in the state of Jubaland, became a hotbed of violence as government troops clashed with al-Shabaab insurgents. Anonymously, three officials disclosed that the skirmish not only fatally impacted the forces but also left…

In a recent escalation, Israeli airstrikes on Sidon, a coastal city in southern Lebanon, resulted in the tragic loss of at least eight lives, with 25 others suffering various injuries, as reported by the nation’s health ministry. Meanwhile, a separate strike in Zawtar al-Sharkiya claimed the lives of three individuals. Remarkably, a bomb dropped on Marjayoun yesterday tragically resulted in five fatalities. In the midst of these aggressions, Israel confirmed that four of its soldiers lost their lives while engaged in…