visits

New Kenyan Army Chief Visits Troops Battling Al-Shabaab in Somalia KISMAYO, Somalia - In a significant and strategic outreach, Lt. General David Ketter, the newly appointed Kenya Army commander, made his inaugural visit to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) deployed in Somalia. These troops are serving as part of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). His trip to the Horn of Africa marked a pivotal moment in his leadership journey. Until his recent promotion, Ketter was the Assistant Chief of…

Somali Army Chief Visits Front Lines to Revitalize Troops Amid Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a heartfelt gesture of support and solidarity, General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, the dedicated commander of Somalia’s land forces, embarked on a crucial visit to the Somali National Army (SNA) troops stationed at various vital frontlines. This journey, beyond mere formality, carried the weight of hope and motivation, reinforcing the unwavering commitment to the ongoing struggle against Al-Shabaab. On a determined…

Ugandan Deputy Defence Chief in Mogadishu: Navigating AUSSOM's Financial Hurdles MOGADISHU, May 17 – In a marked display of camaraderie and duty, Sam Okiding, the Ugandan Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, touched down in Mogadishu last Saturday. His arrival, marked by an earnest reception by senior officials from both the Somali Army and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), holds significance that goes beyond mere diplomatic courtesies. But why now? The timing of Okiding's visit is…

Dhusamareb (AX) — On a momentous Tuesday, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, set foot in Dhusamareb. This visit marks the beginning of a critical mission, as Swan is slated to continue his journey to Northeastern State and Jubbaland later this week. His presence underscores the urgency of the matters at hand in Somalia. During his time in Dhusamareb, Swan engaged in meaningful discussions with the President of Galmudug State, Ahmed Abdi Karie, affectionately known as…

Strengthening Security Ties: A Landmark Visit from Iraq to Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — This week, a significant occasion unfolded in the heart of Somalia, as Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari made a pivotal visit to Mogadishu. The purpose? To bolster security cooperation between Iraq and Somalia amidst growing regional challenges. Such engagements are not merely formalities; rather, they symbolize a commitment to a shared future, a shared stability. Upon arrival, Minister Al-Shammari was warmly welcomed by Somali…

Antalya (AX) – On a serene Thursday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia gracefully touched down in the picturesque city of Antalya. His purpose? To partake in the much-anticipated 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF). The forum, a hub of intellectual and diplomatic exploration, officially opened its doors on Friday, continuing its discourse through to April 13. This year, the poignant theme is “Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World.” Such a theme prompts us to ponder: In a world splintered by various…

Somalia's Commitment to Its Heroes On Wednesday, amidst the bustling city of Mogadishu—alive with a blend of resilience and hope—Somalia's Second Deputy Prime Minister, Abdisalaan Abdi Ali, embarked on a journey of compassion and duty. He visited hospitals where the lifeblood of the nation—its valiant soldiers—are healing from wounds earned in battles against the persistent threats of Al-Shabab and ISIS. Leading a dedicated procession, Abdisalaan's mission was more than ceremonial; it was a testament to the government's…

Haiti's Steadfast Commitment to Security and Solidarity Recent events in Haiti have once more cast a spotlight on the multifaceted challenges faced by the nation, yet, amidst adversity, what often emerges is the enduring resolve and tenacity of its leaders and citizens alike. A Visit Marked by Sorrow and Solidarity In a poignant display of unity amidst security concerns, Haiti's President, Fritz Alphonse Jean, took a significant step by visiting the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission camp. This…

A New Chapter for AU-Somalia Relations: A Landmark Visit Mogadishu, March 23, 2025 — In a visit that many anticipate will forge a deeper bond between nations, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the newly appointed Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, made his way to Mogadishu. His arrival on this sunny Saturday marks his inaugural visit to Somalia since taking on this prestigious role. It was early February 2025 when Youssouf ascended to the AU's chair,…

Chinese Naval Influence in Africa: Navigating New Waters In the intricacies of global geopolitics, one wonders how a nation's reach can expand across continents, oceans, and cultures. In recent years, the Chinese Navy has embarked on a series of goodwill visits to numerous African ports. But what do these naval forays signify? The visits aren't merely ceremonial; they are the tendrils of growing military alliances. These endeavors strengthen military cooperation and support peacekeeping…