Voices

The Turmoil of Protests in Kenya: A Call for Reflection and Justice In the heart of Nairobi, a scene unfolded that encapsulated the complex tapestry of human emotion and socio-political strife. Bystanders and commuters converged in a commercial area recently ravaged by flames and vandalism, a stark reminder of the violent protests marking the anniversary of the anti-tax demonstrations from a year prior. The chaos that erupted on the streets serves not just as a narrative of sorrow and loss but as a poignant reflection of…

In a dramatic culmination of Burundi's recent parliamentary election, the ruling CNDD-FDD party has captured all 100 seats, boasting an overwhelming 96% of the total votes across the nation. This undeniable triumph, however, hasn’t come without controversy. While the electoral commission has reported only minor irregularities, opposition parties and various human rights organizations have voiced serious concerns regarding the integrity of the process. As we navigate the complexities of this electoral outcome, it prompts us…

Somali Opposition Boycotts Talks With President, Citing Exclusion of Key Stakeholders MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a bold move that marked a significant moment in Somali politics, opposition leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction in no uncertain terms. On a sunny Sunday, they officially declared their decision to boycott the national talks initiated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, scheduled for June 15 to 22. Their frustration stems from what they view…

Community Concerns Over New Travel Ban: A Somali Perspective Twin Cities, MN (AX) – The Somali community in Minnesota is grappling with a wave of emotions following the announcement of a renewed travel ban by former U.S. President Donald Trump. This latest directive targets citizens from 12 countries, including Somalia, and is set to restrict their entry into the United States starting next month. The list of affected nations is unsettlingly familiar to many: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea,…

Bolstering North Western State of Somalia’s Quest: A Meeting of Diplomatic Significance On a warm Monday in Nairobi, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga greeted North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro with a firm handshake, signaling solidarity amid complex geopolitical currents. This high-profile meeting on June 2, 2025, held in the tranquil setting of Karen, was more than just a simple farewell gathering; it was a defining moment for North Western State of Somalia in its ongoing journey…

The Kremlin has yet to respond formally to the 30-day ceasefire proposal that surfaced following discussions between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. However, initial feedback from Kremlin-affiliated media outlets indicates a reluctance to accept an immediate truce, suggesting that doing so may be at odds with Russia’s strategic goals. Russian analysts seem to be largely in agreement, interpreting the current situation as unfavorable for the Kremlin to pause its military operations, particularly given what…

Breaking Chains and Smashing Barriers Through Organised Defence of Women Journalists’ Rights in Somalia MOGADISHU, Somalia - Imagine a world where a woman's voice in journalism echoes safely and powerfully, yet still struggles to break through a sombre cloud of oppression. On this International Women’s Day, the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) shines a light on the indomitable spirit of Somali women in media – women who bravely mold public opinion, hold those in power accountable, and bring the…

Mogadishu (AX) — As the sun lazily dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Mogadishu, a gathering unlike any other took place. Survivors, heartened activists, and earnest government officials came together to honor the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Their voices joined in an impassioned plea urging the swift establishment of a national ban in Somalia. Orchestrated by the Ifrah Foundation, this pivotal event was held in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Family,…

In a tragic event that can only evoke disbelief, audio recordings from air traffic control have emerged, detailing the haunting moments before and after the catastrophic collision between an American Airlines regional passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, DC. The consequences of this mid-air disaster resonate deeply, not only for the families affected but for aviation safety as a whole. LiveATC.net, a reputable platform renowned for capturing in-flight communications, has provided a chilling…

AXADLE, Somalia - In a landscape of arid plains and hopeful hearts, Northeastern State's Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Ubah Abdirashid Mohamed Hersi, has raised a storm of protest against what she perceives as a diplomatic slap in the face by Somalia’s Federal Government. This bout is about the deliberate omission of regional powers in the crucial act of distributing food aid, and it feels personal. As the merciless sun rose over Bosaso on a typical Saturday, Minister Ubah took to the stage with…