East Africa

Today's update reveals the seizure of a fishing boat by armed pirates off the coast of Somalia. Neptune P2P Group warns of escalating piracy incidents, with two pirate groups operating near Socotra and Eyl. The ship's tracking system is currently inactive. Neptune P2P Group predicts an increase in pirate attacks due to their profitability. They estimate pirates are expanding their operations up to 1000nm off the Somali coast. Atalanta reports two pirate groups active in the Socotra area and 500nm east of the island. Last…

In Beledweyne, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, and former government officials celebrated the inauguration of Ugas Yusuf Ugas Hassan Ugas Khalif in Hiiraan region.  Ugas Yusuf is now the 21st leader of the Hawadle clans. Villa Somalia encouraged him to carry on the traditional legacy, focusing on cultural matters, reconciliation, and unity protection.  Past Presidents Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, ex-Prime Ministers Hassan Ali Kheire, Mohamed Hussein Roble,…

The United States neglected to offer any compensation to the family of a woman and her 4-year-old daughter killed in a drone strike in Somalia in 2018, as per a recent Pentagon report on civilian casualties. The report, issued almost a year behind schedule, reveals that the Pentagon made no ex gratia payments in 2022, despite allocating funds for such purposes. The drone strike in Somalia on April 1, 2018, resulted in the deaths of at least three, possibly five, civilians, including 22-year-old Luul Dahir Mohamed and her…

In Bosaso, Northeastern State's maritime forces nabbed a suspect and seized dangerous materials after operations in the area. Among the confiscated items were hand grenades linked to recent explosions in the city. The missions focused on individuals believed to have ties to terrorist organizations like Al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia, rumored to have secret bases in the mountains of Bari region. However, the official statement did not specify the suspect's particular group affiliation. The naval command's statement indicated…

A lively event at SIMAD University's cultural week in Mogadishu featured people in traditional attire on May 11, 2024. Boys in white performed a spirited dance to the beat of Somali music at the university campus. The scene included Somali food, horses, and traditional outfits, kicking off the week-long cultural celebration. Dahir Hassan Arab, the university's leader, emphasized the importance of cultural awareness and pride. He noted that the event aims to educate and celebrate Somali heritage among students. Hassan…

Dahir Hassan Arab, the head of SIMAD University, a non-profit institution in Mogadishu, emphasized the importance of the cultural week in his opening speech. He mentioned that the event is meant to deepen students' understanding and love for Somali culture. "We want our students to take pride in their heritage and remember the rich history behind it. Every nation is unique in its own way, and it is through the preservation of culture that we set ourselves apart," Arab shared with the audience. He described the event as a…

In Nairobi, a recent study revealed a substantial increase in permits issued to refugees for study, work, and family reunification in OECD countries. The "Safe Pathways for Refugees" report, co-produced by UNHCR and OECD, showed a 38% rise in 2022 compared to the previous year. Approximately 215,000 permits were granted to individuals displaced by conflicts in 37 OECD countries and Brazil in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic figures. Ruven Menikdiwela, UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, emphasized the importance…

Nairobi (AX) — Authorities at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport detained three Kenyan citizens over the weekend for trying to sneak gold into India. Samira Abdi (37), Feiza Hassan (25), and Fardowsa Abdi (30) were caught upon their arrival from Addis Ababa on an Ethiopian Airlines flight. They headed for the red channel counter at Terminal 2, claiming to possess 2.540 kilograms of gold. However, a thorough inspection uncovered a total of 3 kilograms, surpassing their declared amount by 460 grams. Upon…

In a recent development, the Presidents of Southwest, Jubbaland, and Galmudug states arrived in Mogadishu amid ongoing regional disputes. They gathered for the National Consultative Council meeting to discuss terrorism and constitutional reforms. The arrival of these regional leaders is a crucial step in promoting dialogue at the national level. They were warmly received by a delegation led by Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Hosh upon their arrival in Mogadishu. This meeting follows several delays and setbacks, including the…

In Hargeisa, the Somaliland military is determined to retake the Sool region, including the city of Lasanod, lost to local forces backed by Puntland. After suffering a major loss in August 2023, Somaliland forces were driven out of much of the Sool region, including Las Anod. Commander Nuh Ismail Tani of the Somaliland military highlighted the preparedness and resilience of his troops, despite recent setbacks. "Our soldiers, who bravely defend our nation, remain strong and steadfast," Tani stated in an interview with…