Author: Hassan Mohamed

AU urgently seeks $190 million to sustain Somalia peace mission in 2025 Apr 25, 2025

The meeting in Entebe, Uganda was convened to review security progress under the AUSSOM as well as take stock of gains made in the fight against Al-Sh...

Regional leaders order joint plan to eliminate Al-Shabaab, back stronger AUSSOM presence Apr 25, 2025

The AU forces in Somalia are credited for helping to root out the terrorists from the capital Mogadishu in 2009 as well as other major cities like Kis...

Somalia and AU call for sustainable support to AUSSOM peacekeeping mission Apr 24, 2025

AU Chairperson Mahmoud stressed that the world cannot afford the failure of the AUSSOM peacekeeping mission and called for collective efforts to conti...

Somalia, US forces destroy two vessels carrying Al-Shabaab weapons Apr 17, 2025

According to a statement issued by Somalia’s Ministry of Information, both vessels and the weapons on board were destroyed, along with an unknown numb...

Mogadishu starts voter registration ahead of Somalia’s historic elections in over 50 years Apr 15, 2025

Past elections were indirect, with elders and clan representatives selecting leaders. Until now, civic leaders in Mogadishu were appointed by the pres...

Heavy rains claim three lives in Somalia's Puntland as region swings from drought to floods Apr 14, 2025

This latest disaster highlights Somalia's vulnerability to climate extremes, where cycles of drought and flooding regularly compound the challenges of...

President Trump to support Somalia’s war on terror Apr 14, 2025

The Somali government continues its offensive against the militants on multiple fronts, with international partners providing critical support to secu...

Somalia approves Elon Musk’s Starlink to boost internet access and digital growth Apr 13, 2025

Starlink operates in over 140 countries globally, with Somalia now becoming its 21st African market.

Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza breaks new ground with historic visit to Las Anod Apr 12, 2025

Hamza thanked the people of Las Anod for their warm welcome and promised to listen to them and work with them to improve their lives.

Somalia, Turkey sign onshore hydrocarbon exploration agreement Apr 11, 2025

The agreement gave the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) rights for oil exploration in two and three-dimensional seismic exploration activities in...

Somalia mourns death of its first spy master General Ahmed Abdallah “Dafle” Apr 11, 2025

National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA) Director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali “Sambololshe” who hailed the late Gen. Dafle for pioneering its first inte...

Somalia's Puntland residents urged to fast and pray for rain amid devastating drought Apr 11, 2025

The Islamic prayer for rain, known as Salat al-Istisqa, is a sunnah (non-obligatory) prayer typically performed in an open area, much like Eid prayers...

Somalia approves visa-free entry deal with Egypt for diplomatic passport holders Apr 10, 2025

Somalia and Egypt have long enjoyed cordial relations. Both nations are members of the Arab League and maintain diplomatic missions in each other’s ca...

Security forces open fire during funeral procession of jailed Somali general Apr 10, 2025

On the day of his burial, as his body was being escorted through Mogadishu, a clash erupted between armed supporters and security personnel. The proce...

Explainer: Intrigues surrounding Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s planned historic visit to Las Anod Apr 10, 2025

Political analysts view the visit as an opportunity for Somalia to once and for all end the long-protracted secessionist agenda by Somaliland.

AUSSOM confirms Burundian troops injured in Al-Shabaab ambush in Somalia Apr 08, 2025

The peacekeepers were clearing a landing area for a helicopter to land when they came under attack.

Kenya, international partners support Somalia's pursuit of national dialogue Apr 08, 2025

The international community praised the President’s initiative, describing it as both timely and necessary. They urged all stakeholders to convene urg...

Somalia warns citizens lacking national IDs will be denied government services Apr 08, 2025

PM Hamza said the new ID directive will help eliminate decades-long gaps in personal identification, curb fraud and enhance public safety, especially...

PM Hamza Abdi Barre: Somalia’s defence is stronger and more prepared than ever Apr 06, 2025

PM Hamza made these remarks during a handover ceremony at the Ministry of Defence, where Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi officially took over from Abdulka...

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants fire mortars near Somalia’s Aden Abdulle airport Apr 06, 2025

Sunday’s attack came barely hours after several mortars were fired late on Saturday near residential areas in the city, injuring several people and da...

Museveni, Hassan engage in talks on regional security and support for Somali forces Apr 06, 2025

A joint communique issued after their meeting at Nakasero State House in Kampala said the two leaders discussed various issues of importance to both c...

Kenyan pilot in ill-fated cargo plane that crashed in Somalia buried in Nairobi Mar 24, 2025

His burial was attended by family, friends and colleagues who worked with him at Wilson Airport where he operated.

AU Commission chair Mahamoud makes first official visit to Somalia, discusses security and regional stability Mar 23, 2025

The Somalia National News Agency (SONNA) later said the two leaders discussed counterterrorism, regional stability, and Somalia’s commitment to AU ref...

Somalia PM Hamza Barre launches five-year National Transformation Plan Mar 19, 2025

Prime Minister Hamza said the National Transformation Plan seeks to strengthen and capacitate various government agencies and Ministries to better ser...

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud spends the night on the frontlines after surviving bomb attack Mar 19, 2025

Al-Shabaab militants unsuccessfully tried to take down President Hassan after the attack on his motorcade as it was travelling through the capital Mog...

Somalia to conduct civic elections by end of June – Election Commission Mar 18, 2025

The journalists were taken around a packed warehouse with election materials. The election body chief said political parties’ elections are ongoing an...

Somalia's Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre reshuffles cabinet, appoints new deputy ministers Mar 17, 2025

This reshuffle is perceived as a move to bolster the effectiveness of Somalia’s government and improve strategic sectors, including security, commerce...

Somalia warns public to keep out of Shabaab areas as bombardments against group intensify Mar 16, 2025

After his re-election in May 2022, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared a total war against Al-Shabaab.

Somali MP Abdullahi losses seat for absenteeism, 106 MPs reject decision Mar 15, 2025

As a result, Speaker Madoobe declared Dr Abdullahi’s seat, number HOP201 in the northern Somaliland State, vacant and directed the Election and Bounda...

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh awards winners of national Qur'an competition Mar 14, 2025

This year's winner was Abdirahman Abdullahi Osman from Southwest State who took home the first cash prize of about Sh2.5 million.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hails Somali women’s role in nation-building Mar 09, 2025

The President told the women leaders that elections and security are key priorities for his government and urged them to support him and the governmen...

Somalia starts observing Ramadan as President Hassan urges compassion for the poor Mar 01, 2025

Hassan reminded the Somali public to pray for peace and stability in their country, to forgive each other and to stand with their government in its fi...

Puntland president says ISIS supporters have a week to surrender or be hunted down Feb 28, 2025

The Puntland president thanked all countries that continue to help Puntland in the fight against ISIS, saying without their support Puntland and Somal...

Mortars fired into Mogadishu airport as Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed arrives for State visit Feb 27, 2025

Mogadishu was under an overnight lockdown ahead of PM Abiy’s arrival, with major roads in and around the airport closed off and movement restricted.

Puntland forces record major victories against ISIS in Somalia Jan 16, 2025

The fierce fighting that has so far killed over 40 terrorists deep inside a rugged mountain where forces are battling a resurgent ISIS militant in Pun...

Somalia's opposition says pacts with Ethiopian, other countries signed without parliament’s approval Jan 15, 2025

The leaders accused President Hassan of going against a parliamentary censure motion he sponsored against Ethiopia when it signed a maritime agreement...

Somalia intensifies push to flush out ISIS elements holed up in Puntland’s Almiskaad mountains Jan 12, 2025

Puntland officials say hundreds of ISIS fighters from the Middle East have been sneaking into its eastern rugged Golis and Alimiskaad mountainous regi...

Ethiopia and Somalia restore full diplomatic, trade ties Jan 11, 2025

The leaders reaffirmed that the stability of the region requires strong cooperation between the two countries based on mutual trust, confidence and re...

Attempt to rescue jailed family members fails as guards at Somalia’s Galkaayo prison repel armed attackers Jan 11, 2025

The five prisoners are in jail to serve various sentences for murder committed three months ago with the main suspect sentenced to death by firing squ...

Somalia urges Gaza ceasefire in first UNSC briefing Jan 04, 2025

Somalia said Palestinians lack basic necessities like food, water, shelter and medicines due to an Israeli aid blockade on Gaza.

Boost for Somalia’s tourism as first five-star hotel to be built near Mogadishu Airport Dec 27, 2024

The hotel will feature 321 luxury accommodations, including 261 guest rooms and 60 serviced apartments. Amenities will include a fitness centre, spa,...

Somali lawmakers condemn flight ban to Jubaland, term it unconstitutional Dec 26, 2024

The lawmakers specifically warned the Federal Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and SCAA who are both responsible for civil aviation matters in...

Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi dismisses Petroleum Minister in cabinet reshuffle Dec 22, 2024

The reshuffle marks a significant shift in Somalia’s government, raising questions about the future direction of its oil and gas exploration initiativ...

New Mogadishu Mayor plans to hold first civic elections next year Dec 22, 2024

Successfully holding civic elections in Mogadishu would be a landmark achievement, especially given the city’s turbulent history.

Somalia takes over leadership of East African Standby Force from Rwanda Dec 22, 2024

In June this year, Somalia won a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and will begin its two-year term in 2025.

Somalia and Tanzania sign landmark agreements to strengthen bilateral relations Dec 21, 2024

The agreement also included health sector collaboration to improve healthcare systems in both countries, tourism development to boost tourism, a defen...

Eastleigh Business Community members attend launch of Somalia’s $3.5 billion project Dec 20, 2024

Eastleigh Business Community Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi Yare led the delegation of 27 Kenyan businesspeople to the launch.

Somaliland opposition leader Abdullahi ‘Irro’ elected president of breakaway region Nov 19, 2024

Political analyst Mustaf Abdi says incoming President Irro has a lot on his plate when he takes over the country’s leadership.

[Photos] Somalia’s first bowling club opens in Mogadishu Oct 17, 2024

As its name implies, Feynuus, which translates to "lantern light" in Somali, has been illuminating Mogadishu, with games of bowling, dominoes, cards,...

Somali police intercept network trafficking girls to Al-Shabaab fighters Oct 03, 2024

All Al-Shabaab-related crimes in Somalia are handled by the military court.

Somalia launches new veterinary laboratory to boost livestock exports and economic growth Aug 20, 2024

The public welcomed the development, expressing optimism that it would boost the livestock sector, create jobs, and bring much-needed foreign currency...

Jowhar: Somalia’s agricultural town that craves its glorious past Aug 19, 2024

A high cost of production, especially the price of fertiliser, and years of war have left farmers unable to meet demand.

Somalia welcomes Turkish-led mediation talks with Ethiopia Aug 12, 2024

The development comes after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a phone call on Sunday evening with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of...

Survivors’ tales of night of terror after bomb attack at Mogadishu's Liido Beach Aug 11, 2024

A deadly gun battle ensued after five Al-Shabaab fighters stormed the nearby Beach View Hotel, shooting people indiscriminately.

Reprieve for Somali entrepreneurs as UAE opens visa consulate in Mogadishu Jul 29, 2024

The latest move by the UAE shows Somalia's improving foreign relations and confidence with the rest of the world as the country reels back from nearly...

Puntland State concludes civic elections, the first in southern Somalia Jul 24, 2024

Provisional results issued by Puntland Electoral Commission (PEC) show that the ruling party Kaah won most of the seats but was short of winning a maj...

135 Al-Shabaab terrorists killed in Somalia, more captured alive Jul 22, 2024

The Jubaland Intelligence and Security Agency issued a statement today confirming that 135 Al-Shabaab fighters, including commanders, were killed in a...

Fresh flooding risk alert issued in Somalia amid rising river levels May 07, 2024

The government has taken measures to mitigate the flood effects to ensure safety and support to affected populations.

Al-Shabaab kills 6 staff of Somalia's largest telco in car bomb attack Apr 28, 2024

Police Spokesperson Abdifatah Adan Hassan says the attack was by Al-Shabaab militants, who have targeted Hormuud Telecom before.

Al-Shabaab militant, two children die after bomb explodes in his house Apr 28, 2024

Police said his wife survived the blast and they hope she will help to unravel what happened during the incident once she is treated.

Tanzania, Somalia Presidents hold bilateral talks to advance ties Apr 27, 2024

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

President Hassan urges unity, coperation for Somalia's development Apr 26, 2024

The President reiterated his desire to continue reaching out to Puntland State to mend ties and see the country continue on its positive trajectory of...

Somaliland presidential election set for November 13 Apr 21, 2024

The government of Somaliland said that they are deeply 'offended' by the language in the communique issued by the G7 foreign ministers referring to So...

Sustained military offensive, hard times pushed us to surrender - Al-Shabaab defectors Apr 21, 2024

In the last two weeks alone more than 25 Al-Shabaab fighters have surrendered. The Somalia government has an open amnesty policy for Al-Shabaab defect...

Turkey to start oil drilling off Somali Coast in 2025-  Minister Apr 20, 2024

When he signed the oil and gas exploration agreement in March, Abdirizak said the agreement was for Turkey to do the oil exploration on onshore and of...

Somalia postpones key meeting with federal states for 'technical reasons' Apr 20, 2024

President Hassan invited federal state leaders to the meeting amid tensions triggered by recent constitutional amendments.

EU approves $116.9 million in funding to boost security in Somalia Apr 18, 2024

The EU is the largest direct contributor to the AU peacekeeping mission to Somalia with nearly a whopping EUR 2.87 billion (Sh407 billion) funding sin...

Somalia's beach clean-up group wins global Arab Volunteer Award Apr 18, 2024

The group which has over 100 active members, collects garbage mostly plastic every Friday from Mogadishu’s popular Lido beach and plans to expand thei...

UK donates Sh452.9 million to boost Somalia’s war on terror Apr 17, 2024

The embassy said part of the money will be used to procure Very High Frequency (VHF) communication equipment to support interoperability and effective...

Somalia President assesses troop readiness ahead of deployment in fight against Al-Shabaab Apr 16, 2024

The president visited Gen. Dhaga Badan, Gen. Daud and the Turksom military training bases within Mogadishu.

Somalia calls for restraint in Middle East after Iran's attack on Israel Apr 15, 2024

Somalia reiterated its earlier stand that the long-standing Israel – Palestine conflict can only be resolved by way of the two-state solution.

Somalia disaster agency issues alert on impending floods Apr 02, 2024

The agency said that rainfall is expected from the first week of April until the end of the month

Somalia President appoints special envoy to boost health, nutrition Apr 02, 2024

President Hassan says Abdirashid Mohamed Nur Jilley, a doctor, has the necessary expertise, knowledge and experience to advance healthcare in Somalia....

Somalia receives 1.4 million oral cholera vaccine doses amid outbreak Apr 01, 2024

The vaccines arrived as the country grappled with an increase in cholera cases, with 4,388 infections and 54 fatalities reported since January.

Somalia President signs amended constitution chapters into law Mar 31, 2024

Criticism continues, with one MP saying the move shows the whole process is shrouded in mystery.

Somalia, Ethiopia tensions not good for the region - Djibouti Foreign Minister Mar 28, 2024

He did not clarify when the second meeting would be held, neither did he divulge any outcome from the first meeting in Nairobi.

Somalia opposition, Puntland State oppose constitution amendment process Mar 26, 2024

Puntland State and the opposition claim the government is planning to do away with the federal system of power and introduce a presidential system thr...

Somalia telco elevates digital landscape with 5G network inauguration Mar 21, 2024

The 5G mobile wireless technology is meant to deliver higher peak data speeds, more reliability, massive network capacity, and increased availability.

Somalia Parliament presses ahead with Constitutional review despite boycott threat Mar 20, 2024

The constitutional review process, ongoing for years, requires support from two-thirds of the bicameral parliament to be ratified.

Somalia forces end Al-Shabaab overnight siege of Mogadishu hotel Mar 15, 2024

Police said three government forces were killed and 27 people were wounded in the attack.

Hundreds stranded at Mogadishu airport as local flights are cancelled Mar 06, 2024

Local operators cancelled flights in protest after the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation imposed a $9 fee on all local ticket purchases.

UK reaffirms support for Somalia's fight against terrorism Feb 26, 2024

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his appreciation to the UK government for its role in training Somali forces.

Kenyan envoy to Somalia details plans after presenting credentials to President Hassan Feb 25, 2024

Ambassador Kubai Kiringo says his plans include strengthening Kenya and Somalia's relationship, improving the people's livelihoods, opening the border...

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visits Kismayo for security, development talks Feb 15, 2024

Both leaders held a joint conference to reinvigorate the war on Al-Shabaab.

Kenya Airways flies to Mogadishu after 3-year hiatus Feb 15, 2024

The resumption of three weekly flights to Mogadishu is part of KQ's network expansion strategy aimed at enhancing connectivity across the African cont...

Mogadishu authorities ban wearing of caps, masks, citing security concerns Feb 15, 2024

The decision was reached following a recent security meeting in Mogadishu chaired by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Somalia, Italy discuss military support and cooperation Feb 13, 2024

The two discussed Italy's military support and cooperation with Somalia.

Three Emirati soldiers, Bahraini officer killed in Somalia attack Feb 11, 2024

The UAE also confirmed that two of its forces were injured in the Mogadishu attack.

Entrepreneurs shine at the fifth annual trade fair in Mogadishu Feb 10, 2024

The trade show was officially opened on Wednesday by the Mayor of Mogadishu, Yusuf Hussein Jimale "Madale,” and the Chairman of the Somalia Chamber of...

Somalia, partners discuss strategies to counter Al-Shabaab Feb 08, 2024

The meeting was attended by officials from the United Nations, several diplomatic missions in Somalia as well as officials from the African Union Tran...

Panic as IED explodes in Mogadishu's Bakaara market Feb 06, 2024

Property of unknown value was also destroyed.

Somalia President fetes winners of the Inter-State football tournament Feb 06, 2024

President Hassan Sheikh handed over the trophy of the best team to Galmudug State.

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants kill six people in Bula Hawa, Somalia Feb 05, 2024

The motive of the attack is still unclear.

Senior aide to Al-Shabaab commander captured in Mogadishu Feb 03, 2024

NISA said Daqare had on several occasions escaped the police dragnet.

Somalia to ban single-use plastics in fight against pollution Feb 02, 2024

The Enviroment Ministry provided a five-month grace period for importers and users to adjust.

Somalia forces take over key positions as AU mission scales back presence Feb 01, 2024

The African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia (ATMIS) withdrew 3,000 forces from seven frontline positions.

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh attends key security meeting in Abu Dhabi Feb 01, 2024

Hassan met representatives from the UAE, Qatar, Turkiye, the UN, UK and the US, countries which form the Somalia Quint Group.

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