Author: Abdihakim Kalale

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on Tigrayan elites to resolve their internal disputes through peaceful dialogue, warning that ongoing divisions continue to fuel instability in the region. In a statement on February 3, Abiy stressed that the people of Tigray remain trapped in a climate of fear and conflict, preventing them from focusing on rebuilding their lives. He urged political, business, and military leaders from the region to prioritize peace, acknowledging that Tigray has historically played a significant role in shaping Ethiopia’s political landscape. The Prime Minister’s appeal comes amid an intensifying power struggle within the Tigray People’s…

Kenyan authorities have launched a large-scale security operation targeting alleged hideouts of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in Marsabit and Isiolo counties, citing threats to national security. Dubbed ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili,’ the operation seeks to dismantle criminal networks accused of engaging in arms smuggling, human and drug trafficking, illegal mining, and inciting tribal conflicts in Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti. Senior security officials, including Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli and Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed I. Amin, oversaw the launch in Marsabit County on February 3, 2025. The OLA has denied involvement in criminal activities, asserting that its forces…

Fish production on Lake Tanganyika has seen a remarkable surge, tripling following the lifting of a three-month fishing ban imposed last May. The ban, aimed at protecting the lake’s fish resources, has had a significant positive impact, particularly on the Tanzanian side of the lake, where production has increased from 4,700 tonnes per month in 2023 to 15,000 tonnes per month. The suspension, which lasted from May to September, was a collaborative decision between Tanzania and its neighboring countries, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. The fishing suspension has paid off, with more substantial catches now…

Kenyan President William Ruto has begun a week-long tour of North Eastern Kenya, covering Mandera, Garissa, Wajir, Marsabit, and Isiolo counties. His visit aims to consolidate support in a historically marginalized region while launching key development projects, including the Garissa LAPSSET project, affordable housing, and the Tana River Bridge construction. The visit comes amid growing political tensions, with Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) intensifying grassroots activities in the region. However, the party faces stiff competition from the United Democratic Movement (UDM), led by Mandera Senator Ali Roba, who has criticized UDA’s sudden interest in the area as politically motivated. At…

At least 44 people have been killed and dozens more wounded following a shelling attack in Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan state. The attack, which targeted a market and nearby residential areas, is attributed to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-North (SPLA-North) led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu. According to Jawaher Ahmed Suleiman, South Kordofan’s health minister, the assault left 28 others injured, with local hospitals preparing to treat the casualties. The shelling, which originated from SPLA-North positions east of Kadugli, hit residential neighborhoods, temporary shelters, and the main market. The city is now effectively under siege, as SPLA-North controls the…

Russia has broadened its list of African countries eligible for currency trading, adding Nigeria, Tunisia, and Ethiopia. This expansion raises the total number of nations permitted to trade currencies in Russia to 40. The move aligns with Russia’s strategy to strengthen its economy amidst increasing demand for its ruble, especially due to Western sanctions. The recent changes allow for direct conversion of national currencies from countries considered neutral or friendly to Russia, addressing the need for ruble payments in international transactions. This expansion is expected to improve market liquidity and stabilize the ruble’s exchange rate, which has been challenged by…

Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Yalchin Refiyev, arrived in Mogadishu on Tuesday for high-level discussions aimed at deepening diplomatic relations and expanding cooperation between Azerbaijan and Somalia. He was warmly received by Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar, who emphasized the strong ties between the two nations and their shared interest in fostering greater collaboration. The visit comes shortly after a meeting in Baku between Refiyev and Somalia’s non-resident Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Fathudin Ali Mohamed, where the two diplomats explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation. During that meeting, discussions focused on trade, education, and diplomatic engagement. The ambassador noted…

A senior commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Abdallah Hussein, was killed in an airstrike in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state as clashes with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continued. The strike targeted RSF positions near al-Kamelin, the group’s last major stronghold in the region. Hussein was appointed RSF commander in Al Jazirah after Abu Aqla Keikel defected to the army. He previously led battles in Ash Shibarqa and Um al-Qura before retreating to al-Kamelin following SAF’s recapture of Wad Madani. Military sources confirmed that the Sudanese Air Force targeted RSF fighters in the area, resulting in multiple casualties. Pro-RSF…

A high-ranking commander of Daesh’s Somalia faction was taken into custody on Monday as Somali security forces intensified their ongoing military campaign in Puntland’s Cal Miskaad mountains. Authorities confirmed that Abdirahman Shirwac Aw-Saciid, known by the alias “Laahoor,” surrendered to security forces. He was responsible for overseeing targeted assassinations and extorting businesses for the group. Puntland’s Bari regional police chief, Abdikadir Jama Dirir, verified the arrest, describing it as a significant blow to Daesh’s operational structure in the area. The capture follows a series of joint offensives by Somali and Puntland forces against Daesh and Alshabab militants in the northeastern…

A Deep Dive into the Ongoing Conflict and Stakeholders Sudan remains in the grip of a devastating war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023. The ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, displacement of millions, and an increasing number of civilian casualties. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the major stakeholders, coalitions, foreign involvement, and territorial control shaping the current political landscape in Sudan. Key Players in the Conflict Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) The SAF is Sudan’s official military, commanded by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who…

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Sudanese counterpart, Ali Al-Sadiq Ali, met on Sunday to discuss bilateral relations, recent developments in Sudan, and shared regional concerns. Abdelatty emphasized Egypt’s strong historical ties with Sudan and reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting Sudanese stability, peace, and national unity during this challenging time. Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s solidarity with Sudan, stressing the importance of protecting Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also underlined Egypt’s ongoing efforts to support Sudan’s return to the African Union and participate in initiatives aimed at fostering stability within the region. The discussion also covered water security, with both…

Scan Global Logistics (SGL) has strengthened its East African presence by opening its first office in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, enhancing access to key markets and facilitating logistics solutions for landlocked countries. The move positions SGL to tap into Tanzania’s growing economy, particularly in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure. The new office allows SGL to offer comprehensive services, including customs clearance and last-mile delivery, for businesses in Tanzania and neighboring countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, and Zambia. By establishing a physical presence in Dar Es Salaam, SGL aims to build stronger ties with local stakeholders, fostering collaboration across the region. SGL’s…

Bagamoyo, a historic town on Tanzania’s coast, stands as a testament to centuries of trade, exploration, and cultural exchange. Once a major hub for the East African slave and ivory trade, the town has transformed into a key destination for heritage tourism, contributing significantly to Tanzania’s economy. The name “Bagamoyo,” derived from the Kiswahili phrase Bwagamoyo—meaning “Lay down your heart”—reflects its historical significance. In the 18th and 19th centuries, enslaved people were brought here before being transported across the Indian Ocean. The town later became a center for Christian missionary activities and played a key role in European exploration, serving…

Five local chiefs were abducted on Monday in Mandera County, Kenya, by gunmen suspected to be members of the Alshabab group. The officials were traveling toward Elwak when they were intercepted, according to regional authorities. The incident occurred between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki, areas known for past militant activity. Security forces have launched an operation to locate the captives and pursue those responsible. Reports indicate the officials were on their way to a preparatory meeting ahead of President William Ruto’s planned visit to the region this week. Ruto, alongside Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, is expected to visit Mandera, Garissa,…

Somalia warmly welcomed General Metin Gürak, Türkiye’s Chief of the General Staff, in Mogadishu on Saturday for crucial discussions with Somali leaders. This visit underscores Türkiye’s ongoing commitment to supporting Somalia’s security and rebuilding efforts. As part of his visit, General Gürak attended the graduation ceremony of approximately 6,000 Somali National Army (SNA) troops, trained by Turkish military advisors. The ceremony, held at the Turkish-Somali Military Training Base, is a testament to the strengthening military ties between the two nations. The base, a significant Turkish investment in Somalia, continues to play a central role in the professional development of Somalia’s…

Egypt and Djibouti have reinforced their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on Red Sea security, Somalia’s stability, and infrastructure cooperation, including a potential Egyptian port connection to Djibouti. The discussions took place during political consultations between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, following a high-level meeting between President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Minister Youssouf. Both parties agreed on the significance of joint efforts to maintain navigation safety in the Red Sea, especially in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and to support Somalia’s unity and stability. Egypt reiterated its dedication to Somalia’s territorial integrity and counterterrorism…