eyan Mohamed

humanitarian situation in Baidoa remains fragile following recent clashes that forced thousands of people to flee their homes and seek safety elsewhere. According to humanitarian assessments, fighting between September 3 and 5 displaced an estimated 14,832 people in Baidoa and surrounding areas. Many of those affected are now living in temporary shelters and camps, where access to basic necessities remains limited. Displaced families urgently need food, medicine and adequate shelter, while humanitarian organizations face increasing pressure to respond to the growing needs of vulnerable communities. The impact of the violence has also extended to children. Around 600 children have had their education disrupted, adding another challenge for families already dealing with displacement and uncertainty. Baidoa has long been a major destination for people displaced by conflict and climate-related crises. The latest displacement is therefore placing additional pressure on already overstretched...

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia and Pakistan are moving to strengthen defence cooperation, with a particular focus on rebuilding and developing the Somali Air Force and improving the country's air defence capabilities. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud received a senior delegation from the Pakistan Air Force at the presidential palace in Mogadishu on September 20. The delegation was led by Air Marshal Muhammad Sarfraz, Pakistan's Air Defence Commander and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff. The discussions focused on accelerating the development of Somalia's Air Force, improving the operational capabilities of its personnel and expanding training and professional development. Officials also discussed broader defence cooperation between the two countries. The meeting was attended by Somali Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Somali National Army Commander Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, and Somali Air Force Commander Brigadier General Abdirisak Mohamud Haji. The Pak...

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia is preparing for a potentially severe flood season as strengthening El Niño conditions and forecasts of above-normal rainfall raise concerns ahead of the October–December 2026 Deyr rainy season. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has warned that large parts of central and southern Somalia could experience significantly wetter-than-normal conditions. In some areas, the probability of above-normal seasonal rainfall is estimated at as high as 90 percent. The warning does not mean that widespread flooding is certain. Instead, FAO says the unusually strong rainfall signal provides an important window for authorities and humanitarian organizations to prepare before potential impacts occur. The Juba and Shabelle river basins are among the areas of particular concern. Heavy rainfall upstream, including in the Ethiopian highlands, could increase river levels and raise the risk of both riverine and flash flooding in vulnerable communiti...

BAIDOA, Somalia — Somalia is facing another wave of displacement as conflict, drought and worsening humanitarian conditions continue to force families from their homes. The situation has become particularly serious in Baidoa, a major humanitarian hub in southwestern Somalia. Recent clashes in the city and surrounding areas have forced thousands of people to flee in search of safety. According to recent humanitarian assessments, fighting between September 3 and 5 displaced approximately 14,832 people, adding further pressure to an already vulnerable population. Many displaced families are living in temporary shelters with limited access to food, clean water, healthcare and sanitation. Baidoa already hosts large numbers of internally displaced people who have fled previous conflicts and repeated droughts. The displacement crisis is also closely linked to Somalia's worsening climate conditions. Below-average and irregular rainfall during the 2026 Gu rainy season has affected crops, li...

Somalia continues to face serious food security challenges as irregular and below-average rainfall during the 2026 Gu rainy season has affected crops, pasture and livestock across parts of the country. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), inadequate and poorly distributed rainfall has reduced water availability and weakened grazing conditions, putting additional pressure on pastoral communities that depend heavily on livestock for their livelihoods. The impact has also been felt in agricultural areas, where poor rainfall has affected crop production and increased concerns over food availability. Livestock have faced shortages of water and pasture, further threatening household incomes and access to food. At the same time, grain prices remain elevated, adding to the pressure on vulnerable households already struggling with reduced agricultural and livestock production. The situation highlights Somalia's continued vulnerability to climate sh...

Baidoa remains at the center of growing political tensions between Somalia’s federal government and the South West State administration, following months of political and security disputes. The city, located in southwestern Somalia, holds significant political and humanitarian importance. It serves as the administrative capital of South West State and is also a major destination for people displaced by conflict, drought and food insecurity. Tensions between Mogadishu and South West State have added another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile humanitarian situation. Political disagreements between the federal government and regional authorities have affected relations over governance, security arrangements and the country’s broader political process. For residents and displaced families in Baidoa, the political dispute comes as they continue to face serious humanitarian challenges. Many depend on humanitarian assistance for access to food, clean water, healthcare and other basic ...

Somalia is facing growing water shortages as repeated failed rainy seasons continue to put pressure on communities across the country. The prolonged drought has caused many wells and other water sources to dry up, leaving families struggling to secure enough clean water for drinking and daily needs. In some rural areas, the lack of water has forced families to leave their homes in search of safer and more reliable sources. In one documented case, a mother and her seven children left their village after local wells dried up and walked nearly 45 kilometers to reach an area where water was available. The situation highlights how water scarcity is not only affecting access to basic necessities but is also contributing to displacement, particularly among rural communities that depend heavily on wells and livestock. As drought conditions persist, humanitarian organizations and local authorities face increasing pressure to provide emergency water supplies and support communities whose access ...

Somalia continues to face severe drought conditions, placing growing pressure on communities that depend heavily on agriculture and livestock for their livelihoods. The prolonged lack of rainfall has affected access to water, weakened livestock herds and increased food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable rural communities. Families that rely on farming and pastoralism are facing growing difficulties as water sources become scarce and livelihoods deteriorate. The humanitarian response has also been challenged by a significant shortage of funding. Reports earlier this year indicated that Somalia’s 2026 drought response plan had received only a small portion of the financial support required to meet the growing needs of affected communities. Humanitarian organizations warn that continued funding gaps could limit access to essential food, water, healthcare and nutrition services. Without adequate support and improved rainfall, vulnerable communities could face further dis...

The Somali government continues to face a major security challenge from Al-Shabaab as military operations against the militant group remain ongoing across parts of the country. Despite continued efforts by Somali security forces and their international partners to weaken the group, Al-Shabaab has maintained the ability to carry out attacks and exploit political and security vulnerabilities. Recent assessments suggest that the conflict remains far from being resolved. The group continues to pose a significant threat to civilians, government institutions and security forces, while political divisions and security challenges complicate efforts to achieve a decisive victory. The ongoing conflict highlights the need for stronger coordination between Somalia’s federal government, regional authorities and security forces, alongside sustained efforts to address the political and security conditions that allow Al-Shabaab to maintain its influence.

Somalia is facing growing pressure on its health and nutrition services as humanitarian needs continue to rise across the country. Recent data indicates that nearly one million children under the age of five, newborns and pregnant women are at risk of losing access to essential nutrition services. The situation has been further worsened by rising levels of acute malnutrition among vulnerable communities. Admissions to treatment centers for severe acute malnutrition increased by 32% during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, highlighting the growing scale of the crisis. The deterioration comes amid prolonged drought, food insecurity and reduced humanitarian funding, leaving many families struggling to access adequate food and essential healthcare. Humanitarian agencies warn that continued funding shortages could further disrupt critical nutrition services and put more vulnerable lives at risk.

Somalia is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as prolonged drought, insufficient rainfall, rising food prices and declining humanitarian funding continue to put pressure on vulnerable communities. Recent reports indicate that severe water shortages are affecting parts of northern and eastern Somalia, leaving communities struggling to access basic water supplies. The drought has also contributed to significant livestock losses, threatening the livelihoods of pastoralist families who depend heavily on livestock for food and income. As conditions deteriorate, more families are being forced to leave their homes in search of water, food and basic services, increasing pressure on already vulnerable communities and humanitarian organizations. The combination of drought, displacement and reduced humanitarian funding is raising concerns about the country's ability to respond effectively to the growing needs of affected populations.

BAIDOA, Somalia — Somali security forces have intensified their military campaign against Al-Shabaab, with the elite Danab Special Forces reporting the killing of 14 militants during an overnight operation in the southwestern region of the country. The operation took place in the Buula Fulaay area of Bay region, where Danab forces targeted what the Somali Ministry of Defense described as a hideout used by Al-Shabaab fighters. Authorities said the operation also resulted in the destruction of the militant group’s position. The Ministry of Defense said the operation was part of ongoing military efforts aimed at disrupting Al-Shabaab networks, weakening its operational capabilities and improving security in areas where the group remains active. Somali military authorities praised the troops involved and said operations against Al-Shabaab would continue until lasting peace and security are achieved. The operation came shortly after renewed fighting in Baidoa, the capital of South West Stat...

MOGADISHU — Al-Shabaab continues to pose one of the most serious security threats to Somalia, maintaining its ability to carry out attacks despite years of military operations by Somali forces and their international partners. Human Rights Watch has documented continued indiscriminate and targeted attacks by Al-Shabaab against civilians, including the use of improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, shelling and targeted assassinations. The group also regained some territory that government forces had captured during their 2022 offensive, particularly in central Somalia. The security threat is unfolding alongside growing political tensions between Somalia’s federal government and several federal member states. Disputes over elections, constitutional reforms and the distribution of political and security powers have repeatedly strained relations between Mogadishu and regional administrations. Recent fighting in and around Baidoa has highlighted how political divisions can quickly ...

Today, I came across a fascinating article highlighting five decades of relations between the United Arab Emirates and #Colombia. The story offered an interesting perspective on how diplomatic ties can develop into broader partnerships that extend beyond politics and trade. It also raised a wider question: How does the #UAE contribute to supporting and assisting countries around the world? Over the years, the UAE has expanded its international role through humanitarian assistance, development programs, economic partnerships, infrastructure projects, and support during crises and natural disasters. Its aid efforts have reached communities across different regions, with a focus on areas such as healthcare, education, food security, water, and infrastructure. The UAE has also sought to strengthen long-term development by investing in projects that can support economic growth and improve living conditions. In many countries, these efforts are complemented by cooperation in trad...

DHUSAMAREB, Somalia — Galmudug presidential candidate Liban Ahmed Hassan, widely known as Liban Shuluq, visited Galgaduud Secondary School in Dhusamareb as part of his ongoing campaign activities, meeting with the school’s administration and teachers to discuss the state of education and the challenges facing public schools. During the visit, Hassan held discussions with school officials and educators about the quality of education, the needs of students, and the difficulties affecting the development of educational services. He emphasized the importance of strengthening public schools and improving working conditions for teachers as part of efforts to build a stronger future for Galmudug. “Improving education and supporting public schools are essential to building the future of Galmudug,” Hassan said, stressing the need for better educational standards and stronger support for teachers. The visit comes as Hassan continues to campaign for the presidency of Galmudug. He was officially s...

Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia is preparing to host the ninth edition of the Somali Network Operators Group (SomNOG) conference, bringing together technology professionals, internet service providers, government representatives and digital-sector experts to discuss the future of the country’s digital infrastructure. The conference is expected to focus on strengthening Somalia’s internet infrastructure, improving connectivity and addressing challenges facing the country’s rapidly developing technology sector. Cybersecurity will also be a key area of discussion, as Somalia seeks to strengthen the protection of digital networks, data and online services. Experts are expected to exchange knowledge and practical solutions aimed at making the country’s digital environment safer and more resilient. Another major focus will be digital transformation in government. Improved digital infrastructure could help expand online public services, increase efficiency and make government services more acces...

MOGADISHU — Somalia continues to face a serious security challenge from Al-Shabaab, as the al-Qaeda-linked militant group maintains its ability to carry out attacks despite sustained military operations by Somali forces and their international partners. Human Rights Watch has reported that Al-Shabaab continued to conduct numerous indiscriminate and targeted attacks against civilians, highlighting the group’s persistent threat to Somalia’s population and security. The security situation remains particularly concerning as Somalia faces growing political tensions between the federal government and several federal member states. Analysts warn that political fragmentation and disputes over power-sharing could weaken the country’s ability to coordinate an effective response to the militant group. A recent assessment by the International Crisis Group said Al-Shabaab made significant advances during 2025, reversing some of the territorial gains achieved by government forces in prev...

MOGADISHU — Somalia’s political divisions are deepening as disagreements between the Federal Government and powerful regional states threaten to undermine efforts to reach consensus on the country’s electoral future. The latest setback came in July, when delegations from Puntland and Jubaland withdrew from political talks in Mogadishu after failing to reach an agreement with the federal government on key electoral and political issues. The second round of negotiations ended without a settlement, raising fresh concerns about Somalia’s ability to organize a broadly accepted electoral process. At the heart of the dispute is the future of Somalia’s electoral system and the balance of power between the federal government and the country’s federal member states. Puntland and Jubaland have opposed several aspects of the government’s proposed constitutional and electoral reforms, arguing that decisions affecting the political future of the country should be based on broad consensus. The withdr...

MOGADISHU — Somali piracy is once again emerging as a serious maritime security threat in the Horn of Africa, with a series of hijackings and armed attacks against commercial vessels reported across the Somali coast and the Gulf of Aden in 2026. After years of relative calm, pirate groups have intensified their activities since the spring, targeting vulnerable commercial vessels and, in several cases, taking crew members hostage. The resurgence has raised fresh concerns over the security of one of the world's most important maritime routes. According to the International Maritime Organization, 44 seafarers were being held captive by pirates and armed groups in Somali waters as of July. The crews were being held aboard three vessels hijacked between April and May, with the IMO warning of deteriorating humanitarian conditions, including shortages of food and water. The threat has continued into August. On August 17, pirates seized the Cameroon-flagged MV Lutuf off Somalia's Puntl...

تدخل الصومال مرحلة سياسية شديدة الحساسية، مع استمرار الخلاف بين الحكومة الفيدرالية في مقديشو وعدد من الولايات، وعلى رأسها بونتلاند وجوبالاند وجنوب غرب الصومال، بشأن الانتخابات والتعديلات الدستورية. وبدل أن تنجح الحكومة في بناء توافق وطني يضمن انتقالًا سياسيًا مستقرًا، تحولت العملية الانتخابية إلى مصدر جديد للصراع والانقسام.  ويكشف هذا الخلاف، بحسب منتقدي الحكومة، عن فشل واضح في إدارة الحوار السياسي. فبدل توحيد مؤسسات الدولة والاتفاق مع الولايات على قواعد انتخابية تحظى بقبول واسع، أصبح مستقبل الانتخابات نفسه محل نزاع، بينما تتهم المعارضة الحكومة بمحاولة فرض ترتيباتها السياسية من مقديشو. الأزمة لا تقتصر على الانتخابات؛ إذ امتد الخلاف إلى التعديلات الدستورية وصلاحيات الحكومة الفيدرالية. وكانت بونتلاند قد رفضت التعديلات الدستورية السابقة وطالبت بأن تكون التغييرات الدستورية محل توافق وطني واستفتاء شعبي.  والأخطر أن الخلاف السياسي بدأ ينعكس على أمن البلاد واستقرارها. فالتوتر بين الحكومة والولايات سبق أن ارتبط بمواجهات عسكرية، بينما تواجه الصومال في الوقت نفسه تهديدًا مستمرًا من حركة...