Recent Appearances...

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Recent Appearances...

Africa Horn

Funding Cuts, Leadership Changes Hamper Somali Army’s Fight Against Al-Shabaab

2025-05-17

[Garowe] Over the last few weeks, the Somali National Army (SNA) has failed to fully take control of various frontlines. The loss of Adan Yabaal perhaps gives a clearer indication of a weak force struggling to stamp authority despite massive investment by the international partners in the force.

Now, racing against time and with key financiers led by the US contemplating a drastic cut of the budget for mission peacekeepers and the local forces, the Somali National Army is under pressure to take over security responsibilities, not until it shows its defence capabilities and mission readiness attitude.

Antonio Guiterres, the United Nations
...the Oyster Bay money pit...
Secretary General, predicts that the resources for payment of soldiers are first diminishing, with no guarantee that the US and other multinational funders would be committed to the mission. There is no indication that stability could be realised in Somalia.

Recently, the Troops Contributing Countries met in Kampala, Uganda and agreed to have at least 8,000 more soldiers dispatched to Somalia — at the time, the UN is keeping downsize the force and invest in local forces ahead of exit. This even draws uncertainties.

Samira Gaid, a security analyst, says misplaced political imperatives should be blamed for SNA inefficiencies, with politicians failing to give the military ample time to organise operations for effective execution.

"The anti-AS operations in 2022, which began spontaneously, were initially led by communities, but it was expected that the offensives would naturally transition to military leadership," she says. "Unfortunately, that never came to pass; the military was sidestepped, and the war effort was led at the highest levels, with objectives determined and targets set by politicians for political ends—without adequate planning or qualified military strategy."

"Many other factors also came into play: logistical challenges, changes in security leadership at critical times, and the use of hastily trained forces rather than older, more knowledgeable units, among others," Samira Gaid further says.

Asked if there is a possibility of SNA troops taking security responsibilities shortly, Samira says 'I cannot tell' while citing failures of the military in various frontlines, while insisting that the force has been degraded as opposed to five years ago when there was a plan.

Changes in military leadership under Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have also impacted the execution and strategy, further diminishing the SNA's chances. A few months ago, Hassan Sheikh sacked General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, but only to reinstate him a few weeks ago following challenges on the frontlines.

But despite the challenges, the government has also invested in religious scholars for the anti-radicalisation mission, besides blocking sources of finance for the group, starving them significantly. Websites and social media sites used for propaganda have been locked, too.

Another tussle is al-Shabaab

... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
's change of strategy — the group is keen to endear itself to the civilians by pretending to offer alternative leadership, further making it harder for the government and the military to counter them. As a result, civilians in some sections are embracing al-Shabaab leadership.

"They appeared less punitive than in previous campaigns against known and suspected collaborators of the Somali government and security forces, with Adan Yabaal being the only exception. They reportedly made calculated concessions, such as allowing clans to retain arms and offering "tax" breaks, she says.

"This shift appeared aimed at regaining the trust of communities—or at least reducing resistance to their presence. We also didn’t see the gory images and videos of beheadings of captured security personnel that they had previously circulated. All in all, they seemed to have shifted their political approach, blending in co-option as a means of regaining access."

The administration of Hassan Sheikh is blamed for focusing too much on political situations in Somalia instead of diverting attention to the al-Shabaab war. Whether or not the war would be waged militarily, the general strategic approach was mutilated, and there is a need for a deliberate change in strategy.

Shabelle Media’s take on the situation:

Somalia Faces Setback in Anti-Al-Shabaab Offensive Amid Political Distractions

Somalia’s federal government has come under criticism for a slowdown in its military offensive against the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militant group, following the recapture of Aadan Yabaal town in Middle Shabelle region by Somali National Army (SNA) forces in April 2025.

According to sources cited by Shabelle Media, planned follow-up operations against the insurgent group have stalled as the government in Villa Somalia becomes increasingly preoccupied with political maneuvering and preparations for upcoming national elections.

The slowdown comes amid reports that international support—particularly from the United States, which has played a key role in backing Somalia’s counter-insurgency efforts—has diminished in recent months, affecting both funding and logistical assistance.

In addition, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which succeeded ATMIS, is reportedly facing significant financial constraints. The mission has yet to secure adequate funding necessary for sustained peacekeeping and military support operations across the country.

The setback comes at a critical time, as Al-Shabaab has intensified its attacks on military bases and recently liberated areas, raising fears among civilians and international observers about a possible resurgence.

Security analysts are urging a rapid reassessment of Somalia’s anti-insurgency strategy, stressing the need for consistent political commitment, international backing, and operational funding to prevent militants from regaining lost ground.

Link

Africa Horn

U.S. Reaffirms Refusal to Fund Current AU Mission in Somalia

2025-05-12

[ShabelleMedia] The United States has reaffirmed its decision not to provide financial support for the African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
’s peacekeeping mission in Somalia under its current funding and operational structure, leaving a $96 million gap that threatens the future of the mission, according to diplomatic sources.

The decision came during a recent meeting in Washington between AU officials and U.S. representatives, who echoed the same position outlined during an earlier gathering in Kampala. There, two American diplomats made clear the U.S. would not contribute funds unless substantial reforms were made to how the mission is structured and managed.

In hopes of salvaging support, the African Union sent a delegation to Washington seeking at least partial financial backing. But the talks concluded without any commitment from the Biden administration.

The AU mission, now known as the African Union Stabilization Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), is grappling with a growing financial crisis. It reportedly owes $96 million in unpaid salaries and operational costs, with several months of troop wages outstanding. The situation has raised concerns about morale and the mission’s ability to operate effectively on the ground.

The funding shortfall has increased pressure on Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni
...

President-for-Life of Uganda. He assumed office in 1985. His primary virtue is being prefereable to both his predecessors, Idi Amin and Milton Obote...
, a key backer of the mission and one of its largest troop contributors. Museveni is reportedly watching closely as the mission approaches a scheduled drawdown within the next 60 days.

The financial uncertainty adds to the already fragile security environment in Somalia, where AU troops have long played a central role in battling al-Shabaab

... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
gunnies and supporting national stabilization efforts.

Link

International-UN-NGOs

As ICJ holds hearings on aid for Palestinians, Sa’ar says Israel-UNRWA cooperation ‘won’t happen’

2025-04-29

[IsraelTimes] Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar lays out accusations against the United Nations and the organization’s Relief and Work Agency, at a press conference taking place as the UN’s International Court of Justice opens a week of hearings on Israel’s humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians.

“At this very moment, the ICJ is beginning the deliberations in another shameful proceeding against Israel,” says the foreign minister, adding that Israel chose not to attend the oral proceedings so as “not to take part in this circus.”

“It is not Israel that should be on trial,” says Sa’ar, but rather the UN and UNRWA, the latter of which coordinates nearly all aid to Gaza.

Sa’ar calls UNRWA “an organization infiltrated beyond repair by terrorism.”

The foreign minister criticizes past rulings of the ICJ, noting that “this is the fourth proceeding relating to Israel in the court since the October 7 massacre.”

“Now, they are abusing the courts, once again, to try and force Israel to cooperate with an organization that is infested with Hamas terrorists, and it won’t happen,” says the foreign minister.

“UNRWA employed over 1,400 known terrorists, many of whom took an active part in the October 7 atrocities,” continues Sa’ar, citing UNRWA employee Mohammed Abu Itiwi, a Hamas Nukhba Force commander, as one example.

“[Abu Itiwi] was caught on video participating in the murder and kidnapping of Israelis near Kibbutz Re’im [on October 7, 2023], including Hersh Goldberg-Polin,” who was taken hostage and then murdered in captivity, says Sa’ar.

“I accuse,” says Sa’ar, “I accuse UNRWA. I accuse the UN. I accuse the Secretary General, I accuse all those that weaponize international law and its institutions in order to deprive the most attacked country in the world, Israel, of its most basic right to defend itself.”

Behind Sa’ar, a large screen displays the faces of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, alongside the bold headline “J’Accuse” (“I Accuse” in French), referencing an 1898 open letter written by French author Émile Zola during the Dreyfus Affair.

The UN has asked judges to clarify in this week’s proceedings Israel’s legal obligations toward the UN and its agencies, international organizations or third-party states to “ensure and facilitate the unhindered provision of urgently needed supplies essential to the survival of the Palestinian civilian population.”

Israel strictly controls all inflows of international aid for the 2.4 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

It halted aid deliveries to Gaza on March 2 after the collapse of a ceasefire and hostage release deal. The war in Gaza was sparked by the October 7, 2023, Hamas invasion and massacre in southern Israel.

WATCH: International Court of Justice opens hearings on Israel’s aid obligations to Palestinians

[IsraelTimes] The UN’s top court opens a week of hearings on Israel’s humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians, more than 50 days into its blockade on aid entering war-ravaged Gaza.

The hearings can be watched here:

The UN’s General Assembly approved a resolution in December asking the ICJ for an advisory opinion on the matter “on a priority basis and with the utmost urgency.”

The resolution, spearheaded by Norway, was adopted by a large majority.

The UN has asked judges to clarify Israel’s legal obligations toward the UN and its agencies, international organizations or third-party states to “ensure and facilitate the unhindered provision of urgently needed supplies essential to the survival of the Palestinian civilian population.”

Israel strictly controls all inflows of international aid vital for the 2.4 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

It halted aid deliveries to Gaza on March 2 amid the collapse of a ceasefire and hostage release deal. The war in Gaza was sparked by the October 7, 2023, Hamas invasion and massacre in southern Israel, in which terrorists killed some 1,200 people and seized 251 as hostages.

US President Donald Trump said Friday that he told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that “we’ve got to be good to Gaza” as he pushed the Israeli premier to get more food and medicine into the Strip.

The revelation of the discussion between Netanyahu and Trump came shortly after the World Food Programme said it had run out of food stocks in Gaza due to the sustained closure of crossings into the enclave.

More from the Israel Times:

The UN’s top court will open a week of hearings on Israel’s humanitarian obligations toward Gazans, more than 50 days into its blockade on aid entering war-ravaged Gaza.

United Nations representatives will start the five days of sittings at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, followed by a Palestinian submission.

Another 38 countries will then address the 15-judge panel, including the United States, China, France, Russia and Saudi Arabia.

The League of Arab States, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the African Union will also make submissions.

Link

Africa Horn

Somalia: Al-Shabaab recaptures areas secured by Ugandan forces

2025-04-28

[Garowe] al-Shabaab

... the personification of Somali state failure...
snuffies have recaptured some areas previously secured by Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other foreign forces in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions, in Somalia.

Al-Shabaab has recently launched lethal operations mostly in areas where forces under the African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which later became African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and now AUSSOM, have been withdrawn as part of the drawdown process.

Jacob Markson Oboth, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, has confirmed that al-Shabaab has recaptured many areas. Oboth has informed his counterparts from countries contributing peacekeeping forces in Somalia that numbers now need to be increased if they are to encounter the fast gains being made by al-Shabaab.

"I want to inform you that al-Shabaab is recapturing many places which had previously been secured. There is an urgent need to counter the growing threats posed by al-Shabaab and reinforce ongoing stabilisation efforts in Somalia," Oboth said.

Oboth was speaking to his counterparts and commanders of peacekeeping forces in Somalia at the ongoing evaluation meeting in Kampala. Commanders and senior security delegates from Kenya, Æthiopia, Djibouti, Uganda, and Egypt are in Kampala for an evaluation meeting for the mission, which started in 2007.

Al-Shabaab has become more lethal ever since they ransacked the UPDF Base at Buulo-Mareer, Lower Shabelle region on May 26, 2023, where they left 54 Ugandan soldiers dead.

The base commander, Lt Col Edward Nyororo, was among the 54 killed soldiers, while others were captured alive.

UPDF, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), and Burundi have been reduced in the last year since United Nations
...an organization conceived in the belief that we're just one big happy world, with the sort of results you'd expect from such nonsense...
Security Council permanent member countries withdrew their funding at the end of 2021, claiming that AMISOM forces had outlived their purpose.

UPDF reduced its forces from more than 6,000 to around 3,000. Still, according to various commanders from Troops Contributing Countries(TCCs), a number that had been reduced needs to be increased to counter the lethal attacks launched by al-Shabaab.

Link

Africa Horn

AU Forces Convene in Kampala to Boost Somalia Stabilisation as Former Somali Pres. Farmaajo Explains Army Pullback is Strategic

2025-04-24

Does this mean that things are going badly for civil society in Somalia and much too well for Al Shabaab, or is this just the usual diplomatic blithering and posturing? Please help me understand this, dear Reader — I don’t know how to read these tea leaves.

[ShabelleMedia] Senior officials and delegates from Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) gathered in Kampala today for a high-level preparatory meeting. The session precedes an Extra-Ordinary Summit aimed at evaluating ongoing efforts and setting the strategic direction for long-term peace and stability in Somalia.

This summit was agreed upon during the recent official visit of Somali President H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Uganda. Leaders resolved to convene under the theme "To Stabilize Somalia," identifying this as the mission’s ultimate objective.

Speaking at the opening of the technical and bigwigs’ meeting, Ambassador John Mugerwa, representing the Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the gathering as timely. It comes in the wake of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) mandate ending on 31 December 2024.

Ambassador Mugerwa recalled that the African Union Peace and Security Council endorsed AUSSOM’s Concept of Operations in August 2024. He explained that the mission is currently in its first phase, focusing on repositioning troops and transferring key security locations to Somali forces to ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities.

"In the spirit of the common African defence and security policy, an attack on one is considered an attack on all," he said. "This is the spirit that has so far guided this struggle from the early days of AMISOM."

He underscored that AUSSOM’s success rests on Somalia’s ability to build and prepare its national security forces, adding that it "hinges on force generation, integration, mentorship, and the readiness of Somali forces."

Condemning the recent spike in attacks by the al-Shabaab

... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
, Ambassador Mugerwa commended the bravery of Somali forces and their international allies.

"We must not allow al-Shabaab to win," he said, stressing that the meeting presents a critical opportunity to resolve operational issues and establish a clear strategic path.

He further called for stronger financial and logistical support, stating, "The success of this mission will depend in large part on the provision of adequate, predictable and sustainable funding." He acknowledged the crucial contributions of the European Union
...the successor to the Holy Roman Empire, only without the Hapsburgs and the nifty uniforms and the dancing...
, the United Kingdom, and other international partners.

He conveyed condolences to those injured and honoured the soldiers from TCCs and Somalia who, "paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of peace and stability in Somalia."

Ambassador Mugerwa reaffirmed Uganda’s long-term commitment to Somalia, dating back to its initial troop deployment under AMISOM in 2007. He proposed the creation of a political body to oversee stabilisation efforts, backed by a robust monitoring and evaluation system, and advocated for political reconciliation between Somalia’s federal government, its federal member states, and clan leaders.

The meeting was attended by key military and diplomatic leaders, including Uganda’s Ambassador to Somalia, Prof. Sam Tulya-Muhika; Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding; AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma; and representatives from Djibouti, Egypt, Æthiopia, Kenya, and Uganda.

Ex-president Farmaajo defends army pullback as strategic, not defeat

[ShabelleMedia] Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo on Wednesday called on the Somali people to remain “vigilant against terrorist propaganda” as the national army undertakes what he described as “strategic maneuvers” in its fight against Al-Shabaab.

In a formal statement released to the newsrooms, Farmaajo stressed that the army’s recent withdrawal from certain cities should not be interpreted as a defeat. “This is not a sign of weakness,” he said. “It is a calculated repositioning as the armed forces build capacity and prepare for more effective operations against extremist elements.”

The remarks come amid growing public concern and speculation following the Somali National Army’s pullback from several key locations in recent weeks. Farmaajo, who served as president from 2017 to 2022, sought to reassure the nation by pointing to past military gains during his administration.

“Between 2018 and 2020, we successfully liberated numerous cities from terrorist control,” he said, urging the current leadership to build on those achievements by fostering national unity and political stability.

He also extended an appeal to Somalia’s international partners, calling for continued cooperation and assistance. “The support of our friends and allies remains vital to Somalia’s recovery and the strengthening of our national security institutions,” Farmaajo said.

His comments come at a time of heightened insecurity in parts of the country, where the al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militant group continues to stage attacks targeting civilians, government institutions, and military personnel.

Somalia is currently undergoing a transitional phase, with ongoing efforts to build a cohesive federal security apparatus and strengthen local governance structures. The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is gradually handing over security responsibilities to Somali forces, in line with a phased drawdown plan.

Farmaajo’s statement underscores the complex challenges facing the Somali government as it seeks to maintain territorial control, counter insurgency threats, and navigate political dynamics ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Link

Africa Horn

Turkey Deploys Troops to Somalia to Support Fight Against al-Shabab

2025-04-22

[Garowe] Two Ottoman Turkish military planes carrying around 500 troops landed at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport this week, marking the first wave of a larger deployment aimed at supporting Somalia’s fight against the al-Shabaab
... an Islamic infestation centering on Somalia attempting to metastasize into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and similar places, all ofwhich have enough problems without them...
krazed killer group.

The troops were transported to the Ottoman Turkish military base known as Turk-Som, located in the Jazeera area of the capital. The base is ~~The Sick Man of Europe~~ Turkey
...a NATO
...the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. A cautionary tale of cost-benefit analysis....
member, but not the most reliable...
’s largest in Africa and serves as the primary training ground for Somalia’s elite Gorgor forces.

More than 300 Ottoman Turkish military personnel are currently stationed at the Camp TurkSOM, which was opened in 2017. The camp can accommodate approximately 1500 trainees at a time. As of 2023, nearly 5,000 Somali trainees have graduated from the military camp.

The deployment is part of a broader plan approved by the Ottoman Turkish Parliament in July 2024, allowing President His Enormity, Sultan Recep Tayyip Erdogan the First

His Enormity, Sultan Recep Tayyip Erdogan the First

...Turkey's version of Mohammed Morsi but they voted him back in so they deserve him. It's a sin, a shame, and a felony to insult the president of Turkey. In Anatolia did Recep Bey a stately Presidential Palace decree, that has 1100 rooms. That's 968 more than in the White House, 400 more than in Versailles, and 325 more than Buckingham Palace, so you know who's really more important...
to send up to 2,500 troops to Somalia. It remains unclear whether the forces will engage directly in combat operations or conduct ~~Arclight~~ airstrike
...KABOOM!...
s, similar to U.S. military support in the region.

The move comes amid renewed offensives by al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked bully boy group, which has recently retaken several areas previously liberated by Somali forces, including the strategic town of Adan Yabal.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who visited Turkey earlier this month, discussed the escalating conflict and international cooperation with Erdogan, at a time when hopes are dimming for the planned African Union'>African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
-led AUSSOM mission. Egypt had been expected to contribute troops to the effort.

Turkey has been a close ally of Somalia since 2011, investing in infrastructure and training Somali security forces. Ottoman Turkish-trained Gorgor and Haramacad units now play a key role in the country’s ongoing counterterrorism operations.

[X] Swanning around as if they were a real neo-Ottoman sultanate with the kind of funding the sultanate used to have before it went broke and was dissolved. Hattip 3dc:

Turkish Lira has been completely pegged against US Dollar since anti-government protests broke out a month ago. But the current $/TRY exchange rate is meaningless. The central bank is burning through large amounts of its official FX reserves. There is big capital flight going on. pic.twitter.com/rBTq3pz1VE
— Robin Brooks (@robin_j_brooks) April 19, 2025

Link

Africa Horn

Somalia Accuses AU Mission Head of Supporting Al-Shabaab, Signals Potential Expulsion

2025-04-20

[ShabelleMedia] Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, has issued a strong statement against the Acting Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Amb. Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, accused him of sympathizing with the terrorist group Al-Shabaab.

Minister Fiqi alleged that the South African diplomat—who also serves as the Deputy and Acting Special Representative of the African Union for Somalia—has submitted misleading reports to international bodies, including the UN Security Council, portraying Al-Shabaab as a group seeking statehood and reducing civilian harm, which he called a blatant distortion of reality.

“For a long time, there have been whispers about his bias, but now it’s evident—he can no longer hide it,” said Minister Fiqi. “He has shown himself to be a supporter of Al-Shabaab and an enemy of Somalia’s progress.”

The Minister expressed deep concern over Bam’s alleged activities, asserting that such conduct undermines the Somali government’s efforts to combat terrorism and achieve national stability.

Sources close to Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that the federal government is considering expelling Ambassador Bam from the country due to what they describe as a breach of trust and alignment with forces working against Somalia’s development.

This move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Somalia and the African Union over the mandate and direction of the ATMIS mission, which was launched to replace the former AMISOM peacekeeping operation and support Somalia’s security transition.

The government has not yet made a formal decision, but insiders suggest the expulsion process is actively planned.

Link

Africa Horn

U.S. Opposes U.N. Plan to Fund African Union Mission in Somalia

2025-04-20

Finance your own war, guys. Uncle Sugar’s wallet is closed.

[ShabelleMedia] The United States has openly rejected a United Nations proposal to fund the African Union’s new Stabilization and Support mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM, which began operations in the country in January.

The U.S. stance has sparked significant concern over the future of AUSSOM’s mandate, which focuses on stabilizing Somalia and countering the militant group al-Shabaab.

The decision comes ahead of a scheduled May 15 vote by the U.N. Security Council on a new joint financing mechanism outlined under Resolution 2719. While the U.S. had previously remained silent on the proposal, it has now made its opposition clear.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said Somalia is not a suitable testing ground for the proposed hybrid funding model for African Union forces, which have maintained a presence in the country since 2007.

Meanwhile, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the ongoing financial shortfall could jeopardize AUSSOM’s operations.

In a report submitted to the Security Council on April 10, Guterres urged the international community to back the funding plan, emphasizing that sustainable and predictable financial support is critical for peace and stability in Somalia.

Link

International-UN-NGOs

Israeli ambassador to Ethiopia expelled from conference on Rwandan genocide

2025-04-08

[IsraelTimes] Israeli Ambassador to Æthiopia Avraham Neguise

…an Ethiopian-Israeli, he was naught more than a shepherd back in the old country, but after arriving in Israel he grqbbed the opportunity to be educated with both hands, and collected a sheaf of advanced degrees from around the world.

has been removed from an African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
conference held today in Addis Ababa commemorating the Rwandan genocide after member states refused to participate alongside him, the Foreign Ministry confirms to The Times of Israel.

“Eeewwwww! Joooos are icky! I don’t want to catch his Joooo cooties!”

The Foreign Ministry condemns Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Youssouf from Djibouti, saying, "It is outrageous that at an event commemorating the victims of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda, to which the Israeli ambassador in Addis Ababa was invited, [Youssouf] chose to introduce anti-Israel political elements."

"This unacceptable conduct first and foremost dishonors the memory of the victims, and reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the histories of both the Rwandan and Jewish peoples," continues the Foreign Ministry.

Neguise, a former Likud politician, has served as ambassador to Æthiopia since August 2024. He attended the annual conference, entitled "Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda," at the Nelson Mandela Hall at the African Union Headquarters in the country’s capital.

Youssouf previously served as Djibouti’s Ambassador to Egypt and Permanent Representative to the Arab League
...an organization of Arabic-speaking states with 22 member countries and four observers. The League tries to achieve Arab consensus on issues, which usually leaves them doing nothing but a bit of grimacing and mustache cursing...
, while also acting as a non-resident ambassador to Sudan
...a Moslem country located in the Horn of Africa. It is noted for its affinity for rule by ex- or current generals, its holy men, and for the oppression of the native Afro population by its Arab conquerors. South Sudan, populated mostly by the natives, split off from Sudan proper, which left North and South Darfur to be oppressed by the guys with turbans...
, Leb
Leb

...The Lebs maintain a precarious sectarian balance among Shiites, Sunnis, and about a dozen flavors of Christians, plus Armenians, Georgians, and who knows what else?...
, Syria, and ~~The Sick Man of Europe~~ Turkey
...the only place on the face of the earth that misses the Ottoman Empire...
. He has also chaired the Council of Ministers of both the vaporous Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

The Foreign Ministry added that they "will take the necessary diplomatic steps with the relevant parties to clarify the seriousness with which we view this incident."

Link

Africa Horn

Al-Shabaab seizes strategic town during Somalia President's frontline trip

2025-03-29

[Garowe] For the better part of Wednesday, heavy fighting was reported in Masaajid Cali Gaduud town after the Al-Shabaab attack, with the ambush coming at the time President Hassan Sheikh was visiting soldiers in the frontlines in the Middle Shabelle region.

Through its website, the Al-Shabaab group claimed capturing the town but there has been no independent confirmation. A local official on the other hand said government forces are not far from the city.

On Tuesday, President Hassan Sheikh spent the night at Adale, at least 40 kilometres south of Masaajid Cali Gaduud. The attack comes at the time the Somali National Army (SNA) is fighting the group in central and southern regions.

Masaajid Cali Gaduud is one of the towns that have expanded within the last 20 years. Government forces and local fighters recovered the town in October 2022 following the offensive, officials said, while noting the importance of the town in the fight against the group.

The government is promising a major offensive against al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle. At Adale, Hassan Sheikh addressed both the SNA officials in the group, promising to support their actions with the ultimate aim being defeating the militants.

Al-Shabaab is reported to have seized control of Masaajid Cali Gaduud following explosions and direct combat but the number of casualties on either side is not yet known. Al-Shabaab is fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia.

On Wednesday, hours after the Al-Shabaab capture of the area, the president left for Mogadishu and today, he travelled to Turkey on an official visit at the invitation of Erdogan.

The US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have been assisting local forces with the US army often using aerial bombardments to contain the threat by the militants who are predominant in central and southern regions.

Although Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has increased the budget for security forces, the local troops are yet to conduct as many operations against the group without assistance from foreign forces, whose stay in Somalia is almost coming to an end.

Link

Africa Horn

Somali Army, Local Forces Deal Major Blows to Al-Shabaab in Central, Southern Regions

2025-03-18

[Garowe] The operations against al-Shabaab

... al-Qaeda's tentacle in East Africa...
in central and southern regions seem to be yielding fruits as more locals join the Somali National Army (SNA) in recovering strategic areas within the country as the call for stability becomes a reality.

For the last two months, the Somali National Army has sustained operations against the group, which has been significantly pushed to almost submission with the assistance of the US Africa Command and the African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

At Sumadale in Middle Shabelle, close to 30 al-Shabaab fighters were killed following a well-executed operation by the national army and local fighters. The snuffies were plotting a potentially devastating attack against the government troops.

"National and local forces dealt a major blow to Kharijite snuffies in Sumadale, Middle Shabelle, today, killing over 30 fighters," state media reports. State media news hound Sadam Abdulle, embedded with the forces, confirmed the operation.

Earlier, at Awdheegle, the Somali National Army delivered a significant and unforgettable blow to the al-Shabaab snuffies attempting to attack their positions. The confrontation occurred in the Awdheegle District of Lower Shabelle and the Buursha Sheekh area of Middle Shabelle, where the snuffies suffered substantial losses.

In a separate operation on Friday evening, the National Forces executed a planned raid that successfully dismantled the bad boy’s gathering site in the Labada Garas area of Middle Shabelle, resulting in the elimination of all Death Eater present.

Further, in Bakool, the Somali National Army with assistance from the local troops, managed to pull yet another victory, killing over 40 al-Shabaab fighters. The determination reflects the commitment of the government to defeat the group that has existed for almost two decades.

The government has finalized deployment agreements for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, with Kenya, Djibouti, Æthiopia, Egypt, and Ugandan troops cleared to operate within the country. Burundi is yet to agree on the number with the federal government.

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Africa Horn

Somali Government Forces Repel Al-Shabaab Attacks On Their Bases

2025-03-16

[ShabelleMedia] Somali government forces, supported by local militias, successfully repelled attacks by the Islamist Death Eater group al-Shabaab

... an Islamic infestation centering on Somalia attempting to metastasize into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and similar places, all ofwhich have enough problems without them...
early this morning in Awdheegle, located in the Lower Shabelle region. Military activity has been reported in the area as fighting continued for several hours.

In a separate incident, al-Shabaab launched another assault in the Buursha Sheekh area of the Middle Shabelle region, resulting in direct combat that lasted for hours. Eventually, the Somali forces were able to push back the Death Eaters.

Meanwhile,
...back at the shootout, Butch shot Black Bart's gun out of his hand......
government forces conducted an operation in the Laba-Garas area of the Middle Shabelle region, where several al-Shabaab fighters were killed, according to state media reports. The Somali military has reinforced its presence in the region to enhance security and stability.

The recent festivities and operations have highlighted the intensifying battle against al-Shabaab in the Lower and Middle Shabelle regions.

Al-Shabaab launches coordinated attacks in Somalia

[Garowe] Al-Shabaab militants carried out coordinated attacks in the country, on Saturday, officials said, noting that the group was targeting government officers and innocent civilians as it tried to seize more territories.

The militants were targeting government installations and the Somali National Army in Awdheegle, in the Lower Shabelle region, officials said, adding that heavy clashes ensued thereafter, leading to massive casualties.

The attack resulted in a heavy clash, with explosions accompanying the fighting, residents said, while acknowledging the intensity of the clashes which comes at the time the Somali National Army is pursuing the militants in the country.

Both sides involved in the confrontation are reported to have suffered casualties, including deaths and injuries, reflecting the instability in the volatile region, officials said. This was the second attack launched by the group this morning on two areas near the capital city.

Earlier, the al-Shabaab militants launched a pre-dawn attack Saturday on the Hawo Abdi area, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of Mogadishu, engaging in a heavy battle with government forces, according to residents.

With the help of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia along with the US Africa Command, the Somali National Army has managed to liberate several strategic towns across the country from the group.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently extended the amnesty for the members of the group who are willing to withdraw. The president said his administration was ready to recent those ready to defect from the notorious group.

Al-Shabaab group is fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia which has struggled to install stability for the last three decades. The al-Shabaab however, has lost large swathes of rural central and southern regions.

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