A devastating tribal war erupted again on the border of Hiran and Middle Shabelle

Reports coming from the border between Hiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, especially from the Jalalaqsi district, say that there has been a resurgence of a communal war that has caused damage.

The battle was said to be very intense and both sides used different types of weapons, which caused casualties including death and injuries. 

It has been confirmed that four people from both sides have died in the fighting that took place in areas under the city of Jalalaqsi, and there are more injuries on both sides. 

There has been no news from the security agencies of the Federal Government regarding the re-emergence of the tribal war on the border of Hiran and the Middle Shabelle, and there is still tension in the areas where the two tribal militias from Hiran and the Middle Shabelle fought. 

These two tribal militias from Hiraan and the Middle Shabelle have fought many times on the border of these two regions, and many people have died in those wars, some of them innocent.

 Somali forces and militias recapture key al-Shabaab stronghold in Mudug

Somali government forces and local militias have recaptured the key Al-Shabaab stronghold of Baraag Ali-Gaduud in southern Mudug. Situated 50 kilometres west of Harardhere, the village had been an Al-Shabaab hub for coordinating attacks.

Military officials overseeing the operation reported that they dismantled fortified positions and destroyed key hideouts within the village, effectively disrupting Al-Shabaab's ability to launch assaults in the surrounding areas. They added that the capture marks a key moment in the two-year campaign to expel Al-Shabaab from Mudug.

Somali forces have engaged in ongoing efforts to liberate territories under Al-Shabaab's control. The capture of Baraag Ali-Gaduud represents a tactical win and a strategic advancement in the broader objective of securing Mudug. By uprooting Al-Shabaab from this critical base, Somali authorities are working to disrupt the group's operational network.

The operation's success also highlights the growing cooperation between government troops and local militias, a collaboration that has become increasingly vital in the fight against Al-Shabaab. 

In December 2023, Somali forces, in coordination with international partners, conducted an airstrike targeting Al-Shabaab militants in Baraag Ali-Gaduud. The strike, carried out approximately 31 kilometres south of Harardhere, targeted vehicles carrying Al-Shabaab leaders and fighters. It resulted in the destruction of two vehicles, though the exact number of militants killed was not disclosed at the time.

 Members of the Al-Shabaab group surrendered to the government forces today

The army and local residents in the towns of Ruunirgood and Harardhere in the Middle Shabelle and Galgaduud regions have surrendered members of Al-Shabaab.

The members of Al-Shabaab who defected from the presented three members, two of them were presented in Ruunirgood, whose names were given as Aden Ali Hassan Dhuhulow and Ahmed Maalin Abdulle who was known as Bukabuka in the group. 

The two men who were presented in Ruunirgood told the national media that they joined Al-Shabaab from the Bay region where they are from, and indicated that they participated in various battles in the country's regions, and now they are separated. They have taken advantage of the amnesty offered by the government. 

Among the members who surrendered is Maslah Mohamed Adan who surrendered to the government forces and local people in Harardhere district of Mudug region. 

This man, who is also from Burhakaba district, said that he joined Al-Shabaab in the Jubbaland region, and he has been a member of the group for two years and decided to leave Al-Shabaab. 

Finally, in recent times, there has been an increase in the number of Al-Shabaab members surrendering to the government forces, after the group faced intense pressure from the government forces and the local people who redoubled the fight against the group.

 President Guudlawe meets military leaders in Bal'ad to intensify anti-al-Shabab campaign

A delegation led by the President of Hirshabelle, Ali Abdullahi Hussein Guudlawe, arrived in Bal’ad district in the Middle Shabelle region on Sunday to strengthen anti-al-Shabab military operations.

President Guudlawe held meetings with senior military officials, including the Deputy Commander of the Somali Army Infantry, the Commander of the April 12 Division, the Commander of the 3rd Battalion, the Commander of the Training School, and other key officers.

The discussions focused on plans to liberate areas still under al-Shabab control in the Middle Shabelle region, and how to alleviate the challenges faced by the Somali people traveling along the road connecting Bal’ad and Jowhar.

President Guudlawe commended the Somali National Army, local forces, and the people for their efforts in liberating several strategic areas in the Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions over the past two years.

Roadside explosions in Somali capital Mogadishu kill 5

Roadside explosions in the Somali capital killed five people and wounded eight others Saturday, according to a city official.

An explosive device had been planted at a spot in a street where many young people had gathered to take photos, Abdullahi Sheikh Abdirahman, district commissioner of Mogadishu's Kahda district, told reporters.

“I saw several people lying on the street minutes after the first explosion, and when rescuers came to assist, another blast happeneed, causing most of the casualties,” witness Abdisamad Osman told The Associated Press.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for Saturday’s attack. But the Islamic extremist group al-Shabab, which opposes Somalia’s federal government, frequently carries out such assaults.

The attack comes just weeks after a similar explosion at a beach where more than 30 people were killed and over 60 others wounded. That attack, one of the deadliest in recent months, raised concern over the increasing frequency of violent attacks in Mogadishu.

 Somalia’s NCA, IFC launch regulations to boost telecom competition and improve submarine cable landings

Somalia's National Communications Authority (NCA) has partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to introduce new regulations to improve submarine cable landings and boost competition in the telecommunications sector.

During a two-day workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, the NCA and IFC gathered with telecom operators, industry experts, and government officials to develop a regulatory framework to shape Somalia's future digital infrastructure. The new regulations will address licensing for submarine cable landings, environmental impacts, infrastructure sharing, and fostering competition among telecom companies. These efforts aim to align Somalia's telecommunications standards with global norms while supporting its economic development goals.

NCA Director General Mustafa Yasin Sheikh emphasized that collaboration between private sector stakeholders and regulators is crucial for advancing Somalia's digital connectivity. Sheikh added that Somalia's telecom sector can better serve consumers and contribute to the nation's broader economic recovery by creating a competitive environment.

Opening the workshop, Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, praised the private sector for playing a key role in Somalia's recovery from decades of conflict. He noted that technological and economic advancements are helping drive the country's progress.

The workshop is a key component of the NCA's comprehensive strategy to bolster Somalia's telecommunications network. The plan aims to position the country as a frontrunner in the region's digital infrastructure. With the backing of the IFC, Somalia is striving to establish a more competitive telecom market that encourages innovation, generates employment, and fuels economic growth.

 Mogadishu police arrest ten suspects in connection with violent crimes

Police in Mogadishu have arrested ten male suspects linked to acts of killing, robbery, and other security offences during recent operations.

The Banadir regional police said in a statement that the suspects will be presented before the relevant courts; however, their identities have not been disclosed.

"An operation conducted by the Banadir regional police force, in collaboration with other security agencies in the capital, resulted in the arrest of ten individuals who have committed acts of killing, wounding, and robbery in various districts of Mogadishu," the statement said.

The police command urged residents to report any individuals involved in security-related activities to their nearest police station to maintain safety in the city.

 

Somali PM calls on people to protect unity, independence

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has made a fervent appeal to the Somali people to protect their unity and independence.

Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Somali Ministry of Interior building, Prime Minister Hamza stressed that defending the nation and the unity of society is of utmost importance and non-negotiable.

Responding to misleading messages from some regional Somali leaders, the Prime Minister urged communities across Somalia to reject any support for Ethiopia’s ambitions to Somali territory.

He called on leaders, politicians and elders to refrain from spreading divisive rhetoric and prioritising personal interests over national unity, warning that such actions could lead to the disintegration of the nation.

Prime Minister Hamza also highlighted the importance of taking pride in Somalia's history and heritage, and stressed Somalia's sovereign right to establish relations with any country that serves the interests of its people, noting the recent restoration of cooperative relations between Somalia and Egypt.

In his speech, Prime Minister Hamza pointed out the urgent need for unity and collective effort to ensure the stability and progress of the nation

 Mudug youth combat drought with modern farming techniques

 In Galdogob, Mudug, young people are using modern farming techniques to lift their families out of poverty and combat the devastating effects of drought. These youths have found steady employment through skills learned in greenhouse agriculture and irrigation systems, providing much-needed financial relief to their drought-stricken families.

Abdifatah Amin Khalif is one of the young workers who is transforming his life through modern farming. He earns $30 a day working on two farms, allowing him to send $100 to $200 a month to his family in rural Mudug, who lost most of their livestock to the drought.

"I can now provide for my family's needs. In the past, I had to rely on others for help, but now I'm self-sufficient," Abdifatah said.

His journey began in February 2024, when drought decimated his family's livestock, leaving them with only 30 surviving goats. Unable to continue supporting his family, Abdifatah moved to Galdogob in search of work. After weeks of homelessness and hunger, he found shelter with relatives and eventually secured a low-paying job on a farm. His fortunes changed when a local engineer offered him free training in advanced irrigation systems, a skill that has since made Abdifatah financially independent.

Like Abdifatah, Adan Abdi Deerow also turned his life around with modern farming techniques. Once a farm labourer earning just $5 a day, Adan now installs irrigation systems for clients, making between $15 and $20 daily. He now earns $450 a month, sending $150 to his family in Baidoa and supporting his younger brothers' education.

"My life has completely changed. I used to rely on friends when work dried up, but now I can support myself and even help others," Aadan said.

Abdirisaq Ibrahim Mohamud, a Zamzam University engineering graduate, has been instrumental in this transformation. Recognizing the need for skilled agricultural workers, Abdirisaq began offering free training in modern farming techniques to local youth in Galdogob. Over the past two years, his training has empowered numerous young people to become self-sufficient and contribute to their families' well-being.

"The people we've trained leave with valuable skills that allow them to find employment or create their own opportunities, contributing to Somalia's agricultural sector," Abdirisaq said.

The rise of modern farms and greenhouses in Galdogob is providing job opportunities for young people and skilled workers, offering a potential lifeline to families devastated by drought. Experts believe these new farming techniques could boost the region's agricultural productivity, helping alleviate the economic hardships caused by recurring droughts.

The success of Abdifatah, Aadan, and others underscores the importance of modern farming skills in building resilience for Somali families in the face of increasingly harsh climate conditions.

 

Somali Army Commander Arrives in Middle Shabelle Region to Intensify War on Terror

General Ibrahim Sheikh Mohiuddin, commander of the Somali National Army, accompanied by US officers, has arrived in Middle Shabelle region to intensify the war on terrorism.

Special Operations Commander Colonel David Haskell has been in discussions with local and US officials to develop a strategy for a robust offensive against the al-Shabaab insurgents.

In his directives to the military, General Mohiuddin stressed the need to prepare for escalation of military engagements, highlighting the crucial role of local community cooperation in these efforts.

US officials, in turn, affirmed their commitment to the operation and pledged continued support in the fight against terrorism in Somalia.

 

Trial of Al-Shabaab members who were planning attacks

A Somali military court has begun hearings in a case against four members of the Al-Shabaab militant group, accused of planning attacks in the country's northern regions.

The court charged the suspects, Khalid Hassan Farah, Abdul Karim Ibrahim, Abdul Wahab Deg Ismail, and a person called Jaber, with involvement in terrorism-related activities aimed at destabilizing the country.

According to the prosecution, the defendants underwent training in areas controlled by Al-Shabaab and received specific instructions on how to carry out attacks. The court was told that the suspects were involved in plans to carry out coordinated attacks, posing a direct threat to national security.

“These individuals were trained by Al-Shabaab in areas under the group’s control and were prepared to carry out acts of violence. Their intentions represent a serious threat to the security of the country,” the prosecutor said during the court proceedings.

But defense lawyers called for the defendants to be released, arguing that there was insufficient evidence to support the charges and that their clients should be acquitted of any wrongdoing. The defense stressed the need for fairness and asked the court to consider their request for leniency.

The head of the military court concluded the session by announcing that the verdict on the accused would be issued after careful deliberations.

 

Vehicle carrying supplies for al-Shabaab militants seized in central Somalia

Mogadishu - Reports from Somalia's central provinces indicate that security forces from the Galmudug administration have seized a vehicle carrying supplies for al-Shabaab fighters.

The reports added that the car moved from the city of Galkayo, the capital of Mudug province, and that security forces arrested people on board who were trying to transport fuel and food to the fighters.

A security official in Mudug province told the media that they had begun investigations into the arrested people and vowed to refer them to the judiciary.

For two years, Somali government forces and allied militias have surrounded al-Shabaab fighters in areas of the central Mudug and Galgdood regions and attempts to transport supplies to the fighters have repeatedly been thwarted.

 Mortar attack injures two civilians in Mogadishu’s Wadajir district

At least four mortar shells struck El-Qalow village in Mogadishu’s Wadajir district on Thursday morning, injuring two civilians, according to residents. 

One of the mortars landed on a residential home, causing damage and government officials have not yet provided additional details.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but al-Shabab is known for carrying out mortar attacks in Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia. 

In April, the militant group launched a mortar attack targeting Somalia’s presidential palace, killing three civilians and injuring four others.

The presidential compound in Mogadishu, also known as Villa Somalia, houses the president, the prime minister, and the parliament speaker.

 Somali government forces conduct airstrikes targeting al-Shabab militants

Somali government forces, supported by international partners, conducted an airstrike on the border between the Middle Shabelle and Galgadud regions, reportedly killing several al-Shabab militants.

The airstrike targeted the rural area of Ali Heyle, where members of the al-Shabab group were believed to be assembled. 

Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Sheikh Yusuf Aladala shared the news on his Facebook page, stating that the strike took place over the past two nights. However, he did not provide details on the number of casualties.

"Strong operations against the Khawarij have been carried out in the last two nights in Galgadud. They targeted the places where the Khawarij were hiding and the transport of military vehicles, and the operations were successful. You will get the details," Aladala posted.

The development follows a recent statement by the Commander of Somalia's Ground Forces, General Dayah Abdi Abdulle, who urged al-Shabab fighters to surrender. He promised those who lay down their arms access to education and healthcare, emphasizing that the government is ready to support those who seek peace.

Somalia issues new maritime regulations to manage vessels in its waters

Somalia introduced a new shipping directive aimed at regulating the movement of vessels within its territorial waters. The new regulation was reported over the weekend by the state-owned media Somalia National News Agency (SONNA).

Going forward, vessels entering and operating within Somali national waters will be mandated to fly the Somali flag. In addition, ships transiting Somali waters must inform the country’s maritime regulator and comply with Ministry of Ports and Marine Transport regulations.

The new policy comes at a time when Somalia is trying to revive its maritime sector and assert sovereignty along its vast coastal region. Following years of civil unrest, Somalia had not updated its old 1989 marine law. This has left the country vulnerable to IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing, with reports showing that Somalia loses an estimated $300 million annually from the exploitative trade.

Some observers believe that Somalia’s new maritime directive could be partly a response to the geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa. Recently, Ethiopia and Somalia’s breakaway region, Somaliland, signed an agreement on the use of Berbera port in the Gulf of Aden. This means Ethiopia’s vessels could have exclusive permission to use the port. The Berbera port does not mandate flying of the Somali flag, given Somaliland’s self-declared independence, creating uncertainty on how Mogadishu’s directive will play out in waters off Somaliland. Djibouti last week offered Ethiopia rights to the Port of Tadjourah as an alternative to the Somaliland deal.

Meanwhile, Somalia appears determined to assert control over its vast coastline following a defense and economic pact with Turkey, signed early this year. The defense agreement allows Turkey to train and equip the Somali navy for enhanced capabilities to curb terrorism, piracy, IUU fishing, and toxic waste dumping.

Without an effective naval force, Somalia’s coastline has become infamous for piracy. With the ongoing Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, Somalia is back in the limelight. Since last year, there has been a dramatic increase in piracy incidents along its coastline and reaching further east into the Indian Ocean. Somali pirates' capture of the Maltese-flagged bulker Ruen in December 2023 was the first successful hijacking of a commercial ship off the coast of Somalia since 2017 and was followed by other incidents both with small fishing boats and large merchant ships.

In addition, the state of Puntland last week reported it seized a cache of suicide drones believed to be linked to Al-Shabaab or ISIS-Somalia. The drones are thought to have been smuggled through Bosaso port. According to Puntland authorities, suicide drones are relatively new in Somalia and could alter the tactics of insurgent groups in the region.

U.S. intelligence in June warned of a possible alliance between Al Shabaab and Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are currently targeting merchant shipping in the Gulf of Aden.

The European Union launched its operation EUNAVFOR Atalanta in 2008. Prior to the emergence of the Houthi attacks and uptick in piracy in 2023, there had been efforts to scale back international efforts. The goal was to let Somalia take greater responsibility for regional security.

 Somalia enforces new maritime rules: All ships must fly Somali flag in waters

Somalia has introduced stringent new regulations that require all vessels entering its territorial waters to fly the Somali flag, a move aimed at tightening control over its coastline and curbing illegal activities. The regulations, announced by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA), are part of a broader government strategy to enhance national security and assert sovereignty over its maritime domain.

Under the new rules, ships must notify local authorities and comply with guidelines set by the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport. These measures are designed to increase oversight and prevent unauthorized operations in Somali waters, which have long been plagued by piracy and illegal fishing.

The implementation of these regulations follows a recent 10-year security agreement between Somalia and Turkey. As part of the agreement, Turkey will assist Somalia in safeguarding its maritime borders, a partnership that is expected to significantly bolster Somalia's naval capabilities.

The Somali government is also working to nullify a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland that grants Ethiopia access to Somali waters. Somalia considers this agreement a violation of its sovereignty and is taking steps to assert its territorial rights.

Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atskeselassie has emphasized the importance of securing maritime access for Ethiopia, a landlocked nation with a population of 110 million. This dispute highlights the broader regional implications of Somalia's new maritime policies and their potential impact on geopolitical stability in the Horn of Africa.

By enforcing these regulations, Somalia is making it clear that its territorial waters are not open to unregulated access. This decisive action underscores the government's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and ensuring the security of its maritime resources.