The Latest Breaking News from Somalia

Man used AI chatbot and flew to Somalia in bid to become ‘martyr’ for Islamic State

Mohamed Mohamoud was found guilty of preparing acts of terrorism

The Independent UK · Aug 18

Fighting in southwestern Somalia kills dozens of people, including 4 civilians

Fierce fighting between government troops and militias in Somalia's southwestern city of Baidoa has killed dozens, including at least four civilians

The Independent UK · Aug 18

Why Pakistan is boosting defence ties with a nation known for its pirates

Pakistan is expanding its defense engagement through a new security pact with Somalia. This agreement covers counter-terrorism, military training, and capacity building efforts. Days later, Pakistan joined Saudi Arabia and Turkey in a Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. This pact commits members to mutual defense and military coordination. These developments highlight…

The Economic Times · Aug 18

‘I fell in love with the art of coffee-making’: the female baristas shaking up Somalia’s booming cafe scene

As fear and fighting ease in Mogadishu, coffee shops have become catalysts for change, bringing jobs for women and creating much-needed social spaces

The Guardian - UK · Jul 22

Special court sentences 44 Somalian pirates to life imprisonment; praises Navy for prompt action

A Mumbai court has sentenced forty-four Somalian nationals to life imprisonment for piracy. These individuals were convicted in two separate cases involving hijacking and hostage-taking. Indian naval ships apprehended the accused during anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden.

The Economic Times · Jul 20

India objection to WhatsApp username switch gets Somalia backing

In a notable reaction, Somalia stands alongside India in opposing WhatsApp’s latest username feature. This initiative raises alarms about possible rises in online fraud and impersonations. Security officials are particularly apprehensive as it could obstruct their investigations into crime and terrorism. While the feature encourages user connectivity without phone numbers,…

The Economic Times · Jul 7

Fraud suspect allegedly behind $250m Minnesota pandemic scam tracked down in Somalia

Abdikerm Eidleh, 42, was arrested in Mogadishu, Somalia, following a raid by FBI agents and Somali intelligence officials,

The Independent UK · Jun 28

Outrage as woman jailed for three years after criticising Somali government online

Sentencing of 27-year-old Sadia Moalim Ali condemned by former president and prime ministers as well as rights groups

The Guardian - UK · Jun 26

The goodness of strangers amid war’s inhumanity

In this week’s newsletter: drones in Somalia, robots in India and smartphones in Afghanistan

The Guardian - UK · Jun 25

When climate pressures deepen, the fight against violence becomes harder

Climate-induced crop failures, death of livestock and water shortages increase food insecurity and malnutrition. This makes it harder for families to maintain stable incomes and consistent supplies of food.

The Conversation · Jun 22