In November 2022, Jigjiga, the capital of Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, will host its first international book fair, joining a growing movement of Somali‑language literary events. For a culture that adopted the Latin Somali script only in 1972, the rapid rise of reading and writing in just 50 years is extraordinary. The Hargeysa International Book Fair (HIBF), now entering its sixteenth year, has been the driving force behind this transformation. Drawing over 100,000 attendees and inspiring sister events in Garowe, Mogadishu, and now Jigjiga, the HIBF has helped turn Somali literature into a mainstream cultural force. Book fairs are doing more than promoting reading – they are bridging the gap between Somalia’s rich oral traditions and its emerging written heritage. Through regional reading clubs and youth initiatives, the movement is preserving indigenous knowledge, fostering new authors, and even sharing expertise across Africa, from Rwanda to Malawi. With over 76 Somali‑language books launched at HIBF in just two years, the momentum is undeniable. As Somali society continues this literary renaissance, book fairs stand as powerful symbols of cultural pride, intellectual growth, and the enduring value of storytelling in all its forms.
EU High Representative Josep Borrell sparked global debate with his “garden vs. jungle” metaphor, portraying Europe as a cultivated “garden” and much of the rest of the world – implicitly the Global South – as a “jungle” threatening to “invade.” While Borrell later clarified that he was referring to lawless global politics rather than geography or race, the comments drew criticism for colonial undertones. Borrell highlighted Somalia as an example of the “perfect storm” facing fragile states: terrorism, maritime insecurity, climate change, rising commodity prices, and a worsening humanitarian crisis. He praised EU missions in Somalia for advancing European values and protecting Europe’s security, stressing that “security starts in Mogadishu.” Yet, he notably avoided linking Somalia’s instability to migration – even though in past speeches he has acknowledged Europe’s pull for migrants seeking safety or opportunity. Critics also noted Europe’s historic role in exploiting the Global South, questioning whether Borrell’s vision of “engagement” is enough to address deep inequalities and root causes of displacement. With millions across East Africa facing famine and displacement, the question remains: will Europe view them as fellow “gardeners” or as part of the “jungle” it fears?
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has launched his #NoTurningBack campaign, pledging to “totally eliminate” Al‑Shabaab. The military push, supported by Somali National Army forces, Ma’awiisley militias, and regional leaders, has reclaimed territory and boosted morale. HSM’s rhetoric has ignited public enthusiasm, but analysts caution against over‑promising results. Terrorism, as experts note, is a tactic—not an enemy that can be permanently eradicated. The jihadist ideology behind Al‑Shabaab will persist, especially among disaffected groups. Unrealistic promises risk political backlash if progress stalls. The campaign’s sustainability is also uncertain, with reports of faltering morale and logistical strain in some regions. Some officials’ extreme rhetoric—such as targeting insurgents’ families—could backfire, fueling unrest. Meanwhile, the government is targeting Al‑Shabaab’s finances, warning businesses against paying the group’s “taxtortion.” But dismantling the group’s vast economic networks too abruptly could destabilize Somalia’s economy and politics. Observers urge a smarter, strategic approach: a coherent stabilisation plan, donor engagement, and strengthened national security architecture. Fighting harder is not enough—Somalia must fight smarter to sustain gains against Al‑Shabaab and avoid repeating past counterinsurgency mistakes.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has become the first leader in recent years to deliver a formal national message celebrating mawlid, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h). Observed on the 12th day of Rabi ul Awwal, mawlid has deep roots in Somalia’s Sufi traditions but has been under threat from Wahhabi and Al-Shabaab efforts to ban it. In his televised address, HSM congratulated the Somali people, declared mawlid a public holiday, and urged citizens to reflect on the Prophet’s values. The speech resonated deeply, particularly in central Somalia’s Sufi strongholds of Galgaduud and Hiiraan. For over two decades, mawlid celebrations have been suppressed in many areas, with Wahhabi clerics calling it an “innovation” and Al-Shabaab outright banning it. By publicly embracing mawlid, HSM sends a strong signal of religious inclusion, challenging decades of Wahhabi influence. The move has revived hopes for restoring Somalia’s rich heritage of tolerance, pluralism, and Sufi devotional practices, such as qasidas and nabi amaan poetry. Advocates now urge Somalia’s constitutional review process to enshrine protections for Islamic diversity and prevent the imposition of one sect over others. For many, this marks not just a celebration, but the beginning of a cultural and spiritual revival.
Somalia’s combined Somali National Army (SNA) and militia offensives against Al-Shabaab in central regions, including Hiiraan and Galgadud, are gaining momentum. In recent months, forces have reclaimed significant territory while also targeting the group’s finances and ideology. However, new government measures are sparking debate. One controversial decision involves using the military to distribute humanitarian aid in liberated areas. While aid is desperately needed, critics warn that military-led aid delivery risks drawing resources from combat operations, blurring lines between humanitarians and combatants, and potentially making aid workers targets. A better approach, they argue, is for the SNA to focus on securing main supply routes and improving humanitarian access for NGOs and UN agencies. The second contentious move is a government crackdown on Al-Shabaab propaganda, ordering internet service providers to block extremist websites, social media pages, and Telegram, and instructing media houses to stop broadcasting Al-Shabaab content. Media organisations warn the directive could suppress press freedom and silence legitimate criticism. While Somalia’s multi-pronged offensive has achieved more progress in five months than in the past five years, the government must ensure its policies do not undermine humanitarian principles, press freedom, or the safety of those working in liberated territories.
Kenya–Somalia relations are showing unexpected improvement under President William Ruto and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Contrary to early predictions that Ruto would take a hardline stance, he has adopted a pragmatic and cooperative approach. Since taking office, Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working with Somalia on shared priorities, including degrading Al-Shabaab, boosting cross-border security, and enhancing economic cooperation. A key agenda item is the miraa trade. Ruto seeks to streamline exports directly from Kenyan farmers to Somalia, cutting out middlemen who dominate the lucrative trade. While the outcome remains unclear, the move reflects his focus on supporting local producers while navigating sensitive political implications for Somalia. Ruto’s foreign policy toward Somalia emphasizes continuity, particularly in maintaining political influence in Jubaland, an area of strategic importance along the Somali–Kenyan border. The appointment of Aden Barre Duale, an ethnic Somali from the Ogadeen clan, as Kenya’s Defence Minister underscores this strategy. Although challenges remain, such as the unresolved maritime dispute and potential tensions over trade, early fears of a disruptive Kenyan foreign policy have proven unfounded. Instead, Ruto has emerged as a cautious yet creative leader, strengthening regional ties and fostering cooperation with Somalia.
Livestock are the backbone of Somalia’s economy, accounting for about half of GDP and more than 80 percent of export revenue. Over 65 percent of Somalis depend on livestock for their livelihood, with millions working as pastoralists across vast rangelands. Yet the sector is now in crisis due to years of persistent drought, climate change, and economic disruptions. Four consecutive failed rainy seasons have devastated pastures and depleted water sources, killing an estimated three million animals since mid-2021 — nearly six percent of Somalia’s total livestock population. Climate change has shortened the cycle between droughts, making recovery increasingly difficult. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic and trade restrictions, including Saudi Arabia’s periodic bans on Somali livestock, have weakened export markets. Livestock are more than an economic asset; they provide milk, meat, and cultural value in Somali society, featuring in marriage payments and blood money settlements. However, rising water prices, collapsing animal values, and the high cost of restocking are pushing many pastoralists to abandon their way of life.
Somalia’s elite US-trained Danab commandos are on the frontlines of the fight against Al-Shabaab in Hiiraan, facing one of the most dangerous deployments in the country. This inside look reveals the daily realities of these soldiers as they operate in high-risk environments with constant threats from enemy attacks, improvised explosive devices, and ambushes. The day begins before sunrise, with readiness checks, equipment inspections, and mission briefings. Soldiers move cautiously through open terrain, relying on intelligence from aerial surveillance and strict movement protocols to avoid detection and counter enemy traps. Combat engagements require speed, coordination, and skill, with Danab forces often prevailing due to superior training and equipment. Beyond combat, Danab engages in community outreach, distributing aid and gathering intelligence from locals in liberated villages. The day ends with another headcount, a review of the day’s operations, and preparations for the long night watch. Hot meals boost morale as soldiers brace for the next day’s mission. This account captures the discipline, resilience, and determination of Danab as they work to liberate Somalia from Al-Shabaab, combining combat expertise with community engagement in a challenging and volatile environment.
Somalia is enduring one of its harshest droughts in decades, devastating rural livelihoods through massive livestock losses, crop failures, and forced displacement. The crisis has triggered child marriages, rising malnutrition, and increased criminal activity as families struggle to survive. While national and international relief efforts are underway, experts warn these measures are short term fixes for what is likely to be a recurring climate challenge. Global warming is expected to raise average temperatures in the Horn of Africa by up to three degrees Celsius this century. Rainfall may increase during short rainy seasons but remain unreliable in the long rainy season critical for replenishing water and pasture. Extreme weather events — from droughts to floods — will become more frequent, placing additional strain on fragile ecosystems and rural economies. Key trends complicating Somalia’s environmental response include rapid urbanisation, declining traditional environmental knowledge, decentralised governance, tensions over shared river waters with Ethiopia, and mass displacement.Addressing these threats requires more than technical solutions. Somalia must adopt a unified environmental strategy, strengthen cooperation across regions and borders, and promote environmental education to protect livelihoods and ensure long term resilience against climate change.
Somalia is enduring one of its harshest droughts in decades, devastating rural livelihoods through massive livestock losses, crop failures, and forced displacement. The crisis has triggered child marriages, rising malnutrition, and increased criminal activity as families struggle to survive. While national and international relief efforts are underway, experts warn these measures are short term fixes for what is likely to be a recurring climate challenge. Global warming is expected to raise average temperatures in the Horn of Africa by up to three degrees Celsius this century. Rainfall may increase during short rainy seasons but remain unreliable in the long rainy season critical for replenishing water and pasture. Extreme weather events — from droughts to floods — will become more frequent, placing additional strain on fragile ecosystems and rural economies. Key trends complicating Somalia’s environmental response include rapid urbanisation, declining traditional environmental knowledge, decentralised governance, tensions over shared river waters with Ethiopia, and mass displacement.
Somalia is experiencing a rare moment of momentum in its fight against Al Shabaab. In just months the Somali National Army working alongside community based Maawiisley fighters has liberated nearly 40 villages and towns across Hirshabelle Galmudug and Jubaland. The recent gains have encouraged other clans to join the fight and even prompted Jubaland’s leadership to declare an offensive stance. The uprising has been fuelled by deep rural hardship after four failed rainy seasons destroyed livelihoods displaced over a million people and killed millions of livestock. Al Shabaab’s harsh taxation forced recruitment and blocking of aid have driven communities to take up arms. Yet history warns that military gains will fade without strong governance. Past recaptured areas often fell back to Al Shabaab due to clan rivalries and poor administration. The Hassan Sheikh administration now faces the challenge of securing liberated zones through lasting hold and build measures such as local policing functional courts road repair and health services.
Somalia has achieved one of its most significant victories against Al Shabaab in recent years. In only four months the Maawiisley militia working alongside Somali National Army troops has recovered more than 30 villages and towns across Hirshabelle Galmudug and South West State. This remarkable progress surpasses gains made in the last five years. The Maawiisley a community based fighting force has long resisted Al Shabaab’s heavy taxation forced recruitment and abuse of local populations. With support from the Federal Government of Somalia these fighters now receive vital ammunition medical evacuation fuel and food. Somali forces supported by ATMIS helicopter gunships and United States airstrikes have cleared the way for their advance. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his security team have prioritised cooperation with local communities recognising their intimate knowledge of terrain and their deep motivation to protect their homes. This coordination has been instrumental in reversing Al Shabaab’s grip on rural areas. However the government faces the challenge of maintaining control without permanently militarising clan militias. Clear limits and plans for eventual demobilisation are essential to prevent the Maawiisley from evolving into rogue armed groups. For now their success demonstrates that local empowerment is a powerful tool in Somalia’s fight against extremism.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s strategy against Al Shabaab has taken a new turn with a powerful grassroots uprising in Somalia’s Hiiraan and Galgaduud regions. Initially sparked by the need to reopen the main supply route between Matabaan and Beledweyne the campaign has evolved into a full scale push against the militant group. Local communities fed up with Al Shabaab’s extortion harsh rule and the devastation of drought have joined forces with Somali National Army troops and state security forces. In Hiiraan coalition forces have liberated over a dozen villages with operations targeting Al Shabaab strongholds such as Buq Aqable. Precision strikes by elite Danab commandos supported by US airpower have further weakened the group. Similar offensives are underway in Galgaduud Middle Shabelle Jubaland and Puntland.
In Somalia, worsening drought and economic hardship are driving a surge in child marriages, putting thousands of girls at risk. As climate change intensifies drought cycles, families lose livestock, crops, and income, forcing them into desperate measures for survival. One coping strategy is marrying off daughters in exchange for bride wealth, shifting financial responsibility to the groom’s family. This practice not only robs girls of their education but also exposes them to lifelong risks of abuse, health complications, and poverty. According to UNICEF, hundreds of thousands of Somali children are at risk of dropping out of school due to the drought, with girls disproportionately affected. Once out of school, girls become more vulnerable to early marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and gender-based violence. Societal pressures to protect a girl’s “honour” and deep-rooted patriarchal norms further fuel this trend, especially in displacement camps where insecurity is high. Despite legal provisions setting the marriage age at 18, weak enforcement and the dominance of customary and religious law undermine protections. Urgent measures—including enforcing laws, expanding girls’ education, raising awareness, and supporting drought-affected families—are needed to stop this harmful practice and protect Somalia’s most vulnerable girls.
In Somalia, where 75% of the population is under 30, young people face escalating threats from extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and abuse—often at the hands of state security forces. While non-state actors such as Al‑Shabaab remain the primary perpetrators, cases involving police and military personnel are on the rise. Young people are frequently stereotyped as criminals, gang members, or extremists, fueling hostile encounters. Security forces often employ lethal force without proper escalation protocols, further endangering civilians. Weak oversight, poor investigative capacity, and a lack of accountability mechanisms allow many perpetrators to escape justice. Civilian and military justice systems are undermined by political interference, clan influence, and customary law settlements that prioritize financial compensation over criminal prosecution. This entrenches impunity and erodes the rule of law. In some communities, trust between youth and security forces has collapsed, damaging public confidence in government. The growing reliance on heavy-handed, securitised responses to insecurity not only violates human rights but also undermines long-term stability. Addressing this crisis requires enforcing accountability, reforming security sector practices, improving human rights training, and rebuilding trust with Somalia’s youth—an essential step toward lasting peace and security.
Somaliland’s parliament has approved the final members of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), marking progress toward the presidential election still scheduled for this year. However, political disputes over the registration of new political associations threaten to delay the vote. Under Somaliland’s constitution, only three political parties can contest the presidency, and their certification expires in December 2022. This year’s election schedule has been complicated by the overlap between the presidential poll and the registration of new associations vying for party status.Opposition parties Waddani and UCID insist the presidential election proceed on time with the current three parties, while the government favors completing the political association process first. The NEC is expected to soon release a roadmap, potentially recommending a delay past the 13 November deadline, which would require Guurti approval and likely extend President Muse Bihi’s term.The political deadlock has sparked protests, some turning violent, leaving seven dead and over 100 arrested. Stakeholders remain divided: the government and new associations want separate processes, while the opposition demands linked timelines. Somaliland now faces a critical choice—uphold the legal process despite opposition resistance or risk undermining its democratic credibility with political compromises.
Since the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, the pharmaceutical sector has operated with little to no regulation. Nearly all medicines are imported, yet there is no robust oversight to ensure safety or quality. The Ministry of Health lacks the capacity to enforce existing laws, leaving pharmacies and distributors largely unchecked. This gap has allowed counterfeit, expired, and low‑quality drugs to enter the market, often with labels in foreign languages that most Somalis cannot read. Prescription medicines, including powerful painkillers and antibiotics, are frequently sold without prescriptions. Misuse of drugs like Tramadol is linked to rising crime, while unregulated use of antibiotics is contributing to growing antibiotic resistance. Some imported male enhancement products have been linked to severe health risks, yet remain widely available due to public demand. The lack of public awareness about drug interactions, combined with the popularity of combining pharmaceuticals with traditional herbal medicines, increases the risk of harmful side effects. Experts warn that densely populated displacement camps, poor sanitation, and disease outbreaks could amplify the crisis.
Since the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, the country’s pharmaceutical sector has operated without meaningful regulation. Nearly all medicines are imported, but weak enforcement allows expired, counterfeit, and unsafe drugs to enter the market. The Ministry of Health lacks the capacity to monitor imports or enforce existing laws, leaving pharmacies and distributors free to sell potentially dangerous products.Prescription drugs, including addictive painkillers like Tramadol, are often sold without prescriptions. Abuse of such drugs is linked to rising crime, while overuse of antibiotics is accelerating the spread of antibiotic‑resistant bacteria. Many medicines arrive with foreign‑language labels that most Somalis cannot read, increasing the risk of misuse or dangerous drug interactions. Male enhancement products, widely available despite health concerns, have been linked to deaths and serious cardiovascular issues. The combination of public demand, lack of regulation, and poor consumer awareness compounds the problem.
The launch of South Sudan’s first women’s basketball team marks a bold step for the world’s youngest nation, signaling hope, unity, and inclusion. In Somalia, a similar movement is gaining ground as the Elman Peace Centre in Mogadishu champions girls’ basketball through training clinics and international mentorship. These initiatives offer safe spaces for young women, many of them orphans, to heal, socialise, and form cross‑clan friendships.Sports provide Somali women with more than physical activity; they challenge deeply ingrained gender norms. Female athletes and public figures like Lt‑Col Iman Elman have faced backlash from conservative voices, yet their visibility inspires others. Salafist interpretations of Islamic law remain a significant barrier, with campaigns attempting to restrict women’s access to gyms and sports. Despite opposition, women are increasingly joining the police, army, and public service. Encouraging their participation in sports can foster self‑confidence, break stereotypes, and promote unity. Somali women have the potential to excel in athletics, as shown by stars like Abdi Bile and Mo Farah. A robust government‑backed sports programme for women and girls could strengthen social cohesion, promote gender equality, and offer powerful opportunities for empowerment across the Horn of Africa.
In Hiiraan region of Hirshabelle State, Al Shabaab militants cut the main supply route between Beledweyne and Matabaan, isolating towns during a severe drought and soaring food prices. This blockade pushed local communities to take up arms, supported by Somali National Army special units Gorgor and Danab, who quickly reopened the route. Historically, local militias have been decisive in resisting insurgents due to their knowledge of terrain, personal stakes, and community ties. However, they often face better armed insurgent forces and require government backing to succeed. Without sustained support, they risk defeat, reprisals, or even turning against the state. Past examples, such as the Macawiisleey militia in 2018, show that insufficient support can lead to tragic losses. Al Shabaab views these uprisings as serious threats, responding with scorched earth tactics including burning villages, destroying wells, planting IEDs, and killing civilians to crush resistance. The group aims to deter other communities from rising up. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s strategy includes mobilising community resistance, but its success depends on providing consistent logistical, financial, and military aid. If Hiiraan’s militia is abandoned, the defeat could discourage future uprisings. Lasting victory requires driving Al Shabaab out and ensuring they cannot return.