Tim Loughton, a Conservative MP from the UK, was expelled from Djibouti due to his advocacy for Somaliland's recognition and his critical stance on China. Loughton, who was sanctioned by China in 2021, described his detention and expulsion as a troubling experience. The Chinese Foreign Ministry dismissed his claims, while Loughton criticized China's influence in Africa. The incident highlights the geopolitical tensions involving China, the UK, and Somaliland.

Al-Shabaab launched a direct attack on military bases near Balcad in the Shabeellaha Dhexe region, targeting Federal Government and ATMS forces. The Somali military reported thwarting the attack and is conducting operations in the area. This marks the second direct assault by Al-Shabaab on the Xawaadley area, which remains tense with significant military activity. The attack coincided with a visit by Hirshabelle President Cali Guudlaawe, who inaugurated development projects in Balcad.

The Banadir Court of Appeal in Mogadishu has begun hearing the case of Sayid-Ali Macalin Daoud, who was previously condemned to death for the murder and arson of his pregnant wife, Luul Abdicasi. Daoud is appealing his death sentence, claiming the killing was not intentional. The victim's family has refused any monetary compensation and insists on the death penalty for Daoud.

The Somali Government's security forces in South West State have successfully convinced eight members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group to surrender in Baydhabo. This follows a trend of increasing defections from Al-Shabaab as the government intensifies its military operations against the group. Notably, a key figure named Hanad also surrendered in Galgaduud, citing the harsh living conditions within the group. President Xasan Sheekh is set to lead further military campaigns in Dhuusamareeb to eradicate remaining Al-Shabaab elements in the region.

The Somali Federal Government's Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation issued a statement apologizing to the public for delays at Mogadishu's Aden Adde airport, attributing the issue to airline companies' non-compliance with new regulations. The Ministry had introduced a modern system requiring airlines to report aircraft types for safety verification and passenger data for security checks. The airlines, resisting the new system, caused a halt in operations, leading to public inconvenience and additional fees. The Ministry assured the public of measures to prevent future travel disruptions and accountability for those responsible for the delays.

The education sector in Banaadir has issued a strong decision following the murder of Teacher Cabdiraxmaan Macalow Abiikar at a school in Mogadishu. The sector condemned the brutal killing and called on the Federal Government of Somalia to swiftly apprehend the perpetrator. In solidarity with the slain teacher, all educational institutions will halt activities for three days starting February 17, 2024. The murder occurred after a dispute involving a student, leading to the teacher being fatally stabbed by the student's brother.

The United Nations office in Somalia condemned a mortar attack on Xalane that resulted in the death of a UN security guard. The attack, which targeted the UN compound within Aden Adde International Airport, highlights the increasing frequency of mortar attacks in Mogadishu. The UN emphasized the critical role of its security personnel in ensuring the safety of its staff and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. The UN reiterated its commitment to supporting the Somali people and government in their peace-building and stabilization efforts.

A communiqué from the Djibouti meeting between the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland outlines an 8-point agreement. Key points include resuming direct talks to address critical issues, forming technical committees within 30 days, implementing previous agreements from 2012 and 2020, and continuing to acknowledge past grievances. Both sides agreed to cooperate on security and organized crime, promote peace in conflict regions through traditional Somali methods, and avoid any statements that could harm the ongoing dialogue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has assured that Russian soldiers who defect to Ukraine will be treated well, urging them to surrender rather than face war crime trials. This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law imposing a 10-year prison sentence for soldiers refusing to fight or disobeying orders.

Heavy fighting has erupted between the Federal Government of Somalia's forces and Al-Shabaab militants in the Caracase area, located between Garbahaarrey and Beledxaawo in the Gedo region. The Somali National Army launched an attack on Al-Shabaab positions, leading to intense clashes. The exact casualties remain unclear, but local sources report a tense situation. The operation is part of a broader campaign by the Somali government to expel Al-Shabaab from various regions, with significant gains reported in Hiiraan and Galgaduud. Local militias, particularly the Macawiisley, have joined the government forces, intensifying the conflict.

Somalia's Special Envoy for Drought Relief has urged international donors to respond swiftly to the escalating drought crisis in Somalia, which is approaching famine levels. Speaking at a conference organized by Italy, the US, the UK, Qatar, and the UN, the envoy emphasized the need for support to help Somalia utilize its resources to mitigate recurring droughts. The US has pledged an additional $151 million in aid, bringing its total humanitarian assistance to over $870 million for 2022. The aid will enable USAID and the World Food Programme to provide extended food assistance to 3.6 million people.

Two military planes carrying troops and military supplies landed in Dhusamareb to support the liberation of areas under Al-Shabaab control. Hundreds of troops have been deployed over the past two days as part of a broader offensive involving local clans and regional administrations. The Federal Government of Somalia reports significant casualties inflicted on Al-Shabaab, with over 200 fighters killed and 30 key areas reclaimed.

The Somali government announced a new military operation in Yasooman, Buula-burde, resulting in the death of over 45 Al-Shabaab members. The operation, involving both military forces and local residents, is ongoing. Additionally, nine Al-Shabaab members were killed in Warmaxan, Shabeellaha Hoose, while attempting to regroup. The government reported that over 200 Al-Shabaab members have been killed and nearly 30 areas liberated in recent operations. Al-Shabaab has not yet responded to these claims.

Military officials in Burkina Faso have announced the ousting of Colonel Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who had previously declared himself president. The military, now led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, has imposed an eight-hour curfew and deployed heavily armed troops across key locations. The coup leaders, represented by Captain Kiswendsida Faaruuq Azaria Sorgho, cited worsening security conditions as the reason for their actions and plan to establish a new interim charter to select a new president. The African Union typically condemns such coups but eventually accepts the new administration.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has mandated that no minister can leave Somalia without obtaining permission from his office. This new policy, which previously applied only to government employees, now extends to all members of the Council of Ministers. The rationale behind this decision remains unclear, and there has been no official statement from the Prime Minister's office regarding the new regulation. Some view this move as a restriction on ministerial independence.

The Greek Coast Guard rescued several Somali migrants off the coast of Greece, with 49 individuals found and others still missing. The migrants, from various countries including Sierra Leone, Somalia, and Uganda, were taken to a designated holding area. The island of Leros, located 317 km from Athens, serves as a transit point for migrants traveling from Turkey to Europe. Reports indicate that the increase in migration is driven by young people from conflict and famine-stricken countries seeking better lives.

Somali police in Mogadishu's Dayniile district arrested Shukri Cabdullahi Xaashi for committing a heinous act against a 9-year-old girl, as seen in a video circulated on social media. The incident, which sparked public outrage, is under investigation by the CID. Police spokesperson Sadiiq Doodishe promised to share the investigation's findings with the public. The rise in shocking incidents in Mogadishu is noted, with a recent case involving a man shooting a young boy in Dharkenley district.

Al-Shabaab's General Spokesperson, Cali Maxamuud Raage (Cali Dheere), addressed the recent clan uprising against the group for the first time. He warned Somali clans against participating in the ongoing conflict in some regions of the country, threatening to target any clan involved in the fighting.

The UK has announced £22.8 million in new funding to support humanitarian efforts in the Horn of Africa, particularly Somalia, where a severe drought is causing a major crisis. Minister Ford emphasized the urgency of international action to prevent a famine worse than the one in 2011. The funding will support food security, health, nutrition, and water services, bringing the UK's total humanitarian aid for Somalia this financial year to £52.8 million and £156 million for East Africa.

A powerful explosion occurred in the Wadajir district of Mogadishu, specifically targeting the entrance of the Dhaga badan camp, which is used for training young recruits for the Somali National Army. The attack, suspected to be a suicide bombing, resulted in over 10 deaths and numerous injuries. The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the capital, coinciding with increased military operations against Al-Shabaab by Somali government forces and allied militias.

The ongoing conflict between Somali government forces, local militias, and the Al-Shabaab group in the Hiiraan region has resulted in the death of over 100 Al-Shabaab fighters. General Odowaa Yuusuf Raage reported that 75 fighters were killed in a recent operation, and several Al-Shabaab members were captured. Former Buulo-Burte governor Faysal Xaaji Aadan called for more support from local and regional authorities. The conflict, driven by the government's counter-terrorism efforts and local resistance to Al-Shabaab's impact on civilians, continues to intensify.

Somali government forces, in collaboration with local militias, have successfully taken control of areas in the Hiiraan and Galgaduud regions previously held by Al-Shabaab. The operations, led by Captain Maxamed Xirsi and General Odowaa Yuusuf Raage, resulted in the capture of Booco and Sini-dhaqo. The government aims to completely eliminate Al-Shabaab from the country, with ongoing operations showing significant progress.

Axmed Maxamed Islaam (Axmed Madoobe), President of Jubbaland, held a special meeting in Mogadishu with Jubbaland's MPs, senators, and ministers representing the federal government. He urged them to return to their constituencies to monitor the severe drought conditions and prepare for upcoming operations against Al-Shabaab. The meeting focused on the challenges facing Jubbaland, including drought and ongoing security operations.

The Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia, Biixi Iimaan Cige, and his delegation participated in the 48th Arab Labor Conference in Cairo, Egypt. The conference addressed economic and social development, new work methods, social protection, and the digital economy. Minister Biixi emphasized Somalia's progress in social protection and the need for unified Arab policies on digital economy and workers' rights. The delegation included officials from the Ministry and representatives from Somali labor unions and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The registration process for rickshaws in Mogadishu has been marred by corruption, with fees being deposited into private accounts instead of official ones. The Benaadir Regional Administration, following a directive from the Council of Ministers, mandated the registration of rickshaws into categories A and B, charging $35 per registration. However, discrepancies in the fees and the use of private accounts have raised concerns among drivers and the public. The administration announced the commencement of the registration process on April 24, but the exact end date remains unclear.

Sudanese military leaders have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire starting Tuesday evening, following pressure from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The ceasefire aims to halt the intense fighting in Khartoum and allow families to reunite and aid to be delivered. The conflict, which began four days ago, has resulted in at least 185 deaths. Blinken has engaged in separate calls with the opposing military leaders, urging the ceasefire. The RSF has agreed to the ceasefire to ensure safe passage for civilians and the evacuation of the injured.

The blue verification mark on Facebook signifies authenticity for public figures, celebrities, and global brands, enhancing credibility and visibility. Verified accounts are prioritized in search results and recommendations. Meta is testing a paid verification option for Facebook and Instagram users in the United States, with plans to expand the rollout gradually.

Search engine optimization (SEO) enhances website traffic quality and quantity through organic search results. Key steps include conducting keyword research, optimizing content, improving website structure, metadata, and images, enhancing load time, building high-quality backlinks, and monitoring performance. SEO is an ongoing process requiring continuous updates and improvements.

Building a successful online business involves selecting a profitable niche, creating a user-friendly and SEO-optimized website, developing a content strategy, building an email list, offering a unique and high-quality product or service, establishing a social media presence, and analyzing results to optimize business strategies. Patience and continuous improvement are key to long-term success.

The cholera outbreak in Afmadow, Jubbada Hoose, has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, primarily children, and has affected around 100 individuals. Efforts are underway by the Jubbaland Administration to address the health crisis. Mohamed Amiin Cabdullahi, the chairman of the Afmadow district council, highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that some cases have been identified as cholera. The outbreak is exacerbated by the current hot season and water scarcity in the region.

Former President of Pakistan General Pervez Musharraf, who seized power in a 1999 coup and ruled from 2001 to 2008, has died in Dubai at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness. Musharraf, born in Delhi in 1943, moved to Karachi in 1947 following the partition of India and Pakistan. He joined the military in 1961 and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the army chief in 1998. Musharraf overthrew Prime Minister Sharif in a coup on October 12, 1999, and later became president in 2001. His tenure saw multiple assassination attempts and allegations of widespread corruption.

A suicide bomber attacked a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan, killing at least 59 people and injuring over 150, mostly police officers. The explosion caused the mosque's roof to collapse, and the incident is under investigation. The mosque, located near the central police station and counter-terrorism department, was heavily guarded. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned the attack.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Barre met with Saudi Ambassador Ahmed Bin Mohamed Salah Al Mowliid to discuss strengthening relations and cooperation between Somalia and Saudi Arabia. The meeting focused on development and humanitarian aid, with both parties expressing gratitude for the support and reception.

Juventus has been docked 15 points this season after an Italian court found irregularities in their player transfer dealings, causing the team to drop from third to tenth place in Serie A. The court also banned 11 current and former Juventus directors from football management for varying periods, including former chairman Andrea Agnelli and former sporting director Fabio Paratici. Juventus denies any wrongdoing, asserting their compliance with football regulations.

The Military Court sentenced a man, who worked as a doctor and a senior military officer, to death by firing squad after finding him guilty of being a member of Al-Shabaab and involved in bombings in Mogadishu. Maxamed Cabdinuur Jiirow, also known as Dr. Fanax, was accused of being part of Al-Shabaab since 2009 and participating in various attacks, including the Jubba intersection explosion in 2019 and the Garasbaalley attack in 2021. He was captured in Baladweyne, Hiiraan region, after the presidential election, while posing as a military officer.

Usain Bolt, the renowned Jamaican Olympic sprinter, discovered $12 million missing from his account with Kingston-based investment firm Stocks and Securities. His lawyer, Linton P. Gordon, revealed that only $12,000 remains in the account, which was intended for Bolt's retirement savings. Jamaica’s Financial Services Commission has installed a temporary manager at the firm following fraud allegations. If the funds are not returned within eight days, Bolt plans to take the case to the Supreme Court in Kingston.

Protests against the Al-Shabaab group, initiated by President Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud, began today in Mogadishu. The president highlighted the atrocities committed by Al-Shabaab and urged the public to support the government's efforts to combat terrorism. He emphasized the need for cooperation with security forces to prevent further attacks and ensure peace in the capital.

Ahmed Mohamed Shakur, a 26-year-old journalist and cameraman for Somali National Television, was killed by an improvised explosive device during a security operation in Basra town, 30km north of Mogadishu. The attack also claimed the life of Banadir police chief, Farhan Mohamud Adan. The Somali Journalists Syndicate condemned the attack and called for increased protection for journalists. Shakur is the first journalist killed in Somalia this year, raising the five-year total to 14.

The Federal Government of Somalia and the United States Government signed a developmental agreement focused on supporting Somalia's economy with a financial commitment of $86.7 million. The agreement prioritizes democracy, governance, stabilization, and resilience as key areas for development. The Somali government expressed gratitude for the U.S. support and emphasized the importance of utilizing the support as intended, aligning with the National Development Plan. The U.S. had previously announced on September 25, 2022, that it would forgive all debts owed by Somalia, amounting to approximately $4.5 billion, in the upcoming year 2023.

In Afghanistan, children as young as four or five years old work alongside their families from early morning until late at night. They perform various labor-intensive tasks, including carrying water containers and pushing carts filled with dried bricks. A recent survey by Save The Children revealed that half of Afghan families rely on child labor to put food on the table. The economic collapse following the Taliban's takeover has exacerbated the situation, leading to a significant increase in child labor. The harsh conditions in brick factories, where even young children work long hours, underscore the severe impact of the ongoing economic crisis.

Fardowsa Cusmaan Cigaal, Somalia's Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, met with her Malaysian counterpart, Dr Wee Ka Siong, in Montreal, Canada, during the ICAO conference to discuss transportation and aviation collaboration. The meeting, also attended by the Manager of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, Axmed Macallin Xasan, resulted in an agreement where Malaysia will support Somalia with technical expertise and experience sharing. Further meetings with representatives from the 193 ICAO member countries are expected during the conference.

The Somali Government announced plans to repatriate nine Somali youths from Libya on September 27, 2022. These youths had traveled to Libya with the intention of migrating to Europe but were detained by human traffickers. Ayuub Xaashi Ciise, the First Secretary of the Somali Embassy in Libya, stated that some of the youths were imprisoned but have since been released. The Somali Embassy in Libya is facilitating their return to Mogadishu to reunite with their families. Many Somali youths remain in Libyan prisons, having traveled there to reach Europe. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with Libya and the migrants' home countries, has successfully repatriated many migrants who faced imprisonment and hardships.

The Turkish government has strongly condemned the recent suicide attack at the General Dhagabadan military training camp in Somalia, expressing condolences to the victims and their families. Turkey reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism. Somali Interior Minister Axmed Macalin Fiqi mentioned that Turkey has joined in providing aerial support to Somali government forces, although this has not been officially confirmed by Turkey.

Somali Prime Minister Hamse Cabdi Barre met with the UN Special Representative James Swan in Mogadishu to discuss the political, security, and humanitarian conditions in the country. They also talked about the best ways to deliver aid to those affected by the drought. The UN representative expressed readiness to support the Somali government's priority programs.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre chaired a meeting focused on economic reform and emphasized the importance of the debt relief process for the country's progress and self-sufficiency. He urged ministers to complete all priority legislation for debt relief by the end of the year to meet current conditions and progress to the next phase. Barre highlighted the role of accountability and transparency in the government's development plan and instructed ministries and relevant agencies to collaborate closely to succeed in ongoing efforts. He also ordered a strong fight against corruption to increase public trust and attract international stakeholders. Successful debt relief will lead to global financial institutions' trust, international investment, job creation for youth, increased domestic production, and economic growth.

Government forces, with the support of local residents, have taken control of the Booco area, approximately 50 km from the city of Baladweyn, after a confrontation with Al-Shabaab militants. The extent of casualties is unknown, but various weapons were used in the clash. The situation is reported to be calm with Galmudug State Forces, aided by the Federal Government of Somalia, present at the location. Al-Shabaab had been in control of Booco for nearly 13 years.

Security officials in Mogadishu, including police command and prosecution representatives, held an emergency meeting in response to recent clan-related killings in the Kaaraan district of the Banaadir region. The meeting resulted in decisions to prevent such incidents from recurring, with agreements on conducting operations against groups causing security disturbances and legally prosecuting those involved. The latest incidents in Kaaraan left three people dead and have been linked to clan vendettas, with local residents expressing frustration over criminal gangs known as Ciyaal Weero.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, while in the United States, responded to recent remarks from the Puntland state government, which expressed opposition to the federal government's actions regarding Somalia's oil activities. President Mohamud emphasized the importance of courage and not fearing progress, stating the government's decision to open up opportunities (oil) in the country despite expected resistance. He stressed the need to move forward with understanding and strength. Puntland warned the federal government to halt the implementation of the law that is not in line with the country's constitution, suggesting it could lead to further instability, damage the state-building process, and potentially incite public uprising and unrest.

Al-Shabaab militants ordered residents to evacuate the Ceel-jiqoow area in the Hiiraan region, subsequently burning all the houses and destroying the only water well with explosives. The local population now faces severe living conditions due to the loss of their homes and water source. This incident marks the second time Al-Shabaab has targeted homes and water wells in Hiiraan, coinciding with ongoing operations against the group by government forces and local Macawiisley fighters.

Ilyaas Cali Nuur, the Minister of Information for South West State, has gained attention on social media for his TikTok videos featuring music. Previously a teacher and Imam in Mogadishu and London, Ilyaas joined TikTok to engage with the youth, who have migrated to the platform from Facebook. He believes that incorporating music in his videos can attract young people and prevent them from joining extremist groups. Ilyaas has a background in religious education and has contributed to community development in London, including building mosques and hosting religious programs on Universal Television.

The US Department of Defense has admitted to civilian casualties resulting from its military operations in countries including Somalia, Afghanistan, and Syria. A report detailed that at least three civilians were injured in a January 2022 airstrike targeting Al-Shabaab in Somalia. The Pentagon also acknowledged civilian deaths and injuries in Afghanistan and Syria from previous years. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and urged the military to implement changes to minimize civilian harm in future operations.