“I can report to you… at a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron, their collaboration with us for equipment and support,” Tinubu said. “I’m making frantic efforts to contact other nations. If we have to spend our goodwill and line of credit, we have those who are willing to support us with equipment and training.”

The president described insecurity as a major challenge facing his government , saying it threatens development and prosperity. He told the governors that equipment acquisition was also one of the key issues raised during his UK trip.

Tinubu also warned that the ongoing Middle East crisis could worsen inflation and hit Nigerians’ purchasing power through higher fuel and transport costs, which often feed into food prices.

The push for external support comes as Nigeria battles multiple security threats, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West and North-Central regions, separatist tensions in the South-East and widespread kidnapping.

It also follows recent bombings in Maiduguri , after which Tinubu ordered security chiefs to relocate to the city and approved additional equipment and operational support to boost counterterrorism efforts.

High-ranking military officials responsible for counterterrorism operations from both countries met in Cotonou on 27 February to discuss future collaboration. 

The proposed plan includes coordinated border patrols, joint military operations, intelligence sharing and increased monitoring of cross-border movement. Further discussions on the measures are expected later in March.

According to Héni Nsaibia, senior West Africa analyst at the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data group (ACLED), the border area linking Benin, Niger and Nigeria has emerged as a new focus of jihadist activity since 2025.

“Due to very weak border security and coordination between concerned states, seeing Benin and Nigeria reinforcing their cooperation is particularly relevant,” he told RFI .

According to his research for ACLED, incidents involving jihadist groups in Benin’s Alibori and Borgou departments, Dosso in Niger, and Nigeria’s Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states increased by 86% between 2024 and 2025. Deaths linked to these incidents rose by 262% during the same period.

Jihadist groups Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Sahel have historically operated mainly in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. However, their activities are increasingly spreading into West Africa’s coastal states.

Founded in Mali in 2017, JNIM has become the main jihadist group in the central Sahel. Since 2019, the al-Qaeda affiliate has also carried out attacks in countries along the Gulf of Guinea, including Côte d’Ivoire, Benin and Togo.

Nsaibia noted that last year, JNIM also claimed responsibility for an attack on Nigerian territory for the first time.

He said the increase in violence can be attributed to “limited state presence” and weakened regional cooperation after Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following military coups in the three countries.

Security officials say cross-border cooperation will be essential to address the threat.

Senior advisor to Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sunday Dare, said, because of "the porosity of the borders, we've had armed trafficking, we've had criminal gangs, we've had Boko Haram, we've had ISIS and other groups."

Dare said the Nigerian president is committed to strengthening relations with Benin and other neighbouring countries to support both security and economic cooperation.

“Just last month, he opened the borders to not just Benin, but also Niger, and that has improved relations,” Dare said.

Another meeting is scheduled to take place in Benin before the end of March to advance the draft military memorandum.

Nsaibia added that other countries in the region are also strengthening security cooperation.

“We have also seen in the past weeks that Ghana and Burkina Faso have taken similar steps. From a regional perspective, these borders are most exposed to jihadist violence, and I think it makes sense for these countries to have these types of rapprochement between each other.”

“They were shooting everyone in sight,” said Ibrahim Farouk, a farmer who survived after being shot in the thigh. “Those who ran were chased into the bush and killed. Those who hid in their houses were burnt inside. They wanted no one alive.”

Farouk said the attackers also threw explosives into homes and shops, torching large parts of the village. Several victims were shot at close range, while others were burned alive. By Friday, at least 35 additional bodies had been recovered from nearby forests, according to residents.

Another survivor, Joshua Deme, said some of the attackers appeared to be teenagers. “The one who shot me was not even 15,” he said. “The younger ones were shooting, while the older ones burned houses.”

A third survivor, miner Usman Bangoro, said the gunmen wore military-style uniforms, initially confusing residents. “You would think they were soldiers,” he said. “But they shot at anything that moved.”

Residents said the attackers abducted about 75 people, including women and children , and used a village vehicle to transport some of the captives. A bomb planted along the Kaiama road later exploded, burning a truck carrying agricultural produce.

The injured were taken to hospitals in Ilorin and Kainji, with local authorities providing ambulances. Survivors say blood shortages have delayed surgeries for some victims.

Community members claim the attackers had earlier sent a message saying they wanted to “preach,” but local leaders rejected the request and alerted security agencies. Troops were reportedly deployed briefly but left days before the attack.

The massacre is the latest in a series of mass killings linked to armed groups operating across central and northwestern Nigeria.

The move followed a decision by the Counter-Financing of Terrorism Inter-Ministerial Committee, which placed the individuals on Kenya’s Domestic Terrorism Sanctions List, triggering immediate asset freezes and restrictions on access to the financial system.

According to the FRC, several of those named are linked to extremist groups, including Al-Shabaab, ISIS and the Allied Democratic Forces, with roles ranging from recruiting fighters to procuring weapons and moving funds across borders. 

Authorities said some of the money was routed through countries such as Türkiye and South Africa before reaching Kenya. Banks holding the affected accounts have been ordered to submit full details of the individuals’ assets in the coming days as investigations continue.

Nigeria’s economy is on course to record its strongest expansion in more than 10 years, with the World Bank upgrading its growth forecast to 4.4% for both 2026 and 2027. In its latest Global Economic Prospects report, the Bank said growth rose to 4.2% in 2025, driven by services, particularly finance and information and communication technology, alongside a modest agricultural recovery and Nigeria’s emergence as a net exporter of refined petroleum products. “Growth in Nigeria is forecast to strengthen to 4.4 percent in both 2026 and 2027, the fastest pace in over a decade,” the report said, adding that tax reforms and prudent monetary policy are expected to support activity, improve investor sentiment and further reduce inflation. The Bank, however, cautioned that sustaining momentum will require tackling long-standing structural weaknesses and strengthening fiscal discipline to ensure growth is durable and inclusive.

Nigeria and UAE deepen ties

President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria will co-host the Investopia investment conference with the United Arab Emirates in Lagos in February, as both countries seek to attract global capital and boost sustainable investment inflows. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, following the conclusion of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the UAE. Tinubu described the CEPA as a historic deal that will deepen cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics and digital trade. “We warmly invite our partners to help build sustainable and shared prosperity for Nigeria, Africa and the world,” he said, noting that Nigeria aims to mobilise up to $30 billion annually in climate and green industrial finance while strengthening climate governance through a new national carbon market framework.

Lagos fire service reports 133 deaths in 2025

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said 133 bodies were recovered from emergency incidents across the state in 2025, as it responded to 2,617 emergency calls during the year. Speaking at the agency’s annual staff engagement, Controller General Margaret Adeseye said fire incidents accounted for about 85% of all calls, with 473 victims rescued alive. She disclosed that properties valued at ₦118.3 billion (approx. US$78.9 million) were saved, while losses stood at ₦19.7 billion (approx. US$13.1 million), representing a 6:1 save-to-loss ratio. Adeseye said the figures highlight the importance of preparedness and professionalism in a rapidly growing megacity, adding that the recent passage of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Bill has strengthened the agency’s institutional framework and operational efficiency.

Police decline to comment on U.S. airstrikes

The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed it has intelligence on recent United States airstrikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State, but said it would not disclose details publicly. Force spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the matter should be addressed by defence authorities, stressing that the police would not comment on the operation. The strikes , carried out on December 25, were confirmed by the U.S. Department of Defence, which said “multiple ISIS terrorists” were killed in an operation conducted at Nigeria’s request. U.S. President Donald Trump described the action as a “powerful and deadly strike” against ISIS-linked militants in northwest Nigeria.

U.S. delivers military assets to support counter-terror operations

Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and banditry received a boost with the delivery of what the United States described as “critical military supplies” to support ongoing security operations. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the delivery underscores the security partnership between both countries, although details of the equipment were not disclosed. The development comes as Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, seeks to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters from the United States. The latest support follows recent joint U.S.-Nigerian strikes against ISIS-affiliated groups in Sokoto State.

Momani stressed that the Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan was legally dissolved following a 2020 court ruling, and that all its activities were formally banned in April 2025. He said Jordan addresses such matters in line with its constitution, laws and what he described as the country’s “supreme national interest”.

“The government’s position is clear and based on judicial decisions and the rule of law,” Momani said, adding that Jordan’s approach to political and security issues remains sovereign and independent.

The US designation was announced earlier on Tuesday, January 13, by Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X. Rubio said Washington was formally listing the Lebanese, Egyptian and Jordanian chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organisations, citing national security concerns.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States will eliminate the capabilities and operations of Muslim Brotherhood chapters that threaten US citizens and our national security,” Rubio wrote.

The designation allows US authorities to impose sanctions, freeze assets under US jurisdiction and criminalise material support linked to the named organisations.

The designation follows an executive order issued by President Donald Trump several weeks ago, directing his administration to begin the process of blacklisting the groups. The move allows the US government to impose sanctions, freeze assets under US jurisdiction and criminalise material support linked to the named organisations.

The Muslim Brotherhood has strongly rejected the decision. Salah Abdel Haq, the acting general guide of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood, said the group “categorically rejects this designation” and would pursue legal action to challenge it.

“This decision harms millions of Muslims worldwide,” Abdel Haq said in a statement to Al Jazeera. He denied any involvement in terrorism, insisting the organisation had not directed, funded or carried out violent acts. “We deny all allegations that the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood has directed, funded, provided material support for or engaged in terrorism,” he said .

Abdel Haq also suggested that external pressure influenced Washington’s move, pointing to Israel and the United Arab Emirates as key drivers behind the decision.

The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in 1928, is a transnational Islamist movement with branches and affiliated groups across the Middle East and beyond.

The Indonesian government has announced a total ban on the import of rice, table sugar, and corn starting in 2026, citing rising domestic production and a push toward national food self-sufficiency. Senior official at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, Tatang Yuliono, said the decision follows a review of the 2026 National Commodity Balance, which shows the country has achieved self-reliance in these key staples for household consumption. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman said the policy was directed by President Prabowo Subianto to protect local farmers and breeders. The ban also includes industrial-grade rice imports, aimed at forcing businesses to source raw materials locally. The government projects table sugar production of 3 million tonnes and corn output of 18 million tonnes in 2026, both exceeding national demand, providing a buffer for price stability and food security.

Prabowo orders faster recovery of schools and hospitals after Sumatra disasters

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has instructed his cabinet to prioritise the restoration of schools, hospitals, and community health centres damaged by flash floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Speaking during a limited meeting in Aceh Tamiang, he also urged officials to accelerate the construction of shelters for evacuees. The disasters, which struck on November 25, 2025, killed more than a thousand people and caused widespread destruction of homes and public infrastructure. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said that as of December 29, 87 affected hospitals have resumed operations, while most of the 867 damaged community health centres are functional, with eight still unable to operate normally. Efforts are also ongoing to clean and restore schools, with support from military personnel.

Alert level raised for Mount Bur Ni Telong volcano in Aceh

Indonesian authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong in Aceh to the second-highest level following increased seismic activity. Acting head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, said the volcano recorded multiple shallow and deep volcanic earthquakes, alongside tectonic quakes, prompting scientists to raise the alert on December 31. She warned of possible phreatic eruptions and dangerous volcanic gases near fumarole and solfatara zones. Residents and visitors have been advised to stay at least four kilometres away from the crater. The heightened alert comes as the region continues to recover from recent floods and landslides that killed more than 1,100 people across Sumatra.

Expansion of renewable energy investment in Indonesia

Abu Dhabi-based clean energy company Masdar has pledged to increase its investment in Indonesia’s renewable energy sector. The commitment was conveyed during a meeting in Abu Dhabi between Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly Eddy Soeparno and senior Masdar executives on December 27. Eddy said Indonesia, under President Prabowo Subianto, is accelerating its energy transition to achieve energy sovereignty while maintaining environmental sustainability. Masdar, already a key investor in the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant in West Java, expressed support for Indonesia’s ambition to reach 100 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity. Indonesian lawmakers said several bills, including the Renewable Energy Bill and Climate Change Management Bill, are being prioritised to support the transition.

Indonesia records zero terrorist attacks in 2025

Indonesia has recorded zero terrorist attacks throughout 2025, marking the third consecutive year without an attack, according to the National Police. Criminal Investigation Agency chief Syahardiantono said the achievement was driven by proactive operations by the counterterrorism unit Densus 88. Police arrested 51 terror-related suspects in 2025, down from previous years, and foiled four planned attacks by the Jamaah Anshor Daulah group. Authorities also uncovered online radicalisation targeting children, affecting 110 minors across 23 provinces. During the Christmas and New Year security operation, seven additional suspects were arrested, while police said they intervened in cases involving children exposed to violent far-right ideologies.

The minister detailed recent security efforts, stating that over 592 terrorists have been prosecuted in the past eight months. He emphasised that Nigeria’s armed forces continue to play a crucial role in restoring peace across regions affected by insurgency and violent extremism.

The remarks follow a recent turn in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. On October 31, US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for severe violations of religious freedom. He further followed up a social media post threatening military action against Nigeria, as well as a full cutoff of US aid to the country, if its government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”

The operation revealed how terrorism financing networks often overlap with other criminal enterprises, including money laundering, cyber fraud, kidnapping for ransom, Ponzi schemes, and the misuse of cryptocurrencies. Of those arrested, 21 were linked to terrorism, 28 to financial fraud and money laundering, 16 to cyber-enabled scams, and 18 to the illicit use of virtual assets.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza said the joint initiative marks a turning point in counter-terrorism collaboration on the continent. “This is the first time financial crime, cybercrime, and counter-terrorism units from multiple African countries have joined forces to target terrorism financing,” he said.

Afripol Executive Director Ambassador Jalel Chelba hailed the cooperation between agencies, calling it a model for regional security. “Operation Catalyst illustrates how coordinated action between member states, facilitated by AFRIPOL and INTERPOL, can effectively address complex and evolving threats,” he said.

The operation was further supported by private-sector intelligence from Binance, Moody’s, and Uppsala Security.

“Targeting the centre of community life on the holiest day of the year was not just an attack on British Jews, it was an attack on all of us. It was an attack on our humanity and on Britain’s values of freedom, compassion and respect,” Badenoch said.

She warned that anti-semitic hate and radical Islamist ideology had been “allowed to fester unchecked” in Britain’s streets for years, pointing to inflammatory slogans at protests and intimidation of Jewish communities.

“We have tolerated this in our country for too long,” she said. “You can think what you like and, within the law , say what you like, but you have no right to turn our streets into theatres of intimidation, and we will not let you do so anymore,” she warned.

She further urged the country to draw a “firm line” against importing values hostile to Britain’s democratic principles. She reassured Jewish communities that the government “stands with you shoulder to shoulder.”

A man believed to be Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian origin, was shot dead by police after launching an attack on a Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Two worshippers, Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 55, were killed in the incident. Police confirmed that one of the victims died after being accidentally shot by officers attempting to stop the attacker. 

According to security officials quoted in the reports , several gunrunners with links to Nigerian “kingpins” have been arrested while moving weapons across the Nigeria–Niger border. Investigators claim the scale of these transactions is “alarming” and allege that some politicians used state funds, under the guise of peace negotiations, to bankroll militant networks.

The allegations come amid a broader security push by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, formed after their withdrawal from ECOWAS in early 2024. The bloc, isolated after successive coups, has intensified intelligence sharing and military cooperation to combat jihadist groups, Boko Haram factions, and armed bandits. Thousands of civilians have been killed and millions displaced in the Sahel in recent years, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and International Crisis Group.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, acknowledged last month that individuals within the country are financing terrorism, but said legal and international complications had delayed naming them.

“Some of them have funds coming from outside; we cannot do anything from within,” Musa told Nigerian media.

Nigeria faces one of the world’s fastest-growing internal displacement crises, with banditry in the northwest driving mass kidnappings, raids on villages, and attacks on security forces.

The AES investigations, if substantiated, risk exposing political complicity at the highest levels in Abuja. For international partners, including the EU and the U.S., the revelations highlight the need for tighter financial oversight, cross-border intelligence cooperation, and accountability mechanisms to prevent state-linked actors from fueling violence in the Sahel and beyond.

Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and UN assistant secretary-general, has died after a prolonged illness. Appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in February 2023, the Rwandan diplomat was praised for her leadership in supporting Somalia’s peace-building efforts and stability. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hailed her as a dedicated leader whose work left a lasting impact. “We extend our sincere condolences to her loved ones, the UN family, AUSSOM, Somali and international partners, and colleagues around the world. We honour her legacy of service and compassion, and we will carry forward her vision in support of Somalia. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the mission’s statement noted. Kacyira previously served as mayor of Kigali and deputy executive director of UN-Habitat, with a career spanning over three decades in diplomacy, governance, and humanitarian work.

Kuwait and Somalia sign new cooperation agreements

Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali met his Kuwaiti counterpart, Abdullah Al-Yahya, during an official visit to Kuwait. The talks reviewed bilateral ties and regional developments, culminating in the signing of an agreement to form a joint cooperation committee and two memoranda of understanding covering diplomatic consultations and institute cooperation. Both governments expressed their commitment to strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations.

Somalia executes two soldiers for aiding Al-Shabaab assassination

Two Somali soldiers convicted of collaborating with Al-Shabaab to assassinate their battalion commander were executed in Mogadishu on Monday. The July killing involved placing an explosive device under the commander’s bed, detonated remotely. Military court officials warned that anyone proven to have links with the militant group would face similar consequences. "They were executed today for their involvement in the assassination of Commander Aided Mohamed Ali," prosecutor Hassan Siyad Mohamed said. "Anyone found having links with the Kharijites and proven, one day God will expose you, and you will come out, and we will find you and execute you by firing squad," said Liban Ali Yarrow, chairman of the supreme military court. The executions come amid rising Al-Shabaab attacks that have reversed significant territorial gains made by government forces in recent years.

Top Al-Shabaab finance chief killed in targeted strike

Somalia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the death of Abdullahi Abukar Ali, Al-Shabaab’s head of finance, in a precision military strike near Hudur in Bakool region. Abukar, accused of extorting civilians and recruiting child soldiers, was considered one of the group’s most wanted figures. "Abukar was a key operative who had long operated in Bakool under al-Shabab's control and was among the most sought-after figures in the group," the ministry said. The operation, carried out by the Somali National Army, followed the recapture of the strategic town of Bariire, a former militant base for launching attacks on Mogadishu.

President urges return of Jubaland troops after clashes

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called on Jubaland regional forces who fled into Kenya after clashes with federal troops to return, promising safety and reintegration into the Somali National Army. The fighting in Balad Hawo, Gedo region, has heightened tensions between Mogadishu and the semi-autonomous Jubaland administration. “I urge all parties involved in Gedo tensions to place peace, unity, and national cohesion above all else,” the president said . While the president appealed for peace and unity, Jubaland leaders accused him of escalating the conflict and undermining regional autonomy.

The U.S. State Department condemned recent lethal Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and urged President Trump to assist Yemen’s legitimate government against the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists. Expert Walid Phares recommended assembling ground forces loyal to the Yemeni government and the Southern Transitional Council to reclaim strategic territories. The situation escalates as Houthi attacks continue to threaten regional security, provoking responses from Israel and potential U.S. military action.

India supports Kerala nurse facing death penalty in Yemen

The Indian government has reaffirmed support for Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse whose execution in Yemen for murder has been temporarily halted. Diplomatic efforts and legal aid are ongoing as India seeks to negotiate a blood money arrangement to prevent the death penalty. Internal family disagreements of the victim's relatives complicate negotiations, while financial support is emerging from local benefactors to facilitate a resolution.

Yemeni Forces seize major Iranian weapons shipment targeting Houthis

Yemeni National Resistance Forces (NRF) intercepted a significant Iranian weapons shipment intended for Houthi militants, containing over 750 tons of munitions, including advanced missiles and military equipment. The U.S. Central Command confirmed the seizure, which aligns with UN Security Council regulations against arms transfers to the Houthis, highlighting ongoing regional security concerns.

Iran denies accusations of sending weapons to Yemen

Iran's Foreign Ministry refuted U.S. claims regarding military equipment being sent to Yemen, labelling the allegations as unfounded and a part of a negative media campaign against Tehran. This dismissal comes amidst rising tensions regarding Iran's alleged support for the Houthi movement.

Russian crew member from ship sunk by Houthis receives treatment in Yemen

Following an attack by Houthi militants, the Greek-flagged bulk carrier Sea Champion experienced a missile strike, resulting in the sinking of the vessel. A Russian crew member is currently undergoing medical treatment in Yemen, while ten other mariners were successfully rescued and moved to Saudi Arabia. This incident underscores the escalating maritime security challenges posed by the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

Health clinics in Baidoa, Somalia, report worsening child malnutrition and declining vaccination coverage. According to Save the Children’s Moazzam Malik, prolonged drought, loss of livelihoods, and climate change have left families in urgent need. He also cited the impact of international aid reductions. Meanwhile, the U.S. conducted additional airstrikes in Somalia last week—the 49th since President Donald Trump returned to office, as recorded by the New America think tank.

Turkey’s Erdoğan and Mohamud discuss counterterrorism and regional tensions

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hosted Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Ankara on Friday, July 11, to strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on counterterrorism and regional cooperation. The meeting took place behind closed doors at the Presidential Complex, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate. The talks occurred amid rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia following a stalled mediation process over Ethiopia’s port access deal with Somaliland. The agreement, signed in January 2024, grants Ethiopia access to a portion of Somaliland’s coastline in exchange for support for Somaliland’s international recognition. Somalia opposes the deal, calling it a violation of its sovereignty. Turkey has been mediating since February 2024.

Egypt delays troop deployment to AU Somalia mission

Egypt has yet to deploy its pledged battalion to the African Union Stabilisation Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), raising concerns over the mission’s stability. While AU officials publicly describe the situation as a delay, diplomatic sources suggest Cairo is increasingly unwilling to participate. As a result, the AU has extended the mandate of a Burundian contingent to fill the gap. The 1,091 Egyptian troops were scheduled for deployment in the Middle Shabelle region, a strategically important area now left exposed due to the drawdown of the previous mission, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

Somalia’s HirShabelle state begins voter registration for direct elections

In south-central Somalia, Ali Gudlawe Hussein, president of HirShabelle state, initiated a voter registration drive in the state’s capital, Jowhar, on Sunday, July 13, a push for the state’s first direct elections in over half a century. He became the first registrant during a public ceremony attended by hundreds. The registration, overseen by the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC), supports a federally-backed transition from the clan-based power-sharing system to a “one person, one vote” electoral model.

Puntland president denies claims of anti-federal agenda

President of the autonomous state Puntland, Said Abdullahi Deni, has rejected accusations that his administration is acting against the Somali federal government. In a public address in its capital, Garowe on Saturday, July 12, Deni reaffirmed Puntland’s commitment to Somalia’s unity and sovereignty, describing the state as a foundational part of the federal structure. The statement follows growing political tensions with Mogadishu over disputed proposals involving the Sanaag region, which Puntland opposes.

The draft will now be submitted to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for final ratification.

Under the law, decisions based on UNSC directives will be issued by the Cabinet, following recommendations from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, with powers being delegated to individual ministers, who can establish special committees to oversee enforcement.

The regulations will also ensure due process, including mechanisms for appeals and provisions allowing limited access to frozen funds for basic living expenses.

Violations will attract financial penalties ranging from KD 10,000 ($ 32,644) to KD 500,000 ($1.6 million), in addition to other sanctions under existing financial laws. Current counterterrorism laws will remain in effect unless directly overruled by the new provisions.

According to the official explanatory note, the law is designed to provide the Cabinet with a clear legal framework to meet Kuwait’s international obligations while preserving constitutional rights and protecting those acting in good faith.

The move is seen as a step toward reinforcing Kuwait’s compliance with global counterterrorism financing standards, particularly those monitored by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the United Nations.

In 2021, the United Arab Emirates established the Executive Office of Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) to spearhead a cohesive government strategy against financial crime, in close collaboration with regional and global partners, including the United States.

Since then, the UAE has significantly bolstered enforcement and regulatory frameworks, recording fines for AML/CTF violations from $20.6 million in early 2022 to $ 67.8 million in the first ten months of 2023, a more than threefold increase.

The UAE confiscated roughly $ 353.9 million in illicit assets in 2023, with the courts prosecuting 583 money laundering cases, achieving a high conviction rate of 92.1%.

The pact, endorsed by representatives from radio, television, print, and online outlets, as well as the Burkinabe Media Observatory (OBM) and the CSC, outlines mutual commitments between the press, the state, and media regulators, Le Faso reports.

The document is structured around three main components. The first commits media outlets to publicise the activities of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), promote civic engagement, and contribute to national cohesion and intercommunal understanding.

The second outlines key demands from media actors toward the government , including tax reforms for media companies, full enforcement of the 2015 Right to Information law, and the establishment of a permanent consultation framework between the press and state institutions.

The third section designates the CSC and OBM as responsible for monitoring and facilitating implementation. A six-month review of the pact’s application has been proposed by CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo, reported by Lefaso.net, a local news site.

After the four-hour amendment, adoption, and signing process, CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo congratulated the journalists for their commitment. "We have just taken a historic, highly civic-minded step, which confirms the level of commitment of the entire national press to defending the general interest and safeguarding national unity," he said.

He also remarked that this is not an “attempt to muzzle the press.”

Director General for Radiodiffusion Télévision du Burkina (RTB), Atéridar Galip Somé noted that the state broadcaster has already aligned its editorial approach with national security priorities and described the pact as formalising an existing orientation.

The agreement follows a May 3 workshop organised by the CSC, which recommended a unified media framework to guide coverage during the security crisis.

“No war today is won with guns alone. It is about information,” Kone told Global South World in an interview at the Crans Montana Forum.

His grouping unites politicians from defence committees across Africa, and all are showing an increased interest in preventing and countering threats through human and digital information.

At the heart of these operations is the Centre for Anti-Terrorist Intelligence Operations, which works closely with Kone’s Network.

As well as building information-sharing structures, personal relationships remain important on the continent. Kone noted the example of the Alliance of Sahel States, which has officially separated from many of the multilateral organisations in the region. Intelligence continues to be shared through informal channels, however, because many officers from different militaries have studied or served together in the past, he said.

And while Kone hailed the role of Artificial Intelligence to analyse signals from social media and other sources, he believes firmly in the primacy of human sources. To leverage these, he calls on military leaders to consider not only how they fight their enemies but also how they can build trust with their own populations.

“Our role [as politicians specialising in defence] is to go on the ground and talk with the security forces so that they don't frighten the population and tell the population not to be afraid of the security forces. They need to collaborate together, they need to do activities together so that they can regularly exchange information.“

The threat from terrorism on the continent has been increasing in the past decade. According to figures from the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, 2023 saw the highest-ever number of killings attributed to Islamist terrorism at 23,000. Better coordination, better intelligence and most importantly, confidence between the public and security forces will all be needed to fight the danger.

Videography: Anoir4art

In a statement released by government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah, Chad's government emphasized the need for increased international assistance in combatting terrorism, particularly in the Sahel and Lake Chad basin.

"Determined collective action is essential to eradicate this scourge which threatens the stability and development of the entire region," the statement read.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno has initiated a military operation to track down the attackers, with security forces actively pursuing the assailants.

In solidarity, France's embassy in Chad expressed condolences for the fallen troops and reiterated its commitment to supporting Chad in the fight against terrorism.

In response to the recent attack, the government has declared three days of national mourning, with flags at half-mast and a ban on celebratory activities.

Rokia Sanogo, a banana seller, expressed the deep worry felt by many in Bamako: “We’re really worried. We miss the peace and quiet. We just don’t have a choice, because we have to go out and get the day’s meal,” she told AFP.

A restaurant owner, Soumaila Tembely pointed fingers at the authorities saying, “There is a degree of negligence on the part of the authorities. The state of the country forces them to be constantly on their guard. And it has to be said that this is nothing new. The situation has been going on for a long time.”

For Seydou Keïta, a driver, the problem lies in the lack of proper security checks in specific areas. He told the AFP, “The Garbal market in Faladie is a problem. I think they use the big buses to get to the Garbal, and then sneak through the population. Let’s do a test and search the Garbal, we’ll find some suspects.”

While the focus has primarily been on northern Mali, this recent assault shows that even the capital is not immune to the violence plaguing the country.

The Pentagon, in a statement with Niger’s defence ministry, confirmed that the last of the US troops had left the base. The remaining personnel are now at the US embassy in Niger, handling final administrative tasks. This withdrawal was wrapped up ahead of the September deadline initially set.

"Thanks to exemplary coordination and communication between Nigerien and US armed forces, this operation was concluded safely and in accordance with agreements that had been signed," Colonel Mamane Sani Kiaou, Niger's army chief of staff said.

The move comes after a military coup in Niger on July 26, 2023, which removed President Mohamed Bazoum. The new regime, under General Abdourahamane Tiani, has shifted its foreign policy, distancing itself from Western allies and strengthening ties with Russia, Turkey, and Iran.

The US plans to continue its counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa through collaborations with other countries, such as Ivory Coast.

The Uganda National Museum will close for ten months for extensive renovations starting August 1, 2024. The upgrades aim to preserve and enhance the museum's historical, cultural, and natural heritage. During the closure, visitors are encouraged to explore other cultural sites and monuments across Uganda. The closure is seen as a vital step to ensure the museum continues to serve as a premier site for both local and international visitors, Soft Power News reported.

Oil project

Kenya and Uganda are in talks about the Eldoret-Kampala oil pipeline project. The project aims to extend the pipeline to Uganda and potentially to Rwanda. This initiative comes after Uganda's shift to independent fuel imports and a recent agreement with Vitol Bahrain. Pumps Africa explained the pipeline concept was first proposed in 1995 and was revisited in 2024 after a feasibility study confirmed its viability. President Ruto and President Museveni have agreed to mobilize resources for the project.

Human skulls discovered

17 human skulls were found buried in metal boxes at a suspected shrine in Uganda. The discovery was made by children foraging for firewood. Police are conducting excavations to ensure all the skulls have been recovered and are investigating the circumstances behind their presence. According to The Guardian, the suspected owner of the shrine is on the run and has been linked to a separate murder case. Residents had previously gathered at the site for worship.

Monkeypox

The EAC has issued a notice to neighbouring countries regarding an outbreak of Monkeypox in Burundi and the DRC. Burundi has confirmed three cases and DRC has reported over 21,000 cases and more than 1,000 deaths. Preventive measures, including risk communication, community engagement, and enhanced surveillance, are crucial. Symptoms include rash, fever, headache, and muscle aches. The public is advised on hygiene, personal protective measures, and seeking medical advice if necessary. The Independent reported the EAC is convening a meeting of health experts to deliberate on the situation and has a partnership with the German Government and the Africa Centers for Disease Control for rapid deployment of experts.

Terrorism

A Uganda court has charged 36 opposition supporters with terrorism. Third-party cookies and device identifiers are used to improve user experience and deliver relevant advertising. According to France 24 , personal information collected may be used for advertising, content personalization, and improving products and services.

On Monday, July 15, twelve people were killed in central Somalia during a clash between government soldiers and local militias over two truckloads of weapons illegally brought from Ethiopia. Among the dead were two soldiers. The incident occurred in the village of Shiilamaow, approximately 20 kilometres northwest of Abudwak town, near the Ethiopian border. A Somali security official, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media, reported the details. The Internal Security Ministry stated that government forces had seized the weapons from "illegal weapons traders" and were escorting them when armed militias set up a checkpoint and intercepted the convoy, adds VOA .

Soldier builds helicopter from scratch

A Somali army soldier has built a helicopter from scratch, defying the odds. His ingenuity and determination have led to this remarkable achievement, showing that what many thought to be impossible is now within reach. Mohammed Ali, a 24-year-old soldier bought every material he used from his pockets. He tells VOA that he has always dreamt of becoming an aeronautical engineer.

Kuwait Amir offers condolences to Somalia

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent a cable of condolences on Tuesday to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, expressing heartfelt sympathy for the victims of the terrorist attack in Mogadishu. In his message, His Highness the Amir wished a swift recovery for the injured and strongly condemned the terrorist act targeting innocent civilians, reports KUNA .

MWL, Arab Parliament Condemn Terrorist Attack in Somali

The Muslim World League (MWL) condemned the terrorist attack in Mogadishu, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency on Monday, July 15. In a statement, the MWL General Secretariat denounced the heinous crime that claimed dozens of lives, reaffirming its rejection of all forms of extremism and the resulting violence and terrorism. On behalf of its global assemblies, bodies, and councils, the MWL expressed full solidarity with Somalia and its people in facing threats to the country's security and stability, Asharq Al-Aswat reports. The organisation also extended sincere condolences to the victims' families and wished the injured a swift recovery.

Somalia cafe bombing kills nine

A car bombing at a cafe in Mogadishu killed nine people watching the Euro 2024 final, officials said on Monday, July 15. The Spanish national team won the game. Al-Shabaab is suspected of carrying out the attack. Somalia's government has been fighting against the group for over 17 years. Punch reports that the country has asked the African Union to slow the withdrawal of its forces from Somalia.

What they said

Presenting his argument and accusation before the UN Security Council, Sudan's representative to the UN, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed said, "The military aggression launched by the Rapid Support militia, supported with weapons by the Emirates, is deliberately and systematically targeting the villages and cities." UAE's envoy, Mohamed Abushahab, however, counterattacked with "If they seek an end to the conflict and civilian suffering, then why won't they come to the Jeddah talks? Why are they blocking aid? What are you waiting for? You should stop grandstanding in international fora such as this and instead, take responsibility for ending the conflict you started" according to Reuters .

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said, “The M-346 fighter jets are expected to enhance the Nigerian Air Force's training capabilities and operational versatility, with capabilities in close air support, air interdiction, and tactical reconnaissance."

The procurement will occur in four batches, each comprising six jets, with the initial batch scheduled to arrive in Nigeria by the end of 2024.

The deal, valued at approximately €1.2 billion (approximately $1.28 billion), represents a substantial investment in Nigeria's defence sector.

The M-346, known for its versatility, will be acquired in its armed M-346FA fighter version, reflecting Nigeria's readiness to equip its forces with modern combat aircraft.

Sustainability for Seychelles (S4S) is expanding its air quality monitoring project, installing sensors across Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. The organization aims to gain a clearer picture of the nation's air quality and plans to apply for funding to install more sensors in high-activity areas. The project manager noted a decline in air quality over the past eight years and attributed it to increased combustion activities, according to Seychelles News Agency . The organization believes that improving air quality will lead to increased economic productivity and growth.

Educational loan scheme for university students

Seychelles' Minister for Education, Justin Valentin, has announced the discontinuation of the government's Part-Financing Scheme, allowing students who cannot qualify for fully-funded university scholarships to pursue higher education through a student loan under the new Educational Loan Scheme. According to Seychelles News Agency , the scheme, supported by five commercial banks, the Seychelles Credit Union, the Central Bank of Seychelles, and the Seychelles Bankers Association, is aimed at supporting a priority field in Seychelles. The government will subsidise 4% of the interest rate based on the respective banks' interest rates. The scheme also covers students wishing to study in another university not chosen by the Ministry of Education. The final decision for loan approval remains with the banks, Seychelles News Agency reported.

Money laundering and terrorist financing manual

Seychelles has unveiled a judicial manual in collaboration with the EU Global Facility on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF). The manual, a product of over a year of collaboration, aims to provide practical support in financial investigations related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing cases. The manual, tailored specifically for Seychelles, is the first of its kind in the country and is a response to the enactment of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act in 2020, Seychelles News Agency reports.

Young activists to gather at environmental camp

Sixteen young local environmental activists will participate in a week-long environmental camp on D'Arros, one of the Seychelles' Outer Islands, in April. The camp, run by the Save Our Seas Foundation D'Arros Research Centre (SOSF-DRC), offers a unique experience for young people aged 10-15 to visit the protected waters of D'Arros Island. The camp combines education, adventure, exploration, and discovery, featuring games, presentations, and camping. Participants will become youth ambassadors for the environment, empowered with the knowledge to share with their communities upon their return home. The camp also provides students with front-row seats to some of the SOSF-DRC's work on D'Arros, according to Seychelles News Agency . The waters surrounding D'Arros Island and St Joseph Atoll have been declared marine protected areas since March 2020.

Attorney General’s strategic plan

The Seychelles Attorney General's Office launched its strategic plan 2024-2029 to elevate the office into a centre of excellence for legal services. Attorney General Frank Ally presented a copy of the plan on a pen drive to President Wavel Ramkalawan at the launch ceremony, Seychelles News Agency reports. Ally stated that the new strategic plan will guide the Attorney General’s office's transformation into a more efficient, effective, and transparent institution that embodies the principles of public service.

What they said.

Amnesty International Nigeria's director, Isa Sanusi, expressed concern over the effectiveness of President Tinubu's security measures, asserting that the latest mass abductions underscore the government's apparent lack of a robust plan to end the years-long reign of terror. Sanusi emphasized that the current security measures are not proving successful in curbing the increasing violence. "The latest mass abductions clearly show President Bola Tinubu and his government have no effective plan for ending years of atrocities by armed groups and gunmen that are increasingly having a free reign across many parts of Nigeria. Whatever security measures are being implemented by President Tinubu and his government are clearly not working," Sanusi is quoted by The Premium Times NG .

Research suggests that decapitating terrorist leaders may reduce attack success rates and frequency but not severity. Some studies even suggest that eliminating leaders has little impact on attack rates or organizational collapse and can provoke resentment, and incite further terrorist attacks in revenge.

Al Qaeda

Al Qaeda, a militant Islamist organization founded in the late 1980s, has been a global threat responsible for numerous attacks, targeting the United States. Its affiliates include the Islamic State and Al-Shabaab, targeting East Africa.

After the killing of its leader Zarqawi in 2006, the group grew more powerful. On September 11, 2001, it was responsible for the infamous 9/11 attack in the United States that killed nearly 3,000 people, and injured 6,000 others.

The U.S. targeted and killed nine of its leaders from 2006 to 2022 including its founder Osama Bin Laden in 2011. After Bin Laden’s death, its members vowed revenge for his death.

Despite the death of Bin Laden, Al Qaeda remains a global entity dedicated to violent jihad, with its organizational structure limiting the impact of his removal on affiliates. As of 2022, it continued to pose a threat, though the group lost its most charismatic and effective communicator.

While Bin Laden may have actively served as the group’s leader, his actual level of command and control within al-Qaeda's organizational structure was limited. Consequently, eliminating Bin Laden had minimal influence on al-Qaeda and its associated groups.

ISIS

ISIS, also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, is considered one of the most ruthless and violent terrorist organizations globally.

In October 2019, the United States confirmed the death of the founder and leader of ISIS, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, following a U.S. counterterrorism operation. Barely four days after, al-Qurayshi was named the new leader of ISIS .

The group is accountable for approximately 6,863 terrorist attacks from April 7, 2013, which is the beginning of al-Baghdadi’s leadership to December 31, 2019. Al-Baghdadi’s leadership of nearly 7 years claimed 43% of the ISIS terrorist attacks , but in the initial four months of al-Qurayshi’s leadership, ISIS had already claimed 16% of the attacks.

Under al-Baghdadi, 10% of ISIS attacks were suicide bombings, but within the first two months of al-Qurayshi’s leadership, this percentage dropped to 1.6%.

The average number of casualties per ISIS terrorist attack was 11.2 under al-Baghdadi, contrasting with 4.1 under al-Qurayshi. Throughout al-Baghdadi’s leadership, ISIS conducted a terrorist attack almost every day of his 2,393 days in charge, averaging 0.27 days between attacks. Under al-Qurayshi’s leadership, this average increased to 0.85 days, indicating a more consistent gap of nearly one day between attacks.

Boko Haram

Established in 2002 in northeast Nigeria, Boko Haram initially aimed to eliminate corruption and perceived injustice caused by Western influences, advocating for Islamic law. However, over time, its focus shifted to avenging the death of its founder, Muhammed Yusuf, who was killed in a military crackdown by Nigeria's Special Forces.

Nigeria ranks as the world's fifth-highest in armed conflict-related deaths, with over 35,000 deaths since Boko Haram's militarization in 2009. The group is also responsible for thousands of deaths in Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

Despite reports of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau. The group's reign of terror, now spanning five years, has been marked by escalating violence, surpassing previous death tolls.

In September 2014, international media Reuters reported that Nigeria's Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, who has been killed at least three times returns and appears in the group's numerous jihadist videos each time.

Rights groups describe the violence he fuels as killing more people than at any time under past leadership during the group’s five-year-old reign.

Like bureaucracies, numerous terrorist organizations exhibit a hierarchical structure, authority from the top, maintaining administrative staff, adhering to standard operating procedures, and managing distinct branches and infrastructure. Consequently, while targeted killing could yield short-term results, its impact might diminish over time.

The conflict primarily affected the Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states collectively known as BAY states in the northeast. Nigeria became the world's fifth-highest in armed conflict-related deaths. Since 2009, Boko Haram's militarization has led to over 35,000 deaths with the group associated with 42% of Nigeria's violence-related deaths from 2009 to 2014. Other impact includes the displacement of 2.4 million people, food insecurity, disease outbreaks, forced migration, and infrastructure loss.

By 2017, Boko Haram had recruited approximately 8,000 children, committing numerous violations against them including death and sexual violence. They’ve attacked schools, hospitals, churches, homes.

Despite the government's efforts, it remains unclear if Nigeria has fully brought Boko Haram under control.

Efforts to bring Boko Haram under control

In April 2013, Boko Haram rejected a proposal from Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan to offer amnesty to its militants if they disarmed. The group said they had committed no acts warranting amnesty.

Later in June President Jonathan officially declared Boko Haram a terrorist group and banned them under Nigerian law, permitting their prosecution when caught.

In 2014, the UN Security Council imposed sanctions including the freezing of assets, travel bans and arms embargo on individuals in Boko Haram, but the group's informal structure rendered these measures ineffective.

2016 saw the National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST) being enacted by the Nigerian government, and a committee on security in North Eastern Nigeria being established.

In 2018, international media Reuters reported that the government was engaged in talks with Boko Haram, aiming for a potential ceasefire and, ultimately, a lasting resolution to the conflict.

Then in 2021, Nigeria announced it would not negotiate with the group, saying it was a sign of weakness, opting to use its power to address security concerns.

How safe now is Nigeria from Boko Haram?

Islamist militants suspected to be Boko Haram militants recently beheaded at least 10 farmers in Nigeria's Borno state after attacking their farms in July 2023. A week earlier, the same group killed 25 people and wounded others in attacks on two villages in Borno.

In November 2023, 160,000 Boko Haram members surrendered and later in December the International Organization for Migration said the rehabilitation about 2,311 out of 160,000 surrendered Boko Haram members have been rehabilitated and reintegrated into society. The remaining he said were still undergoing rehabilitation.

On January 9, Nigeria's local media Vanguard said it had observed that dozens of people were killed by the terrorist group in Borno and Gaidam council area of Yobe state, along with abductions on highways and communities in the last month of the group’s renewed attacks.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on January 16 assured that his administration would eliminate the remaining threats of the terrorist group in Nigeria

Why hasn’t Nigeria defeated Boko Haram yet?

Boko Haram persists due to challenges in cutting off their access to funding, recruits, and weapons. The group's recruitment efforts are effective, and there are corruption concerns about funds allocated for the anti-Boko Haram campaign ending up in individuals’ pockets. Negotiations with the group have also faced setbacks.

Research reveals about 6.5 million small arms and light weapons in Nigeria, with only a fraction under the control of security forces, indicating a substantial amount of uncontrolled weaponry and the inadequacy of the military compared to the weaponry potentially in the possession of militant groups like Boko Haram.

In the face of ongoing challenges from Boko Haram, Nigeria seeks lasting security. The question of Nigeria's safety remains, demanding the need for concerted efforts in addressing this enduring threat and securing a safer future.

Pakistan's interior ministry reported that over 500,000 illegal immigrants have been repatriated under the government's deportation drive against illegal aliens. The government had given an ultimatum to undocumented immigrants to leave Pakistan by October 31, 2023, or face imprisonment and deportation, local media the Dawn reported. The majority of these are Afghans. The ministry said that around 1.7 million illegal aliens are unlawfully living in Pakistan, with 541,210 people sent back after the cabinet approved the deportation plan. The ministry said that continuous efforts are underway to identify and deport the remaining people.

Humanitarian aid to Gaza

Pakistan has delivered 20 tonnes of humanitarian and medical aid to Gaza on January 2. The aid was handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent Society, which will then deliver it to the Palestinian Red Crescent Society in Gaza. With this latest delivery, Pakistan's aid to the Gaza population now exceeds 200 tonnes in terms of medical and humanitarian supplies, according to local media the Express Tribune .

Pakistan-US relations

Pakistan and the US have renewed their commitment to strengthen their bilateral relations in 2024, following high-level exchanges in the past year. Pakistan’s Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome discussed major aspects of bilateral relations on January 2. According to local media The News , the diplomats discussed bilateral issues such as expanded engagement, safe and efficient processing of Afghan citizens for resettlement to the US, and other mutually beneficial matters.

Terrorists killed at Afghan border

Pakistani security forces killed three terrorists attempting to infiltrate the Pakistan-Afghan border in the Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan on December 31, 2023. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces reported that the terrorists were captured and weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered. “After fire exchange, all three terrorists were sent to hell,” the ISPR is quoted by local media The Nation .

IMF board review

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has added Pakistan to its Executive Board agenda for January 11, where it is expected to deliberate and potentially approve the disbursement of the next $700 million tranche under the existing $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). The current IMF programme, amounting to $3bn, is expected to conclude in April, with $1.8bn remaining undisbursed. A Staff-Level Agreement was reached between the IMF staff and Pakistani authorities in November 2023 regarding the first review under Pakistan's SBA, contingent upon approval by the IMF's Executive Board, the Dawn reported.

He said the operations comprised both land and air raids in various targeted areas of terrorist operations.

"Battle damage assessment revealed that over 130 terrorists gathered were neutralized with low possibility survivors for those wounded. Overall, troops of Operation Hadarin Daji neutralised 14 terrorists, arrested 20 terrorists and rescued 88 hostages in land operations," said Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba.

Buba further highlighted specific operations, such as those carried out by Operation Hadarin Daji, resulting in the neutralization of 14 terrorists, the arrest of 20 others, and the rescue of 88 hostages in land operations.

He said Operation Whirl Punch led to the arrest of a gunrunner in Kaduna, along with actions against criminals in Abaji Area Council of FCT Abuja. Operations in Gwagwalada, Abaji, and Kuje Area Councils of FCT, Abuja, targeted criminal hideouts, resulting in the neutralization of four terrorists, the arrest of four suspected terrorists, and the rescue of two hostages.

"Troops equally raided criminal hideouts in Gwagwalada Area Council of FCT, Abuja, and conducted offensive operations in Abaji, and Kuje Area Councils. Overall, troops of Operation Whirl Punch neutralised four terrorists, arrested four suspected terrorists and rescued two hostages,” he is quoted.

Buba further listed items retrieved from the raid to include 12 pistols crafted locally, 13 dane guns, one hand grenade, nine locally-manufactured rifles, three RPG chargers, two locally-crafted hand grenades, 120 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 364 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 54 live cartridges, 11 rounds of empty cases of 7.62mm special ammo, 32 magazines, 34 vehicles, 64 mobile phones, 47 motorcycles, N1.5 million, and various other items.

Somalia National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) has provided humanitarian aid to thousands of families affected by ongoing floods in Middle Shabelle villages in Southern Somalia.  The agency has stepped up efforts to mitigate the impacts of the floods, providing relief supplies to 2150 families in the Bal’ad district, Northeast of the capital Mogadishu on November 26, local media Radio Dalsan reported. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has called on aid agencies and international donors to help mitigate the crisis caused by the El Nino weather phenomenon. About 96 people have been killed as the floods continue to rise, Radio Dalsan reports.

Al-Shabaab terrorists

Six Al-Shabaab members have been executed in a military operation conducted in Central Somalia in the Eastern Galgadud region. The Somali National Army and the local forces secured the location of the terrorist members and confiscated their weapons following their execution, the Somalia National News Agency reports. Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in an announcement said that the fight against the terrorist group will continue in the Southwest region of the country.

Unveiling of development vision

Somalia's President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has unveiled the East African nation’s Centennial Vision 2060 Development Process. The vision, which consists of three parts: near-term goals (2023-2025), mid-term goals (2025-2040), and long-term goals (2035-2060), focuses on stability, terrorism eradication, humanitarian issues, institutional capacity building, and good governance. “Today, we are starting a new journey, a journey that will lead our country to prosperity and progress. The Millennium Vision 2060 shows our commitment to overcome the current challenges, creating a solid foundation for the generations to come,” the President is quoted by the n ational news agency .

EAC membership

Somalia has joined the East African Community (EAC) as the bloc’s 8 th member state. A move categorised by the President of Somalia as a new chapter that signals the growth and prosperity of the East African nation. “The EAC Summit of Heads of State admits the Federal Republic of Somalia as the 8th Member of the EAC in accordance with Article 3 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the EAC,” the EAC in a statement said.

Diplomacy with Kenya

Somali President Hassan Mohamud has appointed a new ambassador to neighbouring East African nation Kenya, in a move to strengthen the diplomatic ties between the two nations following the expulsion of Kenya’s envoy to Somalia under former president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, Somalia National News Agency reports . Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, the new ambassador is a former presidential candidate who assumes his role as the two nations jointly combat the terrorist aggression of Islamist militant groups such as Al-Shabab. Somali President Mohamud and President William Ruto of Kenya have held more than eight bilateral talks to strengthen diplomatic ties in the past year, Somalia National News Agency reported.