The restriction followed the refusal of several airlines to rent passenger planes to the federal government for deploying troops to Raaskambooni, a border town at the center of a bitter dispute between Mogadishu and Jubaland.

A local airline official, speaking anonymously to Kaab TV, explained their decision, citing safety concerns.

“As you may know, Jubaland authorities in Kismayo recently issued a warning. We have credible information that airlines flying to Raaskambooni could be targeted. Therefore, we cannot take those risks,” the official said.

In retaliation, the federal government reportedly blocked all domestic flights from Mogadishu, except those bound for Puntland.

As of Friday, only two flights to Puntland had departed from Aden Adde Airport, leaving many passengers stranded and frustrated.

Among those affected was Amina Nur, who had planned to return to Baidoa with her ailing mother.

“I do not know why we are being punished for something we are not part of. We came to Mogadishu for medical treatment, but our flight was canceled without notice,” Nur lamented.

Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire condemned the government’s actions, describing the flight restrictions as a violation of citizens’ rights.

“The government must allow civilian passengers to travel freely,” Khaire said in a statement.

Tensions Escalate in Raaskambooni

Meanwhile, Jubaland-based media reported that its forces have stationed anti-aircraft weapons near Raaskambooni, warning that any unauthorized flights to the area could be shot down.

Raaskambooni remains under a blockade, with air and road access restricted amid escalating tensions.

Jubaland authorities reported clashes with federal troops in the town on Thursday night.

The Somali Federal Government has deployed elite units, Gorgor and Haramcad, to the region, allegedly to counter Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe’s recent re-election.

Jubaland claims its forces are advancing toward federal positions in response.

The strategic coastal town, located near the Kenyan border, has become a flashpoint for a potential wider conflict.

Analysts warn that the ongoing hostilities could spill over into Kenya, further destabilizing the region.

With telecommunication services in the area disrupted for days, details about casualties from the clashes remain unverified.

The situation continues to deteriorate as political and military tensions intensify.

The post Somali Government Grounds Flights to Southern Somalia, Stranding Passengers Amid Jubaland Dispute appeared first on Kaab TV.

In a statement, the prime minister’s office indicated that Odowa’s reappointment is aimed at intensifying Somalia’s offensive against al-Shabaab.

“The Council of Ministers of the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia, which held an emergency meeting tonight, approved the proposal of the Ministry of Defense for the appointment of the Commander of the Somali National Army, Major General Odowaa Yusuf Raage, to speed up the defense of the country and the elimination of Khawarij groups,” the statement read.

The reappointment of General Odowa comes at a time of rising political tension and instability across Somalia.

Having been out of active military service for two years, his return has prompted questions regarding the objectives and timing behind his reappointment.

Meanwhile, relations between Somalia’s federal government and Jubaland have further deteriorated, with Jubaland recently announcing a formal break in ties.

Reports from Kismayo indicate heightened security measures and a potential military buildup, suggesting a rapidly shifting security environment in the region.

The post Somalia’s Cabinet Re-Appoints General Odowa Rage as Army Chief appeared first on Kaab TV.

Xildhibaannadu waxay muujiyeen walaaca ay ka qabaan faragelinta ciidamada shisheeye, gaar ahaan kuwa Masar, ee arrimaha gudaha iyo xuduudaha Soomaaliya.

Waxay ka digeen in ciidamo Masar ah oo la keeno Soomaaliya ay dalka gelin karaan khilaafka u dhexeeya Itoobiya iyo Masar, gaar ahaan muranka la xiriira webiga Nile, taasoo Soomaaliya u jiidi karta dagaal dhanka wakiillada ah oo sii khal-khalin kara gobolka.

Xildhibaanadu waxay ugu baaqeen Madaxweynaha Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud inuu diido joogitaanka ciidan shisheeye oo keeni kara colaad iyo inay wiiqdo madaxbannaanida iyo xasilloonida Soomaaliya.

Mowqifkoodu wuxuu ka tarjumayaa walaac ballaaran oo ku saabsan in awoodaha shisheeye ay u adeegsadaan dhulka Soomaaliya dagaalladooda juqraafiyeed, taas oo saameyn xun ku yeelan karta dalka iyo dadkiisa.

The post Xildhibaano si buuxda u taageeray Ethiopia, kana horjeestay ciidamada Masar appeared first on Kaab TV.

This agreement marks the end of a deadly conflict that has ravaged the region, leaving deep scars on the local communities.

The clan conflicts in Somalia have profoundly impacted the lives of its people, creating a cycle of destruction that has disrupted the social fabric of the country. These inter-clan battles, fueled by longstanding grievances, have led to the loss of countless lives, the displacement of entire communities, and the destruction of vital infrastructure.

The cumulative effect of these conflicts has crippled Somalia’s economy and left its people living in a state of perpetual fear and uncertainty. Trade, travel, and daily interactions have come to a grinding halt, while thousands of displaced individuals endure harsh living conditions with limited access to essential services like food, clean water, and healthcare.

The lack of sustained efforts to reconcile these feuding groups has perpetuated a cycle of violence that has stymied the country’s progress, destabilized peace efforts, and posed a severe threat to the very foundations of statehood and national unity.

One of the regions most affected by these conflicts is Middle Shabelle, where tensions between neighboring clans have simmered for years, occasionally erupting into deadly violence. This violence tragically claimed the lives of more than 25, also resulted in the destruction of homes and markets, the displacement of numerous families, and the disruption of local trade.

In July of last year, former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed took on the monumental task of resolving a particularly intense conflict that had flared up in the Cadalle and Raage Ceelle districts of Middle Shabelle.

Accompanied by Imam Daahir Mahamud and Ugaas Mahamud Ali Ugaas, two prominent traditional leaders from the Mudullood clan, President Sharif embarked on a peace mission to halt the bloodshed among his countrymen.

Upon arriving at the conflict zones, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed successfully negotiated a ceasefire, disbanded the warring militias, facilitated the return of displaced families, and initiated peace talks in the Burka Dirin area.

“We thank God for reaching this point. It has not been a simple task, but I want to thank everyone who contributed to ending this conflict.” He acknowledged the deep divisions the conflict had sown within communities and the hardships it had caused.

However, despite these initial successes, the situation remained precarious. Recognizing the need for a more robust security presence, President Sharif requested that the government deploy national forces to Middle Shabelle to apprehend armed militias responsible for targeted killings in the region. These forces played a crucial role in quelling conflicts in various areas, leading to the arrest of hundreds involved in orchestrating the violence.

The peace efforts at Burka Dirin continued for an arduous 13 months, during which President Sharif remained in Dirin—a remote area lacking basic services like electricity, communication, and clean water. His extended presence there underscored his deep commitment to peace and his determination to end the cycle of bloodshed that had plagued the region.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including political interference and attempts by Al-Shabaab to incite further violence, a breakthrough was finally achieved with the peace agreement between the Abdalla Carone and Mohamed Muse clans. This agreement has had a profound impact on the lives of local residents, offering a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful future.

At the conclusion of the peace talks, elders who had witnessed the devastation expressed the urgent need for peace and reflected on the destructive consequences of continued conflict through poetry.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed expressed his gratitude for the progress made, saying, “The killing of people and looting are the two serious crimes that led to this clan conflict. The armed men who commit these killings must be held accountable and stopped,” he added, calling for an end to rhetoric based on clan incitement.

The two leading clan elders of the Abgaal clans, Imam Daahir Mahamud and Ugaas Mahamud Ali Ugaas, issued a stern warning at the ceremony, declaring that any future conflicts between these clans would invoke the curse of tradition and the blood of the two animals sacrificed during the reconciliation process.

“We state that this is the end of the conflict. We want all sides to respect the peace agreement. From today, every person who commits revenge killings will be brought to the full force of the law,” said Imam Daahir.

Ugaas Mahamud echoed this sentiment, calling for unity against any further violence.

With the conflict between the Mohamed Muse and Abdalla Carone clans now resolved, efforts are set to begin this week to address the eight-year-long conflict between the Celi and Abdalla Carone clans and others.

President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has urged the reconciled clans to uphold peace and work towards coexistence, emphasizing that the future of Somalia depends on the willingness of its people to put aside their differences and build a unified, peaceful nation.

The post A Long Road to Reconciliation: The End of the Deadly Clan Conflict in Middle Shabelle appeared first on Kaab TV.

The report reveals a troubling trend of increasing acute food insecurity over the past five years, stressing the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the escalating humanitarian crisis.

According to the report, approximately 62.9 million people—25% of the population analyzed across seven IGAD countries—are facing high levels of acute food insecurity in 2024. This marks a rise from 61.9 million in 2023, underscoring the severity of the situation and the pressing need for immediate action.

In Sudan, famine has gripped Zamzam camp in North Darfur, with 13 additional areas at imminent risk of famine.

Frequent and severe climate extremes are major drivers of the region’s food insecurity. The lingering impact of a severe drought in the Eastern Horn of Africa from 2020 to 2023, coupled with widespread floods linked to El Niño, have significantly disrupted agricultural production. Persistent dry conditions in 2023 and the first half of 2024 have further exacerbated the situation in other parts of the region.

Economic challenges have compounded the food crisis, with IGAD countries grappling with currency depreciation, soaring inflation, and the volatility of global food markets, all of which have intensified food insecurity.

Adding to the crisis is the region’s unprecedented displacement, with 25 million people forcibly displaced by mid-2024—the highest number on record. The ongoing conflict in Sudan alone has internally displaced 7.9 million people since April 2023, creating the world’s largest internal displacement crisis.

The deteriorating situation across the IGAD region demands an urgent and coordinated response from both regional partners and member states to address the growing humanitarian needs and mitigate the impacts of the food crisis.

“These figures illustrate a humanitarian crisis in our region. Climate extremes and economic shocks are leading to unprecedented levels of food insecurity, putting millions of lives at risk. Conflict exacerbates food insecurity, creating a vicious cycle that further destabilizes our communities. To make progress, we must address these interconnected issues by strengthening our collective efforts, building the resilience of our communities, and addressing the root causes of conflict to pave the way for long-term stability and development in our region,” stated IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, emphasizing the importance of addressing socioeconomic concerns.

Rukia Yacoub, WFP’s Deputy Regional Director for Eastern Africa, warned of the dire situation in Sudan, saying, “The conflict in Sudan has triggered the world’s largest hunger crisis, with more than half the population struggling to put enough food on their plates every day. Violence and insecurity have driven millions of people to seek refuge both within their own country and in neighboring countries, which are already grappling with high levels of food insecurity and instability. This is putting even more pressure on limited humanitarian resources.”

FAO’s Subregional Coordinator for Eastern Africa and Representative to the AU and UNECA, Farayi Zimudzi, added, “We are witnessing a fifth consecutive year of worsening food insecurity in the IGAD region. It is evident that a shift is necessary—from reactive emergency responses to a proactive, anticipatory approach that mitigates the impacts of shocks, safeguarding livelihoods and food security.”

Furthermore Zimudzi saod the catastrophic impacts of regional conflicts on food security and malnutrition underscore the urgent need for peace-building initiatives and conflict-sensitive programs that protect agricultural production and support rural livelihoods.

The post Deepening Food Crisis in Horn of Africa: Over 62 Million Facing Acute Food Insecurity appeared first on Kaab TV.

The conflict, which has been raging for the past three days in Luuq, involves two communities fighting over land ownership.

The fighting, which continued until late Friday afternoon, resulted in the deaths of more than 20 people, including both combatants and civilians.

There is relative calm today in Luuq, according to a KAAB TV reporter.

The militias of the Maallin Weyne and Gaba Weyne communities are clashing over land ownership, despite a court ruling that was unsatisfactory to both parties.

The Dolow district administration noted that the city is already struggling with an influx of displaced persons, with limited relief available in terms of food and water.

The violence has caused significant additional damage.

Sunday marked the third consecutive day of violence and insecurity in the region. Medical services are scarce, as the small hospital in Luuq is unable to treat serious injuries.

Additionally, the airport in Luuq district has halted all incoming flights due to the tense situation and the use of heavy weapons by militias.

African Union peacekeepers from Ethiopia troops stationed in Luuq to maintain peace in Ethiopia have been involved in the clashes.

However, the Jubbaland administration announced that they are sending a delegation to Luuq district to mediate between the warring militias.

The post Over 700 Displaced by Ongoing Clan Clashes in Luuq Arrive in Dolow appeared first on Kaab TV.

Ethiopian forces have been in Somalia since 2007, providing critical security to communities and assisting regional states such as Jubbaland, Southwest State, and Hirshabelle in their fight against Al-Shabaab.

The ENDF are widely regarded by locals as essential to maintaining security amid the persistent threat from the militant group.

Last week, Hussein Sheikh Ali, the national security advisor to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, announced that Mogadishu would “no longer consider Ethiopia an ally” due to the MOU between Addis Ababa and Somaliland, and that the federal government wants Ethiopian Defense Forces (ENDF) to leave the country by December 31, 2024.

‘Ill-advised’ decision  amid threats posed by Al-Shabaab

The announcement has shocked local communities in Jubbaland, Hirshabelle, and Southwest State, where the federal government itself is confined to a few blocks in the capital, Mogadishu, and cannot fill the security gap if Ethiopian forces depart.

Southwest State’s Ministry of Security quickly rebuffed the announcement as “ill-advised.” In a post on X, the ministry stated, “SWSS (South West State of Somalia) informed that some misguided individuals these days are using social media to disseminate misinformation,” referring to National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh Ali.

The ministry added, “ATMIS ENDF is working hard, & we will be grateful for their contributions in operation/peacekeeping & will continue to exist and take up the role in the state.”

Minister of Security for Southwest State, Hassan Abdulkadir, warned against any uninformed decision, stating, “If ATMIS are going to be removed from the country, it needs to be discussed. None can make a unilateral decision.”

Just last week, Southwest State security forces partnered with ENDF to counter Al-Shabaab attacks in Waajid and Xudur, where the militant group has besieged areas for years, denying supply routes to the civilian population.

ENDF also protects Baidoa city, the seat of the Southwest State government, and its airport.

Similarly, Jubbaland’s Vice President Mohamud Sayid Adan said the decision to send Ethiopian troops out of the country “will only benefit Al-Shabaab.”

He emphasized that Ethiopian forces are currently the only African Union forces protecting the Gedo region of Jubbaland, where Al-Shabaab frequently targets civilians.

“This is going to be a difficult decision and I do not think it is wise at this time,” Mr. Adan stated, referring to the national security adviser’s announcement.

The opposition from these regional states highlights the critical role that Ethiopian forces play in Somalia’s security landscape. Despite the federal government pushes for their withdrawal, the voices from Jubbaland and Southwest State call for a more unified and carefully considered approach to ensure stability and security in the region.

The post Somali regional states oppose plan to remove Ethiopian peacekeepers appeared first on Kaab TV.

The party released a statement on Sunday saying that the media and journalists have inviolable rights that are clearly protected by the Constitution but recent events against freedom of expression, the rights of journalists, and the challenges against organizations that advocate for freedom of the independent media in our country are unfortunate and unacceptable.

“The Himilo Qaran Party has documented numerous incidents against freedom of speech and the independent press, such as the illegitimate establishment of the Somali Media Council, which clearly violates the structure defined in Article 14 of the Media Law Amendment,” the statement said.

“In addition, the Himilo Qaran Party has documented the restrictions on the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), a champion advocate for the media, and the repeated arrests of journalists. Such actions undermine the important role of the independent press in Somalia’s state-building and in raising civic awareness among the public.”

Call for the government 

The Himilo Qaran Party said it assures all journalists and media workers in our country that they are the pillars of democracy and have a noble role in state-building efforts in our country. They deserve to carry out their duties freely. It is unacceptable to deny their constitutional rights.

“We call on the federal government agencies to cease its pressure and repression on the independent media and journalists’ associations

Finally, the Himilo Qaran Party commends and stands in solidarity with all Somali journalists who have played a vital role in the governance we enjoy today. They have worked self-sacrificingly during difficult times. We pray to Allah to reward Jannah to all those who died in the struggle for state-building and to grant a quick healing to those wounded.”

The post Opposition party deeply concerned by the restrictions and pressure faced by Somali journalists appeared first on Kaab TV.

Globally, a total of 1,153 known executions took place in 2023, marking an increase of more than 30% from 2022. This is the highest figure recorded by Amnesty International since 2015. Despite this rise, the number of countries carrying out executions dropped to its lowest on record.

In 2023, sub-Saharan Africa saw a significant setback in the fight against the death penalty. Recorded executions in the region more than tripled from 11 in 2022 to 38 in 2023, all of which occurred in Somalia.

The number of recorded death sentences also surged by 66%, from 298 in 2022 to 494 in 2023.

Top five countries with the highest number of executions

Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, stated, “Despite a reduction in executing countries—from two in 2022 to one in 2023—the 38 executions recorded in Somalia were the highest total in the region since 2015.”

The top five countries with the highest number of executions in 2023 were China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and the USA. Excluding China, Iran alone accounted for 74% of all recorded executions, while Saudi Arabia accounted for 15%. The USA also saw an increase in executions.

The number of known death sentences imposed globally rose by 20% in 2023, reaching a total of 2,428. In sub-Saharan Africa, death sentences were recorded in 14 countries, with notable increases in Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Somalia, and Zimbabwe.

Somalia

Chagutah emphasized the urgent need for abolition, saying, “Capital punishment is irreversible and a gross violation of human rights. Somalia and the few remaining countries in Africa that still retain the death penalty must heed the progressive regional trend and abolish the punishment once and for all.”

Somalia alone executed 31 in 2023.

Despite the overall rise in executions, progress was noted. As of today, 112 countries are fully abolitionist, with 144 having abolished the death penalty in law or practice.

Asia

In Asia, Pakistan repealed the death penalty for drug-related offenses, and Malaysia abolished the mandatory death penalty. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s President indicated no intention to resume executions.

Amnesty International highlighted the impact of state secrecy, noting that their numbers exclude the thousands of executions believed to have been carried out in China. North Korea and Vietnam are also thought to extensively use the death penalty but lack transparent reporting.

“The death penalty will again come under scrutiny at this year’s UN General Assembly. Amnesty International urges all governments to rally behind the UN’s call to end the use of the death penalty in a vital show of commitment to human rights,” concluded Chagutah.

The post Somalia executed 31 in 2023 as executions in Sub-Saharan Africa triple – Amnesty appeared first on Kaab TV.