This morning, Somaliland awakens with a palpable sense of optimism and determination as voters across the country head to the polls for a dual election. In a groundbreaking moment for Somalilanders, citizens will not only elect their next president but also determine the political landscape by selecting the three political parties that will dominate governance for the next decade. The importance of this election goes beyond mere leadership; it symbolizes Somaliland’s unwavering commitment to democracy, stability, and peace in a region often fraught with conflict.

A Unique Political Landscape

Somaliland’s electoral process illustrates a unique approach to governance, where political fragmentation is minimized by allowing only three parties to operate at any given time. This system, designed to promote unity and coherence, aims to streamline political discourse and policy-making. As voters cast their ballots for the Waddani party led by Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, the incumbent Kulmiye party led by President Muse Bihi Abdi, or the Justice and Development Party (UCID) headed by Faisal Ali Warabe, they are not just selecting leaders; they are actively shaping their future.

“This election isn’t just about choosing a leader; it’s about solidifying our political identity,” asserts Hargeisa-based political analyst Abdinasser Ahmed Aden. The stakes are high: the three parties that emerge victorious will guide Somaliland’s policies and represent its people on both local and international stages for the next ten years, potentially determining the trajectory of the region’s development and its quest for international recognition.

Setting New Standards in Electoral Integrity

With over one million registered voters expected to participate at 24,650 polling stations, Somaliland is witnessing an unprecedented voter turnout. To ensure the integrity of the electoral process, Somaliland’s Election Commission has introduced biometric eye-scanning technology at select polling locations—an innovative step forward that underscores their commitment to a fair election. This advancement, coupled with the deployment of more than 2,500 military and police personnel for security, showcases Somaliland’s resolve to maintain peace and stability throughout the electoral process.

The use of such technology reflects a broader commitment to enhancing democratic practices within Somaliland, further setting it apart as a model of stability in the Horn of Africa. Unlike some neighboring regions plagued by violence and unrest, Somaliland’s elections are characterized by a sense of hope and civic responsibility, driven by its citizens’ desire for progress and development.

A Commitment to Peace and Stability

As Somaliland prepares for this critical juncture, the eyes of the world are on its people. Their vibrant engagement in the democratic process serves as a beacon of hope within a region too often defined by its struggles. Somaliland has weathered internal crises and external pressures, yet it has consistently reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful governance and unity. This election embodies that spirit of resilience.

Many Somalilanders view the polls as an opportunity to reinforce their aspirations for peaceful governance and potential future international recognition. The country’s governance structure, a blend of traditional leadership and modern democratic principles, offers a refreshing perspective on what is possible in a contested region.

Inspiring Hope in a Tumultuous Region

The importance of this election extends beyond the borders of Somaliland; it represents a symbol of hope in a tumultuous region. While the Horn of Africa continues to grapple with insecurity, Somaliland stands out as a successful example of democratic engagement, self-governance, and peacebuilding. The elections signify more than just a political event; they encapsulate the dreams of a people who yearn for peace, development, and a rightful place on the global stage.

Through this dual election, Somalilanders are crafting not only their immediate future but also reinforcing their identity as a peaceful, democratic society striving for greater international recognition. As votes are cast today, they do so with the conviction that their collective voice matters, and that their democratic ideals can resonate far beyond their borders.

In conclusion, the election unfolding in Somaliland is a powerful testament to the resilience of its people and the strength of their commitment to democracy. It is an inspiring chapter in the story of Somaliland, one that highlights the potential for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. As they choose their leaders and shape the path for future governance, Somalilanders are poised to demonstrate to the world that hope, democracy, and peace can flourish even in the most challenging of circumstances.

As Donald Trump prepares to take office once again, questions loom over how his foreign policy will shape the increasingly tense U.S.-China rivalry in Africa. With the former president’s “America First” doctrine and skepticism toward multilateral engagement, Trump’s stance may ultimately determine whether the United States maintains its foothold on the continent or cedes further ground to China, which has become Africa’s largest trading partner and a significant investor in infrastructure.

Revisiting Trump’s Africa Strategy

Although Trump’s first term was marked by limited attention to Africa, former officials argue that his administration recognized China’s growing influence on the continent. Tibor Nagy, Trump’s Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, pointed to initiatives like Prosper Africa—a program designed to boost U.S. business involvement in Africa—as evidence of Trump’s awareness of China’s strategic ambitions. According to Nagy, Trump’s team understood that Africa’s youth population surge and its vast mineral resources posed both opportunities and risks. He suggests that a second Trump administration could approach Africa as a battleground for influence, seeing China as an existential threat to U.S. interests.

Nevertheless, skepticism remains. Christian-Geraud Neema, Africa editor for the China-Global South Project, doubts Trump’s sustained commitment to Africa. “Trump didn’t show much interest in Africa,” he noted, predicting a selective focus only on countries whose resources or strategic locations align with U.S. national security priorities. Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, echoed these sentiments, arguing that a less-engaged U.S. will create a vacuum for China to further consolidate its influence.

China’s Strategic Expansion and the Role of Infrastructure

Under Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has pursued a bold infrastructure agenda across Africa, building railways, ports, and highways. Such projects enhance China’s political clout, expand trade routes, and secure access to vital resources. With many African governments welcoming these investments, China’s influence has continued to grow even as some African leaders voice concerns about debt sustainability.

During Biden’s tenure, the U.S. attempted to counter China’s BRI with projects like the Lobito Corridor, a rail initiative designed to connect Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia. The project, hailed as one of the most significant U.S.-backed infrastructure undertakings in Africa in decades, aims to offer an alternative to Chinese-led infrastructure efforts. Biden’s administration touted the corridor as a transformative project that would help Africa build autonomous economic links across the continent.

But uncertainty surrounds whether the next administration will maintain the same level of commitment. According to Nigerian analyst Oluwole Ojewale, there is a risk that Trump could pull back from such multilateral initiatives, leaving room for China to expand its presence. Still, Nagy contends that the Lobito Corridor aligns well with Trump’s style, describing it as a “logical” fit for the kind of projects Trump would likely support. If true, this would signal continuity in U.S. engagement, albeit through an “America First” lens that prioritizes tangible returns over broad multilateral commitments.

A Battle Over Strategic Minerals

As the global demand for critical minerals like cobalt and lithium soars, Africa’s reserves have become a focal point for geopolitical competition. China has aggressively pursued mining rights across the continent, establishing itself as a dominant player in strategic mineral supply chains. The United States, which relies on these minerals for high-tech manufacturing and defense, views this as a national security threat.

A Trump-led administration may intensify efforts to secure access to these resources, either by bolstering American investments in African mining or by challenging Chinese influence in mineral-rich regions. Under Trump’s approach, Africa’s value as a strategic partner may be largely transactional, with a primary focus on resource extraction and security rather than development aid or democratic governance.

African Leaders’ Strategic Options

Africa’s leaders, aware of their growing leverage in the U.S.-China rivalry, may attempt to play both superpowers against each other. Kenya’s Raila Odinga, a likely candidate for the African Union Commission chair, has already signaled that Africa can look elsewhere if the U.S. adopts a more isolationist approach. “If [Trump] does not want to work with Africa,” Odinga said, “Africa has got other friends.”

But some analysts, including Yun Sun, caution that this strategy has risks. Sun warns that African nations may face pressure to align with one superpower, potentially compromising their autonomy and strategic interests. African leaders will need to carefully balance these competing interests to avoid becoming pawns in the larger U.S.-China rivalry.

A Tug of War Over Influence and Investment

Historically, Africa has been a secondary concern in U.S. foreign policy, with little variation in approach between administrations. Despite Biden’s efforts to host the 2022 Africa Leaders Summit and emphasize strategic partnerships, analysts argue that U.S. engagement remains sporadic and reactive compared to China’s long-term investments. Should Trump follow an isolationist path in his second term, experts like Neema foresee China capitalizing on the absence, amplifying its influence through partnerships and investments largely free from political strings.

Trump’s stance on multilateralism, epitomized by his America First doctrine, may mean that long-term infrastructure initiatives, such as Biden’s Lobito Corridor project, lack continuity. Yet Nagy argues that Trump’s team understood the significance of Africa’s youth and resources, suggesting that the former president may surprise critics by continuing at least some strategic initiatives.

The Stakes for U.S.-China Rivalry in Africa

Under Trump 2.0, the U.S.-China rivalry in Africa could evolve into a more direct competition for strategic influence, infrastructure control, and resource access. Whether the Trump administration adopts a selective engagement model or pursues a more assertive strategy, African leaders will likely find themselves in a position to negotiate favorable terms from both powers. However, the ultimate trajectory of U.S.-China rivalry on the continent will hinge on whether the U.S. sustains its focus or retreats from the geopolitical race, leaving China with unprecedented latitude to shape Africa’s future.

As Africa grapples with its own rapid transformation, how it navigates this superpower competition could redefine the continent’s role on the global stage.

The United States announced Tuesday it will continue military assistance to Israel, citing Israel’s partial compliance with requests to increase humanitarian aid flows into Gaza. The decision follows weeks of scrutiny over Israel’s handling of aid delivery amid severe shortages in Gaza, where a 13-month conflict with Hamas has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian conditions.

State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel indicated that Israel’s actions do not yet breach U.S. law, dismissing immediate concerns about restricting arms transfers. “We are not giving Israel a pass,” Patel said, affirming that the U.S. aims to improve Gaza’s humanitarian situation and prevent violations of international standards.

Israel, in response to an October 13 deadline, has taken limited measures to permit aid delivery. According to U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Israel resumed aid flow to Gaza’s northern regions, though the Security Council was urged to monitor these actions for sustained impact.

Yet, despite these steps, U.N. officials report that the scale of aid remains critically low. U.N. Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ilze Brands Kehris raised alarms about the “minimal entry” of aid and underscored international obligations to suspend military support to conflict parties that may breach humanitarian law.

Eight international aid organizations issued a report showing Israel failed to meet 19 of the U.S.-outlined measures for humanitarian aid facilitation. “Conditions are now worse than a month ago,” the report stated, citing severe impediments to aid deliveries and deteriorating conditions in Gaza’s north.

U.N.-backed food security experts issued an urgent warning of potential famine in northern Gaza, stating that immediate intervention is essential to prevent a catastrophic loss of life. Acting humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya emphasized the dire state of Gaza’s health and living conditions, noting that 75,000 individuals remain trapped with dwindling resources.

Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon, however, rebuked the famine warning as “propaganda.” He contended that Israel has facilitated 713 aid trucks into northern Gaza during October and reopened the Kissufim crossing, closed for 19 years, to increase aid channels.

In an increasingly fraught Security Council session, members began drafting a resolution addressing civilian protection, a ceasefire, and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Palestinian representatives continued to advocate for foreign journalists’ entry to independently assess Gaza’s conditions, while Israeli representatives upheld claims of efficient aid distribution.

In an Oval Office meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, President Joe Biden reiterated his “ironclad” support for Israel, underscoring U.S. commitment to its ally amid escalating regional tensions. The ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon and renewed Israeli airstrikes in Gaza and Beirut signal further instability, with civilian tolls rising across both conflict zones.

As humanitarian advocates and international leaders urge more decisive action, the U.S. response balances support for Israel with increasing calls to address Gaza’s urgent needs — a stance likely to shape the coming months as the conflict and humanitarian crisis evolve.

Dawit Isaak, a Swedish-Eritrean journalist who has been detained without charge in Eritrea for over 23 years, was honored on Monday with the Edelstam Prize, a Swedish human rights award. The accolade recognizes Isaak’s relentless commitment to freedom of expression, a principle he has embodied under harrowing conditions, according to the Edelstam Foundation.

Isaak’s detention dates back to September 2001, when he was among two dozen individuals—including government officials, parliament members, and fellow journalists—swept up in a political purge. Since then, he has been held incommunicado, and Eritrean authorities have provided no information on his condition or location, leaving grave doubts about his well-being. Amnesty International has labeled Isaak a prisoner of conscience, while Reporters Without Borders (RSF) identifies him and his colleagues as the world’s longest-held journalists.

The Edelstam Prize, named after Swedish diplomat Harald Edelstam, is awarded for exceptional courage in defending human rights. Edelstam himself gained renown during Augusto Pinochet’s 1973 coup in Chile, where, as Sweden’s ambassador, he extended political asylum to thousands fleeing the military regime.

Accepting the prize on Isaak’s behalf will be his daughter, Betlehem Isaak, who will attend the ceremony in Stockholm on November 19. For Betlehem, this moment underscores her father’s sacrifice and the impact of his dedication to Eritrea’s media freedom.

Isaak’s journey to journalism was marked by both exile and a deep-rooted commitment to Eritrea’s nascent independence. Fleeing to Sweden in 1987 during the Eritrean liberation struggle, he later acquired Swedish citizenship. However, in 2001, Isaak returned to Eritrea, eager to contribute to the country’s media landscape. He co-founded Setit, Eritrea’s first independent newspaper, which published articles advocating for political reforms—positions that soon made him a target of the state’s crackdown.

In 2021, United Nations human rights experts described Isaak’s indefinite detention as “extremely concerning,” noting, however, that a credible source suggested Isaak was alive as recently as September 2020. U.N. officials have repeatedly urged Eritrea to release Isaak and his colleagues, but Asmara has thus far remained silent on their status.

This latest recognition of Isaak’s work not only highlights the personal cost of his stand for press freedom but also renews calls from human rights advocates worldwide for his release. As Dawit Isaak remains symbolically—and for now, physically—absent from the prize ceremony, his story serves as a somber reminder of the price many pay for free expression.

A Taliban delegation from Afghanistan arrived in Azerbaijan on Sunday to participate in a United Nations climate change conference, marking the group’s first appearance at an international climate summit since taking control of Afghanistan three years ago. Led by Muti-ul-Haq Khalis, the head of Afghanistan’s National Environmental Protection Agency, the Taliban officials are expected to hold observer status rather than full participation at the COP29 conference, which starts Monday in Baku and runs through November 22.

Afghan state-run media confirmed the Taliban’s presence, underscoring their intention to engage on climate issues despite their continued political isolation. Although Afghanistan is among the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, facing severe flash floods and enduring droughts, the Taliban’s rule has left the country without formal international recognition, barring it from a seat at the United Nations General Assembly.

COP29’s host nation, Azerbaijan, invited Afghan officials to the summit in a capacity that allows for limited participation, according to sources who spoke with Reuters. “They will likely engage in periphery discussions and may have opportunities for bilateral meetings,” a diplomatic source said. However, the delegation will remain without full voting or decision-making privileges.

Afghanistan’s mounting environmental challenges have intensified since the Taliban took power, with extreme weather patterns compounding humanitarian struggles. Flash floods earlier this year killed over 350 people, demolished thousands of homes, and devastated agricultural lands across the country. According to U.N. agencies, Afghanistan’s recent climate-related disasters signal the escalating climate crisis gripping the region, where already vulnerable populations are increasingly at risk.

The Taliban have argued that Afghanistan’s lack of recognition should not impede its participation in climate discussions, citing the existential threat that climate change poses to Afghan livelihoods. They maintain that involvement in climate action could help address the country’s environmental and humanitarian needs, which are urgent despite Afghanistan’s political situation.

Yet, the Taliban’s harsh policies on women’s rights have stalled formal engagement with their government on the global stage. Since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops, Afghan women’s rights have been severely restricted. Under Taliban law, girls cannot receive an education past the sixth grade, and female students are barred from attending universities. Taliban-enforced dress codes require women to cover their faces and bodies in public, and women are prohibited from undertaking extended road or air travel without a male guardian.

Taliban leaders insist these policies align with their interpretation of Sharia law and resist calls for policy changes, condemning international critiques as undue interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.

Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley has become the first Kenya-born immigrant elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Her achievement, celebrated on November 5, marks a significant milestone not only for her own journey but also for the immigrant and African communities in Minnesota and beyond. Hiltsley describes her win as a testament to resilience, determination, and the pursuit of the American dream.

As she stood in the Minnesota State Capitol for the first time, preparing for orientation, Hiltsley expressed her gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to serve. “To be standing in this Capitol as an African immigrant woman is a tremendous honor. I’m just overexcited right now,” she said, emphasizing the significance of her accomplishment as a symbol of possibility.

Her journey to this moment, however, was not without challenges. Hiltsley’s path to citizenship was fraught with difficulties, including a long battle with the immigration system that nearly led to her family’s deportation. She credits much of her success to the community support she received and the efforts of the late U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone, whose advocacy helped secure her family’s residency and eventual citizenship. Reflecting on her achievement, Hiltsley noted, “Getting to this moment honestly is just a testament to the struggles that my family has gone through to be in this country.”

Her story has captured the attention of both American and Kenyan media, with celebrations in her hometown of Nyamemiso, eight hours from Nairobi. Despite the recognition, Hiltsley remains grounded, attributing her success to her roots. “I’m that little girl from that little village in the middle of Kenya, and now I’m in the spotlight of this media frenzy. I’m still trying to really appreciate the magnitude of the moment,” she said.

Beyond her personal accomplishment, Hiltsley hopes her story will inspire others, particularly young girls in both Kenya and the United States. “If I can make it to this point, I can be a role model to somebody to remind them that our wildest dreams are possible,” she said.

Legislative Priorities and Community Vision

As she steps into her new role representing Minnesota’s Legislative District 38A, Hiltsley has outlined key priorities that reflect her commitment to her community. She plans to focus on community-centered public safety initiatives, affordable housing, workers’ rights, and support for small businesses—many of which are run by African immigrants. Her objective is to empower her constituents by connecting them with resources and guiding them through navigating state systems.

“It is my job to go back to my community and tell them, ‘Hey, there are resources here. This is how this system works. Let’s work together to make sure that we are also taking a piece of the pie,’” she said.

Hiltsley is mindful of the weight her position carries as the first Kenyan-American woman in Minnesota’s Legislature. Viewing it as a responsibility to represent a growing, diverse constituency, she aims to make space for future immigrant leaders. “I don’t want to be the last,” she said, underscoring her hope that her election will inspire others to pursue public service. “This moment right here is a testimony that you can come to this country, work hard, and get to where you want to be.”

To those who have faced setbacks in their own political pursuits, Hiltsley offers a message of perseverance: “Be consistent. Keep going. There’s enough space in this Legislature for more people of color, especially immigrants, because that’s the voice that is missing.”

Reflections on Politics and a Vision for Unity

As she prepares to serve in a rapidly changing political environment, Hiltsley remains focused on her constituents, regardless of partisan divisions. With the recent election of President-elect Donald Trump, she acknowledges that the political climate presents challenges, yet she emphasizes her commitment to bipartisan service. “We are here to serve the people, and it doesn’t matter if you are Democrat or Republican,” she said. “We are here as legislators to serve the people of Minnesota.”

Her victory has resonated deeply with Kenyans who view her achievement as a shared triumph. Hiltsley’s message to her fellow Kenyans is one of unity and responsibility. “This is a historical moment, and I’m honored to be a Kenyan American,” she said. “Let’s continue celebrating this victory, but after that, we have work to do.”

Looking beyond Minnesota, Hiltsley aspires to foster connections between her adopted home and her country of birth. She expressed a desire to work with Kenyan leaders on issues of governance, including the need for stronger leadership and anti-corruption measures. “Kenya has unlimited potential,” she said. “It’s up to our leaders to do right by the people.”

As she prepares to take her seat officially on January 7, Hiltsley’s journey from a small Kenyan village to the halls of the Minnesota State Capitol stands as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the promise of opportunity. Her story embodies the values of both the American and Kenyan communities she represents, with a commitment to public service and a vision for empowering others to pursue their dreams.