New projects aim to support 80,000 Somali households with sustainable livelihoods and financial stability over five years.

The United States has announced a $28 million investment to bolster resilience and food security in Somalia, launching the first year of two five-year projects. U.S. Ambassador Richard H. Riley unveiled the initiative during a press conference in Mogadishu, emphasizing the program’s focus on creating sustainable livelihoods and improving financial stability for vulnerable Somali households.

The projects aim to assist over 80,000 Somali households—or roughly 500,000 people—by providing critical tools and training for sustainable development. Partnering with organizations like World Vision and Save the Children, the initiatives will tackle food insecurity and economic instability through two primary approaches:

Sustainable Livelihoods: Training in agriculture, livestock management, and small business development will empower households to build resilient income streams.

Economic Empowerment: Access to microfinance will help families stabilize their financial situations and accumulate savings and assets.

These projects are vital for a country grappling with persistent humanitarian challenges. With 6.9 million Somalis projected to require humanitarian assistance in 2024 due to severe weather, insecurity, and entrenched poverty, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent.

The $28 million pledge adds to the U.S.’s significant investments in Somalia. Over the past three years, Washington has provided over $2 billion in humanitarian aid to the country, underlining its commitment to addressing both immediate crises and long-term developmental challenges.

Ambassador Riley’s announcement highlights a shift towards resilience-oriented strategies. “This contribution complements our emergency assistance by focusing on sustainable growth and self-sufficiency for Somali communities,” he stated.

Despite the promise of these initiatives, Somalia faces significant hurdles. Insecurity, driven by al-Shabaab insurgency and regional instability, continues to disrupt livelihoods and restrict access to essential services. Additionally, climate shocks, such as droughts and floods, have exacerbated food insecurity, leaving millions at risk of famine.

Efforts to implement these projects successfully will depend on sustained international support, robust local governance, and the ability to adapt to evolving challenges.

The U.S.’s investment represents a critical step in fostering resilience and stability in Somalia. By equipping communities with the tools to generate income and build financial security, these projects aim to break the cycle of dependency on emergency aid.

As Somalia continues to face multifaceted crises, long-term initiatives like these not only address immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable future. This approach aligns with broader global efforts to tackle food insecurity and poverty through innovative, resilience-focused interventions.

From desperation to despair: How a failed escape left 60 Somali migrants battling hunger, loss, and survival in the open sea.

The harrowing journey of Somali migrants like Said Muse Yalahow and his companions underscores the tragic realities of irregular migration, where dreams of a better life are too often dashed by the harsh realities of treacherous seas and indifferent systems. For Said, what began as a hopeful escape from hardship turned into an ordeal of unimaginable suffering—a seven-day drift through open waters that claimed the lives of nearly all aboard.

Departing Mauritania with 60 migrants under the cloak of night, the group’s journey was marred from the outset. The chase by security forces led to the abandonment of a young woman, a decision that set a somber tone for what was to come. The group’s fragile hope hinged on a faulty GPS system, which, when it failed, left them stranded and directionless in vast, unforgiving waters. Attempts to signal passing ships were met with silence, reflecting the stark reality of how invisible migrants often are in the eyes of the world.

By the fourth day, despair became tangible. The first casualty, Abdulqadir, succumbed to hunger, thirst, and the relentless cold—a stark reminder of the fragility of human life in such extreme conditions. His death was not the last, as psychological distress overtook others in the group. In an overcrowded and deteriorating vessel, survivors were forced into the grim task of disposing of bodies, an act that compounded the trauma they endured.

When the boat eventually drifted into Moroccan waters, rescue came not as salvation but as a belated reprieve. Of the original 60 passengers, only six survived to recount their ordeal. Their recovery in Rabat is marked by grief for those lost and uncertainty about what lies ahead.

The plight of Said and his companions is emblematic of the broader crisis facing migrants who undertake perilous journeys in search of safety or opportunity. The treacherous routes, the indifference of those who might help, and the systemic factors driving people to leave their homelands combine into a grim tapestry of human suffering.

Somalia’s ambassador to Morocco, Salad Ali Catosh, has called for citizens to reconsider such dangerous voyages and emphasized the embassy’s efforts to repatriate those stranded abroad. Yet, the root causes driving this migration—conflict, poverty, and lack of opportunity—remain unaddressed. Until these systemic issues are confronted, the lure of a better life elsewhere will continue to outweigh the risks for many.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of migration policies that prioritize deterrence over humanitarianism. It calls for a reevaluation of global approaches to migration—one that recognizes the shared responsibility of nations to address the crises that drive people to such desperate measures and to ensure safe, legal pathways for those seeking refuge and opportunity. Without such change, stories like Said’s will continue to haunt the waters of the Mediterranean and beyond.

Admiral Abdi Warsame Osman Maalin faces allegations as Somali government intensifies anti-corruption efforts.

The Somali government’s decision to place Admiral Abdi Warsame Osman Maalin, the Commander of the Somali Navy and Coast Guard, under house arrest signals a bold stance against corruption within its ranks. General Odowa Yusuf Raage, the Somali Army Chief, announced the move on December 26, 2024, marking a significant development in Somalia’s efforts to rebuild and modernize its military and maritime security apparatus.

Admiral Osman’s house arrest comes amidst undisclosed allegations of corruption, with General Abdiwaxid Ali Afax Nuura stepping in as the interim leader of the Somali Navy and Coastal Defense Command. This action underscores Somalia’s commitment to rooting out corruption, which has historically plagued its military and security sectors.

Maritime Security in Focus

Somalia’s naval forces are a critical component of the nation’s broader strategy to secure its extensive coastline, which has long been vulnerable to piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes. Recent initiatives to strengthen the Somali Navy have included international partnerships and training programs aimed at enhancing operational capabilities.

However, allegations of corruption, such as those facing Admiral Osman, threaten to undermine these efforts. The Somali government has increasingly emphasized transparency and accountability as it seeks to attract and maintain international support for its security initiatives.

Admiral Osman’s arrest is not an isolated incident. In April 2024, members of the U.S.-trained Danab commando unit were detained for allegedly stealing rations provided by the United States. This elite force, central to Somalia’s counterterrorism strategy, has received significant U.S. backing, including a $100 million pledge earlier this year for the construction of five new military bases.

The Somali government’s decisive actions against corruption reflect its recognition of the critical link between good governance and effective security. Mismanagement within key security institutions not only erodes public trust but also jeopardizes international partnerships essential to Somalia’s stabilization.

Challenges Ahead

The investigation into Admiral Osman will likely have broader implications for Somalia’s naval operations and its efforts to establish a robust maritime security framework. The interim leadership under General Nuura will be closely watched for its ability to maintain operational continuity while navigating the political and institutional fallout of the allegations.

This development also underscores the Somali government’s balancing act: addressing internal corruption without destabilizing the very institutions tasked with ensuring national security. As Somalia continues to rebuild its military and strengthen its security forces, maintaining credibility and transparency will be key to sustaining domestic and international confidence.

The house arrest of Somali Navy Chief Admiral Abdi Warsame Osman Maalin marks a pivotal moment in Somalia’s fight against corruption within its security forces. As the investigation unfolds, it will serve as both a test of the government’s commitment to accountability and a measure of its ability to uphold the integrity of its military institutions.

With its focus on transparency and reform, Somalia is signaling to its citizens and international partners that it is serious about addressing the deep-seated challenges that have long hindered its path to stability and progress.

Aiming to end chronic power shortages, Zimbabwe explores nuclear energy with Russian investment and IAEA guidance, sparking debates on cost, transparency, and safety.

Zimbabwe has announced plans to collaborate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Russian investors to develop nuclear energy as part of its strategy to address chronic power shortages. With daily electricity generation falling far below the country’s 2,600 MW capacity, and frequent outages lasting up to 18 hours, the government sees nuclear energy as a long-term solution.

Energy Minister Edgar Moyo stated that Zimbabwe’s goal is to achieve 4,000 MW of power capacity by 2035. The plan involves the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), which offer a less resource-intensive alternative to traditional large-scale nuclear plants. The IAEA has expressed willingness to guide Zimbabwe through the complex process of establishing nuclear power. Russia, already a key player in nuclear energy projects across Africa, has also committed support. Countries like South Africa and Egypt have turned to Russian expertise for similar projects.

While the promise of nuclear energy is enticing, experts caution that the process is fraught with challenges. Building and maintaining nuclear facilities is capital-intensive, and critics warn that the economic benefits may not justify the substantial investment required. Large infrastructure projects are often vulnerable to corruption, both within host countries and involving state-owned enterprises like Russia’s Rosatom. Ensuring transparency will be vital to avoid financial mismanagement. Handling radioactive waste is a persistent challenge for nuclear power. Zimbabwe will need long-term solutions to safely store waste, which remains hazardous for thousands of years. Additionally, nuclear facilities require robust security measures to prevent accidents, sabotage, or misuse of materials for non-civilian purposes.

Acknowledging the need for a diversified energy mix, Zimbabwe is also ramping up investments in renewable energy. Gloria Magombo, Secretary for Energy and Power Development, outlined plans to add 2,000 MW from solar, wind, and mini-hydro stations by 2030. This approach aims to mitigate the impact of recurring droughts that have reduced hydropower output.

Zimbabwe’s move toward nuclear energy is ambitious but raises questions about its alignment with the country’s immediate power needs. Experts suggest that Zimbabwe’s demand may be better met by expanding renewable energy sources and modernizing existing infrastructure rather than embarking on costly nuclear projects.

Zimbabwe’s nuclear energy initiative, supported by Russia and the IAEA, reflects its determination to tackle power shortages and boost energy security. However, the endeavor comes with significant financial, environmental, and security challenges. Success will depend on effective governance, transparency in partnerships, and a clear strategy to manage nuclear waste and mitigate risks. Meanwhile, parallel investments in renewables could provide more immediate and sustainable relief for Zimbabwe’s energy woes. The coming years will determine whether Zimbabwe can strike the right balance between innovation and practicality in its energy ambitions.

For more than half a century, the BBC Somali Service’s iconic theme tune has captivated listeners across Somalia and its diaspora with its authoritative rhythm. Yet, behind its instrumental melody lies a subversive message—a clandestine call for self-rule and resistance to colonialism, rooted in the song’s original lyrics.

In 1957, as the British Broadcasting Corporation sought to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa, it turned to Radio Hargeisa to compose a theme song for its new Somali service. The choice fell to Abdullahi Qarshe, a renowned Somali composer and poet, who delivered a melody that would soon become synonymous with BBC broadcasts. However, unknown to its British managers, Qarshe’s creation carried an unsung message of rebellion.

The original lyrics, written but omitted from the instrumental version, are a poignant plea for freedom and self-rule:

“These people calling out, yearning for their land. If they rise up for it, Oh God, grant them (their wish).”

Qarshe, aware of the cultural and political weight of his words, embedded an anti-colonial spirit in the music. For Somali listeners, the melody became more than a news introduction—it was a quiet anthem for liberation, resonating with the aspirations of a people under colonial rule.

Somalia’s rich oral culture, where poetry and storytelling are celebrated as cornerstones of collective identity, amplified the song’s hidden message. Poetry, often layered with complex meanings, has long been a tool for resistance and commentary in Somali society. Qarshe’s theme leveraged this tradition, offering a coded yet unmistakable call for independence.

The BBC Somali Service was originally intended to counteract anti-colonial narratives being broadcast by Egyptian radio stations, which were gaining traction among Somalis. The British hoped to cultivate loyalty by providing a “reliable” source of news in Somali. However, they underestimated the ingenuity of Somali artists and their ability to embed defiance within their work.

Naming the tune “Araweelo’s Gait” added another layer of resistance. Araweelo, a figure from Somali folklore, symbolizes matriarchal strength and independence. Her association with the theme song reinforced the spirit of rebellion, subtly mocking the colonial power that unknowingly popularized a subversive anthem.

Sixty-seven years later, the BBC Somali Service’s theme remains unchanged. For Somalis, the melody carries echoes of an enduring struggle for self-determination. While it has become an integral part of the British media’s presence in the region, the unsung lyrics persist as a reminder of Somali resilience and defiance against colonial rule.

This hidden message underscores the irony of colonial efforts to control narratives while inadvertently amplifying a call for liberation. Qarshe’s brilliance lies not just in his music but in his ability to weaponize art as a subtle yet potent force against oppression.

The BBC Somali Service’s theme is more than an instrumental introduction—it is a historical artifact of Somali wit and resistance. It exemplifies how colonized peoples have leveraged creativity to subvert control, ensuring their voices resonate even within the systems designed to suppress them.

As the melody continues to play, Somalis worldwide hear not just the news but the unsung call of their ancestors: a yearning for freedom that remains as relevant today as it was in 1957.

How a Somali-led football team in Birmingham is inspiring hope and winning hearts in grassroots football.

In the heart of Birmingham’s diverse Smethwick neighborhood, a stormy December night brings together a team of players defying odds and stereotypes. Kawala FC, founded in 2023 by Somali-born Salah Aliderie, has transformed grassroots football by uniting players from Somalia, Yemen, Eritrea, Poland, and beyond.

Despite humble beginnings on a cramped five-a-side pitch, Kawala FC has captured the imagination of Birmingham’s Somali community, clinching a league and cup double in their debut season. Their journey is more than a football fairy tale—it’s a testament to resilience, community, and dreams realized against the odds.

For many players, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifeline. Chairman Salah Aliderie, who funded the team to provide opportunities for Birmingham’s underserved youth, sees Kawala FC as a vehicle for change.

“Some of them don’t have jobs, and there’s a high crime rate here,” Aliderie explains. “Youth clubs are shutting down, and I knew I had to do something.”

Coach Abdek Abdi, who left Djibouti as a child, highlights the transformative impact of the team. “The team has become a safe space for everyone. We’re more like brothers here.”

Players like 20-year-old Sudeys Moalim see football as a way to honor their roots. “My parents fled war-torn Somalia for a better life. Representing my nationality on the pitch means everything to me.”

Kawala’s meteoric rise hasn’t just energized players—it’s united Birmingham’s Somali community. Initially supported by family and friends, the team now draws hundreds of fans who proudly cheer on their local heroes. The club’s success symbolizes a thriving Somali-British identity in the Midlands.

Kawala’s chairman dreams big: establishing an academy, opening a youth center, and even competing in the Somali British Champions League, a grassroots version of Europe’s elite competition.

“We’d like to think one day we’ll make Premier League stars,” says Aliderie, his optimism shining even brighter than the Smethwick floodlights. “It’s all about their smiles, happiness, and their mothers coming to congratulate them—that’s what makes this journey worthwhile.”

Kawala FC isn’t just winning matches; they’re inspiring a generation, showing that football can be more than a game—it can be a bridge to opportunity, unity, and a brighter future.

In a significant milestone for Ethiopia’s internal displacement crisis, the Somali Regional State has successfully relocated 524 households—comprising 2,570 individuals—from the overcrowded Qoloji Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps to a newly developed settlement in Bayahow. This initiative, part of Ethiopia’s Durable Solutions Initiative (DSI), aims to provide long-term, sustainable solutions for displaced populations.

The relocation, conducted in four phases starting in early December, concluded this week with the final movement of 132 households. Led by the Somali Regional Disaster Risk Management Bureau (DRMB) in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other partners, the program prioritizes voluntary and dignified transitions while offering displaced families a chance to rebuild their lives.

“This is more than just moving people. It’s about restoring dignity and creating opportunities for displaced communities to thrive,” said a senior DRMB official.

The Bayahow settlement has been equipped with essential services, including a health center, schools, water and sanitation facilities, and community spaces. Local leaders report strong support from the host community, fostering unity and collaboration.

Relocated families have received housing, essential non-food items, and medical support. Hafid Abdirahman, one of the relocated individuals, expressed optimism for the future: “We were well cared for during the journey and are excited about the opportunities here. With farming support near the Shebelle River, we can finally build a better future.”

The Bayahow initiative extends beyond immediate resettlement, focusing on sustainable livelihoods. With support from the Somali Region Agricultural Bureau and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), displaced families are being empowered to start farming or restock livestock. Youth employment programs and small business development initiatives are also being introduced to promote economic independence.

The project’s funding, provided by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), underscores global commitment to addressing Ethiopia’s displacement challenges.

Local leaders, including Abdu Ahmed Elmi, Shebelle Zone Early Warning Coordinator, praised the host community’s welcoming attitude. “The host community’s acceptance has been incredible—100 percent,” Elmi noted, emphasizing the importance of local collaboration in ensuring a smooth transition.

The success of Bayahow is being celebrated as a model for Ethiopia’s Durable Solutions Initiative. An IOM representative highlighted its significance: “This progress shows that with planning, international support, and community involvement, we can create lasting solutions for displaced populations.”

Ethiopia continues to face the dual challenges of conflict and climate change-induced displacement. The Bayahow relocation project demonstrates the potential for sustainable solutions, serving as a blueprint for similar initiatives across the country. As displaced families settle into their new community, Bayahow stands as a symbol of resilience and a commitment to rebuilding lives.