The Strategic Exploitation of Khat: A Tool of Influence and Instability in Somalia.

Khat, a leaf chewed for its stimulating effects, has transcended its role as a mere agricultural commodity to become a significant element in the geopolitical playbook of Ethiopia and Kenya, much like opium in the historical context of the Opium Wars. This strategy reflects a grim chapter in the annals of history where substances are weaponized not just for profit, but for political supremacy and social control.

Historically, substances like opium have been utilized by colonial powers such as the British during the Opium Wars to subjugate and weaken nations like China. In a similar vein, Ethiopia and Kenya have wielded khat within Somalia, exploiting its socio-cultural fabric to perpetuate instability and maintain dominance. This manipulation mirrors the colonial strategies of old, where control over a substance meant control over the masses.

In the contemporary setting, khat flows abundantly from Ethiopia and Kenya into Somalia, underpinning a complex web of economic and social dynamics that affects everything from individual livelihoods to the broader stability of the region. The revenues from khat sales bolster the economies of Ethiopia and Kenya, while simultaneously funding mechanisms of control and influence over Somali territories, particularly in the context of territorial disputes and political hegemony.

Moreover, the pervasive use of khat in Somali society has deep implications. It drains economic resources, impacts productivity, and shifts focus from pressing national issues, effectively keeping the population in a state of subdued compliance. The strategic deployment of khat by neighboring countries as a tool of political and economic influence thus represents a modern echo of historical practices of substance-driven colonialism.

Ethiopia’s and Kenya’s use of khat as a political weapon against Somalia not only highlights the continuation of colonial-era tactics in modern geopolitics but also underscores the complex interplay between commerce, addiction, and power. For Somalia, countering this influence requires a nuanced understanding of both the historical precedents and the current geopolitical motivations that drive the trade and use of khat within its borders.

As Somalia navigates this challenging landscape, the lessons from history underscore the necessity for robust policies that address not just the economic and social dimensions of khat consumption, but also its deep-seated role as a tool of external influence and internal division. The path forward involves turning a critical eye to the past and crafting strategies that neutralize the weaponization of commodities like khat in the geopolitical arena.

By Abdirizak Dhoore and Ayanle Farah

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Waryatv’s editorial stance.

Tensions Escalate as Somalia’s Al-Shabaab Advances Towards Mogadishu.

Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways have halted their operations to Mogadishu, reacting to alarming terror warnings from the U.S. Embassy about potential attacks at Aden Adde International Airport. This suspension comes as Al-Shabaab militants intensify their assault, edging dangerously close to the Somali capital, and raising global alarm over the region’s stability.

The U.S. Embassy’s urgent alert has pinpointed imminent threats, particularly focusing on the airport’s vulnerability. In response, Turkish Airlines scrapped its upcoming flights for a week, citing severe security concerns echoed by intelligence insights. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways also confirmed a pause in its services, signaling a growing apprehension among international carriers about the escalating risks in flying to the conflict-ridden area.

This drastic step follows a recent mortar attack during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit, underscoring the volatile security landscape. Al-Shabaab’s relentless offensives have seen them seizing multiple towns in quick succession, demonstrating their fortified grip and operational reach within Somalia. Their proximity to Mogadishu has now not only disrupted air travel but has also posed a direct challenge to the Somali government’s efforts to secure the region.

While Turkish and Qatari flights are on a temporary standstill, other major airlines like Ethiopian Airlines and Egypt Air continue their operations, albeit under heightened scrutiny and potential reconsideration of their flight schedules to Mogadishu.

The suspension of these flights is more than a logistical alteration—it’s a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Somalia and the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab. As international stakeholders reassess their engagement and strategies in Somalia, the focus sharply turns to bolstering defenses and reevaluating alliances to curb the militant surge that now threatens to destabilize the Horn of Africa further.

Ten Airstrikes Target Terror in Somalia Amid Rising Insurgency.

AFRICOM has indeed been active in Somalia in 2025, conducting ten airstrikes aimed at both ISIS and al-Shabaab militants, reflecting the U.S.’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region. These strikes are part of a broader strategy to support the Somali government in its fight against these militant groups, who continue to pose a significant threat to the stability of the country.

The escalation in militant activities, particularly by al-Shabaab, underscores the challenges faced by the Somali government. Despite recapturing towns temporarily seized by militants, the Somali security forces face ongoing issues with resources, coordination, and support, exacerbated by the recent U.S. funding cuts to critical units like the Danab special forces.

These financial constraints, coupled with the logistical challenges of maintaining security across a geographically and politically complex landscape, highlight the precarious balance of power in Somalia. The reduction in U.S. military aid underscores the necessity for the Somali government to explore alternative funding strategies and strengthen internal capabilities to sustain its counter-insurgency efforts.

U.S. Withdraws Funding from Somalia’s Danab Forces

The United States has drastically reduced its financial support for Somalia, impacting the elite Danab special forces and various humanitarian and development initiatives previously funded through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This significant shift was confirmed by Somali Finance Minister Bihi Imaan Egeh during a parliamentary session on Wednesday.

The Danab brigade, which has been crucial in counter-terrorism efforts within Somalia, was established and maintained with substantial U.S. support. The unit’s capability to stabilize regions plagued by insurgency has been notably recognized. However, the sudden cessation of U.S. funding presents a dire challenge to the operational efficacy of this elite unit.

Minister Egeh elaborated on the broader implications of the funding cuts, noting that the loss extends beyond the military sector, affecting essential humanitarian and developmental programs that assist in sustaining the nation’s socio-economic stability. The finance ministry estimates a shortfall of approximately $1.5 billion annually due to these cuts, which Egeh described as part of a “global trend” of reduced foreign aid.

“This drastic reduction in funding necessitates an urgent shift in our financial strategy,” Egeh advised lawmakers. He stressed the importance of expediting tax reforms and optimizing the management of foreign aid to mitigate the impending economic strain.

The funding cuts are aligned with a shift in priorities under the re-elected administration of President Donald Trump, signaling a pivot towards more domestically focused policies. The repercussions for Somalia are profound, as the government scrambles to identify alternative resources to support its military and developmental agendas amidst growing economic pressures.

This financial recalibration comes at a critical time for Somalia, as it continues to combat insurgency and seeks to bolster its governance and infrastructure. The withdrawal of U.S. support not only tests the resilience of Somalia’s security forces but also its broader capacity to sustain developmental progress in the face of dwindling international support.

The U.S. Embassy in Somalia has issued a dire warning about potential imminent Al-Shabaab attacks, particularly targeting Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport and other critical locations. This alert comes amidst a worrying surge in Al-Shabaab’s activities across central Somalia, which have seen the militant group making bold moves towards the capital.

Al-Shabaab has intensified its operations since February 20, orchestrating coordinated assaults across Middle Shabelle and Hiraan regions. The group’s capability to temporarily seize towns, including Balcad, just 30 kilometers from Mogadishu, before being ousted by Somali forces, underscores significant vulnerabilities in Somalia’s defense strategy against insurgents.

In response to these escalating threats, the U.S. Embassy has halted all personnel movements and continues to enforce a Level Four travel advisory, which discourages U.S. citizens from traveling to Somalia. The advisory cites multiple dangers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and health risks.

The Somali government, supported by airstrikes from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), has actively engaged the militants, reportedly eliminating over 130 insurgents in recent conflicts. Despite these efforts, Al-Shabaab’s resilience and tactical presence in government strongholds highlight ongoing challenges.

The U.S. Embassy’s alert cautions that Al-Shabaab remains capable of executing kidnappings, bombings, and assorted attacks without warning. Places frequented by Westerners—hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas—are particularly at risk. The advisory underscores the importance of vigilance, recommending that U.S. citizens in Somalia maintain a high level of security awareness and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.

This situation poses profound implications for Somalia’s stability and efforts to combat terrorism within its borders. The ability of Al-Shabaab to carry out high-profile attacks not only challenges the Somali government’s control but also affects regional security dynamics, influencing international relations and aid strategies in the Horn of Africa.

As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful, and the efforts to curb the militant threat continue to be of paramount importance for ensuring peace and security in the region.

Mohamed Abdi Hassan, also known as Afweyne, has transitioned from a notorious piracy kingpin to a respected member of the Somali Parliament, securing the parliamentary seat HOP 248 in the recent elections in Dhusamareb.

Afweyne’s electoral victory, where he secured a decisive 80 votes against Sahro Hassan Abduule’s 10, marks a significant shift in his career trajectory. The seat, previously held by Saadaq Omar Hassan (Saadaq Joon), became available after Saadaq Joon was appointed Deputy Director of the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).

Following his release from a Belgian prison after serving 12 years for his involvement with Somali pirate groups, Afweyne’s return to Somalia and subsequent dive into politics have sparked discussions about redemption and rehabilitation. In 2013, just before his arrest, Afweyne declared his retirement from piracy and claimed to have influenced 120 others to abandon their illicit activities.

“I am deeply grateful to the MPs, ministers, and the electoral commission. I pledge to serve diligently in this role, which the people I represent have entrusted to me. I am honored by their confidence in me,” Afweyne stated after his election. This win not only reflects his personal transformation but also the willingness of the Somali people and political system to give him a second chance.

Afweyne’s election is not just a personal victory but a reflection of broader political dynamics in Somalia, where former warlords and controversial figures have often been integrated into formal political processes. His past as a piracy leader and his current role as a legislator will undoubtedly influence both his policy priorities and his credibility.

As Somalia continues to rebuild and stabilize, the roles that individuals like Afweyne play in politics are critical. His background brings unique insights and potential connections that could either advance or complicate Somalia’s ongoing peace and state-building efforts. The world will be watching how Afweyne navigates his legislative responsibilities and whether his past will influence his future contributions to Somalia’s development.

Afweyne’s political journey underscores the complex tapestry of Somali politics, where the lines between conflict and politics often blur, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the nation’s future.

Somalia’s corruption index drops again, reinforcing concerns over governance, security, and economic stability.

Somalia has once again been ranked among the world’s most corrupt countries, according to Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). With a score of just 9 out of 100, the country slid further down the rankings, securing the 179th spot out of 180 nations, second only to South Sudan.

Despite government pledges to tackle systemic corruption, the reality paints a grim picture: public funds disappear into the hands of officials, judicial institutions lack the power to prosecute wrongdoing, and bribery remains the norm in every sector. The security forces, already battling Al-Shabaab insurgents, have seen their budgets gutted by corrupt officials, further destabilizing the nation.

Anti-corruption measures, such as the establishment of the Office of the Auditor General and procurement oversight reforms, have done little to halt the tide of fraud and embezzlement. Political interference ensures that high-profile figures remain untouchable, while millions in international aid vanish without accountability.

Beyond governance, corruption is crippling Somalia’s economy and exacerbating the effects of climate change. Donor funds meant for disaster relief are siphoned off, and critical infrastructure projects remain incomplete. Meanwhile, foreign investors remain wary of engaging with a nation where fraud and mismanagement are the status quo.

Somalia’s worsening ranking reflects a broader trend in the region, with Sudan and South Sudan also among the worst offenders. Ethiopia and Kenya, while performing slightly better, continue to struggle with deep-rooted corruption, particularly in procurement and law enforcement.

With corruption now deeply embedded in Somalia’s political and economic fabric, the future remains uncertain. Without drastic action, the country risks further descent into instability, ensuring that development, security, and public trust remain elusive.

EARF Enhances Rapid Deployment and Security Measures in Kismayo

In a display of military precision and readiness, U.S. soldiers from the East Africa Response Force (EARF) engaged in a multi-day crisis response exercise at Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Kismayo, Somalia, on July 21, 2024. This critical drill aimed to sharpen the unit’s rapid deployment capabilities, security reinforcement protocols, and combat casualty care proficiency.

Part of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), the EARF includes personnel from Task Force Paxton of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, designed for swift crisis response within the AFRICOM area. This recent exercise underscored their ability to provide limited-defense crisis response and essential support to U.S. embassies and missions across the region.

The exercise’s primary goal was to test the EARF’s speed in deploying and reinforcing security measures to protect military personnel effectively. Additionally, combat casualty care training was incorporated to ensure readiness for real-world scenarios that may arise in this volatile region.

Colonel James Riley, commander of CJTF-HOA, emphasized the importance of such exercises, stating, “Our ability to quickly deploy and reinforce security measures is crucial for maintaining the safety of our personnel and supporting our allies in the region.”

Echoing this sentiment, Major General William Zana, CJTF-HOA commander, highlighted the broader significance of these operations. “Our operations are vital for regional stability and the protection of U.S. and coalition interests. These exercises demonstrate our commitment to a ‘no-fail’ mission across the area of operation,” Zana said.

The crisis response drill in Kismayo not only showcased the EARF’s rapid deployment prowess but also reinforced the U.S. military’s dedication to maintaining security and stability in East Africa. This exercise is a testament to the unwavering commitment to protecting both U.S. interests and regional allies, ensuring readiness in the face of any potential crisis.