In what could be the most earth-shattering realignment in East Africa’s history, the brewing alliance between Somaliland and Ethiopia stands poised to crush Somalia’s crumbling government and shift the balance of power across the Horn of Africa. With Egypt, Eritrea, and Turkey jockeying on one side, and Somaliland’s newfound alliance with Ethiopia on the other, tensions have never been higher. The stakes? A coveted foothold on the Red Sea, recognition of Somaliland’s long-denied sovereignty, and the humiliation of Somalia’s once-dominant government.

As whispers of war echo through the valleys of Somaliland, one thing is clear: the time for polite diplomacy is over. Ethiopia, hungry for a window to the Red Sea, has found an indispensable ally in Somaliland—a nation that has defied the odds, and now, history itself. This alliance is not a simple memorandum of understanding (MoU); it’s a direct affront to the strategic ambitions of Egypt and a slap in the face to Somalia’s fragile regime.

Somaliland’s MoU with Ethiopia doesn’t just signify shared economic interests—it could be the spark that sets the entire Horn of Africa ablaze. By leasing a 20-kilometer stretch of the Red Sea coast to Ethiopia in exchange for recognition, Somaliland has just upped the ante in a geopolitical game that could permanently alter the region’s future. Berbera, Somaliland’s thriving port city, is now poised to become the “Singapore of Africa,” a vital trade hub that could overshadow the likes of Somalia’s crumbling coastal outposts.

The Somali government, which remains bogged down by the relentless Al-Shabaab insurgency, is in no position to counter Somaliland’s bold maneuvers. Mogadishu continues to reel from daily terror attacks, its government kept afloat only by the mercy of billions in Western aid that has failed to create even the faintest whisper of stability. Meanwhile, Somaliland operates like a well-oiled machine—peaceful, democratic, and above all, independent.

Egypt, not to be outdone, has been quick to rattle its sabers, threatening Somaliland and Ethiopia’s ambitions with a show of military might bolstered by Turkey and Eritrea. But Somaliland’s government has stood firm, issuing a stark warning to Cairo: focus on your own collapsing borders—Libya, Sudan, and Palestine—before meddling in the affairs of a stable nation.

For Ethiopia, this alliance could open the doors to the Red Sea, allowing it to bypass the bottleneck of Eritrea to access critical trade routes. With this newfound access, Ethiopia could transform its economic standing overnight, turning into a powerhouse with direct access to global markets. Somaliland, meanwhile, gains Ethiopia’s robust military backing and the diplomatic weight necessary to finally achieve international recognition—a goal it has fought for since declaring back its 1960 independence from Somalia in 1991.

And what of Somalia? It’s no secret that Mogadishu has long seethed with jealousy, seeing Somaliland’s rising stature as a direct threat to its own failing administration. The truth is stark: Somaliland is everything Somalia wants to be—a functional, stable, and democratic nation—and Ethiopia’s partnership only rubs salt into the wound.

The roots of this conflict stretch back decades to the brutal dictatorship of Somalia’s Siyad Barre, whose regime all but obliterated the dreams of Somaliland’s people in a vicious crackdown on SNM rebels. Those scars are still fresh, fueling Somaliland’s defiance and steely resolve to never fall under Somalia’s yoke again. Somaliland’s recent moves are not just about the future—they are about justice for a past marred by tyranny and bloodshed.

For Somalia, this conflict couldn’t come at a worse time. Its government is in disarray, lurching from one crisis to another, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud appearing powerless to stop the country from sliding into chaos. As Al-Shabaab continues to wreak havoc on the streets of Mogadishu, Somaliland and Ethiopia are ready to strike—and the entire world is watching.

How will Somalia’s fragile administration respond? With an army weakened by corruption, a capital under siege, and a reliance on foreign aid that is fast drying up, the Somali government finds itself cornered, humiliated, and outgunned.

War isn’t just a possibility—it’s a probability. Egypt’s ambitions in the region, aligned with Turkey and Eritrea, only make the coming conflict more volatile. Somaliland’s MoU with Ethiopia is a direct challenge to the status quo, signaling that the era of ignoring Somaliland’s existence is over.

The stakes are nothing short of historic. If Somaliland and Ethiopia triumph, Somaliland’s decades-long fight for recognition will be vindicated, and Ethiopia will finally secure its long-coveted access to the Red Sea. The balance of power in the Horn of Africa will be permanently altered, and Somalia’s already crumbling grip on its territory will be further weakened. The humiliation of Mogadishu’s government would be absolute, potentially signaling the death knell of Somalia’s dream of reuniting with Somaliland.

The coming weeks and months will be critical. Somaliland, with Ethiopia’s backing, has made a bold bet on the future—one that could see the region’s borders redrawn, and its fortunes reversed. But the clock is ticking, and war drums are beating louder than ever.

This is more than just a war for land or resources—it’s a war for identity, justice, and a place in the world. Somaliland’s recognition is no longer just a distant hope. It’s within reach, and it might come with the ultimate price: a war that will tear the Horn of Africa apart.

Prepare for the storm. Somaliland and Ethiopia are ready to fight, and the region will never be the same.

Next month, Turkey is sending not just any ship, but its Oruc Reis research vessel into uncharted territory—Somali seas—to hunt for something that could change everything: oil. And Turkey isn’t taking any chances. They’re sending frigates and a naval task force to guard it like their lives depend on it. Why? Because what’s at stake could be a jackpot of black gold.

In an unprecedented move, Turkey is diving headfirst into the perilous waters off Somalia with the full force of its navy behind it. This isn’t just about exploration; it’s about making a bold statement in a high-stakes game of energy, power, and dominance. What’s more, Turkish authorities believe Oruc Reis could uncover untapped oil reserves that have remained hidden beneath the waves for centuries. Think that’s an exaggeration? Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar doesn’t think so. He’s already hyping up the mission, saying that they’re ready to bring Somalia’s oil wealth to market and make it flow like never before.

So, what exactly is happening here? Turkey and Somalia are locked in a secretive and ambitious partnership. Under a shadowy deal inked earlier this year, Turkey gets the green light to explore and drill in Somalia’s exclusive economic zone, a vast area stretching across the open ocean. This isn’t just another energy project—this is a historic first. Never before has a Turkish research vessel plunged into these rough waters, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The area is teeming with threats: from land-based militant groups to notorious pirates lurking along the Somali coast. That’s why Ankara is dispatching two frigates and a squad of auxiliary ships to stand guard and protect Oruc Reis as it maps out the ocean floor for oil deposits.

An operation of this scale demands absolute precision—and the clock is ticking. By October, Oruc Reis will be in Somali waters, conducting 3D seismic surveys in three massive blocks of the sea—each covering 5,000 square kilometers. The excitement is already palpable. Tunc Demirtas, a top analyst on African affairs, revealed that this is the first time Turkish forces have faced the challenges of an open ocean operation, where anything could go wrong. “The ship has to be protected from pirates and land-based threats,” Demirtas warns. This is no ordinary mission. It’s an all-out gamble in a region where danger lurks in every wave.

But why now? The answer lies in a complex web of geopolitics. Turkey’s ambitions in the Horn of Africa have been quietly growing, and Somalia is at the heart of it. Earlier this year, the two countries sealed a defense and economic cooperation deal, strengthening Somalia’s maritime defenses and helping establish a navy—a lifeline for the war-torn nation. Somalia, still grappling with internal conflict, is now leaning heavily on Turkish expertise to protect its territorial waters from external threats, and Turkey is more than happy to oblige. The Turkish-Somali alliance is a direct response to Ethiopia’s recent partnership with Somaliland looking to flex its muscles with military ports of its own.

Behind closed doors, the whispers of rivalry are growing louder. Ethiopia is keeping a close eye on this development, but so far, talks to ease tensions haven’t produced much. With Turkey now muscling its way into Somali waters, the stakes in the Horn of Africa are reaching new heights. And all eyes are on one thing: oil.

Bayraktar, the Turkish Energy Minister, dropped a bombshell last week when he hinted that initial data from Somalia’s waters looked promising—very promising. If Oruc Reis strikes oil, it would be a game-changer, not just for Turkey, but for Somalia too. Under the terms of a production-sharing agreement, any oil discovered will be divided between the Turkish government and the Somali state. “After giving them the state rights they need, as long as you have oil, you can sell it anywhere in the world,” Bayraktar boasted, suggesting that the oil could soon be flowing into Turkish refineries.

But it’s not going to be easy. The Gulf of Aden and the surrounding waters near Somalia are some of the most contested, pirate-infested seas in the world. With Turkish naval forces on high alert, this operation is as much a show of military strength as it is an energy endeavor. Ankara has already proven its mettle in the Eastern Mediterranean, locking horns with Greece in a bitter dispute over drilling rights. Now, they’re venturing into the unknown, where new challenges—both on land and at sea—await.

The global energy market is watching closely. Will Turkey strike oil and change the game in the Horn of Africa? Can Somalia leverage this newfound partnership to jumpstart its economy? And most importantly, how will Ethiopia and other regional powers react as Turkey flexes its muscle in this strategically vital region?

Stay tuned, because what happens next could reshape the future of energy, security, and diplomacy in one of the world’s most volatile hotspots. One thing’s for sure: the story of Turkey’s daring gamble in Somali waters is far from over, and the world is waiting to see how it unfolds.

This is a high-stakes energy drama like no other—and it’s just getting started.

Anisa Liban, a leader in central Ohio’s immigrant community, to make history as the first Somali Muslim woman on the Westerville Board of Education.

The Westerville Board of Education is preparing to welcome Anisa Liban as its newest member, marking a significant milestone for representation in the district. Liban, a respected leader in central Ohio’s immigrant and refugee communities, is set to become the first Somali Muslim woman to serve on the board, following the resignation of long-time board member Nancy Nestor-Baker, who stepped down after 25 years of service on August 31.

Liban’s appointment is expected to be officially confirmed and sworn in at the September 23rd Board meeting. Once in place, she will serve the remainder of Nestor-Baker’s term, which runs through December 31, 2025.

Liban’s appointment is seen as a momentous step for Westerville, a district that boasts a large Somali population. As the CEO of Somali Community Link, a nonprofit organization in Columbus that supports immigrants and refugees, Liban brings a wealth of experience and perspective that could significantly impact the district’s policies, particularly regarding its growing immigrant student population.

“As a mother of a young child and a leader in the immigrant community, I’m eager to support the work of the Board and address the needs of all students, especially those from underserved backgrounds,” Liban said. Her work at Somali Community Link, combined with her consulting role at Immigro Consulting and involvement in local nonprofits, showcases her deep commitment to uplifting immigrant families and ensuring they have the support necessary to thrive in the U.S. education system.

Board President Kristy Meyer expressed enthusiasm for Liban’s appointment, underscoring how her unique background in policy, advocacy, and community leadership will enhance the Board’s ability to serve a diverse student body. “Our district is home to a vibrant Somali community, and Anisa’s appointment ensures that our board better reflects the full range of voices in Westerville,” Meyer said. “We’re excited for the new perspectives and leadership she will bring.”

Liban’s trailblazing role as the first Somali Muslim woman on the Board is not just a symbolic victory—it signals a broader commitment to inclusivity and addressing the specific challenges faced by immigrant and refugee students in the district. Liban’s work with the John Glenn College of Public Affairs’ POWER Initiative and as a board member for the nonprofit Our Helpers highlights her expertise in policy and advocacy, crucial skills as the district navigates its future.

The appointment of Liban marks a new chapter for Westerville schools, reinforcing the importance of representation and the power of diverse voices in shaping educational policy. As Liban steps into her new role, many hope her leadership will create lasting change, especially for the district’s growing immigrant population, ensuring that every student, no matter their background, has the opportunity to succeed.

As Turkey seeks BRICS membership, it challenges Western-dominated global governance while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.

Turkey is making waves with a strategic pivot that could reshape its international standing. Turkey is stepping into the spotlight with a bold bid to join BRICS—a move that underscores its desire to forge a unique path between the Eastern and Western spheres of influence.

Consider the backdrop: On December 14, 2022, Turkey made a conspicuous choice during a UN vote on a New International Economic Order. As 123 countries, mainly from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, rallied in favor, Turkey stood alone as the sole abstention. This decision epitomizes Turkey’s foreign policy stance, navigating a delicate balance between Europe and Asia, East and West, in an era where its strategic positioning is more crucial than ever.

Turkey’s bid to join BRICS—an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with recent additions of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE—signals a significant departure from its longstanding European ambitions. Despite numerous attempts to join the European Union, Turkey remains outside the bloc, hindered by Europe’s reluctance to accept a predominantly Muslim-majority nation as a full member. The growing anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim sentiment in Europe further complicates Turkey’s EU aspirations, leaving its European ambitions in limbo.

The EU’s reluctance highlights a broader pattern: Europe, increasingly defining itself through racial and cultural lines, seems less inclined to embrace a diverse, Muslim-majority nation within its ranks. This division is starkly illustrated by the rhetoric of European officials, like Josep Borrell’s controversial “garden vs. jungle” comment, which was widely criticized and later retracted.

Turkey’s frustration with Western institutions extends beyond the EU. Its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system led to a diplomatic fallout with the United States, resulting in a block on Turkey’s F-35 fighter jet purchase and a contentious debate over F-16s. The Erdogan administration’s grievances with the current global order, particularly the UN Security Council’s outdated structure, underscore a broader dissatisfaction with Western hegemony.

The rise of BRICS represents an alternative order where Turkey sees new opportunities for economic and diplomatic influence. As the BRICS grouping evolves, its role has grown from a mere coalition of emerging economies to a formidable global player with its own New Development Bank and Contingent Reserve Arrangement. Turkey’s geographical and economic positioning—bridging Europe, Asia, and Africa—makes it a valuable asset in BRICS’ strategic vision.

Turkey’s recent application to join BRICS Plus, the expanded version of the group, is particularly noteworthy. This move not only challenges the Western-dominated status quo but also signals Turkey’s intent to leverage its unique position between East and West to bolster its global influence. As the first NATO member to seek BRICS membership, Turkey’s bid highlights a critical juncture in its foreign policy—a pivot away from traditional Western alliances towards a broader, multipolar world order.

In this era of geopolitical reconfiguration, Turkey’s BRICS aspiration is more than a mere shift in alliances; it’s a strategic maneuver designed to enhance its global standing and influence. Turkey’s bold step reflects its broader ambition to redefine its role on the global stage, navigating between two worlds with a vision of becoming a linchpin in the emerging international order.

Sahel Nations Forge New Biometric Passports as Alliance Solidifies Against ECOWAS and Former Colonial Powers

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are set to unveil new biometric passports, a move signaling their deepening regional integration and departure from past affiliations. Colonel Assimi Goita of Mali’s ruling junta announced this groundbreaking development in a televised address, marking a bold step as these military-led nations forge a unified path away from their historical colonial ties and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The trio of nations, all governed by military regimes following a series of coups since 2020, have increasingly aligned themselves against Western influences, notably severing ties with their former colonial ruler, France. This strategic pivot toward Russia, alongside their joint formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023, has set the stage for a new era of regional cooperation and autonomy.

The launch of the biometric passports, scheduled for imminent release, aims to streamline travel and enhance security within this newly formed bloc. “In the coming days, a new biometric passport of the AES will be put into circulation with the aim of harmonizing travel documents in our common area,” Goita stated. This move reflects a concerted effort to bolster regional connectivity and streamline administrative processes amidst ongoing instability.

The biometric passports symbolize more than just a logistical upgrade; they represent a significant shift in the political and economic dynamics of the Sahel. With the Confederation of Sahel States set to commence under Mali’s chairmanship, this coalition of approximately 72 million people is poised to challenge the existing regional order. The AES’s decision to distance itself from ECOWAS, accusing it of being a tool for French manipulation, underscores a dramatic reorientation of alliances and priorities.

The Sahel nations are grappling with severe security challenges, as jihadi violence has ravaged northern Mali since 2012 and subsequently spread to Niger and Burkina Faso. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions, exacerbating the need for cohesive regional strategies and infrastructure development. Goita’s address highlighted plans to enhance transport, communications, and information technology networks, reflecting a broader ambition to stabilize and unify the region.

As these Sahelian countries prepare to commemorate the first anniversary of their alliance, the introduction of biometric passports marks a critical milestone in their quest for regional solidarity and self-determination. The implications of this new passport system extend beyond administrative convenience; they signal a transformative shift in how these nations are positioning themselves on the global stage, seeking to consolidate power and influence while navigating a complex landscape of internal and external pressures.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Unwavering Commitment to Excellence Shines at Africa Tourism Leadership Forum

In a moment of resounding triumph for Ethiopian Airlines, the airline has been honored with the prestigious ‘Outstanding Tourism Transportation Award’ at the 2024 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) held in Gaborone, Botswana. This accolade is more than a mere trophy; it’s a testament to Ethiopian Airlines’ exceptional commitment to enhancing tourism across Africa through unparalleled service and sustainability.

The award, a pinnacle of recognition within the African tourism industry, celebrates organizations that excel in delivering top-notch service to travelers while maintaining strong sustainability and environmental credentials. Ethiopian Airlines’ win highlights its status as a paragon of reliability and efficiency in transportation, serving even the continent’s most remote and sought-after tourism destinations.

“We are immensely honored to receive this prestigious award,” declared Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. His statement was not just an expression of pride but a reflection of the airline’s deep-rooted commitment to both superior service and sustainable tourism. “This recognition validates our unwavering dedication to offering the highest quality of service and fostering sustainable tourism across Africa. As the largest network operator in Africa, our vision has always been to bridge Africa with the world and vice versa. This award from ATLF motivates us to elevate our standards even further.”

The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum, a vital Pan-African platform, plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue among key players in Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors. It provides a stage for networking, exchanging insights, and developing strategies to enhance intra-continental travel and tourism, thereby reinforcing the brand value of “Destination Africa.”

Ethiopian Airlines’ accolade is a nod to its groundbreaking efforts in promoting tourism across the continent. Through its subsidiary, Ethiopian Holidays, the airline offers a comprehensive array of travel packages seamlessly integrated with its expansive network of destinations. This strategic synergy between tourism and air transport underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ role as a driving force in the African travel industry.

The ATLF Awards, notable for being the first Pan-African accolades dedicated to recognizing African-driven innovation and excellence in travel and tourism, place Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of transformative initiatives within the sector. The airline’s win is not just a personal victory but a milestone for African aviation as a whole, showcasing the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.

As Ethiopian Airlines continues to soar to new heights, this award stands as a testament to its pioneering spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. The airline’s achievement at the ATLF not only underscores its dedication to enhancing travel experiences across Africa but also sets a benchmark for the industry, inviting others to follow in its trailblazing footsteps.

South Sudan Delays Elections to 2026 Amidst Ongoing Challenges and Criticisms

South Sudan has announced a two-year postponement of its elections originally scheduled for December 2024, citing the need to complete essential preparatory processes, including a national census, drafting a permanent constitution, and registering political parties. The new election date is set for December 22, 2026.

Presidential Adviser on National Security Tut Gatluak confirmed the extension, emphasizing that it will allow for the completion of critical processes necessary for a successful election. This decision marks the second delay since South Sudan’s independence in 2011 and extends the transitional period that began in February 2020.

The postponement follows recommendations from electoral institutions and the security sector. Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro supported the delay, citing the need for thorough preparations to ensure the elections’ credibility.

South Sudan has faced significant challenges, including a severe economic crisis and ongoing instability. The country’s oil exports have been disrupted by a damaged pipeline in neighboring Sudan, exacerbating the economic difficulties. This has led to unpaid civil servants and strained resources.

Professor Abednego Akok, Chairperson of the National Election Commission, noted last month that voter registration had not yet commenced due to funding shortages. The Tumaini initiative peace talks in neighboring Kenya, aimed at including non-signatory groups in the peace process, have also stalled, adding to the uncertainty.

The extension has sparked a range of reactions. Andrea Mach Mabior, an independent political analyst, warned that conducting elections that fail to meet international standards would be a waste of resources and could lead to further instability.

“Going for elections that do not meet international standards will be a waste of money,” Mabior told The Associated Press.

Conversely, Edmund Yakani, executive director of the Community Empowerment Progress Organization, expressed concern that any delay beyond December 2024 could increase the risk of violence. He argued that timely elections could help avert further unrest.

“If we fail to conduct the elections in December 2024, the chance of the country turning into violence is higher than if we go for the elections,” Yakani said in August.

South Sudan’s ongoing crises have led to a dire humanitarian situation, with an estimated 9 million people—73% of the population—projected to need humanitarian assistance in 2024, according to the UN Humanitarian Needs Overview for South Sudan. The country continues to grapple with the aftermath of civil war, climate change, and economic hardships, which further complicate the electoral process and overall stability.

South Sudan’s decision to postpone its elections reflects the complex challenges facing the country as it navigates a turbulent transition period. While the delay aims to address critical preparatory needs, it also raises concerns about potential instability and the future of the peace process. As South Sudan continues to confront severe economic and humanitarian issues, the international community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and impact the nation’s path toward sustainable peace and democracy.

Tehran Condemns Sanctions and Accusations as Western Nations Issue Joint Response 

Iran’s government has taken a firm stance in response to accusations from European nations regarding its alleged supply of missiles to Russia. On Thursday, Tehran summoned the envoys from Britain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands to address these claims and express its condemnation.

According to state-run IRNA news agency, Iran’s Foreign Ministry separately summoned the four European envoys to strongly reject accusations that Tehran had provided short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The ministry criticized the joint statement issued by Britain, France, and Germany, calling it an “unconventional and non-constructive statement.”

The joint statement, released on Tuesday, denounced the alleged missile transfer as an “escalation by both Iran and Russia” and a “direct threat to European security.” It also introduced new sanctions against Iran, including the cancellation of air service agreements with Iran, which will restrict Iran Air’s operations to the U.K. and Europe.

IRNA reported that the Iranian Foreign Ministry viewed these actions as part of a broader Western strategy of hostility towards Iran. The ministry warned that Iran would respond appropriately to what it perceives as unfounded accusations and punitive measures.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken weighed in on the situation, confirming that Iran had ignored previous warnings about the potential escalation of the conflict. During a visit to London, Blinken stated that Russian military personnel had been trained in Iran to operate the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a maximum range of 120 kilometers.

Blinken’s remarks align with the broader Western condemnation of Iran’s alleged actions, which are viewed as exacerbating the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The summoning of European envoys and the subsequent condemnation by Iran highlight the growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine. Iran’s strong reaction underscores the sensitive nature of international relations in the context of the ongoing war and the broader geopolitical dynamics.

As Iran and the European countries navigate this diplomatic dispute, the impact on regional security and international relations remains a key concern. The European sanctions and diplomatic measures are likely to influence the interactions between Tehran and Western nations in the coming months.

The diplomatic confrontation between Iran and European countries over the alleged supply of missiles to Russia underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical rivalries. The European sanctions and Iran’s strong rebuttal reflect the complexities of international diplomacy in a time of heightened global conflict.