Somalia’s largest market, Bakara Market in the capital Mogadishu has been closed for the second day in a row as traders protest against a newly imposed tax on mobile money transactions. This market is a vital economic center for the country, and its shutdown has caused significant disruption. Videos shared on social media show hundreds...
In a significant military operation in Somalia’s Gedo region, the Somali National Army, along with the Jubbaland Dervishes, successfully regained control of key areas from Al-Shabaab militants along the Luuq-Dolow road. This operation was launched in response to an increase in militant activity, where Al-Shabaab had been threatening and intimidating local residents. The military action...
The UK’s ambassador to Somalia, Mike recently faced backlash after making comments that seemed to distinguish between Somaliland and Somalia as separate entities. These remarks sparked significant dispute within the Somali government, which viewed them as an affront to the country’s territorial integrity. In response to the criticism, the ambassador issued a statement to clarify...
Members of Somalia’s 11th Parliament will hold a special session on Monday to discuss a motion signed by several parliamentarians concerning a new tax introduced by the Ministry of Finance. Some legislators submitted the motion to their leadership, arguing that the tax places an additional burden on the residents of Mogadishu. They believe that the...
Somali’s Gedo region officials have voiced strong opposition to the African Union’s (AU) plans to deploy Egyptian forces as part of a new mission starting in January 2025. The regional leaders, who are under Jubaland State, have promised to resist any efforts to bring Egyptian troops into their area. Colonel Ali Abshir of the Somali...
Business owners in Mogadishu have shut down their shops in protest against a new 5% sales tax imposed by the Somali government. This tax, which applies to both regular goods and digital transactions, has caused widespread anger among the business community. They argue that the tax will make it even harder to afford everyday necessities...
The Federal Government of Somalia has announced that starting Sunday, August 18, 2024, it will begin directly deducting sales tax. The government has stated that this 5% tax will be automatically withdrawn from business accounts at the time of purchase when a customer makes a transaction, with the sales tax being charged to citizens. “The...
Mogadishu, Somalia – Tensions escalated in Mogadishu’s KM4 crossroads as police clashed with angry protesters for the second consecutive day. The unrest was sparked by Tuk-tuk drivers protesting the Somali government’s recent decision to increase licensing fees from $120 to $200. The drivers, frustrated by the fee hike, blocked major streets in the capital, leading...
The indirect negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia in Ankara have reportedly collapsed, signaling a significant setback in the diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing dispute between the two nations. Facilitated by Turkey, the talks aimed to address the controversy surrounding Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia perceives as a direct challenge to its sovereignty. Despite...
In Mogadishu, a large protest led by rickshaw drivers erupted following the Somali government’s decision to increase licensing fees. The drivers, angered by the rise in fees from $120 to $200, took to the streets, blocking the main thoroughfare between the airport and the presidential palace. The demonstration quickly escalated, leading to clashes between protesters...