Friyday 12, Sep 2025 {HMC}Somalia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Hajji, has announced a major initiative to address the critical need for blood in the community with the opening of a new 24-hour blood bank in Mogadishu. The new facility aims to provide a reliable and accessible source of blood for those in need, a service that was previously difficult to obtain.

During a public address, Minister Hajji highlighted the urgent demand for blood in the Somali community, stating that it is a resource that cannot be sourced through conventional means like social media. He explained that the new blood bank is a significant and important response to this need.

A key feature of the new blood bank is that it will provide blood to patients free of charge, a change from previous practices where there may have been an associated cost. The minister concluded by reiterating the critical need for blood and the importance of this new, accessible service.

Source Sonna

Friyday 12, Sep 2025 {HMC} The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, Da’uud Aweys Jama, led a delegation to the 11th International United Cultures Forum, a major global event aimed at leveraging the power of culture to foster international cooperation and dialogue. Held from September 11-13, 2025, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the forum was themed “Return to Culture — New Opportunities”.

In his address at the forum, Minister Jama spoke about culture as a vital tool for diplomacy in an increasingly complex world. He emphasized that culture can serve as a bridge to connect diverse societies, stating that it has the power to unite different ideas and bring about peace. Other leaders at the conference echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of using diverse cultures to prevent conflict and create opportunities for global cooperation.

The three-day forum, which drew delegates from more than 60 countries, featured over 40 events, including lectures, panel discussions, and thematic sessions. The forum’s mission is to preserve and develop Russian culture while also promoting international cultural exchange and cooperation. Somalia’s participation in such a high-profile event is part of its broader diplomatic strategy to engage with global partners and use its rich cultural heritage to advance international relations.

On the sidelines of the main events, Minister Jama held separate meetings with several leaders to discuss strengthening cultural development cooperation between Somalia and their respective countries. The discussions focused on how these partnerships could contribute to global peace and mutual understanding. Somalia’s engagement in this international forum demonstrates its commitment to fostering stronger ties and a more unified voice on the world stage.

Source Sonna

Friyday 12, Sep 2025 {HMC}The Somali National Army (SNA) and local residents have inflicted a major defeat on al-Shabaab militants in the El-Dheer district of the Galguduud region. The victory was confirmed by the Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, who stated that the terrorists suffered significant losses following a desperate attack on the town.

According to initial reports, the al-Shabaab fighters launched a coordinated assault on the area, hoping to seize control. However, the combined forces of the SNA and local armed residents bravely repelled the attempt with a swift and coordinated response, forcing the militants to retreat. The defensive actions resulted in heavy casualties for the enemy, and the bodies of the terrorists were left scattered as they fled, neutralizing the threat before it could cause further harm to the community.

Minister Fiqi’s statement provides official confirmation of the successful operation, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing accurate updates on the ongoing security situation. He praised the bravery of the “heroes of the Somali National Army and the local residents” for their decisive action against the militants.

The victory in El-Dheer is a crucial part of the broader, ongoing military offensive to liberate areas across the Galguduud region. The successful collaboration between the national army and local communities continues to be a key factor in the campaign’s success, demonstrating a unified front against terrorism.

Source Sonna

Friyday 12, Sep 2025 {HMC} Security forces in Puntland have arrested several soldiers and officers accused of leaving the frontlines in the Calmiskaat mountains of Bari region with weapons seized during battles against ISIS.

The arrests were carried out in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland, according to security officials who spoke to HOL.

Authorities said the detained men were not officially part of Puntland’s army but operated under the command of a former officer who now leads a clan militia.

During the ongoing fight against ISIS in the Bari mountains, Puntland has repeatedly warned that any weapons captured from the militants must remain on the battlefield. Officials say the practice of removing arms from combat zones undermines discipline and weakens the effectiveness of counter-ISIS operations.

Recently, the Bari regional police chief accused some soldiers, selected on tribal grounds, of obstructing operations and using checkpoints to seize weapons for themselves.

Despite the internal challenges, Puntland forces continue to make gains in the mountainous areas where ISIS fighters remain entrenched.

Source Hiiraan Online