Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud congratulates Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on his election as the African Union Commission Chairperson at the AU Summit in Addis Ababa.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – On Saturday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud congratulated Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, on his election as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The election took place during the African Union annual summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In his statement, President Mohamud expressed Somalia’s commitment to collaborating with Youssouf to promote peace, security, and development across Africa. He also praised the leadership and dedication of the outgoing Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, for his work during his tenure at the African Union.
“Congratulations to H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on his election as AU Commission Chairperson. We also extend our appreciation to H.E. Moussa Faki for his exemplary leadership. Special recognition goes to H.E. Raila Odinga for his ongoing dedication to regional cooperation. Somalia stands in full support of the AU’s vision for a united and prosperous Africa,” stated President Mohamud.
The election was a closely contested race, with Youssouf emerging victorious after defeating Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister, and Richard Randriamandrato, Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister, in several rounds of voting. Youssouf gained significant ground after trailing Odinga in the initial rounds, ultimately securing a decisive win with 33 votes in the final round.
Stay tuned for updates on how the new AUC Chairperson will shape Africa’s future!
Somali opposition leaders accuse President Mohamud of consolidating power and imposing unlawful financial policies, raising concerns over national stability.
Somali Opposition Accuses President Mohamud of Power Grab and Economic Mismanagement
A coalition of Somali opposition parties and civil society groups has accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of consolidating power and mismanaging the economy, warning that his administration’s actions threaten the country’s stability.
In a statement issued after a two-day conference in Mogadishu, opposition leaders alleged that Mohamud has repeatedly violated Somalia’s Provisional Constitution by centralizing authority, weakening independent institutions, and implementing unlawful financial policies.
Constitutional Violations & Electoral Controversy
The opposition charged that Mohamud’s administration has sidelined Somalia’s federal structure, disregarding key provisions designed to protect national unity and government accountability.
“The president has reduced the constitutional framework to a mere formality,” the statement declared, citing violations of Article 1, Clause 3 (which guarantees Somalia’s unity and sovereignty) and Article 3, Clause 3 (which mandates national cohesion).
Further, they accused Mohamud of bypassing legal procedures to install an electoral commission that lacks legitimacy. Opposition leaders pointed to Articles 111E and 111G, stating that the appointments ignored constitutional guidelines.
Economic Crisis & Business Backlash
Beyond political concerns, the opposition condemned the administration’s handling of the economy, highlighting growing frustration among business leaders in Banadir. Traders have protested against what they describe as “unjustified taxation”, which they claim has forced the closure of Mogadishu’s largest commercial hub, Bakara Market.
“The illegal taxes imposed on businesses have crippled commerce, caused widespread job losses, and deepened economic distress,” the statement asserted.
The opposition also accused the government of granting financial advantages to businesses linked to Mohamud’s allies, exacerbating economic inequality.
Elections & National Stability at Risk
With national elections approaching, the opposition issued a warning: If the government proceeds with a one-sided electoral process, they will hold their own elections.
“We refuse to participate in a manipulated election that serves only one side,” a senior opposition official stated.
The coalition also condemned the government’s handling of security forces, accusing it of using state agencies for political suppression rather than national security.
Call to Action
The conference concluded with a rallying call for Somali citizens, civil society organizations, and regional administrations to resist what opposition leaders described as an alarming shift toward authoritarian rule.
“The Somali people must stand against the erosion of democracy and any attempts to weaken our constitutional system,” the statement urged.
As political tensions rise, all eyes are on Somalia’s leadership and the unfolding electoral landscape. Will the country navigate these challenges peacefully, or is it heading toward deeper political conflict?
Bringing the Media World Together! The New Americans Media Alliance (NAMA) is uniting journalists, broadcasters, and media experts to create impactful stories that empower communities. Join the movement and be part of the change!
A New Era in Media Collaboration Begins!
Columbus, Ohio – The media landscape is evolving, and yesterday marked the birth of something truly transformative—the New Americans Media Alliance (NAMA). This dynamic coalition brings together diverse media professionals to amplify voices, bridge cultural gaps, and create impactful content that educates, informs, and empowers communities.
What is New Americans Media Alliance (NAMA)?
NAMA is more than just a media alliance, it’s a movement. Founded by a powerhouse team of media leaders, including:
Together, they are laying the foundation for an organization that unites journalists, filmmakers, media executives, and storytellers who are passionate about uplifting New Americans.
Our Mission: Why NAMA Matters
New Americans play a crucial role in shaping society, yet their stories often go unheard. NAMA exists to change that. Our mission is to: ✔ Empower communities through informative, engaging media content. ✔ Foster cross-cultural dialogue by bridging gaps between communities. ✔ Support media professionals with career development, training, and networking. ✔ Collaborate on investigative journalism to highlight untold stories.
What’s Next for NAMA?
Major Initiatives in the Works:
NAMA Media Conference – Bringing together top voices for powerful discussions.
Joint Media Projects – Investigative reports, special productions, and exclusive coverage.
Career Development Programs – Training, workshops, and mentorship for young media professionals.
Cross-Collaboration – News analysis, guest features, and strategic partnerships.
Community Outreach – Strengthening connections through local initiatives.
Join the Movement!
This is just the beginning. Whether you’re a journalist, content creator, or media enthusiast, we invite you to be part of this journey.
Victory for Djibouti! Mohamoud Ali Youssouf defeats Kenya’s Raila Odinga to clinch the African Union Commission Chairperson seat in a landmark election.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a historic contested election, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mohamoud Ali Youssouf has emerged as the new African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, securing a decisive 33 votes on Saturday in Addis Ababa. His triumph over Kenya’s Raila Odinga and Madagascar’s Richard Randiamandrato marks a significant diplomatic victory for Djibouti, further solidifying its influence within the African Union.
A High-Stakes Election with Intense Diplomatic Move
Youssouf’s win came after six rounds of secret balloting at the prestigious Nelson Mandela Hall, where African leaders engaged in strategic alliances and negotiations that ultimately determined the outcome. His victory over Raila Odinga, a seasoned Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister, underscores the continent’s confidence in his leadership and vision for Africa’s future.
Voting Breakdown:
With over two decades of experience as Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Youssouf brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the AUC. He is set to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chad’s former Prime Minister, and take on the responsibility of spearheading Africa’s integration, security, and economic transformation agenda.
A Resounding Endorsement from the African Union
The African Union officially congratulated H.E. Mohamoud Ali Youssouf on his election, expressing hope that his tenure will usher in progress, unity, and sustainability in line with #Agenda2063—the continent’s blueprint for transformation. The AU reaffirmed its commitment to building #TheAfricaWeWant under his leadership.
The Significance of His Victory
Youssouf’s election is a game-changer for Djibouti and the AU. As the new chief executive of the Addis Ababa-based AU secretariat, he will be at the forefront of addressing pressing continental challenges, including:
Strengthening peace and security amid regional conflicts
Boosting economic integration and trade partnerships
Implementing key AU reforms to enhance efficiency and impact
This decisive victory is more than just a leadership transition—it is a powerful statement of Djibouti’s growing diplomatic stature in African and global affairs. As Youssouf assumes office, the continent looks ahead with great anticipation for a new era of unity, progress, and transformation under his leadership.
Stay tuned for updates on how the new AUC Chairperson will shape Africa’s future!
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Addis Ababa ahead of the 38th AU Summit.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Addis Ababa on Friday afternoon to attend the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Summit, set to begin on Saturday.
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, the Somali delegation was received by Ethiopia’s Minister of Industry, Melaku Alebel, ahead of high-level discussions that are expected to shape Africa’s political and security landscape.
AU Summit Focus: Conflict Resolution & Leadership Change
This year’s summit brings together African leaders to explore new strategies for resolving ongoing conflicts across the continent. The wars in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are set to dominate discussions, alongside the highly anticipated vote for a new AU Commission chairperson.
Somalia’s Key Agenda at the Summit
President Mohamud is also scheduled to engage in bilateral sideline meetings with fellow African heads of state to address Somalia’s pressing political and security concerns, including:
The fight against al-Shabaab
Ongoing electoral reforms
Strengthening regional cooperation
As the AU Summit unfolds, all eyes will be on how leaders tackle Africa’s most urgent challenges. Stay tuned for more updates.
Essential Employer Guide: Navigating SSA No-Match Letters, ICE Raids & Form I-9 Audits for Compliance
Ensuring compliance with employment verification regulations is essential for businesses, especially those that employ immigrants and refugees. To help employers navigate Social Security Administration (SSA) No-Match Letters, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) audits, and Form I-9 compliance, we are providing a critical resource that offers guidance on these important issues.
What You Need to Know:
SSA No-Match Letters: These are issued when an employee’s Social Security information does not match government records. While receiving a No-Match Letter does not necessarily mean an employee is unauthorized to work, it is important for businesses to respond appropriately without engaging in discriminatory practices.
ICE Raids & Enforcement: Employers may be subject to ICE audits or enforcement actions, making it crucial to understand workplace rights, employee protections, and legal obligations.
Form I-9 Audits: Properly maintaining and verifying employment eligibility through Form I-9 is required by law. Employers must ensure that their documentation practices comply with federal regulations to avoid penalties.
To help businesses stay informed and compliant, we are sharing an Employer Resource Guide that provides step-by-step instructions on how to respond to these situations.
A Defining Moment in Regional Leadership and Security!
Ethiopia Strengthens Its Leadership in the AU with a Strategic Peace and Security Council Seat
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Ethiopia has secured a seat in the African Union’s top security body for a three-year term, reinforcing its role in regional peace efforts. The country won 38 votes at the 46th Executive Council meeting in Addis Ababa, surpassing Rwanda (1 vote) and Somalia (10 votes).
This appointment follows the upcoming exit of five council members whose terms end on March 31, making way for new representatives. Alongside Ethiopia, Cameroon (Central Africa), Eswatini (Southern Africa), and Nigeria (West Africa) also claimed seats. The North African position remains vacant due to an inconclusive vote.
Advancing Stability and Cooperation
Government officials welcomed the election result, emphasizing the nation’s ongoing dedication to security and development across the continent. A statement shared on X highlighted efforts in conflict resolution and peacekeeping.
As a returning member of the 15-seat council, the country will play a key role in shaping strategies to prevent crises and promote stability. This marks its fifth term in the organization, reinforcing its influence in regional decision-making.
Somalia’s Role in AU Appointments and Security Discussions
Somalia contributed to the selection of African representatives for international roles by hosting a high-level ministerial meeting in Addis Ababa. Discussions, led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar (Balcad), focused on leadership positions such as the President of the African Development Bank and the Director-General of UNESCO.
Meanwhile, officials confirmed progress in finalizing contributions to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The agreement on troop deployment is expected soon, strengthening regional security collaboration.
Stay informed on African Union developments and peace initiatives—For updates on latestinitiatives, visit Dalmar TV.
A special evening at the Ohio Governor’s Residence honored leaders making an impact in business and community development during a Black History Month Reception.
Shafi Shafat: A Visionary Leader Driving Economic and Community Growth in Ohio
Columbus, OH – February 2025
Shafi Shafat, President of the Somali American Chamber of Commerce, took part in a distinguished Black History Month Reception at the Ohio Governor’s Residence. The event, hosted by Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine, honored the achievements of Black leaders across the state, recognizing their contributions to business, community development, and public service.
As a dedicated advocate for economic growth, youth empowerment, and minority representation, Shafat has worked to create opportunities for underserved communities. His leadership efforts have earned recognition from key decision-makers at the state level.
His invitation to this gathering highlights his growing impact and the meaningful change he continues to drive. Through his role in the Somali American Chamber of Commerce, he has helped expand business opportunities and promote economic progress for entrepreneurs.
Dalmar TV is proud to spotlight this milestone and celebrate his ongoing commitment to public service.
Somalia and Azerbaijan strengthen defense collaboration with an agreement signed in Baku.
Somalia and Azerbaijan Strengthen Ties with Defense Agreement
Somalia and Azerbaijan have taken a significant step in strengthening their bilateral ties with a historic defense cooperation agreement. Signed in Baku by Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov, the pact marks a new era of collaboration in defense and military industry development.
The Somali Ministry of Defense described the agreement as a “key milestone” in enhancing Somalia’s military capabilities, emphasizing its role in facilitating technical support and knowledge-sharing.
The signing followed high-level talks between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, where discussions covered strategic partnerships in defense, green energy, and diplomatic cooperation.
In addition to the defense pact, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi signed an education cooperation agreement, further deepening ties between the two nations.
As Somalia continues to strengthen its international partnerships, this agreement underscores its commitment to expanding defense cooperation—building on its long-standing alliance with Türkiye, a key partner for both Somalia and Azerbaijan.
Universal TV faces a ban in Somaliland amid growing media restrictions.
Somaliland authorities have revoked Universal TV’s broadcasting license, accusing the station of undermining the self-declared republic’s sovereignty. This latest move highlights increasing restrictions on press freedom in the region.
In an official statement, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and National Guidance announced that Universal TV is banned from operating in Somaliland effective February 12, 2025.
“Following repeated violations of Somaliland’s sovereignty, we have officially revoked Universal TV’s media license,” the ministry stated.
Beyond shutting down the broadcaster, authorities have also barred local media houses—including Astaan TV, True Cable TV, and Hornsat—from collaborating with Universal TV. Additionally, businesses registered in Somaliland are now prohibited from advertising on the station, with legal consequences for non-compliance.
“All commercial entities must cease advertising on Universal TV immediately,” the statement warned. “Failure to comply will result in legal action.”
Universal TV’s Ongoing Clash with Somaliland
Universal TV, licensed in October 2010, has faced repeated clashes with the Somaliland government over its editorial content. Officials claim the station aired material hostile to Somaliland’s sovereignty, violating its media regulations.
A final warning was issued on June 27, 2020, urging Universal TV to comply with local laws. However, authorities say the broadcaster continued to defy regulations, prompting its license revocation.
Media Crackdown Raises Press Freedom Concerns
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains internationally unrecognized, has a history of strict media control. The government has previously shut down news outlets and detained journalists, raising concerns among press freedom advocates.
This latest action against Universal TV is part of a broader pattern of media censorship, as Somaliland seeks to control narratives around sovereignty and governance.
Minister of Information Ahmed-Yasiin Sh. Ali Ayaanle defended the move, asserting it was necessary to protect Somaliland’s national identity.
“We will not tolerate any media violations of our sovereignty,” Ayaanle stated. “All broadcasters must operate within the legal framework that upholds our national interests.”
Authorities have directed media regulators and law enforcement agencies to enforce the ban, signaling a tougher stance on independent journalism.
Uncertain Future for Universal TV
With the ban in effect and financial and legal hurdles mounting, Universal TV’s future in Somaliland remains unclear. The station has yet to respond to the government’s decision.
Meanwhile, media watchdogs warn of shrinking press freedoms, urging Somaliland’s authorities to respect independent reporting and free speech.
As the crackdown intensifies, journalists and broadcasters in Somaliland face an increasingly difficult landscape—one where media freedom is under constant threat.
