With the exception of votes in the semi-autonomous region of Puntland and the breakaway region of Somaliland, Somalia last held direct elections in 1969.

Somalia history and rise reveal a forgotten African power that ruled oceans, resisted empire, collapsed, and is rebuilding today.

Turkish President Erdogan calls Israel's recognition of Somaliland "unacceptable" as Ankara pledges drilling, defence, and diplomatic backing for Mogadishu.

Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, prepares for its historic one-person, one-vote election in over 50 years, moving away from a clan-based system. The vote, though a sign of democratic progress, is contested by opposition parties,

Under tight security, Polling opened at 6 a.m. on Thursday in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, with residents queuing early to cast their ballots in local council elections, officials said.