Stories from the Horn #160
November 8, 2022
This week I have been researching the pre-Islamic religions of the Horn of Africa, especially Waaqism. Waaq was a god of fertility, rain, and blessing who lived in the sky and sent angels, ayaane, to bring blessing or messages to people. Waaq was all present, all knowing, all sufficient. The name continues to appear in the Somali language in words like barwaaqo (blessing) and ceel waaq (blessed water well).
Have you heard of Waaq? Are you familiar with the religions in your region that existed before the one that currently dominates?
On to the news…
Ethiopia
Ethiopia peace talks started two weeks ago in South Africa
And the peace talks appear to have been effective. Government and Tigrayan forces sign a peace deal.
Djibouti
Will Africa see its Great Green Wall?
Humanitarian action for children in Djibouti
20 million dollar US grant to help Djibouti deal with climate change and hunger
Djibouti is seeking long-term khat supply from Kenya
Djibouti flagged tanker runs aground near Singapore
Urban mosquito risks overturning progress fighting malaria
Somalia/land
Horrific twin bomb attacks in Mogadishu target the Education Ministry and kill at least 100
The Sand Doodler who Silenced Her Islamic Critics
A Deadly Decade for Somalia’s Journalists
Have a great week!