Mo Speaks

After watching the Netflix documentary on the OceanGate submersible disaster, I reached a clear and unsettling conclusion: narcissistic leadership can quietly destroy everything around it—people, systems, and ultimately lives . This is not a psychological diagnosis of Stockton Rush, but my personal evaluation based on repeated patterns of behavior shown throughout the documentary. What struck me most was that the failure was not caused by a single technical flaw or one poor decision. It was the result of a pattern of behavior that created ripples across the entire organization, weakening every layer of safety. From early on, Stockton Rush showed an inability to accept expert disagreement. When Mr. David Lochridge , the Director of Marine Operations, requested that independent third-party inspectors be involved to verify the hull’s design and ensure safety, Rush denied the request . Rush then asked David to carry out the safety checks himself. After David gave his feedback, Rush fired...

Somali society is built on unity, family, and mutual support. This culture of helping each other whether through remittances, emotional backing, or community-based aid has allowed the Somali people to survive decades of war, displacement, and poverty. There’s no denying that this solidarity is powerful and has kept the nation standing where systems have failed. But while everyone celebrates the strength in togetherness, it’s time to talk about the other side, the part we often ignore. Too much dependence on each other, especially in modern times, is creating hidden problems that hold individuals back and slow down Somalia’s national progress.             In many Somali families, when one person succeeds especially someone living abroad, they’re expected to carry the entire family. This can include sending money for school fees, medical bills, house rent, weddings, and more. The pressure is constant, and for many young Somalis in the diaspora, it beco...

Somalia has entered into a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Turkey for oil exploration and production. This agreement outlines the relationship between the Somali government and Turkish companies and is a crucial part of Somalia’s oil industry development. However, there has been some confusion around what these agreements really mean for the Somali people, especially when it comes to how revenue is shared. To clarify, let’s break down the agreement with some simple examples and figures.   The Key Points of the Agreement The PSA between Somalia and Turkey specifies several financial mechanisms that govern how oil revenue is divided. Some of the most important mechanisms are: Royalty : This is a percentage of the production that Somalia receives directly, in either cash or kind (oil). Cost Recovery : This clause allows the Turkish companies to recover the costs they spend on exploring, drilling, and producing oil, but only up to a certai...

As Somalia prepares to embark on oil and gas production, it is crucial to understand the geopolitical landscape surrounding these resources and the competitive dynamics of the global market. Oil and gas are vital resources that significantly impact international relations and economies. How Somalia manages these resources will define its regional and global standing. The Impact of Oil and Gas Geopolitics on Somalia Opportunities: Attracting Foreign Investment : If Somalia's oil is sweet crude (low sulfur), it could be easier and cheaper to refine, making it highly valuable in the global market. Strengthened Regional Influence : Oil and gas can provide Somalia with a significant geopolitical position, facilitating stronger trade agreements and partnerships. Challenges: Foreign Influence on Domestic Policy : Countries interested in Somalia's oil and gas may influence domestic policies related to production and export, necessitat...

As we stand on the brink of significant global transformations towards sustainable and clean energy, it is crucial to highlight the immense potential Somalia holds in the realm of oil and gas resources. According to the 2D seismic data conducted by TGS in 2014 , it has been estimated that there could be a staggering 30 billion barrels of crude oil across the 15 blocks initially offered by Somalia's government. Furthermore, Somalia stands as one of the last frontiers for oil and gas exploration. Understanding the finite nature of these resources and the evolving global energy landscape, now is a critical juncture for Somalia to initiate the exploration, development, and production of its oil and gas reserves. The impending shift towards sustainable energy sources over the next 20-30 years emphasizes the urgency for us to harness and maximize the benefits of our hydrocarbon resources while they are still in demand. Initiating such endeavors will not only elevate the economic status...

In recent weeks, Kenya has been at the center of intense public protests following President Ruto's abrupt reversal on a controversial finance bill. This decision, spurred by widespread demonstrations that tragically turned deadly, marks a critical moment in Kenya's democratic journey. Contrastingly, neighboring Somalia rarely witnesses such public displays of dissent, prompting a deeper examination of protest dynamics in these East African nations. Current Situation in Kenya President Ruto initially supported a finance bill that included contentious provisions, such as tax increases and austerity measures, aimed at bolstering government revenue. These proposals ignited widespread public outrage, leading to protests across major cities. Citizens, civil society groups, and opposition parties vehemently opposed the measures, arguing they would disproportionately burden the already struggling populace. The protests escalated, culminating in clashes with security forces that tragic...