DAILY SITUATION UPDATE
Somalia, July 30, 2023
Ethiopia protested against Kenya’s perceived monopoly over Somalia’s Khat market, leading to tension and discontent. Somali representatives travelled to Addis Ababa for negotiations, suggesting a starting market monopoly followed by a competitive scenario similar to Kenya’s arrangement. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on Kenya’s market share and allegations of a cartel associated with President Mohamud benefiting from the Khat trade. In Somaliland, President Muse Bihi Abdi addressed security concerns regarding an armed rebel group in the Sahil region and expressed confidence in resolving tensions through upcoming elections. Concurrently, media arguments arose between groups linked to President Mohamud and his predecessor Farmajo, involving circulated videos alleging connections to Al-Shabaab. On the security front, the Somali National Army assessed ongoing training and operations, while authorities raised concerns about the imminent takeover of El-Waq district by Al-Shabaab militants. Heavy fighting erupted in Goofgaduud Burey district, prompting revised strategies against Al-Shabaab in Guri’el and increased deployment of security forces in Somaliland’s Sahil region to control the situation.
Summary of Events
Politics: Several significant events unfolded in Somalia and its neighbouring countries on July 30, 2023. Ethiopia protested Kenya’s perceived monopoly over Somalia’s Khat market, leading to mounting discontent. Somali representatives were dispatched to Addis Ababa for negotiations, proposing a starting market monopoly followed by a competitive scenario similar to Kenya’s setup. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on Kenya’s market share if a settlement is reached, along with allegations of a cartel associated with President Mohamud benefiting from the Khat trade. In Somaliland, President Muse Bihi Abdi addressed security concerns regarding an armed rebel group in the Sahil region and expressed confidence in resolving tensions through upcoming elections. Media arguments arose between groups associated with President Mohamud and his predecessor Farmajo, with videos alleging ties to Al-Shabaab being circulated.
1. Ethiopia protested against Kenya’s perceived monopoly over Somalia’s Khat market, leading to mounting discontent.
2. Somali representatives were dispatched to Addis Ababa for negotiations, proposing a starting market monopoly followed by a competitive scenario like Kenya’s setup.
3. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on Kenya’s market share if a settlement is reached, as well as allegations of a cartel associated with President Mohamud benefiting from the Khat levy.
4. Somaliland’s President addressed security concerns posed by an armed rebel group in the Sahil region and expressed confidence in resolving tensions through upcoming elections.
5. The Somali parliament expressed concerns about an al-Shabaab attack on the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy, with the Defence Minister stating that an investigation was ongoing.
6. Finnish Economy Minister, Wille Rydman, faced controversy after private conversations containing racist remarks were published, leading to calls for accountability and distancing from racism within the coalition government.
7. The Ministry of Health of Somalia conducted a conference in Mogadishu to enhance healthcare services, focusing on accessibility, affordability, infrastructure development, and preventive medicine practices.
8. Somaliland’s Minister of Commerce visited Taiwan to sign a trade promotion pact, aiming to enhance two-way business exchanges between the two regions. Somaliland operates as a de facto state.
9. The review of March-April-May (MAM) seasonal rainfall highlighted an early transition into the Gu long rains season, varying rainfall patterns across different regions of Somalia, and both positive and negative impacts on agriculture and food security.
10. Puntland signed a cooperation and development agreement with the Kenya School of Government to strengthen personnel training at the Puntland Civil Service Training Institute.
11. Somali Commissioner Safia and UNHCR Special Envoy Mohammed Abdi Affey visited Baar Bulsho IDP camps near the House of Representatives to assess the situation and engage with residents.
12. MPs raised concerns about SNAForce members trained in Eritrea facing financial hardships due to delayed salary payments, urging the Federal Government of Somalia to address the issue promptly.
13. Media arguments erupted between groups associated with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his predecessor Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, with videos alleging ties to Al-Shabaab being circulated.
14. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre attended a community policing task force meeting in Heliwa District, emphasizing the role of the Somali people in combating the Kharijites and ensuring the security of citizens.
Security: On the security front, General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhuyidin and senior Somali National Army (SNA) officials visited military training camps in Mogadishu to assess ongoing troop training and operations. Deputy Governor Bishar Hasan Dhaqane raised concerns about Al-Shabaab militants’ imminent takeover of the El-Waq district and urged the Federal Government to swiftly deploy troops and provide the necessary equipment. Heavy fighting occurred between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab in the Goofgaduud Burey district just one week after government troops recaptured the area. Local leaders in Guri’el implemented a revised strategy to combat Al-Shabaab, actively mobilising residents in the fight against the extremist group. The situation in Somaliland’s Sahil region was marked by an ongoing uprising in the Golis Mountains, prompting the government to deploy security forces for control.
1. General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhuyidin and senior officials of the Somali National Army (SNA) visited military training camps in Mogadishu to assess ongoing troop training and operations.
2. Deputy Governor Bishar Hasan Dhaqane expressed concern about the imminent takeover of El-Waq district by Al-Shabaab militants, urging the Federal Government to deploy troops swiftly and provide the necessary equipment.
3. Heavy fighting broke out between Somali forces and al-Shabaab on the outskirts of Goofgaduud Burey, just one week after the district was recaptured by government troops. Intense artillery exchanges were reported.
4. Local leaders in Guri’el implemented a revised strategy to combat Al-Shabaab, mobilising residents to actively participate in the fight against the extremist group.
5. In Somaliland’s Sahil region, an uprising was ongoing in the Golis Mountains near Ga’an Libaah, with armed militiamen mobilising. The government deployed security forces to regain control.
6. The Banadir Regional Court held its second hearing on a corruption case involving officers affiliated with the Somali Immigration and Naturalization Agency. Four officers were accused of theft of public property, and a total of 18 government officers were to be tried for corruption and theft.
7. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasised the government’s commitment to combating Al-Shabaab, expanding the scope of operations to Jubaland and Southwest states and targeting the group’s revenue collection channels. Strengthening the Somali National Army and intelligence-gathering efforts were also emphasised.
8. The situation in Somaliland was said to be connected to ongoing political struggles, potentially related to disputed decisions regarding President Muse Bihi Abdi’s term extension. The president downplayed the threat posed by militias, attributing it to political rivalries during the election period.
9. The Somali government aims to liberate most parts of the country from militants by the end of December 2024. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stressed the need to cripple Al-Shabaab financially and safeguard the nation’s wealth by denouncing corruption.
Events Listed
Political Situation
On July 30, 2023, Ethiopia formally protested with the Somali Government regarding Kenya’s perceived monopoly over Somalia’s profitable Khat market. Ethiopia believes Kenya’s advantage has squeezed out its Khat trade in the Somali market, leading to mounting discontent. The Somali President dispatched representatives for negotiations in Addis Ababa. The Somali officials proposed a starting market monopoly followed by a competitive scenario like Kenya’s setup, but Ethiopia has yet to agree. The tensions hold implications for both countries, particularly Somalia, given Ethiopia’s influence on security and politics. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on Kenya’s market share if a settlement is reached. The Khat imports have also faced scrutiny due to concerns about unaccounted tax revenue and allegations of a cartel associated with President Mohamud benefiting from its levy. Dealers have demanded the abolition of what they consider “illegal” fees, adding to suspicions of corruption.
On July 30, 2023, Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi addressed security concerns stemming from an armed rebel group that had established a base in the Sahil region. President Bihi downplayed the threat posed by the group and attributed its emergence to the ongoing political crisis in the break-away region. Speaking at a ceremony in Hargeisa, he assured the public that his government would make every effort to bring the armed individuals to the negotiating table. President Bihi further expressed his belief that tensions would subside following the upcoming elections. Earlier reports from local media stated that clashes had erupted between the rebel group and the Somaliland army in Ga’an Libah Mountain in the Sahil region.
On July 30, 2023, members of the Somali parliament expressed concerns during a session regarding the recent al-Shabaab attack on the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy. Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nor initially avoided answering the questions, but the Speaker insisted on getting a response. The Minister stated that an investigation was ongoing, and several suspects had been apprehended. The attack, carried out by al-Shabaab, resulted in the deaths of at least 30 soldiers, with 50-80 others injured.
On July 30, 2023, Finnish media reported on private conversations involving Wille Rydman, the country’s Economy Minister, containing racist remarks. The disclosed messages, dating back to 2016, were published by the Finnish daily Helsingin Sanomat. In these messages, Rydman made derogatory comments about Somalis, referred to women wearing headscarves as deserving a ban, and used racially offensive language to describe people from the Middle East. He also shared lyrics to a song depicting a Muslim man raping a woman, suggesting it could be sung at student parties. Rydman also made a racially insensitive comment about the possibility of his future child inheriting dark brown eyes from a Nigerian parent. Currently, a far-right Perussuomalaiset (Finns Party) member and part of the four-party alliance government, Rydman’s racist language has caused controversy within the coalition. Calls for accountability have grown, prompting Prime Minister Petteri Orpo to demand that every minister distance themselves from racism. Orpo deemed the language used by Rydman as inappropriate, and Rydman himself considers taking legal action against the newspaper for publishing the messages. The incident follows a previous government crisis involving Rydman’s predecessor, Vilhelm Junnila, who resigned after facing criticism for engaging with far-right groups. Amidst the controversy, Eva Biaudet, a former minister, and ombudsman, urged her party, the Swedish People’s Party, to leave the government, while the party’s leader expressed hope for a full apology from Rydman.
On July 30, 2023, the Ministry of Health of Somalia conducted a high-level conference in Mogadishu to enhance healthcare services in the country. The conference was attended by the Minister of Health, representatives from government agencies, international organisations, and key stakeholders. The Director-General of the Ministry of Health emphasised the importance of improving healthcare in Somalia. Discussions focused on accessible and affordable healthcare, infrastructure development, capacity building, and preventive medicine practices. International organisations provided valuable insights, contributing to comprehensive plans and strategies. The conference highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to ensure equitable access to healthcare facilities.
On July 30, 2023, Somaliland’s Minister of Commerce, Industries, and Tourism, Mohamoud Hassan Saad, arrived in Taiwan for a five-day visit. The purpose of the visit was to sign a trade promotion pact with Taiwan aimed at enhancing two-way business exchanges between the two regions. Saad was accompanied by a delegation consisting of government officials and business representatives. During his stay, Saad scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding on business and trade promotion with Taiwan’s Economics Minister Wang Mei-Hua, marking the first document of its kind between the two sides. Additionally, Saad planned to meet with Taiwan’s Foreign Minister and visit various economic and trade-related institutions. It is worth noting that Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, operates as a de facto state, and has not yet received diplomatic recognition from any other country. Both Taiwan and Somaliland established representative offices in each other’s capitals in 2020.
On July 30, 2023, the 2023 March-April-May (MAM) seasonal rainfall was reviewed. The review highlighted three significant points. Firstly, Somalia experienced an early transition into the Gu long rains season (April-May-June) this year. Secondly, above Long-Term Mean (LTM) rainfall was recorded in Puntland and Somaliland, while below-LTM rainfall was observed in South and Central Somalia. Thirdly, the observed rainfall was more in line with the forecast in South and Central Somalia and less accurate in Somaliland. The early and above-average rainfall contributed to water source replenishment, improved soil moisture, and favourable conditions for livestock and agriculture. However, there were challenges due to excessive flooding in certain areas, leading to extensive damage to farmlands and grasslands. Despite these challenges, the MAM rains positively impacted food security, particularly in Somaliland, where rainfall was above LTM. The wetter-than-average conditions in South and Central Somalia are expected to help maintain soil moisture levels and support agricultural and livestock productivity. This bulletin provides a comprehensive analysis of the observed and forecast Gu rainfall season, including both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the temporal and spatial variations.
On July 30, 2023, the President of Puntland, HE Said Deni, witnessed the signing of a cooperation and development agreement between the Ministry of Labour, Youth, and Sports of Puntland and the Kenya School of Government (KSG). The agreement aims to strengthen personnel training at the Puntland Civil Service Training Institute.
On July 30, 2023, Commissioner Safia, accompanied by Mr. Aydurus, the Director General of the Ministry of Interior, and Ambassador Mohamed Abdi Affey, the UNHCR Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, conducted a visit to Baar Bulsho IDP camps. Their visit aimed to assess the situation first-hand and engage with the residents. These camps are located near the House of Representatives.
On July 30, 2023, MP Khaliif Abdi Omar stated that members of the SNAForce (Somali National Army Force) who underwent training in Eritrea are currently experiencing financial hardships, as many of them have not received salary payments for several months. MP Khaliif Abdi Omar emphasised the urgency for the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to address this issue promptly
On July 30, 2023, an argument erupted between media groups associated with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his predecessor, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo. Abdirisak Terra, after a Farmajo’s communication team member close to former Somali security chief Fahad Yaasiin, released a video alleging ties between Hassan Sheikh’s administration and Al-Shabaab. In response, the Presidency’s information team distributed a video on social media claiming Farmajo and Fahad Yassin were concerned about the ongoing war against Al-Shabaab. Supporters of Hassan Sheikh mocked Farmajo on social media, accusing him of inaction during his tenure.
On July 30, 2023, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre attended a community policing task force meeting in Heliwa District in the capital. The objective of the meeting was to foster effective collaboration between security agencies, Banadir Regional Administration, and the public. In his speech, PM Barre emphasised the increasingly important role of the Somali people in the ongoing efforts against the Kharijites, who pose a significant threat to their existence. He commended the unwavering support given to the national Army and security agencies in their endeavours to combat terrorist violence. The Prime Minister also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring the security of its citizens in the capital.
Security Situation
On July 30, 2023, General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhuyidin, the Chief of Defence Forces, and several senior Somali National Army (SNA) senior officials visited General Daud and General Dhago-Badan military training camps in Mogadishu. The visit aimed to assess the progress of ongoing troop training and daily operations at these camps. During the visit, Major Ibrahim Sheikh, the Army chief, addressed units of the Ugandan-trained forces that will be deployed to the Galgadud and Mudug regions in central Somalia. This deployment marks the preparatory phase for the upcoming second phase of military operations, which aim to combat the activities of the extremist group Al-Shabaab. The tone of this summary is neutral and gives a straightforward account of the events.
On July 30, 2023, Deputy Governor Bishar Hasan Dhaqane of El-Waq district expressed concern about Al-Shabab militants’ imminent takeover of the district. He urged the Federal Government to swiftly deploy troops to the southern region to aid in the fight against the Al-Shabab fighters just a few miles away from the city. Dhaqane emphasised that the removal of the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) from the Geriley base has created challenges for the Jubaland state forces. These forces reportedly lack the necessary equipment and reinforcements, as the Federal Government has not deployed enough new forces. Recently, the Al-Shabab fighters temporarily captured the base from the Somali National Army (SNA) but were subsequently defeated and ousted.
On July 30, 2023, heavy fighting broke out between Somali forces and the militant group al-Shabaab on the outskirts of Goofgaduud Burey, a district located approximately 30km west of Baidoa. The clash occurred just one week after the Somali army had recaptured the district from al-Shabaab. Residents reported that the two sides engaged in intense artillery exchanges, leading to unknown casualties. This recent skirmish follows a major operation conducted by the Somali National Army on the border between
the Middle Shabelle and Galgadud regions, where at least 100 al-Shabaab militants were reported to have been killed. Last week’s recapture of Goofgaduud Burey by government troops was short-lived, as al-Shabaab briefly gained control before the latest fighting erupted.
On July 30, 2023, local leaders in Guri’el, Somalia, implemented a revised strategy to combat the Al-Shabaab militants following weeks of stagnation. The approach involves mobilising residents to participate in the fight against the extremist group actively. This move comes ahead of the second phase of operations, which will focus on clearing central regions that have been under Al-Shabaab’s control. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has expanded the scope of operations to include Jubaland and Southwest states, where previous efforts to counter violent extremism have had limited success. In Guriceel District alone, more than 3,000 locals have been mobilised to join the fight against Al-Shabaab. However, the group still holds key areas like El Bur town, as conflicts persist in Middle Shabelle, Hiraan, and Mudug regions. The Somali government aims to liberate most parts of the country from militants by the end of December 2024, relying on a strengthened Somali National Army to assume security responsibilities. As part of the approach, the government has intensified intelligence gathering efforts and military operations against Al-Shabaab while also targeting its revenue collection channels. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasised the need to cripple the group financially.
On July 30, 2023, a localised uprising is ongoing in a remote area of Somaliland’s Sahil region, specifically in the Golis Mountains near Ga’an Libaah (also known as Gacanlibaax or Gan Libah). Armed militiamen were reported to be mobilising in the area. The Somaliland government deployed security forces to regain control, leading to clashes with the rebel group. Reports suggest that the group may be connected to ongoing political struggles within Somaliland, potentially related to recent disputed decisions regarding President Muse Bihi Abdi’s term extension. The president addressed the situation, stating that the militias were not as threatening as portrayed on social media, attributing political rivalries to the election period. Traditional leaders have called for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, but the results of these efforts are unknown.
On July 30, 2023, the Banadir Regional Court commenced its second hearing regarding a case of corruption and theft involving four officers affiliated with the Somali Immigration and Naturalization Agency. The defendants brought before the court were identified as Abdulahi Mohamud Osoble, Omar Maalim Noor, Sabir Hassan Abdinur, and Adan Mohamed Abdi. These individuals stand accused of engaging in the theft of public property during their tenure at the Somali immigration agency. The gravity of the charges led to the involvement of the Attorney General, who has presented a total of 18 government officers allegedly involved in corruption and theft, to be tried by the court. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vocally denounced any form of corruption compromising the nation’s wealth, asserting the government’s obligation to safeguard it.