In the colorful tapestry of Somali history, the narrative of contested lands and assertive leadership unfolds once again. This time, eyes turn to Abdiqadir Aw Ali Firdhiye, the indomitable leader of SSC Khatumo. He has issued a resolute call to arms, urging his supporters to intensify their efforts against North Western State of Somalia. Their mission? Reclaim territories embroiled in dispute, stretching across the regions of Sool and Sanaag.

At a spirited rally in Bo’ame, Firdhiye was impassioned. His voice echoed through the crowd as he accused North Western State of Somalia of expelling local communities. “Our fight continues,” he declared, a potent promise resonating in his words. “From the heart of Heedhadhanka to the edges of Erigavo, the smoke of battle rises still. Our people have been uprooted, displaced from their very homes. Even this land where we gather faces threats,” he assured those before him.

“If we want freedom, we must fight for it, not just for our land but for our dignity.” – Local Elder at the Rally

SSC Khatumo, having already tightened its grip over much of Sool following a robust pushback against North Western State of Somalia’s forces in Las Anod last year, now fix their gaze upon Erigavo, the bustling capital of Sanaag. The intriguing tale took a twist in early 2025 when SSC Khatumo fighters briefly entered Erigavo, only to retreat a few days later. A suspenseful pause in this ongoing saga.

In a bid to stabilize the region, North Western State of Somalia has bolstered its military posture, responding with increased vigilance. Concurrently, they’ve launched reconciliation initiatives to ease tensions between warring clans. But is that enough? In a land where historical grievances run deep, can peace be genuinely attained without addressing the roots of conflict?

Nationalizing Clan Militias: A Double-Edged Sword

Against this backdrop, another tension simmers in Erigavo. The North Western State of Somalia government eyes a strategic reformation – integrating local clan militias into the national security apparatus. However, envisioning the SSB (North Western State of Somalia Special Battalion) and G36 units as part of a national defense is not without its critics. These groups, initially formed with regional security in mind, have treaded a delicate path between unity and independence.

The SSB, deeply rooted in the clans of Sanaag and Togdheer, has been a bulwark against insurgencies, including those led by SSC Khatumo. On the other hand, the G36 militia, intriguingly named after a modern firearm, serves more autonomously, shielding its community amidst territorial disputes.

Yet, as North Western State of Somalia authorities push for assimilation, an air of dissent pervades. Protesters have taken to the streets, brandishing the Somali flag, voicing their dissent against this nationalization scheme. The chants, fervent and unyielding, encapsulate a fear of losing autonomy, a wariness of escalating conflicts with SSC Khatumo contingents.

“We’ve not reached enduring peace. If these forces are nationalized, might Erigavo stand exposed?” a young protester voiced, eyes gleaming with concern. Another in the crowd pondered aloud, “If SSC becomes a part of this too, will it not yet remain a clan force? We, the people, are as integral as the land we defend.”

In response, North Western State of Somalia’s Governor of Sanaag, Ahmed Abdi Muse, highlighted ongoing dialogues between community elders and the administration, forewarning decisive action against any group opposing these stabilization strides.

Meanwhile, Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi leads a delegation in Erigavo, orchestrating the delicate dance of integrating militias and nurturing reconciliation within fractured communities.

With tensions simmering, North Western State of Somalia has restricted weapon ownership in Erigavo to official forces, urging displaced residents to return home. Yet, amid these strategic maneuvers lies an underlying question: Can peace be sculpted through policy alone, or does it require a transformative understanding of its very foundations?