By Mohamed Trunji
Thursday June 27, 2024
After the chaotic 1991 Somali Civil War, Northeastern State carved out its autonomous niche in 1998. Distinct from North Western of Somalia, Northeastern State remains under the Federal State of Somalia’s umbrella. The name “Northeastern State” harkens back to the ancient land of Punt, immortalized by Egyptian texts. A constitution steers the state with three pillars: executive, legislature, and judiciary. The heart of Northeastern State, Garowe, lies in Nogal region. This bustling capital hosts the Northeastern State parliament, presidential seat, and government ministries.
Northeastern State comprises regions such as Bari, Mudugh, Nugaal, Sool, Karkaar, Sanaag, and Ayn. Dominating the northeast, it spans one-third of Somalia and nearly half its coastline. Sprawling over 1,600 km along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, this coast teems with marine treasures. The state thrives on livestock, frankincense, myrrh, manufacturing, and agriculture. It boasts a well-oiled constitutional government, robust security, active public sector, and democracy. Equally pivotal to Garowe is Bosaso, Bari region’s buzzing center. Nestled on the Gulf of Aden’s shore, Bosaso is Northeastern State’s commercial hub and a crucial seaport.
PDRC Talks
This past May, I had the honor of guest speaking at the 27th Northeastern State Development and Research Center Talks. My first visit to Northeastern State since its 1998 inception had been delayed thrice due to unforeseen circumstances. The Center, stationed in Garowe with another branch in Galkaio (Mudugh’s capital), stands as Somalia’s sole institute of its kind. Founded in May 1999, it’s an independent, impartial research powerhouse focusing on peace-building, democracy, and human rights. Held at the PDRC compound, the talks revolved around “The Process of State Formation in Somalia: Lessons from its Formation and Post-Independence Dynamics.” A substantial audience, over 200 delegates from politicians to students, gathered. The Center’s Audio-visual Unit, crucial for spreading information and heightening public consciousness, deserves mention. It’s a vital forum for government and opposition to reconcile their differences. PDRC Talks regularly hosts Somali intellectuals, seasoned politicians, and retired civil servants, sparking lively discussions and Q&A sessions about political and legal issues.
My Impression of Garowe
Garowe’s growth is nothing short of meteoric. From a tiny hamlet, in less than two decades, it’s blossomed into a gleaming modern city. Newcomers marvel at the fresh buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and buzzing cafes and bars on every street corner. Day and night, shopping centers trade an array of goods. The city mingles folks from varied regions like Baidoa and Bakol. A visible foreign contingent, predominantly Ethiopians, work alongside locals in roles such as janitors and shoeshiners.
The Presidential Palace and government offices shine in one of the city’s swankiest districts. I took the golden chance to meet the State President, Hon. Said Abdullahi Deni, the Vice President, Hon. Ilyas Osman Ligator, and several ministers. My good friend, Hon. Said Jama Ali Korshel, was key to these introductions. His warmth and hospitality were much appreciated. Ministers I met include Hon. Abdirahman Sheikh Ahmed Habarwa, Hon. Mohamed Doonyaale, and Hon. Abdi Farah Juxa, the dynamic Domestic Affairs Minister. I thank them for their camaraderie. Special thanks to my old colleague, Hassan Yousuf Nour, President of the Supreme Court of Northeastern State, for the heartfelt welcome.
Northeastern State’s strides in state-building, security, and reconciliation since its birth signal that other Federal States trail behind. It’s clear there’s a two-tier Federal State system in Somalia. My profound gratitude goes to the entire PRRC team for their support and dedication, ensuring the success of my endeavors.
My mission wrapped up with journeys to Eyl, some 230km from Garowe, and to Bosaso, about 500km away. Despite the grueling trek, it turned into a delightful adventure.
Mohamed Trunji
E-mail: [email protected]
