Northern Somalia Head of State Intrudes Amid Escalating Tribal Strife in Togdheer!

On Wednesday May 17, 2023, Hargeisa (AX) was a site of great turmoil. Reports from local residents have confirmed that a dreadful clan conflict in the Togdheer region has resulted in the heartbreaking loss of two precious human lives. The dispute between these two communities, that in the past were able to resolve issues through peaceful dialogues, has erupted again over the last few days. What could be the reason for this sudden burst of tension after seemingly resolving their issues amicably before?

Amidst this escalating situation, President Muse Bihi Abdi of Northern Somalia remarkably decided to visit the area, despite the dangers it could entail because of the conflict. He hopes to mediate and negotiate the reignited dispute over land ownership between these warring clans. What could have initiated the sudden aggressive behavior of the parties involved? What significant progress could the president make to facilitate lasting peace between these communities?

Togdheer and Sanaag regions have been plagued with long-standing heated disputes regarding territory and water resources. Even though most of these conflicts have been pacified in recent years, the issue continually rears its ugly head. What deep-rooted motivations could be making these communities fight about the same matters again and again?

Despite the tragic occurrence, neither the government nor security agencies have released any official statements concerning the violence in the Togdheer region as of yet. One can only wonder why.