Ethiopia’s Somali Region to Bolster Fight Against Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia
- Advertisement -
BELEDWEYNE, Somalia – It’s a tumultuous time in the Hiiraan region of Somalia, with Al-Shabaab insurgency posing significant challenges. Former Governor Ali Jeyte Osman, now a presidential envoy for Mawisley militias, believes that enlisting support from the Somali regional forces in Ethiopia could pivot the tide in this escalating conflict.
Imagine standing firm on battle-worn soil, where the air is thick with tension. Before his removal as Hiiraan’s governor, Osman was highly regarded for his strategic recruitment and decisive actions against Al-Shabaab across multiple frontlines. Yet, the militants have begun to regain territories that were once secure. So, what changed?
As he arrived in Jigjiga, within Ethiopia’s Somali region, known as Ogaden, Jeyte called upon the regional administration to step in, suggesting a “mission-driven conflict” approach. Ethiopian forces are already actively engaged as part of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), yet regional support might be the catalyst needed for victory.
“We didn’t come on a routine visit,” Jeyte explained. “We left behind people who are bleeding—civilians from one clan who have endured nearly four years of war. They’ve sacrificed deeply.”
Earlier this month, military supplies were dispatched from the Somali region to Hiiraan, intended for the Mawisley militias. Despite this, Osman, steadfast in his stance against Al-Shabaab, insists on a rapid intervention by the Somali state. But why the urgency now?
Reflecting on past collaborations, Jeyte expressed gratitude towards both the regional and federal Ethiopian governments. “You’ve supported us before, and we’re grateful,” he acknowledged. “But the situation is more urgent now.” His appeal was not only diplomatic but deeply personal, reaching out to the human side of governance.
Can individuals truly make a difference? Jeyte believes so. He’s urged residents of Ethiopia’s Somali region to help forge stability both in Somalia and across the border, advocating for sustainability. He implored, “Help your brothers where you can. And work with your local government to maintain peace.” Simple words, yet they resonate with a profound call to action. In times of conflict, unity becomes our strongest ally.
The complexities of geopolitical alliances are often underpinned by shared histories and common goals. As someone once said, “Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.”
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
