Mogadishu (AX) — In an era where information seems to travel faster than the speed of light, discerning fact from fiction has become not just a skill, but a necessity. Recent claims swirling online have caught the attention of Somalia’s federal identification agency, which felt compelled to address an issue that could potentially mislead and unsettle the public. The specific allegation that prompted this response centered around a supposed transfer of two districts from Northeastern State to Galmudug, a claim the agency decisively dismissed.
The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), the body entrusted with the monumental task of implementing a national identification system, found itself in the unusual position of having to clarify rumors. On a serene Sunday, NIRA issued a statement addressing the rumors head-on. The alleged transfer of Galdogob and Jariiban districts to Galmudug, as seen on a fabricated form, was categorically denied.
“NIRA affirms that the form being shared on social media is fake,” declared the agency in a straightforward press release.
For those who frequent the labyrinth of social media, encountering misinformation is akin to spotting a speck in the ocean. Yet, the declaration served as a timely reminder of the subtleties of media literacy. The statement elaborated that legitimate documents could be verified through NIRA’s own sanctioned channels—chief among them being their official website and recognized service centers.
The lands of Northeastern State and Galmudug tell stories of shared cultures and histories, yet the suggestion of administrative reshuffling struck a sensitive nerve. The backdrop to this episode was the launch of a new NIRA registration center in Galkayo, a city beautifully juxtaposed between the administrations of Northeastern State and Galmudug. It was crucial for NIRA to spell out that their initiative in Galkayo was all about accessibility—targeting residents from Galmudug and the South West State, without even pondering on redefining borders.
“There has been no decision to move any districts under Northeastern State’s jurisdiction into Galmudug,” the firm assurance from NIRA reverberated with clarity.
This intriguing narrative made me think of a tale my grandfather often recounted, about maps and territories. “Reading a map is an art,” he’d muse, pointing to lines that meant more than mere separation—they were connections. Similarly, NIRA’s mandate is drawn by national law, navigating the fine lines between service provision and territorial governance.
Consider this: can a single document, albeit falsified, stir the simmering cauldron of political tension? As if anticipating this contemplation, NIRA stressed that its existence and operations hinge on delivering services without encroaching upon the jurisdiction or governance of any federal member state. The message was unmistakable—providing identification services is their core mission, and they’re steadfastly adhering to their mission without meddling with territorial boundaries.
“NIRA’s work is guided by constitutional boundaries and the federal governance framework,” underscored the authority, displaying an unwavering commitment to impartiality and transparency.
The narrative around identity reflects a broader dialogue. It’s about belonging, entitlement, and duty. Somalia’s effort in rolling out national IDs isn’t merely logistical; it’s foundational. As NIRA extends its reach with more centers nationwide, they’re not just doling out cards—they’re anchoring identities, bridging distances across all Somali regions. The overarching anthem is delivering a fundamental right—identity, verifiable and unique to each citizen.
In closing, NIRA’s call to action is straightforward yet profound. Verify your sources. Navigate with caution through the digital realm where fiction masquerades as fact. Be guardians of truth and harbingers of clarity amid the haze of misinformation. As we ponder the ripples of mislaid narratives, we are reminded that truth itself is a map, guiding us through realities often misconstrued.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
