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The chief of the Hawadle community, Ugas Yusuf Ugas Hassan Ugas Khalif, has returned to Beledweyne after spending several months abroad. His arrival comes just a day before a major clan conference that is expected to focus on the future of the Hiiraan region and address growing political and security challenges.
Ugas Yusuf arrived on Wednesday at Beledweyne Airport, accompanied by a high-profile delegation. Among those with him were Somali lawmakers Abdinasir Haaji Shirwac and Abdirisaq Moalin Iid, former Hirshabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Osoble, and other influential Hawadle politicians. They were warmly welcomed by local officials, traditional elders, and members of the public who had gathered at the airport to greet them.
In a brief statement to the media, Ugas Yusuf confirmed that the much-anticipated conference will begin on Thursday at 9:00 a.m. He urged Hawadle intellectuals, elders, and leaders to attend and contribute to discussions that he described as “critical for the future of our people.”
The meeting takes place at a tense time for the Hiiraan region. In recent weeks, fighting has intensified between Hawadle clan militias, supported by federal government forces, and the militant group al-Shabaab. The clashes have forced hundreds of families to flee their homes, adding to the humanitarian strain in the area.
Many observers believe the conference will not only address security issues but also tackle long-standing political questions. One of the central topics expected to dominate discussions is the political relationship between the Hiiraan region and the Hirshabelle state government. For years, the Hawadle community has been divided over whether to continue supporting Hirshabelle’s administration or to push for greater autonomy.
This debate has now become more urgent as ongoing conflict with al-Shabaab puts additional pressure on regional governance and stability. Some community members argue that unity and stronger coordination with the federal government are essential to defeating the insurgency, while others believe political reforms are necessary before lasting peace can be achieved.
The return of Ugas Yusuf, a respected traditional leader with influence across the Hawadle community, is seen as an important step in uniting different factions ahead of these discussions. His leadership is expected to help bring together politicians, elders, and intellectuals to find common ground on security strategies and political representation.
Local analysts say the outcome of this conference could have far-reaching consequences for the region’s future. If the Hawadle community can agree on a shared political stance, it may strengthen their role in shaping Hiiraan’s governance and in addressing ongoing security challenges. On the other hand, failure to reach consensus could deepen existing divisions at a time when the region faces threats from both political instability and militant violence.
As preparations continue, residents of Beledweyne and surrounding areas are watching closely. Many hope that the gathering will produce practical solutions for peace, unity, and better governance — outcomes that could help the Hiiraan region move forward after years of conflict and uncertainty.