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At least eight people were killed, and ten others wounded, in a fierce inter-clan conflict in Harar Heyle, a rural area in El-bur district, Galgadud region, Somalia. The clashes, which erupted on Friday, were triggered by a dispute over grazing land between two clan militia groups from Guriel and El-bur.
Local residents reported that tensions over resource access have been building in the region, with the scarcity of grazing land and water intensifying disputes. The latest violence highlights the ongoing struggles over resources that have plagued Somalia’s central regions for decades.
Mediation Efforts Underway
Traditional elders in the Galgadud region have stepped in to mediate between the warring factions. They are working to separate the militias and initiate dialogue to resolve the dispute peacefully.
Despite the elders’ efforts, authorities in Galmudug State have yet to comment on the incident. This lack of formal response from regional officials has raised concerns among locals about the state’s capacity to address recurring conflicts in the area.
A History of Clan Conflicts Over Resources
Clan-based disputes over resources such as grazing land and water are a persistent issue in Somalia, particularly in Galmudug’s Galgadud and Mudug regions. These conflicts are often fueled by competition for limited resources, exacerbated by drought and environmental degradation.
Galgadud has been a hotspot for such disputes, with similar incidents in recent years resulting in significant casualties and displacement of local populations.
Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Experts and community leaders emphasize the need for sustainable solutions to prevent future conflicts. Efforts to address resource scarcity, provide equitable access to grazing land, and implement conflict resolution mechanisms are seen as critical to ensuring stability in the region.
Humanitarian organizations operating in Somalia have repeatedly called for increased support to mitigate the impact of resource conflicts. They argue that addressing the root causes, such as land disputes and environmental challenges, could reduce violence and improve livelihoods for local communities.
Galmudug’s Role in Addressing Conflict
The Galmudug State government faces increasing pressure to take a proactive stance in resolving these disputes. Critics point out that while traditional elders play a crucial role in mediation, the lack of formal governance and security enforcement often allows conflicts to escalate.
Regional stability remains a priority for Somalia’s federal government and international partners, who view clan conflicts as a barrier to broader peacebuilding and development efforts.