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Fresh clashes have broken out in Somalia’s southern Gedo region between federal government forces and fighters loyal to the semi-autonomous Jubaland administration, leaving at least two soldiers dead and several others wounded.
According to Somalia’s Ministry of Defence, the fighting took place on Monday after militias allied to Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe launched what the ministry described as an “unprovoked assault” on government positions. The confrontation happened near Beled Hawo, a town in Gedo that has seen repeated violence in recent years due to political tensions between the federal government in Mogadishu and Jubaland authorities.
The defence ministry said national army forces managed to repel the attackers and seize the positions from which the assault was launched. However, during the exchange, two Somali soldiers were killed and three others were injured.
“This morning, militias loyal to Ahmed Madobe attacked our positions without cause. Our forces defended themselves, drove them back, and took over the areas they were using. Unfortunately, we lost two brave soldiers, and three others sustained injuries,” the ministry’s statement read.
Background of the Dispute
Somalia is a federal republic made up of five semi-autonomous states—Puntland, Jubaland, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and South West—alongside the central government in Mogadishu. While the system was designed to promote unity and stability, disagreements between the federal government and certain states have often led to political standoffs and violent clashes.
The Gedo region has been one of the most contentious areas, particularly between Mogadishu and Jubaland’s administration. The federal government has long disputed the legitimacy of Ahmed Madobe’s leadership in Jubaland, arguing that his re-election last year was not conducted in a fair or lawful manner. This political dispute has repeatedly spilled over into armed confrontations.
In July, similar fighting in Beled Hawo left at least five people dead. The latest incident is seen as another sign that tensions remain high and unresolved.
Accusations Against Kenya
During a visit to the scene of the clash, Abdirashid Hassan Abdinur, head of Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), accused Kenya of supporting the pro-Jubaland militias. He claimed that after being defeated, the fighters retreated across the Kenyan border with the help of Kenyan authorities.
“They crossed into Kenya after our forces pushed them back,” Abdinur said. “This shows that they are receiving assistance from Nairobi.”
These allegations have not been independently verified, and Kenyan officials have not issued an immediate response. Relations between Somalia and Kenya have been strained for years over maritime disputes, border security, and political alliances, with Jubaland often at the center of the disagreements.
Local Witness Accounts
Beled Hawo’s district commissioner, Shire Abdullahi, confirmed that there were deaths and injuries on both sides, though he could not provide an exact number. Residents reported heavy gunfire lasting for around 45 minutes, with casualties visible from both the federal and pro-Jubaland forces.
“I saw several dead bodies from both sides,” said Ali Sokorow, a resident of Beled Hawo. “It was intense fighting, and people in town were very scared. We had to stay indoors until it ended.”
Ongoing Tensions
The federal government and Jubaland administration have not announced any plans for peace talks following the clash. Analysts warn that without a political resolution, the Gedo region could see further outbreaks of violence. The presence of multiple armed groups, historical grievances, and competing political loyalties make the situation highly volatile.
For now, the Somali defence ministry has vowed to continue defending its positions in Gedo and maintaining what it calls the “territorial integrity” of the country. Meanwhile, residents remain on edge, fearing that Monday’s fighting could be a prelude to more battles in the days ahead.