Facebook Twitter Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
A high-level delegation from Somali Federal Government has arrived in Las Anod, setting the stage for Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s highly anticipated visit to the SSC-Khaatumo-administered town. The delegation, led by Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Xoosh, landed on April 11, 2025, amid heightened security and growing excitement among local residents. This visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties between the federal government and the SSC-Khaatumo administration, which declared alignment with Mogadishu following the 2023 uprising that ousted Somaliland forces from the region.
The delegation’s arrival signals the federal government’s commitment to fostering development and governance in the Sool region. Minister Xoosh reaffirmed this commitment, stating, “The government will stand with the people of SSC and work toward lasting development and governance.” The visit is expected to pave the way for Prime Minister Barre’s landmark trip, during which he will inaugurate several development projects funded by the federal government and launch new initiatives aimed at improving public services in the region.
Las Anod, a town long contested by Somaliland and Puntland, has become a focal point of political and military shifts in recent years. The SSC-Khaatumo administration, which governs the region, has welcomed the federal delegation as a sign of Mogadishu’s dedication to addressing the needs of its residents. Local leaders have expressed optimism about the visit, viewing it as an opportunity to strengthen relations and foster unity within Somalia.
The delegation’s arrival has not been without controversy. Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Ahmed Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayaanle, accused Mogadishu of provoking conflict by sending high-level delegations to a disputed area. However, SSC-Khaatumo’s Minister of Information, Najib Barkhadle Warsame, dismissed these claims as baseless, asserting that the region is now under the full control of local and federal authorities. “SSC is part of Somalia, and this visit reflects our shared commitment to peace and progress,” Warsame stated.
Preparations for Prime Minister Barre’s visit are in full swing, with security forces deployed to key areas and local officials coordinating logistics. The Prime Minister’s trip is being hailed as a historic moment, as it will be the first visit by a senior Somali leader to Las Anod in decades. Residents have expressed excitement and hope, with many viewing the visit as a turning point for the region’s development and integration into Somalia’s federal framework.
The visit comes at a critical time for Somalia, as the federal government seeks to consolidate its authority and address longstanding grievances in regions like Sool. Analysts have described the visit as a strategic move to strengthen federalism and counter secessionist narratives. The Prime Minister’s engagement with SSC-Khaatumo leaders and community members is expected to focus on development priorities, security concerns, and the integration of the region into Somalia’s broader governance structure.
As the federal delegation continues its preparations, the people of Las Anod are eagerly anticipating Prime Minister Barre’s arrival. The visit is seen as a symbol of national unity and a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering peace and development in all regions of Somalia.