Facebook Twitter Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has made history by becoming the first sitting premier to visit Las Anod, the capital of the SSC-Khaatumo State, in over 40 years. The landmark visit, which took place on April 12, 2025, was met with jubilant celebrations as thousands of residents poured into the streets to welcome the delegation. The trip is being hailed as a significant step toward fostering national unity and addressing the needs of the region, which has long been a flashpoint of political and territorial disputes.
Las Anod, located in the northeastern Sool region, has been at the center of tensions between the SSC-Khaatumo administration and Somaliland forces. The city, which declared alignment with Somalia’s federal government following a 2023 uprising, has since been under the administration of SSC-Khaatumo. Prime Minister Barre’s visit underscores the federal government’s commitment to strengthening ties with the region and supporting its development.
Upon his arrival, Barre was greeted by SSC-Khaatumo Interim President Abdikadir Ahmed Aw-Ali (Firdhiye), senior military and police commanders, and thousands of residents waving Somali flags. The city came to a standstill as schools and businesses closed to mark the occasion. Streets were adorned with the colors of the Somali flag and posters of the Prime Minister, reflecting the community’s excitement and hope for a brighter future.
Addressing the crowd, Barre expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration. “My visit is a symbol of unity, solidarity, and peace to bring Somalia together. Long live Khaatumo, long live Somalia,” he declared. Barre also pledged to work closely with SSC-Khaatumo leaders to address the region’s development priorities, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
The visit included meetings with regional officials, civil society groups, and women’s organizations to discuss pressing issues and chart a path forward. Residents voiced their aspirations for greater federal recognition and equitable access to national resources. Najib Abdullahi, a local resident, expressed optimism about the visit, saying, “Our main priority is for the federal state to officially recognize us and provide our share of the national cake. We need schools, roads, hospitals, and all development.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, who accompanied the Prime Minister, described the visit as long overdue and praised the people of SSC-Khaatumo for their resilience and commitment to unity. “The joy of the people of Las Anod is clearly visible on their faces. We have come to the home of unity and independence,” Fiqi stated.
The visit has not been without controversy. Somaliland officials have criticized the federal government’s engagement with SSC-Khaatumo, accusing it of provoking conflict in a disputed area. However, SSC-Khaatumo leaders dismissed these claims, asserting that the region is firmly under their control and aligned with Somalia’s federal government.
Analysts view Barre’s visit as a strategic move to consolidate federalism and counter secessionist narratives. The trip is expected to strengthen the federal government’s presence in the region and foster trust among local communities. It also highlights the importance of inclusive governance and dialogue in addressing Somalia’s complex political landscape.
As Somalia continues its journey toward stability and development, Barre’s historic visit to Las Anod serves as a powerful symbol of unity and progress. The trip has rekindled hope among residents and set the stage for a new chapter in the region’s relationship with the federal government.