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The administration of Somalia’s South West State has vowed to take decisive action against individuals accused of inciting clan violence and spreading hate messages that threaten the region’s fragile peace. Officials said the government is intensifying efforts to end ongoing conflicts by working closely with community elders, local leaders, and security agencies.
According to the Minister of Interior, Local Government, and Reconciliation, some people living outside the conflict-affected areas have been spreading inflammatory messages that fuel hatred and deepen clan divisions. The minister warned that such actions will not be tolerated, emphasizing that those responsible will face strict legal consequences. He said the administration remains committed to maintaining peace and protecting communities from those who seek to destabilize them.
“There are people outside the conflict zones who are encouraging violence and spreading hate. The administration will take firm legal action against anyone found guilty of fueling instability,” the minister said.
The South West State government has recently increased mediation efforts in several parts of the state where inter-clan clashes have caused loss of life and displacement. Authorities have been holding reconciliation meetings with elders and community representatives to find lasting solutions. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that these efforts have already resulted in a preliminary peace agreement in the Diinsoor area of Bay region, where armed groups had been fighting over clan-related disputes.
The ministry said that the peace process will continue until full stability is restored and warned against any attempts to disrupt or reverse the progress made so far. “The government is committed to restoring peace and reconciliation among brotherly clans. Anyone who spreads hatred or incites violence will be brought to justice,” the ministry said in a statement.
Officials also stressed that the government will pursue anyone trying to reopen old wounds or provoke revenge killings. They said that holding accountable those who promote division is essential to building lasting peace in the region. The administration urged residents to support peace initiatives by reporting any individuals or groups attempting to reignite conflicts to the nearest security authorities.
Community elders and peace activists have welcomed the government’s renewed efforts, saying that strong enforcement of laws against hate speech and incitement could help prevent recurring cycles of violence. Many have called for continued dialogue and collaboration between the government, traditional leaders, and civil society to ensure that reconciliation efforts reach every corner of South West State.
The South West administration has also appealed to the media and social media users to act responsibly and avoid spreading content that could inflame tensions. Authorities say misinformation and inflammatory posts have played a major role in deepening mistrust among clans and fueling retaliation. The government warned that those using online platforms to encourage violence will be investigated and prosecuted under Somali law.
As the peace talks continue, residents of affected areas have expressed cautious optimism that the ongoing efforts will finally bring stability. The administration maintains that lasting peace can only be achieved if all communities reject hate, forgive past wrongs, and work together for unity and development.
The South West State leadership reiterated its commitment to reconciliation and warned that anyone found attempting to sabotage the peace process will face consequences. Officials say their main goal is to heal divisions, rebuild trust, and ensure that people in all parts of the state can live together in safety and harmony.