October 6, 2014 | Morning Headlines.

Main Story

AMISOM and Somali forces liberate Barawe, Al Shabaab’s biggest stronghold

05 Oct – Source: Radio Mogadishu/Radio RBC/Radio Kulmiye – 212 Words

Somali government troops along with the peace-keeping African Union allies have confirmed that they have seized Middle Shabelle’s port town of Barawe, the biggest stronghold of Al-shabab militants today after launching heavy onslaught on the militants who had been controlling the town for the past couple of years. Middle Shabelle governor Abdulkadir Mohamed Nuur Sidii has confirmed to the press that Barawe is under the custody of Somali forces and AMISOM. The governor has also confirmed that, Al-shabab fighters had resisted the joint forces attack but eventually got defeated and withdrawn from the town. Speaking on the casualties, Sidii highlighted that, two soldiers from the joint forces side had sustained injuries while 13 dead bodies of Al-shabab fighters are recovered so far. He added that the Somali forces and AMISOM troops have stationed in the town and the region’s administration will hold meetings with the local traditional elders and residents as well. Al-shabab, the Somali Al-qaida linked militants are reported to have started withdrawing from Barawe yesterday after receiving tip-off of the attack of the joint forces. Barawe, a strategic port town in middle Shabelle region in Somalia has served a good hide-out and a strong base for the militant’s senior leaders.

Key Headlines

AMISOM and Somali forces liberate Barawe Al Shabaab’s biggest stronghold (RBC Radio)
Somali Speaker calls for Somalis to forgive one another (Radio Dalsan)
Puntland President vows to fight terrorists until destroyed (Horseed Media Online)
Yemen Coast Guards seize smuggling ships carrying 87 Somalis (Radio Goobjoog)
Jubba state leader announces new military offensive (Garowe Online/Kismaayo Online)
UN Special Representative for Somalia on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha (UNSOM)
Shabaab fighters pull out of a somali stronghold as government troops advance (New York Times)
Somali activist Safia Abdi Haase gets Norway medal (BBC News)
AMISOM sends best wishes to the Somali people as they prepare to celebrate Eid ul-Adha (AMISOM)
Mogadishu residents no longer afraid to openly criticise al-Shabaab (Sabahi Online)
Prime Minister Abdiweli greets the nation on Eid al-Adha (OPM)
Al Shabaab : Setback or strategic retreat? (Aljazeera)

PRESS STATEMENT

Somalia National Army and AMISOM liberate coastal city of Baraawe

05 Oct- Source: AMISOM- 346 words

The much-awaited liberation of Baraawe town, Al-Shabaab’s last stronghold happened today, October 5, 2014, after a joint force made up of the Somalia Army and AMISOM troops, rolled into the coastal town without much resistance from the terrorist group.

The coastal city of Baraawe is located 220 kilometers southwest of the capital Mogadishu. This is the first time in 23 years that its residents will experience a government’s presence since the collapse of central rule in 1993. The picturesque city – which is surrounded by orchards and farms – has been captured as part of Operation Indian Ocean. The Operation aims to push the militants out of their bases along mainland Africa’s longest coastline, and has so far recorded a string of victories against the crumbling terrorist network.

Acting Head of AMISOM, Hon. Lydia Wanyoto, congratulated the Somali and AMISOM forces for their bravery and resilience in taking over Baraawe and throughout the sustained Operation. She noted that Baraawe was the nerve center for Al-Shabaab and that today’s defeat would be the group’s most significant loss since being driven out of Mogadishu and Kismayo.

“I wish to share some very good news with the people of Somalia. Al-Shabaab terror capital Baraawe is now under Somali government control for the first time in 23 years, since the last government of President Mohamed Siyad Bare. This is the second major town that has been liberated since the operation resumed,” she said.

Hon. Wanyoto added that retreating Al-Shabaab forces tried to mount an ambush in the outskirts of the coastal city.

“The Al-Shabaab ambush was immediately neutralized and our forces walked uninhibited into Baraawe, much to the delight of the locals many of whom thronged the streets to welcome the aligned forces,” Hon. Wanyoto said.

The capture of Baraawe is a significant victory for Somalia since the terrorists used the port there to import arms as well as receive foreign fighters into their ranks. The group also used Baraawe to export charcoal to the Middle East, a lucrative multi-million dollar business that served as their main source of funding.

UN Special Representative for Somalia on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha

04 Oct- Source: UNSOM- 71 words

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia (SRSG), Nicholas Kay, extended his heartfelt greetings to all Somali people as they celebrate Eid-ul-Adha.

“As Somalia celebrates Eid-ul-Adha I wish all Somalis and their families Eid Mubarak. Today is an opportunity to reflect on the universal values of peace, harmony and unity. I hope this spirit of reconciliation and co-operation can contribute to peace across Somalia. Ciid Wanaagsan!” SRSG Kay said.

AMISOM sends best wishes to the Somali people as they prepare to celebrate Eid ul-Adha

03 Oct- Source: AMISOM- 215 words

The Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (DSRCC) for Somalia, Hon. Lydia Wanyoto Mutende extends very warm wishes to the Somali people as they prepare to celebrate Eid ul-Adha.

The DSRCC congratulates all Somalis upon completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Islam’s holiest sites and as they celebrate this very important day in a relatively peaceful Somalia.

“On behalf of AMISOM, I wish all our Somali brothers and sisters happy Eid celebrations. Eid ul-Adha commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of submission to God. It therefore provides an opportunity for all to reflect on religious values and the importance of humility, which I believe is key in making this world a better place for all of us to live in and generations to come,” said Hon. Lydia Wanyoto Mutende.

The Deputy SRCC further recognizes the significant contribution made by AMISOM’s Muslim troops to the mission in general, and specifically, in the ongoing Operation Indian Ocean, that seeks to liberate more Somalis from the terror of al-Shabaab.

“To the people of Somalia and Muslims around the world, I wish you all a blessed and joyful celebration,” added Hon. Wanyoto.“Eid Mubarak.”

Somalia National Army and AMISOM forces liberate Adale town in Middle Shebelle region

03 Oct- Source: AMISOM- 231 words

The Somalia National Army (SNA) supported by AMISOM peacekeepers have liberated the coastal town of Adale in the Middle Shebelle region after Al-Shabaab terrorists fled the town.

The latest SNA and AMISOM joint advancement is part of the ongoing Operation Indian Ocean which started onSeptember 1. The operation which aimed at liberating more towns from the terrorist group Al-Shabaab has increased the Somali government’s area of responsibility and control.

AMISOM Acting Special Representative to Somalia-DSRCC Hon. Lydia Wanyoto- congratulated the Somali national army and AMISOM peacekeepers for liberating Adale which is an important trading town in Middle Shabelle region located 220 km northeast of the capital Mogadishu.

“I’m pleased to hear that the SNA and AMISOM peacekeepers have liberated the town of Adale from the terrorist group Al-Shabaab. This is good news and a timely Eid-u-Adha present to the people of Adale and Somalia. Al-Shabaab did not mount any resistance in Adale simply because they have lost support from the public in Adale who came out to welcome the forces together with the Somali forces and to offer the forces water and milk and then officially gathered at the center of the town to welcome the forces.,” Hon. Wanyoto added.

The liberation of Adale brings to 6 the number of strategic towns liberated to date under the joint SNA and AMISOM Operation Indian Ocean which kicked off on September 1st.

Prime Minister Abdiweli greets the nation on Eid al-Adha

03 Oct- Source: Office of the Prime Minister- 415 words

His Excellency Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed sends his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the people of Somalia and all Muslims around world on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. In his name and on behalf of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Abdiweli hopes for security, prosperity and further progress for his fellow people of Somalia, asking the Almighty Allah for the recurrence of such a sublime occasion for more welfare, peace and unity to the faithful people of Somalia.

Speaking on the Eid al-Adha occasion, the Prime Minister Abdiweli said:

“As Muslims around world celebrate for the sacred holiday of Eid al-Adha with fervour, I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt felicitations and best wishes to my fellow Somali citizens and all Muslims across the world.”

“May this holiday strengthen the bond of peace, unity and brotherhood across our beloved nation of Somalia. I hope that the festival with its tradition of sharing enriches our lives with a spirit of brotherhood and empathy for the less fortunate people. Let this day radiates the culture of peace, harmony, tolerance and giving of Islam to the world”.

The Prime Minister would like to remind everyone that this Eid al-Adha arrives at a time when Somalia is making, with the assistance of the international community, huge political and security progress and credible functioning institutions and policies are being set in place. He also points out that the state-building efforts of this government are on the right track, reiterating his vision of a peaceful, democratic, united and federal Somalia where rule of law is upheld and the human rights are protected.

H.E. Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed said: “I call upon Somali people to set aside your internal conflicts and support this government’s efforts of reinforcing law and order in the country and the wider national programs for rebranding and transforming Somalia. I am hopeful that Somalia will overcome its many challenges, particularly, the security obstacles emanating from terror, we will defeat the dark forces of terrorists through force for those who refuse peace and continue to threaten the safety of the nation by embarking on vicious acts of terrorism. I also want to emphasize the government’s amnesty offer for those who renounce violence and embrace peace but I also remind all those who are considering defecting that the clock is ticking and the time for amnesty is running out.”

SOMALI MEDIA

AMISOM and Somali forces liberate Barawe, Al Shabaab’s biggest stronghold

05 Oct – Source: Radio Mogadishu/Radio RBC/Radio Kulmiye – 212 Words

Somali speaker calls for Somalis to forgive one another

05 Oct- Source: Radio Dalsan/Radio Risaala- 147 words

Leaders of the federal government of Somalia performed the Eid-ul-Hajj Prayers at Masaajidka Isbahaysiga Mosque. After the prayers, the Speaker of the Parliament who is also the acting president while the president is away in Mecca for the pilgrimage, Prof. Mohamed Sheikh Osman Jawari called for all Somalis to forgive one another. Prof. Jawari said he is happy with how people in the country celebrated the eid with a good faith. “We are praying to Allah to restore peace in our country. We pray for development in our country so that youths can stop migrating and drowning into seas”. Prof. Jawari said. “People should pray a lot”.He added. Tens of thousands of people have prayed at that mosque and elsewhere in the capital and were very jovial as they wished one another well. Security was tight around the mosque and elsewhere in the city.

Puntland President vows to fight terrorists until destroyed

05 Oct- Source: Horseed Media Online/Radio Garowe/RBC- 151 words

Puntland President Abdiweli Mohamed Ali has vowed that his government will eliminate terrorists from the stable region, days after forces capture main base of the militants. In an address to the state during Eid festival, President Gaas said that he won’t allow al-Shabaab extremists to have an impact in the region. President Gaas’s remarks came days after Puntland forces captured al-Shabaab’s main base in Galgala mountainous area after a fierce battle. ‘’We will not let the terrorist (al-Shabab) to make any movement in our region, we will fight them everywhere until total destruction…We won’t let terrorists to disturb our people and relative peace,’’ he said. He called on the youth fighting for the Militant group to desist from extremism and engage with their communities. Al-Shabaab militants have been using Galgala mountain ranges as their main base since 2010 and have confronted Puntland forces on various occasions.

Yemen Coast Guards seize smuggling ships, carrying 87 Somalis

05 Oct – Source: Radio Goobjoog -115 Words

Yemeni Forces were able to seize smuggling ships, carrying 87 Somali nationals, while trying to smuggle them into Yemen illegally. A Yemeni security official in a press statement said that the Coast Guards in the Gulf of Aden intercepted two vessels near the port of Mochain Taiz province south of the capital Sana’a. He pointed out that the two ships were delivered to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees after the seizure. The officer added that the security agencies commenced an investigation on two sailors who were driving the two ships to determine the causes and motivation of their smuggling Somali refugees.

Jubba state leader announces new military offensive

05 Oct- Source: Garowe Online/Kismaayo Online- 157 words

The President of Somalia’s Jubba administration Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) has announced new military offensive against beleaguered Al Shabaab militants amidst intensifying drives in south-central regions. Madobe told a news conference in the southern port city of Kismayo that Jubba forces will dislodge Al Shabaab fighters from the remaining bastions: “Al Shabaab is first threat to the existence of Somali nation. They are stumbling block to the progress and development of Jubba and more generally Somalia…Now it’s a time that needs Al Shabaab to be overpowered and defeated,” he went on. Jubba leader declared 48-hour-amnesty offer for Al Shabaab defectors by warning of the magnitude of firm measures ahead for the militant group. “We offer 48-hour-amnesty to Al Shabaab fighters, if they don’t take advantage of the pardon, they will not be treated well,” Madobe concluded in his press briefing.

REGIONAL MEDIA

Mogadishu residents no longer afraid to openly criticise al Shabaab

05 Oct – Source: Sabahi Online– 642 Words

Since the killing of al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane, Mogadishu residents have started to be openly critical of the group’s activities with little of the fear of retaliation that once dominated life in the capital for many years. In the past, people were afraid to speak publicly about al-Shabaab’s misdeeds because the militant group had killed so many people who opposed its views, said Ali Ibrahim, one of Mogadishu’s traditional elders. “How confidently the public in Mogadishu are daring to discuss the shameful acts of al-Shabaab in public gatherings after so many years [of silence] is one of the signs that indicate the group that once relished in its own strength has weakened,” he told Sabahi. “The reality is that for a long time people were afraid to speak up about al-Shabaab’s killings of important figures in [Somali] society and its harsh rule.” Ibrahim said the killing of Godane created a sense of unity among Somalis.

Al Shabaab suffers further set backs

05 Oct- Source: New Vision- 231 words

The Somalia National Army (SNA) supported by AMISOM peacekeepers have liberated the coastal town of Adale in the Middle Shebelle region after Al-Shabaab terrorists fled the town. The latest SNA and AMISOM joint advancement is part of the ongoing Operation Indian Ocean which started on September 1.The operation which aimed at liberating more towns from the terrorist group Al-Shabaab, has increased the Somali government’s area of responsibility and control. AMISOM Acting Special Representative to Somalia-DSRCC Hon. Lydia Wanyoto, congratulated the Somalia national army and AMISOM peacekeepers for liberating Adale which is an important trading town in Middle Shabelle region located 220 km northeast of the capital Mogadishu.

Al Shabaab : Setback or strategic retreat?

05 Oct- Source: Aljazeera- 24:35 mins

The group’s fighters have been withdrawing from a number of areas they have controlled in the southern part of Somalia. That is a result of a combined military operation called “Operation Indian Ocean” carried out by government forces and African Union troops more than a month ago. The 22,000-strong African Union force was deployed in 2007, with most of its troops coming from Uganda and Burundi. Al-Shabab, which imposes a strict form of Islamic law in areas it controls, seeks to overthrow the Somali government. The group was forced out of the capital Mogadishu in 2011 but still stages frequent attacks on the city. With the latest developments, can al-Shabab be defeated and kicked out of Somalia? Or is it just regrouping for counter attacks?

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

Al Shabaab fighters pull out of a Somali stronghold as government troops advance

05-Oct – Source: New York Times – 497 Words

Members of the Shabab, a militant Islamist group, are withdrawing from a strategic town on Somalia’s southern coast as government forces and African Union troops advance toward it, witnesses and residents said Saturday. Hundreds of civilians have been fleeing the town Barawe, fearing that they would be caught in the crossfire if fighting breaks out, said one resident, a mother of two who gave only her last name, Abdalla. The Shabab commander in Barawe, Mohamed Abu Abdalla, warned residents on Saturday not to support the government forces. “Today, as you can see, civilians have been forced to flee, with warships floating on the coast, warplanes flying above and tanks approaching against the civilians,” he said in an audio message posted to Somali websites. “But we are here to stay.”

Somalia activist Safia Abdi Haase gets Norway medal

05 Oct – Source: BBC News – 229 Words

A Somali-born campaigner against female genital mutilation (FGM), Safia Abdi Haase, has become the first immigrant woman to receive Norway’s prestigious order of St Olav. Ms Haase was given the order at the Royal Palace in Oslo for her work for women and children. She fled Somalia for Norway with her three daughters in 1992. She said her campaigning was based on her experiences of domestic abuse and female genital mutilation. “I have been a victim of all types of violence and my fight against this violence is using my own story,” she told the BBC.

SOCIAL MEDIA

CULTURE / OPINION / EDITORIAL / ANALYSIS / BLOGS/ DISCUSSION BOARDS

“In my conclusion Somalis need to get educated politicians who can understand the worsen situation of the country, also at least everyone who is going to be member for the government should have with Bachelor Degree and above also when that person holds a Degree and above, he/she is very mature enough in term of thinking intellectually, coming up with programs that might benefits the entire Nation and the world.”

Do Somalis political issue make enemies to themselves ?

04 Oct- Source: Somali Current- 2186 words

The politics of Somalia have gone through various periods of change. Following the outbreak of the civil war and the ensuing collapse of Mohamed Siad Barre’s regime in the early 1990s, Somalia’s residents reverted to local forms of conflict resolution, consisting of civil law, religious law and customary law. A few autonomous regions, including Somaliland, Puntland, Galmudug, Jubbaland and South-west State that have emerged in the north and some south regions in the ensuing process of decentralization. In 2006, the Islamic Courts Union (ICU), an Islamist organization, assumed control of much of the southern part of the country and promptly imposed what they called Shari’a law. The Transitional Federal Government sought to reestablish its authority, and, with the assistance of Ethiopian troops, African Union peacekeepers and air support by the United States, managed to drive out the rival ICU and solidify its rule.

Analysis: Somali town Barawe captured from al Shabaab

05 Oct – Source: BBC – 67 Words

Somali government troops have captured a key stronghold of al-Shabab Islamists, with the backing of African Union forces, local officials say. The African Union says al-Shabab, who had held the town of Barawe for six years, used it as a base to launch attacks on the capital. The BBC’s Emmanuel Igunza in Nairobi says the town was strategically important for al-Shabab as route to get their supplies.

‘Fishing Without Nets,’ Somali pirate drama shot in East Africa with a cast that included associates of real-life pirates

05 Oct – Source: New York Daily News – 786 Words

The first feature film from the Brooklyn-based news company is an intimate look into the lives of Somali pirates, told from the perspective of a young fisherman pressured to join these marauders of the Arabian Sea. “Fishing Without Nets” tells the story of Adbi, a young fisherman struggling to support his wife and son in war-ravaged Somalia. Adbi needs to make enough money to smuggle his family to safety in Yemen. With the seas emptied of fish, his only option seems to be putting aside his nets and picking up a gun.