January 10, 2014 | Daily Monitoring Report.
Kenya planes ‘kill Somali militants’ from al Shabaab
10 Jan- Source: BBC- 70 words
Kenya says it has carried out an air strike on an Islamist camp in Somalia, killing 30 militants, including al Shabaab commanders. The strike happened in Garbarahey, near the border with Kenya and Ethiopia. Local media reports put the number of dead at 10 and residents say there has been lots of destruction. Kenya has several thousand troops in Somalia, helping the UN-backed government tackle al Shabaab, which is linked to al Qaeda.
Key Headlines
- Explosion injures 4 in Luq Gedo region (Radio Bar-kulan)
- Fighter jets bomb al Shabaab stronghold; 10 killed (Radio Shabelle/Radio Dalsan)
- President Mohamud reveals cause of his cabinet delay (Radio Dalsan)
- More than 30 al Shabaab militants killed (Standard Media/Star)
- IGAD official praises peaceful transfer of power in Puntland (Daily Nation)
- Statement by the US Press Secretary on Somalia Elections (toonaripost)
PRESS STATEMENT
AU Special Representative pays a courtesy call on new Somalia PM, promises AMISOM support
09 Jan- Source: AMISOM- 287 words
The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif today paid a courtesy call on the new Somalia Prime Minister H.E. Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed to congratulate him on his recent appointment and pledge AMISOM support to his new government.
The two leaders were meeting for the first time since the recent appointment of the new Somalia Prime Minister to discuss among other issues the AMISOM mandate and implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2124 and the new AMISOM Concept of Operations. They also agreed to better coordination between the new Somalia government and the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to address security, political, civil affairs, humanitarian, gender issues and the ongoing Somalia stabilization efforts.
“I came to meet and congratulate the new Somalia Prime Minister H.E. Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed and to assure him of the African Union support including the strengthening of the already excellent collaboration between the Somalia government and AMISOM,” Ambassador Annadif said moments after meeting the new Somalia PM.
Both leaders agreed that the New Year provides an excellent opportunity for the Somalia government to address pertinent issues affecting the Somalia population including the recovery of the areas still under the Al-Qaeda linked Al-Shabaab militants in order to extend crucial government services like provision of security to spur development in those areas.
“I wish to urge the Somalia population to work with the government and AMISOM in order to stem out the dangers posed by the anti-peace elements who have nothing else to offer except death and destruction. AMISOM will continue to stand up with the Somali people until they realize their dream of a stable and free Somalia,” he added.
SOMALI MEDIA
Explosion injures 4 in Luq, Gedo region
10 Jan- Source: Radio Bar-kulan- 97 words
Four people have on Thursday night been injured in an explosion at a tea shop in Luq town, Gedo region. The Mayor of Luq, Ishaq Borow has confirmed the incident to Bar-kulan, saying that the four sustained severe injuries and are now being treated at various medical centers in the town.
He added that security forces arrived at the scene shortly after the incident although no arrests were made in connection with the explosion. Reports indicate that the explosion was a result of a remote-controlled bomb planted at the tea shop in the center of the town.
Fighter jets bomb al Shabaab stronghold; 10 killed
10 Jan- Source: Radio Shabelle/Radio Dalsan- 209 words
The airstrike took place at Birta deer, 18 Km away from Garbaharey town, the provincial capital of Gedo. The bombarded area was a base controlled by al Shabaab militants and the attack occurred at around 1530hrs local time.
According to reports, residents in the area heard three loud blasts in Birta deer neighborhood near Garbahaarey city, where al Shabaab fighters are currently based. The bombardment was confirmed to Shabelle radio by residents and Government officials based in Garbaharey.
Ahlu Sunna spokesman confirmed to shabelle media via a teleohone conversation, adding that an armory and warehouse used by the militant group were destroyed in the attack. At least 10 militants are reportedly killed in the heavy bombardment.
The militant group had a festive ceremony where they slaughtered camels but the bombardment interrupted the ceremony.
It remains unclear and unrevealed the ownership of the airplanes that bombarded the area but similar attacks have been carried out in the past by Kenya Defense forces (KDF) that are part of the African union mission in Somalia.
President Mohamud reveals cause of his cabinet delay
10 Jan- Source: Radio Dalsan- 184 words
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has described the delay to put forward his cabinet as consultative and careful approach towards the realization of quality and equality government. Speaking in a press conference today in Mogadishu president Mohamud said the prime minister is busy involved in the matter.
“The PM has sacrificed his time with lots of sleepless nights to ensure the selection of quality and acceptable cabinet to the citizens of this country.” He said. “The most important thing in this process is not time but satisfaction of the citizens of this great country that is why we must give them first priority.” He added.
The president also urged the members of the public to be patient saying that it is not an easy task as most of them think. The process of naming new cabinet has delayed more than expected and there is fear among the Somali citizens that there are suspicious steps in the selection process.
Dhusamareb residents show support for Puntland’s new leadership
10 Jan- Source: Radio Bar-kulan- 162 words
A huge demonstration to show support to the newly elected Puntland President, Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas has been held in Dhusamareb, the provincial capital of Galgadud region. The demonstration was organized by civil society organizations and was attended by Dhusamareb district and Galgadud region officials.
Sirad Shiddo Farah, the chairwoman of Dhusamareb Women Association who spoke at the demonstrations said that the women in Dhusamareb are fully behind the new leadership in Puntland.
Meanwhile, Dhusamareb Mayor, Maallim Abdirahman Ali Gedoqorow called on the new leadership in Puntland to improve ties with the federal government and the regional states.
Hussein Wehliye Irfo, the Governor of Galgadud region who also spoke at the gathering applauded the manner in which the elections were conducted and said it was a great step for Somalia and the people of Puntland.
AU: We will hand over security to the federal Gov’t by 2016
09 Jan- Source: Radio Shabelle/Horncabletv/
Ambassador Mohamed Saleh Annadif the Representative of the African Union commission for Somalia and Head of AMISOM mission held a press conference in Mogadishu whereby he addressed the overall situation in Somalia wishing all Somalis peace and stability in this new year. The Ambassador stated that the AMISOM troops will hand over the overall security to the Somali Government by 2016 during the press conference.
Ambassador Mohamed Saleh Annadif added that they are expecting to free all parts of Somalia by 2016 to enable all Somalis to cast their votes and elect their leaders in a free and fair manner. He added that AMISOM troops will not be staying in the country after the proposed elections and he expects the new president, prime minister and Somali forces to take full control of the country after the elections.
On the other hand, Mr. Annadif termed yesterday’s Puntland elections as a new development for Somalia stating that it is a sign that all Somalis are ready for democracy. Annaadif has said that he is very pleased with the current Prime Minister’s intentions to appoint a quality cabinet that will lead to peace and prosperity in the Somalia.
Somaliland delegation in Ethiopia meets with former Nigeriaan president
09 Jan- Source: Somaliland Informer- 233 words
Somaliland delegations that will attend the Somaliland-Somalia talks who are currently staying in Addis Ababa have met with the Former president of Nigeria Obasango on Thursday. According to a press release issued by the presidential spokesman Mr. Ahmed Suleiman Dhuhul has stated that the delegation held talks with the former head of State of Nigeria.
The delegation is preparing to leave for Turkey which is hosting and facilitating the talks. The delegation headed by Somaliland Foreign Minister Hon. Mohamed Biihi Yonis and accompanied by the presidency minister Hon. Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan briefed the ex- president of Nigeria about the stages that Somaliland went through starting the emancipation era and the causes that led the nation to reclaim its independence from the rest of Somalia.
The delegation told the efforts that led the nation to embrace the ideology of democracy and the state building during the post war. They informed that Somaliland has huge role in the tranquillity of the region of Horn of Africa and the tremendous strides that the nation of Somaliland took in the right direction.
The former Nigerian president who has full knowledge of the Somaliland has praised the progress reached by Somaliland and its people. He added that it is important that the international community must stand by the nation of Somaliland for her efforts which is lead by veteran politician H.E. President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamud Silanyo.
51 teachers complete training course in Somaliland
09 Jan- Source: Radio Bar-kulan- 129 words
51 teachers from various regions in Somaliland have completed a training course on Hygiene and Sanitationon Wednesday in Burao. The course was organized by Caritise, an international relief organization operating in Somaliland and lasted four days.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Abdikadir Ali, the head of Caritise in Togdher region said that the objective of the course was to allow teachers to educate their students on the importance of maintaining high level of hygiene and cleanliness in the class rooms.
Abdi Ahmed Said, an official from Somaliland Ministry of Education who also spoke at the ceremony praised Caritise for its training courses in Somaliland. Caritise is an international relief organization which focuses on Hygiene, Sanitation, Education and Water activities in Somaliland.
REGIONAL MEDIA
More than 30 al Shabaab militants killed
10 Jan- Source: Standardmedia/Star- 54 words
Thursday at 1800hrs at Garbarahey in Gedo region Somalia, KDF fighter jets attacked an a l Shabaab camp, where a meeting was being held. Initial Battle Damage Assessment indicate more than 30 al Shabaab militants killed including key commanders. Scores of others escaped with multiple injuries. More than 5 vehicles and key assets were destroyed.
IGAD executive secretary sends a congratulatory message to the newly elected president of Puntland
09 Jan- Source: IGAD- 110 words
The IGAD Executive Secretary, Amb. (Eng.) Mahboub Maalim sends a message of congratulations to H.E. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali on his election as the President of the semi-autonomous Puntland region for a five-year term.
Amb. Mahboub praised the smooth and fair manner in which the elections were conducted and praised outgoing President Abdurahman Mohamed Farole for conceding defeat despite the closely contested nature of the elections. The IGAD Executive Secretary further lauded the 66 members of parliament for conducting themselves maturely and exemplarily.
Ambassador Mahboub extended his best wishes to the newly elected President in discharging his duties and reaffirmed IGAD’s full support.
IGAD official praises peaceful transfer of power in Puntland
09 Jan- Source Daily Nation- 275 words
A special envoy to Somalia has described the election of Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas as president of Puntland as a model for the rest of the country.
Mr Mohammed Affey, the special envoy of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) member states to Somalia, also congratulated President Ali, who squeezed through by one vote.
Mr Affey was a member of the international community that was sent to monitor the elections. Others were special representatives of the United Nations Secretary-General and the European Union’s special envoy.
“We as member states of Igad welcome the peaceful manner in which the elections took place in Puntland. That election was competitive, it was transparent, credible and it will definitely be a model for the rest of Somalia,” said Mr Affey.
Somalis from diaspora denounce al Shabaab threats
09 Jan- Source: Sabahi Online- 729 words
Somalis who have returned to their homeland from abroad have shrugged off al Shabaab’s recent threats that it would target them because they “have been taught garbage and sins, and have lost [their] religion and are being used [to spread evil].”
Al Shabaab commander Ali Mohamed Hussein, known as Ali Jesto, made the announcement December 29th, saying the returnees “will be killed and fought against in the same manner” that al Shabaab fights against the Somali government.
“They are working for the infidels, and since they are working for the infidels, they are the same as the infidels they are working for as far as we are concerned,” he said.
Hussein also warned Somalis to stay away from government buildings, public venues frequented by government officials, and from foreign aid agencies and their workers as they all would be targeted in the group’s attacks. Days later, al Shabaab claimed responsibility for a New Year’s Day twin bombing at the Jazeera Hotel in Mogadishu that killed at least 10 people and injured many more.
INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
Kenya planes ‘kill Somali militants’ from al Shabaab
10 Jan- Source: BBC- 70 words
Kenya says it has carried out an air strike on an Islamist camp in Somalia, killing 30 militants, including al Shabaab commanders. The strike happened in Garbarahey, near the border with Kenya and Ethiopia. Local media reports put the number of dead at 10 and residents say there has been lots of destruction. Kenya has several thousand troops in Somalia, helping the UN-backed government tackle al Shabaab, which is linked to al Qaeda.
Statement by the US Press Secretary on Somalia Elections
09 Jan- Source:toonaripost- 208 words
The United States congratulates Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud on winning the support of Parliament and becoming Somalia’s new president, and the Somali people for completing this momentous political transition. Their vote represents an important milestone for the people of Somalia, and a crucial step forward along the path of building a representative government.
With leadership comes tremendous responsibility. The United States calls on Somalia’s leaders to usher in a new era of governance that is responsive, representative, and accountable. We encourage President Hassan and all members of Parliament to be inclusive and collaborative, and to build on today’s vote by continuing to strengthen democratic institutions, improving stability and security, and bringing tangible improvements to the lives of Somalia’s citizens.
New “Major International Port” Considered for Horn of Africa
09 Jan- Source: shipandbunker-264 words
Somaliland, the self-declared sovereign state in the north of Somalia, is finalising a multi-million dollar deal to develop a port at Berbera, on the Gulf of Aden, All Africa reports.
“After six months of negotiations, an agreement has been put on the table, which is highly exciting, from one of the world’s best port operators,” says human rights lawyer Jason McCue, who is assembling investors for the $2.5bn logistics hub.
“The moment is there for Somaliland.”
McCue declined to comment on the exact size of the port investment, saying only that it would be “hundreds of millions” and the largest foreign direct investment in Somaliland’s 22 year history.
SOCIAL MEDIA
CULTURE / OPINION / EDITORIAL / ANALYSIS / BLOGS/ DISCUSSION BOARDS
Somalia: Federalism is in progress!
10 Jan- Source: Somali current-395 Words
This is an ongoing process (post- 1991) and it is irreversible. It is up to the Somalis on what type of federal government Somalia requires. We can have a strong Federal Government with strong Federal Member States where power and resources are shared. There are areas where the FG has the sole powers and the relevant legislation is done by the Federal Parliament; whereas there are areas where the component Federal Member States can enact their legislation using the Federal Member State assembly; and again there are few areas where both entities (the Federal Government and/or the Federal Member States) can legislate.
However, there are many Somalis who think the Somalia is better off with a unitary system, where a President sitting in Mogadishu can dictate to the rest. That is history, and what happened after 1991 necessitates self-determination and self-governments for the entities that came into being: Somaliland, Puntland, Juba and the current effort and convention going in Baydhaba. The outcome from the Convention of Baydhaba is, in advance, very clear to all of us: The people in Bakool, Bay and Lower Shabelle desire to self-govern themselves, despite being part of the Federal Somalia.
“Somaliland’s problem furthermore is that its case is dwarfed by other concerns in the Horn of Africa. While the northern territory chugs along in relative peace and stability, both rump-Somalia and its international partners are face pressing security problems. Hargeisa will have to wait.”
Somaliland: Can’t get no recognition
09 Jan- Source: The Economist Blog-549 Words
IN 1991, after the overthrow of Somalia’s military leader Siad Barre, the northern territory of Somaliland declared independence. While its mother nation has been in meltdown, Somalilanders in Hargeisa established a currency, set up a working government, held a series of free elections and saw through a peaceful transfer of power. But after two decades, they still haven’t won recognition as a country from international partners.
Mohamed Bihi Yonis, the foreign minister, claims that is about to change, saying that “it will happen soon”. His optimism is overblown, but not entirely without foundation. A number of factors have converged to buoy the independence bid. Last year Somalia elected its first permanent government since the fall of the military regime, giving Somaliland a credible partner for negotiations. Ministers have been trying to win Somali leaders over in talks brokered by Turkey.
,,The Sundance Film Festival is a mecca for independent cinema and a pool of fresh filmmaking talent. But with nearly 200 films selected for exhibition, it can be a dizzying game of catch up. So this year,The Hollywood Reporter decided to do a bit of prep work for you: Here’s the who/what/where/when/why on a film worth putting on your radar,,.
Sundance Preview: Vice-Produced ‘Fishing Without Nets’ is a Different Breed of Somali Pirate Movie
09 Jan- Source: hollywoodreporter-151 words
Yes, Cutter Hodierne is his real name. Yes, he was named after a 32-foot “cutter-rigged” sailboat that his parents sold everything to buy so they could spend three years sailing the South Pacific. Yes, he’s every bit of the adventurer required to be named Cutter Hodierne.
Hodierne’s debut feature Fishing Without Nets premieres at the Sundance Film Festival’s Library Theatre onJan. 17. While the film should send the heart racing, the Somali pirates docudrama should, the screening itself will be rather calm in comparison to what the director had to go through to make it. Hodierne’s film is the other side of the Captain Phillips coin — an intimate portrait of life as a pirate and a story that demanded verisimilitude. No back lots, no water tanks, no A-listers with bodyguards — Fishing Without Nets was all authenticity, something Hodierne had to travel to find.
Before its premiere, we talk to the filmmaker about growing up a renegade, immersing himself in Somali piracy culture, and a roller coaster production like no other:
Background: Hodierne’s ambition showed its face early in life. While still in high school, he directed his first film, Remember the Warriors: Wakefield the Movie, a 75-minute documentary on a local basketball team that inspired his community. After a brief fling with Emerson College in 2006, the resourceful Hodierne returned to the directing path. He was quickly hired as the embedded filmmaker for U2’s 360° Tour, dabbling in music videos and short films along the way.
Top tweets
@nuurist EVENT: Risk and opportunities of #Investing in#Somalia http://us5.campaign-archive1.
@ASSIYYA Freshly grown plants, hand made pots and much more at the nursery #Somalia #Mogadishupic.twitter.com/dEpkUK1DLk
@RadioErgo New natioanl ID cards being issued in Mogadishu or Mogadishu residents #Somalia http://bit.ly/JMv7vdpic.twitter.com/E36hssXhFo
@TheVillaSomalia Another successful strike against #Shabaab.#Somalia and our partners united against terrorismhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/
@stability_fund Assessing #Somalia‘s infrastructure needs: The Somali Economic Forum’s Infrastructure Report 2014 is now available. http://www.
Image of the day
#AMISOM SRCC Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif meets the newly appointed Somali Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed. Photo: @amisomsomalia