July 10, 2014 | Daily Monitoring Report.
Appointment of new African Union Special Representative for Somalia
10 Jul- Source: Radio Shabelle/Radio Goobjoog/RBC- 363 words
The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, today appointed Dr. Maman S. Sidikou, a Nigerien national, as the new African Union (AU) Special Representative for Somalia (SRCC) and Head of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
This appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia, despite the challenges that continue to confront the country, as demonstrated by the recent upsurge of terrorist attacks, particularly in Mogadishu.
Dr Sidikou brings with him a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields. Prior to his present appointment, Dr Sidikou has been Niger’s Ambassador to the USA, in Washington D.C. since October 2011. He has served in Niger’s Government in various senior capacities from 1976.
Dr Sidikou has also worked for a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.
Dr Sidikou holds a Ph.D from Florida State University, USA, and a Degree in Journalism from the University of Dakar.
The new Special Envoy will assume duty in early August 2014. He will work closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), IGAD and the countries of the region, as well as with the relevant international partners, including the United Nations, the European Union (EU), the League of Arab States and concerned bilateral partners, to help consolidate the gains made in the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia, and facilitate the successful holding of the elections planned for 2016. The Chairperson appeals to the FGS and all AMISOM partners to extend the necessary cooperation and support to the new Special Representative.
Dr Sidikou replaces Amb Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who served as Special Representative and Head of AMISOM, from November 2012 to June 2014.
Key Headlines
- Kay: Somali security forces need the support of the people (Radio Bar-kulan/Radio Mogadishu)
- EU condemns attack on Somali presidential palace (EU)
- Appointment of a new African Union Special Representative for Somalia (AU)
- Somali govt: “We will take action against al Shabaab” (Radio Mogadishu/Radio Shabelle)
- 10 killed in confrontations in Defow Hiran region (Radio Bar-kulan/Kismaayo24 Online)
- Security forces in Luq district arrests at least six people in an operation (Radio Goobjoog)
- Appointment of new African Union Special Representative for Somalia (Radio Shabelle/RBC)
- Somalia piracy: Development ‘would curb illegal industry’ (BBC)
- Somali Ambassador to UK Nominated for the Post of Commander of the Security Forces (Radio Dalsan/Radio Shabelle)
- 29-year-old terrorism accused ‘a flight risk’ (Daily Nation)
- Former Puntland President pays tribute to former Puntland Information Minister (Radio Garowe)
- FIFA extends condolence to Somalia following the death of Legend Shangole (Mareeg Online)
- Denmark appeals urgently to Somaliland to speed up the extradition of man accused of committing a crime in her soil (Somaliland Informer)
- AU appoints new rep for Somalia (Star Africa)
- Further 45 suspects arrested over Lamu and Tana River killings (Coastweek/ Xinhua)
- AMISOM Investigates Use Of Child Soldiers (Red Pepper)
- Illegal sugar imports bank-rolling al Shabaab (Standard Media)
- Washiali Wants Parliament to Discuss Withdrawal of KDF From Somalia (The Star/AllAfrica)
- Twin schoolgirls who ran away to Syria named as star pupils (The Telegraph)
- AU appoints new rep for Somalia (APA/Star Africa)
- Somalia: AU-West-backed Jubaland Troops complete training amid to wage offensive against Al-Shabab (CNN)
- Absolutely ‘no motive’ for triple shooting that left teacher dead: police (CTV News Toronto)
PRESS STATEMENT
EU condemns attack on Somali presidential palace
10 Jul- Source: EU delegation Kenya, Somalia mission-117 words
European Union Special Envoy, Michele Cervone d’Urso, condemned last night’s terrorist attack on Villa Somalia and expressed his sympathy with the victims and their families. The Somali security forces and AMISOM forces responded swiftly and courageously.
The Envoy said: “I am appalled by this hideous attack which took place in the month of peace, the Holy Ramadan. I pay respect to those who lost their lives in protecting the Federal leadership and call for a thorough investigation of this attack.”
The EU continues its unstinting support to the people of Somalia in their efforts to recover from years of conflict and suffering. Such cowardly acts will not be tolerated and those responsible should be brought to justice.
Appointment of a new African Union Special Representative for Somalia
09 Jul- Source: AU-416 Words
The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, today appointed Dr. Maman S. Sidikou, a Nigerien national, as the new African Union (AU) Special Representative for Somalia (SRCC) and Head of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
This appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia, despite the challenges that continue to confront the country, as demonstrated by the recent upsurge of terrorist attacks, particularly in Mogadishu.
Dr Sidikou brings with him a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields. Prior to his present appointment, Dr Sidikou has been Niger’s Ambassador to the USA, in Washington D.C. since October 2011. He has served in Niger’s Government in various senior capacities from 1976, rising to post of Director of the National Television within the Ministry of Information, Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister, and Advisor to the President, with ministerial rank. From 1997 to 1999, he served as Niger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Integration. In 1999, he served as Chief of Staff of the President of the Republic.
Dr Sidikou has also worked for a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.
Dr Sidikou holds a Ph.D from Florida State University, USA, and a Degree in Journalism from the University of Dakar.
The new Special Envoy will assume duty in early August 2014. He will work closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), IGAD and the countries of the region, as well as with the relevant international partners, including the United Nations, the European Union (EU), the League of Arab States and concerned bilateral partners, to help consolidate the gains made in the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia, and facilitate the successful holding of the elections planned for 2016. The Chairperson appeals to the FGS and all AMISOM partners to extend the necessary cooperation and support to the new Special Representative.
Dr Sidikou replaces Amb Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who served as Special Representative and Head of AMISOM, from November 2012 to June 2014.
Under his leadership, AMISOM made tremendous strides, in support of the efforts of the FGS and other stakeholders. The Chairperson of the Commission seizes this opportunity to pay tribute to Amb Annadif for his commitment and the results achieved during his tenure. She extends her best wishes to him in all his endeavors.
SOMALI MEDIA
Kay: Somali security forces need the support of the people
10 Jul- Source: Radio Bar-kulan/Radio Mogadishu/Radio Goobjoog/Jowhar Online- 200 words
United Nations Special Envoy to Somalia, Nicholas Kay has strongly condemned Tuesday night’s attack on the presidential compound in Mogadishu after he met Somalia’s top leaders in the Somali capital.
He said the political progress in Somalia is only possible through the unity of the country’s political institutions as he reiterated United Nations unwavering support to the people and the government of Somalia in their efforts to achieve peace and stability.
The special envoy further hailed the prompt action taken by the Somali security forces and their African Union allies to foil the terrorist attack against the heavily fortified presidential compound in Mogadishu.
“I commend the prompt action taken by the Somali and African Union security forces, who successfully dealt with the attack. They need the active support and cooperation of the people of Mogadishu,” he said.
“I commend the Government’s swift action to learn lessons from the recent attacks and to take steps to improve the delivery of security services.
“We continue to work actively with the Federal Government, AMISOM and international partners to build strong national security institutions to secure the country,” he added.
Kay extends his deepest sympathies to those affected, and to their friends and families.
Somali govt: “We will take action against al Shabaab”
10 Jul- Source: Radio Mogadishu/Radio Shabelle- 118 words
The Deputy Minister of National Security, Ibrahim Isaaq Yarow, in a press conference in Mogadishu said that the Somali Federal Government will take decisive and accountable action against any attack in the capital city by al Shabaab insurgents.
The Minister elaborated on the emergency meeting with the Ministerial Cabinet and National Security Agencies chaired by the Prime Minister of Somalia, that Mr. Ahmed ordered security forces and Benadir Regional Administration to cooperate with each other to prevent terror attacks.
The statement by the Minister on behalf of the Somali Federal Government comes at a time when the security in Mogadishu is heightened due to potential terror threats.
10 killed in confrontations in Defow, Hiran region
10 Jul- Source: Radio Bar-kulan/Kismaayo24 Online- 131 words
At least 10 people have been killed and scores injured after two opposing sides clashed in the early hours ofThursday in Defow area, 39 KM northwest of Beledweyne town, the provincial capital of Hiran region according to Bar-kulan correspondent in the region.
The confrontations are believed to be triggered by disputes over fertile land in the area. Most of the casualties are reported to be from the two warring sides. At least six people who were injured in the clashes have been admitted to Beledweyne hospital for medical attention.
Some of the traditional elders in Beledweyne town are now engaging with the two sides in an attempt to end the conflict. Meanwhile, Hiran regional officials are yet to comment on the incident.
Security forces in Luq district arrests at least six people in an operation
10 Jul- Source: Radio Goobjoog- 103 words
Federal government security forces in Luq district of Gedo region arrested at least 6 people mostly youth in a security operations intended to beef up the security of the town and the surrounding areas.
The arrested people are suspected of being behind guerilla attacks against the bases of government forces and AMISOM troops( Ethiopian contingent) in the area.
Luq police commander Sayid Abdulqadir Muhumud told Goobjoog FM that the operations in the area will continue until the insecurity is grounded to zero.
He added that the forces will thoroughly investigate the arrested suspects and anyone who is proven innocent guilty will be freed.
Appointment of new African Union Special Representative for Somalia
10 Jul- Source: Radio Shabelle/Radio Goobjoog/RBC- 363 words
The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, today appointed Dr. Maman S. Sidikou, a Nigerien national, as the new African Union (AU) Special Representative for Somalia (SRCC) and Head of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
This appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia, despite the challenges that continue to confront the country, as demonstrated by the recent upsurge of terrorist attacks, particularly in Mogadishu.
Dr Sidikou brings with him a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields. Prior to his present appointment, Dr Sidikou has been Niger’s Ambassador to the USA, in Washington D.C. since October 2011. He has served in Niger’s Government in various senior capacities from 1976.
Dr Sidikou has also worked for a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.
Dr Sidikou holds a Ph.D from Florida State University, USA, and a Degree in Journalism from the University of Dakar.
The new Special Envoy will assume duty in early August 2014. He will work closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), IGAD and the countries of the region, as well as with the relevant international partners, including the United Nations, the European Union (EU), the League of Arab States and concerned bilateral partners, to help consolidate the gains made in the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia, and facilitate the successful holding of the elections planned for 2016. The Chairperson appeals to the FGS and all AMISOM partners to extend the necessary cooperation and support to the new Special Representative.
Dr Sidikou replaces Amb Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who served as Special Representative and Head of AMISOM, from November 2012 to June 2014.
Somali Ambassador to UK Nominated for the Post of Commander of the Security Forces
10 Jul- Source: Radio Dalsan/Radio Shabelle/Radio Kulmiye/Jowhar Online- 122 words
The Somali PM appointed Abdullahi Mohamed Ali aka Sanbololshe who was the Somali Ambassador to the UK to become the director of the National Security.
The president also assented his nomination. This followed a reshuffle which was recently made to the security department after series of insecurity incidents in Mogadishu including the attack at Villa Somalia by al Shabaab gunmen two days ago. On the other hand, General Khaliif Ahmed Ereg was nominated as the Minister for National Security whereas Mohamed Sheikh Hassan Ismail was nominated as the head of the police department.
These nominations were triggered by the recent attack by al Shabaab on the State House and the general insecurity which is on the rise in Mogadishu including explosions and assassinations.
Former Puntland President pays tribute to former Puntland Information Minister
10 Jul- Source: Radio Garowe- 144 words
The former President of Somalia’s North Eastern State of Puntland Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Farole has expressed sincere sympathy and deep sense of condolence over the death of his Information Minister Ahmed Sheikh Jama.
Speaking on Puntland-based Independent station, Radio Garowe on Wednesday Farole said in his tribute that Puntland lost indelible patriot who dedicated his entire life to state’s people throughout years of public service.
“May Allah rest the soul of legendary poet Ahmed Sheikh Jama whose death has been reported to me in peace,” said Farole.”He was academician, writer, man of great virtue, legendary poet and role model for Puntland people”.
Former Puntland President wished comfort to bereaved families and Somali people at large on the loss of late Jama. Ex-Information Minister succumbed to his ailing health in the state capital of Garowe.
FIFA extends condolence to Somalia following the death of Legend Shangole
10 Jul- Source: Mareeg Online- 206 words
The president of the world’s football governing body (FIFA) Mr. Joseph S. Blatter has written to Somali Football Federation President Ali Said Guled Roble to deliver his condolence to the entire Somali people and in particularly to the football family of Somalia over the loss of the Ocean Stars’ first ever captain Mohamed Qalaf Aden Shangole.
The Legend died at Mogadishu hospital on Tuesday morning several days after he fell sick.
“It is with profound sadness that I write to you today, having learned of the passing of Somali Football Legend Mohamed Qalaf Aden Shangole, Somalia’s first national team captain and a leading football figure in your country” President Blatter said in his condolence letter.
“On behalf of FIFA and the international football community, I wish to extend our deepest condolence to Mr. Shangole’s family, friends and loved ones” the condolence letter carried.
“Please let them know that we stand by their side and wish them strength at this difficult time. We hope that in some way, our words of support may help bring a little bit of peace and solace in this time of sadness” FIFA President Joseph S Blatter said in his message sent to Somali Football Federation president through the SFF media department.
Denmark appeals urgently to Somaliland to speed up the extradition of man accused of committing a crime in her soil
09 Jul – Source: Somaliland Informer – 157 words
The Danish government has urgently appealed to Silanyo led government to hand over man who holds dual citizenship and committed a crime in Denmark in order to stand trial but currently in police custody in Hargeisa.
Local Danish press published articles about the man and appealed to Somaliland government for his urgent extradition to Denmark. Denmark cites that it did not get a reply from Somaliland over the extradition.
Danish officer in charge of Murder Investigation Department Mr. Jens Moller has told that it made the request to the Attorney General of Somaliland to send Mr. Omar to Denmark in order to be tried. Mr. Omar is said to have fled to his homeland prior to committing a murder in Denmark and is wanted to be extradited so as to face justice.
Mr. Jens further revealed that they stay in touch with Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somaliland about Mr. Omar to be sent back to Denmark.
REGIONAL MEDIA
AU appoints new rep for Somalia
10 Jul – Source: Star Africa – 164 words
The African Union has appointed Nigerien Dr. Maman Sidikou as its new Special Representative for Somalia. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the body said Sidikou will also head the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
According to the AU, Dr Sidikou is credited with a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields. Dr Sidikou who holds a Ph.D and a Degree in Journalism has been Niger’s Ambassador to the US since October 2011 and also served as Director of his country’s national television.
He was also presidential adviser aside from stints with a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.
The AU said his appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia.
Somalia is plagued by an upsurge in attacks by al-Shabaab militants, the latest targeting the heavily fortified presidential palace on Tuesday.
Further 45 suspects arrested over Lamu and Tana River killings
10 Jul- Source: Coastweek/ Xinhua- 204 words
Kenyan police said Tuesday they are holding 45 suspects who have been rounded up in the ongoing security operation in the coastal counties of Lamu and Tana River over the recent killings in the region.
Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo told a news conference in Nairobi that these suspects will be arraigned in court once investigations are completed.
He said the police have established that there are leaflets with threatening and intimidating messages in Lamu against the people and the government, and could have contributed to the recent killings in the two counties which left at least 22 people dead.
About 50 heavily armed attackers struck a police station in Tana Delta County last Saturday, killing several people before releasing a man believed to be a ringleader of the recent Mpeketoni attacks.
AMISOM Investigates Use Of Child Soldiers
10 Jul- Source: Red Pepper (Uganda)-397 Words
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has commenced investigations into alleged use of child soldiers in its ranks. A United Nations report on child soldiers released in May had indicated that AMISOM was using child soldiers in its ranks to man checkpoints and cook in the army barracks.
Colonel Ali Eden Houmed, the AMISOM overall spokesperson told the media that AMISOM had become concerned by the allegations in the report and they will commence investigations into the matter. Colonel Ali says AMISOM forces are committed to respecting international law and will look into the UN allegations.
In the report prepared by the UN special representative on Children and Armed conflict, Leila Zerrougui, AMISOM’s sister force in the fight against al Shabaab, The Somali National Army is also accused of harbouring over 200 children in their ranks and using them for intelligence gathering and combat operations.
The allegations come at a crucial time in AMISOM’s fight against al Shabaab. The continental force is battling to oust the terrorist group from parts of Somalia, in what it code-names a ‘final offensive’. Al-shabaab also took the beating in the report with a reported number of over 1000 child soldiers in their ranks.
Illegal sugar imports bank-rolling al Shabaab
09 Jul- Source: Standard Media-482 Words
Money from illegal sugar imports from Somalia is allegedly bank-rolling activities of the terrorist group, al Shabaab. The militia has been causing death on Kenyan soil, in what the group says is retaliation for the Kenya Defence Forces’ continued stay in Somalia.
A truck driver with knowledge of the illegal trade says the cash generated from sugar imports is helping fund the group. Apparently, the illegal trade, which extends to other commodities, has also seen corrupt-free law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty for allegedly refusing to accept bribes from the sugar cartels.
Al Shabaab still controls parts of Somalia and charges a levy of up to Sh26,000 for every truck ferrying sugar from the Indian Ocean port to the Kenyan border. Mr Hassan (not his real name), told The Standard that he was hired as a truck driver in 2010 by a wealthy trader in Kismayo, who he only knew as Mr NK.
“We would pay al Shabaab Sh26,000 for every 10-wheeler truck on each trip; this would add up to a huge amount,” he says, admitting that he also made a fortune while at it. He estimates that NK paid more than Sh15 million every month or Sh180 million a year. He acknowledged that there were other traders like NK.
29-year-old terrorism accused ‘a flight risk’
09 Jul – Source: Daily Nation – 157 words
A judge has been asked to reject a bail application by a man said to have found with video clips of a police training school since he is highly likely to sneak back to Somalia if freed.
Opposing the application by Mr Mahamud Abdi Adan, 29, the prosecution said he had an intact network in Somalia, having left Kenya in 2002 and settled in the war-torn country where he is believed to have been trained by Al-Shabaab.
“The respondent was found planning to execute attacks against vital government installations when he was arrested on March 25 following leaked intelligence,” Mr Nicholas Waringa of the Anti Terrorism Police Unit swore in an affidavit to the court.
He said the possibility of a 30-year jail term facing Mr Adan if convicted increased the likelihood that he might jump bail. “There is new evidence and the possibility of additional charges being pressed against the suspect,” the officer said on Wednesday.
Washiali Wants Parliament to Discuss Withdrawal of KDF From Somalia
10 Jul- Source: The Star/AllAfrica- 122 words
THE Kenya Defense Forces should be withdrawn from Somalia, Mumias East MP Benjamin Washiali has said. He said Parliament should discuss withdrawal of the soldiers as an urgent matter. Washiali, who is is the Jubilee coalition’s deputy chief whip said the soldiers were sent to Somalia after Parliament’s approval. “That is the only way we can have our soldiers called back,” he said. Washiali said Cord leaders, who have been pushing for the withdrawal of the KDF soldiers from Somalia, should table a motion in Parliament for debate. Speaking to the Star on the phone yesterday, Washiali said some of the issues raised by Cord during the Saba Saba rally were realistic.
INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
Somalia piracy: Development ‘would curb illegal industry’
10 Jul – Source: BBC – 96 words
Piracy off Somalia’s coast would fall sharply if the country’s economy was more developed, a study says. Local elites and communities in remote areas protect pirates because they lack an income, it adds. Foreign navies have a strong presence around Somalia in order to keep shipping lanes safe.
This has led to a decline in attacks off the Somali coast, with the UN estimating that about 40 people are still being held by pirates. At the peak of their activity three years ago, the pirates held more than 700 crew members and more than 30 ships.
Twin schoolgirls who ran away to Syria named as star pupils
10 Jul – Source: The Telegraph – 132 words
Two British schoolgirls who ran away to Syria have been identified as star pupils who had 28 GCSEs between them. Twins Salma and Zahra Halane sneaked out of their home during the night while their family slept two weeks ago. The 16-year-old college students then boarded a flight to Turkey before crossing into Syria where they are feared to have joined their brother, believed to be fighting with Isis.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police confirmed they had received a report about the girls disappearing. He said: “The girls flew from Manchester International Airport to Istanbul. Since their departure the girls have been in contact with their family. “We are attempting to confirm their current location and secure the well-being of both girls. “Officers are also providing regular support to the family.”
AU appoints new rep for Somalia
09 Jul- Source: APA/Star Africa-162 Words
The African Union has appointed Nigerien Dr. Maman Sidikou as its new Special Representative for Somalia.In a statement issued on Wednesday, the body said Sidikou will also head the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). According to the AU, Dr Sidikou is credited with a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields.
Dr Sidikou who holds a Ph.D and a Degree in Journalism has been Niger’s Ambassador to the US since October 2011 and also served as Director of his country’s national television.
He was also presidential adviser aside from stints with a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.
Somalia: AU-West-backed Jubaland Troops complete training amid to wage offensive against Al-Shabab
07 Jul- Source: CNN- 326 words
Hundreds of Jubaland troops have completed military training programs aimed at to liberate the embattled al Shabaab’s last remaining footholds in Somalia’s Jubaland territory.
The counterterrorism training programs took place the outskirt of Kismayo, where they took instructions of counterterrorism tactics, rules of war, information gathering skills, first-hand safety programs, and military academic related introductory instructions.
Graduates of the special troops named dervishes (Somali “Daraawiish”) planned to wage an offensive against al Qaeda’s affiliated with al Shabaab for the weeks or months ahead, according to Jubaland administration officials.
These newly-graduates wear on uniforms with ranks and armed to the teeth in order to be a role model like Puntland and Somaliland Administrations.
Absolutely ‘no motive’ for triple shooting that left teacher dead: police
9 Jul- Source: CTV News Toronto – 132 words
Investigators probing the triple shooting that left a beloved teacher died Tuesday say they can’t make sense of the gunfire. “As of right now, we have yet to establish a motive,” Toronto Police Det. Sgt. Steve Ryan said.
Dozens of people gathered at Lawrence Heights Middle School Wednesday to remember Hassan, who was a former student there after arriving as a refugee from Somalia. Years later, he became a teacher at that school after attending York University.
Toronto District School Board colleague Ramon San Vicente said: “He was so dedicated and committed to working to improve the lives of our young people in this city.”
SOCIAL MEDIA
CULTURE / OPINION / EDITORIAL / ANALYSIS / BLOGS/ DISCUSSION BOARDS
“People’s entire lives are dependent on these remittances, and until the day that Somalia can take care of its own people, we’re dependent on these remittances. Somalia already has so many problems; we shouldn’t add this to it as well.”
People’s entire lives are dependent on these money transfers
10 Jul- Source: ADESO-629 Words
For millions of Somalis, money received from relatives living abroad (known as remittances) have remained an important means for survival. They use that money to meet their daily needs. A few weeks ago, I spoke with two women, Hawa Abdullahi Warsame and Kadija Hasan Mahamed, from Badhan, in Northern Somalia. They spoke openly and passionately about how important remittances were to their families.
Hawa and Kadija explained to me that they both have been receiving remittances for over ten years.
“This is not just extra money that I have; this is money I need to survive, on a daily basis. Not only am I dependent on this money, but my entire family as well, including my extended family; over ten other relatives depend on it,” explained Hawa. “I have sick relatives who need medication, and children that I am trying to provide an education for; this money is vital for that. If I did not receive this money we would not be able to survive and I am scared to even think of what could happen. We do not have a government to support us, so this money is our lifeline, and I am grateful to still be able to receive remittances today,” she added.
“Early Tuesday morning, Toronto teacher Abshir Hassan was shot near his apartment; he was out to move his car and avoid a parking ticket. Police say it was a case of mistaken identity—a hit gone wrong. His friend Rima Berns-McGown wrote this tribute to Hassan, and raises some important questions about the assumptions we can bring to such situations—focusing on the neighbourhood where a shooting took place or the racial identity of its victims—and how we can do better at responding to them.”
In Memory of Abshir Hassan
09 Jul- Source: Torontoist-388 Words
I am so heartbroken. A few months ago I received an email from a young man whom I didn’t know, but who had read my work. He was working on a research project of his own, and he wanted to know if I would be willing to meet with him to talk it over. We had friends in common. We had a warm email exchange and we met in person in May. He was one of the young, brilliant, critical thinkers—a second-generation Somali youth—who are now doing smart research that is both enlightening and beginning to make enormous change. We had a short but powerful conversation and I was so excited to have met him, and was looking forward to a lifetime of conversations about getting to social justice, and activist research.
Abshir Hassan died Monday night, gunned down at close range in Lawrence Heights. He was a good, caring person: a teacher and a student, working hard to fix everything that needs to be fixed. If there is any part of you that thinks all Somali youth who get shot are gang- or drug-involved, send that part packing—now.
Please understand that the conditions that have created a world in which someone like Abshir Hassan is murdered are conditions that we have all helped to create, and that we all need to play a part in fixing—especially if you are an employer, a journalist, a teacher, a policeman, or a politician. Especially if you are white and have power or influence of any kind.
Top tweets
@nichaileyFCO Congrats & welcome to Dr Maman Sidikou, new African Union special rep to #Somalia. Looking fwd to working together @UKinSomalia @AU_PSD
@UNLazzarini 1.1 mil #Somalis are displaced within their own country. More facts: http://smu.gs/1mbUSFq via @OCHASompic.twitter.com/1lzRk4AcCy
@OxfamInSOM People’s entire lives are dependent on money transfers in #Somalia http://adesoafrica.org/
@UNOCHA #Somalia: All pre-famine conditions are here. We can still prevent the worst if we ACT NOW http://bit.ly/1oFjZQC pic.twitter.com/M1uYhsymEj
@amisomsomalia #ThrowBackThursday AMISOM’s ‘Pictures Of The Year’ for 2012 http://bit.ly/RDyAiE
Image of the day
His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, Nicholas Kay, meet at Villa Somalia on 9 July 2014, a day after it was attacked by al Shabaab. Photo: UNSOM