November 3, 2014 | Daily Monitoring Report.

Main Story

Six al Shabaab killed in KDF barracks, AP camp attacks

03 Nov- Source: Star-Kenya – 859 words

Six al Shabaab suspects were shot dead and a soldier seriously injured in an attempted invasion of the KDF Nyali Barracks in Mombasa early yesterday.

The injured soldier, who was in serious condition last evening, is still being treated at the camp’s health facility, according to senior military officers. This is the first attack by non-servicemen in Kenya on a military barracks in a major urban area.

In Malindi, another group attempted to raid an AP camp at almost the same time as the attack on the Nyali Barracks was happening, but they, too, were overpowered and repulsed. The armed gangsters destroyed property before they were ejected by AP officers under a hail of bullets.

The gang of more than 10, who were reportedly armed with guns, pangas and crude weapons, smashed tuk tuks, cars and attempted to burn a building in the camp. No one was injured in the 5.20am incident that has raised tensions in the resort town over the security situation.

Key Headlines

Respect for Somalia’s right to self-determination is critical (Office of the President)
UN Envoy to Somalia expresses deep concern over political tensions urges unity and continuity(UNSOM)
Statement by eu special representative alexander rondos and EU ambassador Michele Cervone d’urso on political tensions in Somalia (EU Delegation)
Somali Pop Idol is part of the development of Somali songs poetry culture arts and music (Ministry of Information)
Weekly press conference on the progress of the government (Ministry of Information)
Late Police Commander receives a national funeral (Hiiraan Online/Radio Mogadishu)
Government deports two foreigners alleged of “illegally entering the country” for journalism activities(Radio RBC)
Juba reconciliation committee welcomes the formation of South West Somalia administration (Radio Goobjoog)
Baidoa IDPs receive aid (Radio Ergo)
Six al Shabaab killed in KDF barracks AP camp attacks (Star-Kenya)
Ambassador Abdisalam calls for support to spur Somalia’s economy (Walta Information Centre)
Somalia power struggles risking peace efforts: EU UN (EU Business)
EU to support horn of Africa (Proguepost.com)
Chinese embassy donates money to Somalia (Xinhua)
Mother of British ‘terror twins’ is snatched by ISIS while on rescue mission to find them (Daily Mail)

PRESS STATEMENT

The President: Respect for Somalia’s right to self-determination is critical

03 Nov- Source: Office of the President – 392 words

As President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, I acknowledge all those who have expended considerable energy and resources in supporting Somalia to achieve the substantial progress we have made against ambitious goals.

Over the past two years, with the support of the Somali public, Federal institutions, the Parliament and the international community, Somalia has made a remarkable transformation.

Focusing on building a foundation and laying down the groundwork for stabilization and ensuing reform, we have achieved much. With the support of AMISOM, the Somali National Army has returned 80% of Somalia to government control. The Federal Government has developed legal frameworks, governance structures, public financial management processes, formalized Somalia’s presence in the international community, strengthened relations with neighboring countries, re-structured key institutions, established reconciliation forums for dialogue, developed the path for political reform and put in place the architecture for linking international support to our priorities through the Somali Compact.

Expectations of continued progress are high. So too, are expectations that Somalia must be allowed to lead its own transformation. When Somalia agreed to participate in the New Deal Compact mechanism, we did so based on the Partnership Principles detailed in the Somali Compact, which was witnessed and endorsed by Somali and international participants at the Brussels Conference in September 2013. The Partnership Principles are explicit about the need and expectation for nationally led and nationally owned development- be it political, developmental, economic or civic.

I call now for respect of these principles. I call for respect of Somalia’s sovereign right, protected by and explained in our Provisional Federal Constitution, to determine its own future, a future that will be determined by the people of Somalia, our Federal institutions, and our legislation.

I reaffirm- to the Somali people- the Federal Government’s commitment to Vision 2016, to ensuring that the Constitution is reviewed, revised and adopted by referendum; that federalism is completed and that preparations for national elections in 2016 continue apace. I do not deny that we have much to do, and little time to achieve these things. However difficult our circumstances are, lack of performance, at any level, will not be accepted.

While I appreciate the concerns of the International Community, the best way to support Somali leaders and institutions is to respect and allow them to resolve their differences through legitimate means and within the existing and maturing institutions.

UN Envoy to Somalia expresses deep concern over political tensions, urges unity and continuity

02 Nov- Source: UNSOM – 277 words

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, Nicholas Kay, has expressed deep concern over the political tensions between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed, which puts at risk the country’s efforts to achieve critical political targets set out in Vision 2016.

“The United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia remains committed to fulfilling its mandate to assist Somalia to achieve federalism, a new constitution and elections by September 2016, as set out in the Provisional Federal Constitution and Vision 2016,” SRSG Kay said. “I call on all parties to seek a mutually satisfactory compromise that will allow Somalia’s political and security progress to continue without interruption.”

“I recognise the dedication and hard work of Members of Parliament, but I am concerned about allegations of some MPs being asked to exchange votes for cash in the context of a potential ‘No Confidence’ motion, which is a disservice to Somalia’s progress towards accountability and transparency,” he added. Somalia and Somalis deserve better.”
Mr. Kay repeated recent calls by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for political unity and continuity at the highest level of the Federal Government of Somalia, and noted that any action by any party that creates political turmoil would be reported to the UN Security Council, who will be notified that such action risks spoiling the prospect of implementing Vision 2016.

“I continue to offer the use of my good offices to seek a compromise; we are working very closely with the African Union Mission in Somalia, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the European Union, Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, the United States and many others in search of a solution,” he added.

Statement by eu special representative alexander rondos and EU ambassador Michele Cervone d’urso on political tensions in Somalia

02 Nov- Source: EU Delegation – Somalia – 322 words

We note with deep concern the public differences between the President and Prime Minister of Somalia. This is already having an impact on the functioning of the Federal Institutions and Somalia’s State and Peace building goals. We call upon both leaders to find a solution to their differences now, in a spirit of pragmatism and for the good of all Somali citizens.

The political leadership of Somalia must now rise to its responsibilities and demonstrate that peaceful politics can allow for cohabitation.

We therefore urge all to desist immediately from actions that will only damage the country as it seeks to unify itself in peace and prosperity. We call on the President and Prime Minister to heed the advice of those who can offer pragmatic solutions, commit to work together and focus immediately on the nation’s core priorities until 2016.

Parliament, as the primary organ of the Federal Institutions, has a special responsibility in these times and we call upon members of the legislative to respect the integrity of the process and the institutions. It is an issue that we, as a main donor, will be monitoring closely.

Today, Somalia needs peace. It needs responsible political leadership. Somalia has only twenty-two months until the 2016 elections. The regions of the country must now establish representative interim administrations. Deliberations on the constitution must be completed. A transparent system for managing the government’s finances must be established if the trust of citizens is to be won. These are the goals to which we expect Somalia’s leaders to devote themselves.

The EU remains committed to support Somali driven efforts to address the crisis and continue working closely with UN, IGAD, AU, US, Ethiopia and Somalia’s international partners. The EU remains ready to look at all options should these calls not be heeded and the situation deteriorate further.

Somali Pop Idol is part of the Development of Somali Songs, Poetry, Culture, Arts and Music

02 Nov- Source: Ministry of Information – 469 words

H.E. Mustafa Duhulow, the Minister of Information last night took part Somali Pop Idol (Singing Competition) that four youths were competing to test their talents in singing, poets and music. “Somali Pop Idol is part of the Development of Somali Songs, Poetry, Culture, Arts and Music.”

Deputy Minister of Information, Deputy Chairperson of the Somali National Women Organisation and the Chairwomen of the Somali National Youth were among those present in last nights singing competition, which was held at City Palace Hotel in Mogadishu. Waaberi Band was also present in order to encourage competitors and to entertain people during the singing competition.

There were three former singers that were the independent Judges for the singing competition. The issues that the Judges were looking for included the way the singer presents him/her self at the beginning of the song, the words used in the song and the structure of the song, the rhythm, music and more importantly the voice of the singer (which attracts 40% of the overall marks).

The Independent Judges for the singing competition were:
1. Shimali Ahmed Shimali
2. Abdirisak Gedi Akhiro
3. Mohamed Abukar Angazi
The four youths taking part the Singing Competition were:
1. Miss Umi Sharif Ahmed
2. Mr Aweys Mohamed Said
3. Mr Sadik Sharif Mohamud
4. Mr Mohamed Ahmed Share’o

The Minister of Information spoke at the event and said “Somali Pop Idol or the Singing Competition has a long history in Somalia, as most of well known singers came through the process of the Singing Competition. The aim was to develop Somali Songs, Poetry and Music and to provide young people an environment that is conducive to develop their talents, which in turn could provide job opportunities for young people. The Singing Competition will also provide young people an alternative to joining terrorists group.”

The Independent Judges in the end of the singing competition decided the following:
1. Mr Mohamed Ahmed Share’o – Number One – 90%
2. Miss Umi Shariif Ahmed – Number two – 67%.
3. Sadaq Shariif Maxamud – Number 3 – 65%
4. Aweys Maxamed Saciid – Number 4 – 64%

Mohamed Ahmed Share’o thanked the Minister of Information and all who supported and encouraged him to take part the Singing Competition. Mohamed said that he was very happy and over the moon as his dreams came through.

The Minister of Information finally praised all four young people and said “All four of them showed real talent and without them the competition would not have taken place. I encourage you to continue your commitment and dedication to be part of the development of Somali Songs. I would also like to encourage other young people to join them so that they will be able to show their talents in future Somali Pop Idol, that will take place once a month in Mogadishu.”

Weekly Press Conference on the Progress of the Government

01 Oct- Source: Ministry of Information – 1837 words
The Minister of Information, Mustafa Duhulow, today addressed the media, providing an update on the progress of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) over the last week. The Minister discussed various issues: the delivery of food aid to Barawa; details of the explosives and military equipment intercepted at Mogadishu seaport; the South West State conference; the progress of the National Stabilization Plan; a joint security update by AMISOM and SNA; the historic visit by United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon; the Youth Consultation Meeting; and the release of seven Indian sailors who were being held by pirates.

The Minister of Information began by speaking on the delivery of food aid to Barawa: “The Ministry of Interior & Federal Affairs delivered food aid, which included large quantities of rice and flour, to Barawa district on 28 October 2014. Barawa was one of the areas most recently recovered from Al-Shabaab control. Barawa residents had previously felt extreme hardship under the rule of the terror group. Hassan Mohamed Abukar of the Somali National Army (SNA), stated that SNA had escorted the food aid into the town without incident, whereas Al-Shabaab had previously blocked all aid convoys from reaching the area. The food aid is the beginning of more assistance to the area and the Federal Government is committed to reaching out to all the residents of Lower Shabelle so that people can feel the peace dividend.”

The Minister of Information gave details of the explosives and military equipment intercepted at Mogadishu Seaport: “Officers of the Somali Police Force (SPF), during a routine search in Mogadishu Seaport, found a shipping container filled with explosives and other military equipment, including military uniforms. Cornel Mohamed Abdi Eebow, the Police Chief at the seaport, stated, ‘One of my officers found the container and immediately alerted me, resulting in the seizure of all the items in the container by the police. H.E. Khalif Ahmed Ereg, the Minister of National Security, praised the Somali security forces for their interception of the container, and the Minister said that a thorough investigation would be carried out to find out how the container (which originated in China) ended up at Mogadishu Seaport. A company called BIL were the registered owners of the container and police are questioning those believed to be responsible for the container and its contents. Items in the container were clothes, military uniform, military boots, magnetic items intended for use in roadside bombs and other bomb components. The container arrived at the port on 22 October 2014 and the registrar of the container has been detained by the police.”

The Minister of Information spoke on the South West Formation Conference: “H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, officially opened the Baidoa Conference on 28 October 2014 with a view to establishing the South West State of Somalia. H.E. Mohamed Sheikh Osman (Jawari) has been in Baidoa prior to the opening of the conference, consulting with key stakeholders in the area. Representatives from the parliament and the cabinet as well as representatives from the International Community, Constituency Assembly members and many others attended the conference.

Traditional leaders underscored their happiness at the conference, which aims for the efficient formation of South West State of Somalia. Denmark’s Ambassador to Somalia stated that his country will host an important meeting in Copenhagen on 19 November to discuss the future of Somalia and he said that he was very pleased with the progress on the ground. The Special Representative of the Secretary General of the UN, Nicholas Kay, stated that the UN will support the conference and its outcomes in order to establish a new Federal Unit in the area. The Speaker noted the important role of Traditional Leaders and called for the convening of a consultation meeting between Jubba and South West State (once its formed). The President officially opened the meeting and urged stakeholders to ensure that they all look at the bigger picture and the interests of the nation during the process of forming the new Federal State. The President thanked the International Community’s commitment and support to the process of the formation of South West State of Somalia.”

The Minister of Information spoke on the progress of the Stabilization Process: “Somali security forces conducted operations in Mogadishu on 28 October 2014, and seized illegal weapons in various parts of Mogadishu. As a result, security forces detained 9 individuals believed to be part of Al-Shabaab in Dayniile area. They also raided a house where illegal weapons were buried under the floor after a tip-off from a member of the public. Security forces also detained a number of suspects in the area of Howl-Wadaag district, near Bakara market. The Mogadishu Stabilization Process is going very well as security forces are continually preventing attacks on civilians in Mogadishu. The security forces praised and highlighted the role of communities in identifying those they believed to be members of Al-Shabaab.”

The Minister of Information spoke on the joint security update between AMISOM and the SNA that highlighted the success of Operation Indian Ocean: “On 27 October 2014, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, attended a joint ceremony between AMISOM and the SNA to highlight the progress of Operation Indian Ocean. Representatives from the cabinet, the parliament, H.E. Maman Sidikou, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union to Somalia, General Silas Ntigurirwa, the AMISOM Force Commander, and other guests were present during the ceremony which took place the headquarter of the Ministry of Defense in Mogadishu. Operation Indian Ocean has been hugely successful, with forces liberating town and after town from Al-Shabaab, including Barawa, Jala-laqsi, Buulo-mareer, El-bur, Adale, Kudha and other towns. Major General Dahir Adan Elmi (Indho-Qarshe), the Chief of the Defense Forces, noted that Somali forces are fighting on the frontlines while internal reforms and restructuring is going: a challenge, but one the SNA is handling. The Commander said that the reforms would continue in order to professionalize SNA. HE the President of Somalia closed the ceremony and underscored the importance of security in Somalia and noted that the government will do all it can to provide the necessary resources. In addition, the President added 60 days more to the amnesty for Al-Shabaab militiamen, provided that they renounce violence and are ready to join the peace process and participate in the rebuilding of the nation. The President sent his congratulatory remarks to SNA and AMISOM for their sacrifices and the huge progress made in the military campaign against terrorists. He concluded by noting that the threat from al-Shabaab remained but was taking a different form, as the fight moved from being one over territory to a fight over the perceptions of the people. He encouraged the people to play their part in defeating al-Shabaab once and for all by remaining vigilant and cooperating with the security forces.”

The Minister of Information spoke on the historic visit by UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon: “On 29 October 2014, HE Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Speaker of the Parliament and the Prime Minister met in Mogadishu with a delegation led by the Secretary General of the UN, and which also included the President of World Bank, Jim Yong Kim, the President of Islamic Development Bank, Ahmed Mohamed Ali, and senior officials from the African Development Bank, the AU, the EU and other dignitaries. Ban Ki-Moon thanked the Somali President for the warm welcome accorded to him and to his delegation in Mogadishu and he acknowledged the huge progress on the ground between when he visited in 2011 and now.

Ban Ki Moon said that he has two messages, one to acknowledge the progress in political affairs, good governance, security and development in Somalia, and second, that the UN, World Bank, IDB, ADB, EU, AU and others are committed to supporting the Somali people so that the country can move forward. “Somalia is on the right path. We are here in Mogadishu to tell Somali people that they are not alone, and that we will redouble our efforts to help Somalia so that the progress is maintained.” Jim Yong Kim, the President of World Bank, stated that Somalia has a unique opportunity on the country’s economic sector so that the people are able to produce goods that can reduce the dire poverty in many parts of the country. H.E. Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed, the Prime Minister of Somalia, stated that there are numerous examples of progress in terms of implementing the Federal system and that the country is on track to hold elections by 2016. Somali President said that Somalia can now stand on its own feet, and that the Government is committed to ensuring that the country moves forward to prosperity. The President concluded that the visit is a strong sign of solidarity that will encourage everyone to redouble their efforts to bring peace and stability in Somalia. At the conclusion of the visit, Somalia and the UN signed an agreement of partnership.”
The Minister of Information spoke on the Youth Consultation: “On 30th October, I participated in a consultation meeting in Mogadishu organized by Somali National Youth. The aim of the meeting was to discuss and debate the role of youth in Somalia and how youth can participate effectively in politics. Other issues discussed included the obstacles or challenges faced by young people in Somalia, including access to education, employment, job creation, and the lure of terrorist groups. The meeting took place in the Somali National Youth offices in Mogadishu and was organized by the Chairperson of the SNY. I was very pleased to witness genuine debate and discussion on key issues that matter to our young people, which gave me real hope. We need to do all we can to support young people’s participation in politics in Somalia. I promise that the government will support young people who want to take an active role in the society. I also promised to prioritize young people’s programs at Radio Mogadishu and at SNTV, which will further empower young people. Debate and discussion of this kind will prevent young people from joining terrorist groups.”

The Minister of Information spoke finally on the release of seven (7) Indian sailors who had been held by a pirate gang: “The Federal Government of Somalia with the support of Galgadud Authority and other stakeholders in the area successfully negotiated the release of seven sailors from India who had been in the hands of pirates for 4 years. On 30 October all seven individuals were flown from Dhuusamareeb district in Galgadud region in a specially chartered plane provided by the Federal Government of Somalia. The seven men had been held in the area of Harardhere after pirates hijacked their ship. The ship was released some time ago after pirates were paid a ransom. All seven have now been transferred to neighbouring countries with a view to passing them over to Indian government and subsequently returning them to their families.”

SOMALI MEDIA

Late police commander receives a national funeral

Nov 03 – Source: Hiiraan Online/Radio Mogadishu – 289 Words

The body of General Mohamed Hassan, the late Police Commander who died suddenly as a result of a suspected heart attack on Thursday afternoon, was finally put to rest in Mogadishu this afternoon.
General Hassan’s body was returned to Mogadishu from Nairobi where it was sent yesterday for further medical examinations due to fears of poisoning. The results have yet to be publicly released but senior government sources, on the condition of anonymity, have stated that the preliminary result indicate no foul play.

Shortly after arriving from his participation at the Dubai anti-piracy conference with some of his key Minister’s and advisers, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud joined the Prime Minister, Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed, the Speaker of Parliament ,Maxamed Sheekh Cismaan Jawaari, the mayor of Mogadishu as well as other senior cabinet Ministers and members of the police force and other armed forces to pay their final respects to the late police commander General Mohamed Hassan who was laid to rest draped in the national flag of Somalia after a full state funeral at the Mogadishu Police Academy.

“General Hassan was a man who was committed to his job, he was a professional and he made our country safer,” said a former police colleague with tears in his eyes. “We will continue our fight to make our country safe for our people.”
“Public servants are been killed today and it was people like General Hassan who gave us courage to do our jobs everyday. He inspired us and always told us to do the right things for our people. We are indebted to him,” said another young police officer who worked closely with the late General. Both the President and Prime Minister assisted with the burial of General Hassan after prayers.

Government deports two foreigners alleged of “illegally entering the country” for journalism activities

03 Nov- Source: Radio RBC – 314 words

Somali government on Monday deported two foreigners, a Ugandan national and Ghanian national from Mogadishu International Airport after they were alleged to have entered into the country illegally following orders from the Ministry of Information of the Federal Government of Somalia, deputy minister confirms.

The deportation came after the National Security and Intelligence Agency arrested the two men from their hotel in Mogadishu on Sunday and transferred to the immigration department for deportation.

The country’s Deputy Minister of Information Abdullahi Olad Roble on Saturday said that the ministry ordered an investigation on illegal foreigners claiming to be journalists who have entered Mogadishu days ago and started to engage with the local journalists without official authorization from the ministry.

The two foreigners were sneaked into the country claiming to be journalists and trainers working for the IFEX, a Canada-based global network of free expression. “We have got sources from the journalists and the National Union of Somali Journalists that foreigners claiming to be journalists were engaging to the local journalists that is why we have ordered the investigation. They were arrested and will be deported back soon,” Mr Abdullahi Olad Roble said.

On Friday, during a press conference in Mogadishu the National Union of Somali Journalists [NUSOJ] which is the nationwide union complained over unauthorized use of the union’s name by illegal individuals and called the ministry of information and the National Security Agency to act within the country’s law.

Following the calls from NUSOJ, National Security Agency stooped an event supposed to be held in City Palace Hotel in Mogadishu with the name of NUSOJ and IFEX, which the security officials and the deputy minister described as “illegal representation of the name of NUSOJ”.

Meanwhile, NUSOJ Secretary General Mohamed Ibrahim welcomed the move by the Ministry of Information and the NISA to deport the foreigners and to stop the event organized by illegal representatives.

Juba reconciliation committee welcomes the formation of South West Somalia administration

03 Nov- Source: Radio Goobjoog – 110 words

The reconciliation committee of interim Juba administration in Southern Somalia welcomed the regional state of South West Somalia – the three regions Bay, Bakol and Lower Shabelle region.

The chairman of Juba reconciliation committee Abdi Baaley called the technical committee to quickly and smoothly facilitate the formation of the administration.

On the other hand Mr. Baaley urged Madoobe Nunow, the leader of South West Somalia-six regional state to compromise and join the efforts of creating unified regional state in the region. The chairman underlined that the peace process in Juba regions is open, he urged the remaining sides to join.

Baidoa IDPs receive aid

02 Nov- Source: Radio Ergo – 182 words

UNHCR and IOM on Friday distributed humanitarian aid to over 900 internally displaced families camping in Baidoa, Bay region. The distribution included plastic sheeting for shelters, blankets and utensils for needy families.

Awliya Ahmed, 75, a mother of five children who fled from Qansahdere two months ago, welcomed the items and thanked both agencies for their timely supplies.

Another mother, Mu’mino Abdi from Tiyeglow district, complained that living conditions were worsening in the camps. She said the aid was just a drop in the ocean and appealed for more from other agencies.

The most recent influx of families to the Baidoa camps are herders who lost their livestock to the drought, farmers and others displaced by clan conflict in Bay and Bakol. Abdikadir Mohamed, head of IOM for Bay and Bakool regions, told Radio Ergo they planned to assist over 1,500 needy families from Qansahdere, Dinsor, Tiyeglow and other areas.

“This is the first phase of donations we are making, already over 946 families in Baidoa camps benefited from it. We will continue until we reach the target number,” he told Radio Ergo.

REGIONAL MEDIA

Six al Shabaab killed in KDF barracks, AP camp attacks

03 Nov- Source: Star-Kenya – 859 words

Six al Shabaab suspects were shot dead and a soldier seriously injured in an attempted invasion of the KDF Nyali Barracks in Mombasa early yesterday.

Ambassador Abdisalam calls for support to spur Somalia’s economy

31 Oct- Source: Walta Information Centre – 301 words

Somali Ambassador to Ethiopia Ahmed Abdisalam Aden has called for assistance to rebuild and spur the economy of the war-torn Horn of Africa nation. In an exclusive interview with WIC recently, Ambassador Abdisalam said that Somalia needs assistance from the international community to rebuild its infrastructure and economy that was destroyed by decades of war.

“As Somalia is relatively peaceful after al-shabaab was driven out from major areas of Somalia, we need help from the regional and international community so that we can deliver social services to our people properly,” he said.

He also said that the country needs investment from the outside world so as to sustain the existing peace and security and prop up its economic recovery. The Federal Government of Somalia has already created functional administration at all levels and enabling environment for investors, he pointed out.

Embassies of various countries, regional and international agencies, NGOs and business peoples are reopening their offices in Somalia, which according to him are evidences of peace and stability in the country. Hence, Somalia needs investment in the infrastructure, telecommunication, bank and social service sectors along with the assistance from the international community, he said.

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

Somalia power struggles risking peace efforts: EU, UN

03 Nov – Source: EU Business – 317 words

Power struggles between Somalia’s president and prime minister are risking the war-torn country’s fragile gains, European Union and United Nations envoys warned Monday in a call for “responsible political leadership.”

EU special envoy Alexander Rondos said there was “deep concern” at the “public differences” between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his prime minister, Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed.

“This is already having an impact on the functioning of the federal institutions and Somalia’s state and peace building goals,” Rondos said in a statement Monday. “Somalia needs peace. It needs responsible political leadership.”

Last month the prime minister reshuffled several cabinet members, among them close allies of the president, which Mohamud called “outrageous.” UN envoy Nicholas Kay said the tension “puts at risk” political goals including a referendum on a new constitution next year, ahead of elections in 2016.

EU to support horn of Africa

02 Nov – Proguepost.com – 429 Words

The move was announced ahead of the planned meeting between the deputy director general of the European Commission’s Directorate for Development and Cooperation, Marcus Cornaro, and European Union Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, Alexander Rondos.

They will be joined by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim, and African Union Commission Deputy Chair Erastus Mwencha in a high level joint operation to strengthen the partnership between the EU and Africa.

The new EU support will be funded by the from the 11th European Development Fund (EDF), where the main tranches of the money will be funneled to Ethiopia, Eritrea, Uganda, Somalia, Djibouti and Kenya, with some of the funding parts will to be allocated for regional organizations.

The Commission has released figures of what is expected to be spent on some of the targeted countries, with Ethiopia to receive €745 million, Kenya €435 million, Somalia €286 million, and Djibouti €105 million.

Chinese embassy donates money to Somalia

02 Nov – Source: Xinhua – 226 Words

The Chinese embassy in Somalia on Sunday donated 20,000 U.S. dollars to Somalia in an effort to assistant the draught-affected people in the country. Chinese Ambassador to Somalia, Wei Hongtian, handed the donation to Abdulkader Abdi Farah, the Permanent Secretary of the Somalia Prime Minister’s Office, in Mogadishu.

“This donation is from the staff of the Chinese embassy in Mogadishu to support their Somali brothers and sisters in need,” said Wei. “We are always here to support the Somali people; we are here to convey greeting and moral support from the government and the people of China.”

“I am receiving this donation with highest moral and respect. China is one of the main supporters of the Somali government and its people. China always provides assistance in the time of need,” Farah said at the reception of the donation.

Mother of British ‘terror twins’ is snatched by ISIS while on rescue mission to find them

2 Nov – Source: Daily Mail – 459 Words

The mother of two British teenagers who are believed to have travelled to Syria to marry ISIS fighters after becoming radicalised online was taken by the group as she tried to rescue them, it has been reported.

Zahra and Salma Halane, both 16, of Chorlton, Manchester, are thought to have married in the war-torn nation since disappearing overnight from their home in June. Their father Ibrahim, 52, and mother Khadra Jama, 45, who are originally from Somalia, travelled to the region to try to bring them home but Khadra was detained by fighters.

She was later released and returned to Britain after her daughter insisted that Allah had ‘chosen’ for them to be in Syria. The parents made their rescue attempt in July, first flying to Turkey to link up with a Muslim charity worker from Denmark, reports the Sunday Times.

Ibrahim and Khadra have 10 children and their 21-year-old son Ahmed is said to be fighting with Al Shabaab, a militant group in Somalia.
A senior member of the Somali community in Manchester said they were ‘appalled’ at the sisters’ actions’ We, as a Somali people, are all appalled by their actions but we are also desperately sad for their family.

SOCIAL MEDIA

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

“The use of the U.S. dollar instead of our Somali shilling has become prevalent. More than ninety percent of salaries of employees are paid in dollars. Government workers are also paid in dollars. This show how valueless is our currency today.”

Somali Shilling: valueless currency that needs a new policy

02 Nov – Source: Hiiraan Online – 912 Words

The official currency of Somalia is the “Somali Shilling”. It is the weirdest currency anyone could encounter. Unlike normal banknotes, the Somali currency is made up of only one denomination, 1000 Shilling banknote. More importantly, private citizens print the money and no one knows how many of the notes are in circulation.

Historically, after attaining independence, northern Somalia colonized by Britain and southern regions under Italian rule united to form the Republic of Somalia. The Somali National Bank was established on the same day and the currency was named as the Somali Shilling (So.Sh.). The currency had multiple denominations namely, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 shillings banknote, and 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1 cent coins.

After the collapse of the Siyad Barre regime, Somali shillings died gradually. I remember being able to use the 500 Somali Shilling (Shan Boqol Shilin Somali) but it become obsolete after 2001.

“Cord’s opposition to KDF in Somalia, now that the principals are non-state actors, is anchored in the fact that it gives Jubilee too much leverage with the Western powers as a frontline-of-terror regime in the global war on terrorism.”

The big divide over Operation Linda Nchi

01 Nov- Source: Star-Kenya- 801 words

When the Chief of the Defence Forces, General Julius Waweru Karangi, was recently asked by an interviewer to comment on the argument that the rise in terrorist attacks in Kenya has happened because of the KDF incursion in Somalia he replied: “Kenya was already being attacked by al Shabaab long before KDF went into Somalia. Therefore, to argue that Kenya is getting this and that from al Shabaab because of having gone into Somalia in 2011 is totally misplaced. If you engage people in commerce, people in the insurance and manufacturing industries, they will tell you that the environment today is much more conducive to doing their business because of our entry into Somalia.”

The Ministry of Defence proposition that KDF’s three-year-old incursion into chaotic Somalia is one African nation’s kiss of life to resuscitate a neighbour is not a transformation that the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy, the Kenyan opposition, subscribes to. And this despite the fact that all three Cord principals – former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka and former Foreign Minister Moses Wetang’ula – were among the senior-most members of the Cabinet that signed off on the invasion three years ago.

Kalonzo and Wetang’ula were in fact on then President Mwai Kibaki’s side of the Grand Coalition and sworn political foes of the Prime Minister, tripping his side of the regime up at every opportunity. And yet, on May 14, this year, Wetang’ula told Sabahi Online, whose corporate motto is ‘Covering the Horn of Africa’: “In our attempt to help a neighbour, we have suffered a lot – costs ranging from human loss (to) monetary loss. Now it is time we plan as a country to end our presence in Somalia and save the country from further conflicts.

“It is still unclear how Omar was chosen or nominated to lead al-Shabaab. Some who have knowledge of the group say he was chosen based on Godane’s last wishes, while others say he was appointed by Godane’s inner circle of confidantes, who saw Omar as the most worthy.”

New Al-Shabaab Leader’s Silence Sparks Speculation

31 Oct – Source: Sabahi Online – 1, 349 Words

Nearly two months after al-Shabaab named Ahmed Omar to replace slain leader Ahmed Abdi Godane, still very little is known about him, his intentions and his ability to lead a factious al-Shabaab.

Some analysts say Omar’s continuing silence reveals he lacks the leadership skills to restore al-Shabaab’s morale following Godane’s death, successive military losses and an increasing number of defections among al-Shabaab fighters.

Others caution, however, that it is too soon to tell how Omar, known as Abu Ubaidah, will lead the group and in what direction he plans to take it.

Omar, who was close to Godane, has been fighting with al-Shabaab for a long time, but he remains a mystery even within the group, said Mohamed Farah Ali al-Ansari, a former al-Shabaab leader who surrendered to the Somali government in 2010 and now directs the government’s militia rehabilitation centres.

Top tweets

@farhanjimale EU expressed concern over the differences between Pres & PM of #Somalia. It says this is already having an impact on the functions of govt

@farhanjimale Official autopsy on the late Somali police chief shows that he died of a lung related illness according to state media. #Somalia

@Daudoo #Somalia govt deports 2 men today (Ugandan & Ghanian nationals) accused of entering #Mogadishu illegally for journalism activities

@UN As food security in #Somalia worsens, read what@WFP_Africa is doing in the region to respondhttp://j.mp/1tEYhkB

@SalahOsman0 Another Political turmoil: Somali President asks UN Envoy to Respect Somalia’s right to self-determination.ww.jowhar.com/?p=4489

@UN Nov 2As food security in #Somalia worsens, read what@WFP_Africa is doing in the region to respondhttp://j.mp/1tEYhkB

@TimesLIVE Somalia power struggles risking peace efforts: EU, UN http://bit.ly/1wZLDM7

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State funeral held for Police Commander General Mohamed Hassan Ismail in Mogadishu. Photo: Hiiraan Online