Warsame Digital Media  WDM

Mogadishu, March 12, 2025 – The Somali Federal Government is under scrutiny for allegedly allocating a significant portion of land in Siinka Dheer to a privileged subclan family and select private individuals, according to reliable sources. Siinka Dheer, a region encompassing approximately 10,700 plots of land, is home to around 80,000 residents, 99% of whom are locals who fled the hardships of life in Mogadishu. Located strategically 16 kilometers between Mogadishu and Afgooye, the area has become a flashpoint for controversy as residents face displacement and exploitation.

Land Misappropriation and Corruption

Reports indicate that prominent individuals, including government officials, have been granted plots of land in Siinka Dheer through questionable means. Among those named are:

• Faarax Macalin
• Cabdi Dheere
• Cabdullaahi Sanbalooshe, Director of the National Intelligence Service Agency (NISA)

Each plot is reportedly being sold for between 5,000 and 8,000 USD, with allegations of a pay-to-access scheme shielding wealthy individuals from scrutiny. This has effectively barred ordinary residents from accessing or claiming land without government approval, further marginalizing an already vulnerable population.

Dire Living Conditions

The residents of Siinka Dheer are among the most impoverished in the region, with 98% living in destitute conditions and makeshift shelters. A spokesperson for the community expressed their desperation, stating that their only hope for intervention now lies with extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, highlighting the extent of their disillusionment with the government.

Power Imbalances and Resource Control

The situation in Siinka Dheer contrasts sharply with other regions, such as Dayniile and Oodweyne, where powerful subclans maintain control over local resources through heavy armament. Public properties, including former projects like Digaaga, Gosha, and Gandiga, have reportedly been forcefully occupied by these subclans, further exacerbating inequality and resource disparities.

Governance and Equity Concerns

The ongoing land allocation crisis in Siinka Dheer raises critical questions about governance, equity, and the protection of vulnerable populations in Somalia. The residents find themselves trapped in a cycle of political patronage and economic deprivation, with little recourse to challenge the injustices they face.

Call for Immediate Action

The plight of Siinka Dheer’s residents underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and equitable resource distribution in Somalia. Immediate intervention is required to address these systemic issues and ensure that the rights of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, are upheld. Without swift action, the situation risks further destabilizing the region and deepening public mistrust in government institutions.

As the story develops, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Somalia in its pursuit of stability and justice. The international community and local stakeholders must work together to address these pressing concerns and safeguard the future of Siinka Dheer’s residents.

The Puntland State of Somalia is engaged in a critical and multifaceted war against two of the most dangerous extremist groups in the region: ISIS-Somalia and Al-Shabab. This conflict is not only a military struggle but also a battle of ideologies and narratives. While Puntland’s security forces have shown resilience and determination in the Calmiskaad mountains and other fronts, the leadership’s inability to develop a consistent and organized narrative, coupled with strategic shortcomings, has significantly diluted its overall war effort. This failure undermines the sacrifices of its soldiers, the contributions of its diaspora, and the trust of its citizens.

1. Lack of a Coherent Narrative

One of the most glaring weaknesses of Puntland’s leadership is the absence of a clear, consistent, and compelling narrative to counter the propaganda of ISIS-Somalia and Al-Shabab. Extremist groups thrive on exploiting ideological vacuums and spreading fear through their messaging. Puntland’s administration has failed to articulate a unified counter-narrative that exposes the extremists’ falsehoods, highlights the government’s successes, and reassures the public of its commitment to victory. This lack of communication has allowed extremist groups to dominate the information space, radicalize vulnerable populations, and erode public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its people.

2. Inconsistent Public Information Campaigns

The Puntland government has not implemented a reliable public information strategy to keep citizens informed about its military operations, achievements, and challenges. Transparency is crucial in building trust and rallying public support, yet the administration has been opaque about its efforts. This silence has created room for misinformation, rumors, and even sabotage by external actors, such as reports of the Federal Government of Somalia undermining Puntland’s campaigns. Without a robust public information apparatus, Puntland’s leadership risks losing the moral high ground and alienating its own population.

3. Failure to Fully Leverage Diaspora Contributions

The Puntland diaspora has been a vital asset in the war effort, mobilizing resources, raising awareness, and advocating for international support. However, the leadership has not fully harnessed this potential. There is no organized framework to coordinate diaspora contributions effectively, nor has the government consistently engaged with its diaspora to align their efforts with its strategic goals. This lack of coordination represents a missed opportunity to amplify Puntland’s voice on the global stage and strengthen its capacity to combat extremism.

4. Strategic Shortcomings in Military Operations

While Puntland’s security forces have demonstrated bravery, the leadership’s strategic approach to the war has been reactive rather than proactive. The absence of a long-term, comprehensive strategy to degrade and dismantle extremist networks has allowed ISIS-Somalia and Al-Shabab to regroup and adapt. The focus on military operations alone, without integrating ideological, economic, and social countermeasures, has limited the effectiveness of the campaign. The government must adopt a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of extremism, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education, to achieve lasting peace.

5. Alleged Federal Government Sabotage and Lack of Response

Reports of the Federal Government of Somalia undermining Puntland’s efforts against ISIS-Somalia and Al-Shabab, if proven, represent a grave national betrayal. However, Puntland’s leadership has not adequately addressed these allegations or taken decisive action to counteract such sabotage. This perceived inaction weakens Puntland’s position and raises questions about its ability to safeguard its sovereignty and security. The administration must confront this issue head-on, either through diplomatic channels or by rallying international support to hold the Federal Government accountable.

6. Weak Coordination with Local Communities

Local communities are critical allies in the fight against extremism, yet Puntland’s leadership has not effectively engaged with them. Building trust and collaboration with community leaders, elders, and religious figures is essential to counter radicalization and gather intelligence. The government’s failure to foster strong relationships with these stakeholders has hindered its ability to isolate extremists and win the hearts and minds of the population.

Conclusion

The war against ISIS-Somalia and Al-Shabab is a defining challenge for Puntland, requiring not only military strength but also strategic vision, effective communication, and strong leadership. Unfortunately, the Puntland administration’s weaknesses in these areas have compromised its ability to achieve decisive victory. To turn the tide, the leadership must develop a coherent narrative, implement a robust public information strategy, fully leverage diaspora contributions, adopt a comprehensive counter-extremism approach, address external sabotage, and strengthen ties with local communities. Only then can Puntland hope to defeat the extremists and secure a peaceful future for its people. The time for action is now; failure is not an option.