Somalia's forgotten regions move to chart their own future

Ali Yusuf Hosh, Minister of Interior and Federal Reconciliation of Federal Republic of Somalia.

Somalia's marginalised regions of Sool, Sanaag and Cayn are forming a federal state, aiming for political representation and local elections after decades without formal governance.

A conference underway in Las Anod has brought together leaders, clan elders, women and civil society representatives to finalise plans for SSC-Khaatumo (Sool, Sanaag and Cayn), which would become Somalia's third-largest federal state.

Interior and Federal Reconciliation Minister Ali Yusuf Hosh said communities were establishing a political structure to enable local governance and prepare for elections once the conference concludes.

"For the first time in over three decades, the people of SSC-Khaatumo are taking control of their political future and laying the groundwork for local elections," said Hosh.

The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) recognised SSC-Khaatumo as an interim administration on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023, after its re-establishment in February following civil unrest in Las Anod. Dhulbahante clan elders, who declared SSC-Khaatumo, rejected Somaliland's claim over the regions and announced plans to form a federal state under Somalia.

Leaders at the conference said the move challenges Somaliland's claims and strengthens Somalia's efforts to bring more of its territory under federal authority.

Hosh noted that SSC-Khaatumo has formed an interim administration that has created systems for tax collection, security coordination and essential public services.

"These institutions have been built from the ground up with community support and a commitment to stability," said Hosh.

The conference is also discussing power-sharing proposals to ensure inclusive leadership across SSC-Khaatumo once the state is formalised.

Second Deputy Speaker of the Upper House of the Federal Parliament (Senate) Abdullahi Timacadde, Interior and Federal Reconciliation Minister Hosh, SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdikhadir Firdhiye and other federal ministers and lawmakers attended the opening session.

Residents in Las Anod welcomed the conference, saying the region had long been excluded from Somalia's political processes and had struggled with insecurity and lack of services.

"This conference is not just about forming a government; it is about giving people in these regions a voice and a future," noted Timacadde.

If finalised, SSC-Khaatumo will expand the federal map, bringing a large area under Somalia's federal structure and advancing efforts towards national cohesion.