Wednesday December 11, 2024
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre (right) meets with UK Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis in Mogadishu to discuss regional stability and international cooperation, with a focus on addressing tensions in Jubbaland.
Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, has called for immediate and inclusive dialogue to de-escalate tensions in Jubbaland, warning that the unrest threatens to undermine Somalia’s fragile state-building efforts. His remarks came after a meeting with Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre in Mogadishu, where the two discussed pathways to regional stability and bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Nithavrianakis emphasized the UK’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s political and economic progress, underscoring that dialogue is the only viable path to resolving disputes in the semi-autonomous Jubbaland region. “The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its support for Somalia’s journey toward stability and development,” he said.
While a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office highlighted discussions on security, counter-terrorism, and public election preparations, it notably omitted any direct reference to the escalating tensions in Jubbaland. This omission comes as international stakeholders intensify calls for immediate action, urging Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, commonly known as Ahmed Madobe, to re-engage in consultative talks to diffuse the crisis.
The unrest in Jubbaland has drawn widespread international concern, with analysts warning it could exacerbate long-standing divisions in Somalia’s federal system. Disputes between regional administrations and the central government have frequently hindered progress toward national unity, with Jubbaland emerging as a flashpoint in recent years.
The global community’s renewed calls for dialogue reflect the urgency of addressing these challenges. In a recent statement, international partners stressed that negotiations are essential for preventing further destabilization and fostering a collaborative approach to governance.