Tuesday July 22, 2025
Ali Jeyte Osman, Somalia’s presidential envoy for the Ma’awisleey local defence forces, attends a community meeting in Jigjiga, Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, on July 21, 2025. Jeyte has been seeking regional support to aid conflict-affected communities in Hiiraan battling al-Shabaab insurgents. (Yool Media/ ScreenGrab)
Speaking during a welcoming ceremony in Jigjiga, Jeyte emphasized that his delegation’s arrival was not ceremonial but a mission driven by crisis. “We didn’t come on a routine visit,” he said. “We left behind people who are bleeding—civilians from one clan who have endured nearly four years of war. They’ve sacrificed deeply.”
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Jeyte, who leads the Ma’awisleey militia formed to fight al-Shabaab in central Somalia, praised the efforts of Hiiraan residents, particularly members of the Hawadle clan, in expelling militants from key areas. But he said the burden has been too heavy, and now requires regional solidarity and material support.His appeal follows a July 9 handover of military supplies by Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State to the governor of Hiiraan, accompanied by community elders. The weapons and gear were designated for Ma’awisleey units currently battling al-Shabaab insurgents.
Jeyte thanked both the regional and federal governments of Ethiopia for their past and ongoing cooperation. “You’ve supported us before, and we’re grateful,” he said. “But the situation is more urgent now.”
He also urged residents of Ethiopia’s Somali region to contribute to stability on both sides of the border. “Help your brothers where you can,” he said. “And work with your local government to maintain peace.”
Over the past two weeks, Jeyte has held a series of closed-door meetings in Jigjiga to secure stronger ties with regional leaders and explore avenues for further support to communities on Somalia’s frontlines.