Ayrotv.com- The Awdal region, strategically positioned near the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el Mandeb Strait, is a land rich in history and culture, primarily inhabited by the Gadaboursi people. Known for their ancient civilization, the Gadaboursi are celebrated for their hospitality, bravery, and profound knowledge. This region, however, has faced significant challenges, especially since the fall of the military regime in Somalia.
In the aftermath of the regime’s collapse, tribal leaders from the five northern regions of Somalia convened to forge a path toward stability. While the south was embroiled in civil war, these leaders recognized the need for cooperation and mutual support. The Gadaboursi, alongside the Darod tribes, entered into a peace pact with the Isaaq, aiming to cease hostilities and ensure that each region could govern itself while sharing security responsibilities.
However, this fragile alliance soon faced strain as the Isaaq tribe began to advocate for independence, influenced by external actors from Ethiopia and the UAE, who sought to realign power dynamics in the Horn of Africa, potentially bringing Israel into the mix. This shift raised alarms among the Gadaboursi, who have historically prioritized unity and cohabitation over sectarian divides.
In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged: a small faction of so-called leaders and intellectuals from the Gadaboursi community has aligned themselves with the secessionist agenda of the Hargeisa regime. These individuals appear to operate without the consent or support of the Gadaboursi people, raising a critical question: why impose a foreign authority on a community capable of self-governance within a federal system?
For over 30 years, the Gadaboursi have placed their trust in the Isaaq leadership. Yet, the promised development has not materialized. Awdal and Salal regions, including the Gabiley District, lack essential infrastructure—roads, schools, bridges, and significant projects remain absent. The Hargeisa regime’s actions have only compounded these grievances, with reports of land confiscation from Gadaboursi families and violent reprisals against innocents, all without justice being served.
It is time for the Gadaboursi people to awaken to the reality of their situation and to rally behind the Awdal State Movement. This movement represents a call for self-determination and the right to govern their affairs free from external imposition. The Gadaboursi possess the resources, knowledge, and resolve necessary to establish a prosperous region that honors their heritage and meets the needs of their people.
The future of Awdal lies within the hands of its inhabitants. By standing united and advocating for their rights, the Gadaboursi can carve out a path towards autonomy and development, ensuring that their legacy and culture continue to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
By: Prof Askar
