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Somalia:“clan monopoly on violence” is what UN wants in Somalia"

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Friday, February 28, 2014

The unethical practice of UN Somalia and Eritrea Monitoring Group (SEMG) to leak disputed allegations to the media for vilification of Somali leaders and clans has done huge disservice to the efforts of statebuilding in Somalia and reinforced public distrust about foreigner powers’ intentions. Equally, it has also tarnished the reputation of the United Missions for Somalia (UNSOM) advisor to the federal Government of Somalia. SEMG, supposedly an independent Auditor-General for assessing the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions, has violated six rules necessary for the integrity of its work.

 

The six rules are: 1) In-depth examination of the consistent following of policies and procedures agreed upon by all parties, including the international community; 2) verification of the accuracy and reliability of the information collected for assessment; 3) observance of impartiality and apolitical stance with respect to interested parties; 4) investigation of constraints, inconsistencies, and conflicts related to mandated policies; 5) transparency towards investigated subjects; 6) accountability to higher impartial authority.

 

Admittedly, Somalis has weak interest in their nation building mainly for foreign manipulations.  But more dangerously, SEMG is one of the five machetes (destructive channels) used by international actors to make Somalia’s annexation inevitable. The other four machetes are: UNSOM, AMISOM, IGAD, and International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGO). The four organizations compel Somalis to own inherently contradictory policy prescriptions,  pay attention to foreign allegiance, and preside nominal government. Then, SEMG comes in to dramatize the misdeeds and failures created and nurtured by the four. This triggers humiliating international media blitz that calls for fresh international actions-intervention, sanctions, and change- in Somalia.

 

The latest report issued by SEMG on Feb 6, 2013 assesses the implementation of UN Security Resolution      2093 (2013) concerning the partial lifting of arms embargo to achieve the goal of statebuilding in Somalia. The resolution, adopted against the vigorous objection of Kenya and Ethiopia, was intended to implement the UN approved plan for the creation of Somali National Army (SNA), necessary for a sovereign Somali State.

 

Unfortunately, the report heavily influenced by foreign warlord experts on Somalia targeted Hawiye clan, particularly Abdgal, Habargidir, and Ayr sub clans for ulterior motives. It is an abuse to blame the federal government for the flaw of arms to Mogadishu Market Arms. The incendiary language used in the report against Hawiye clan clearly indicates the prejudicial frame of mind of the authors of the report.

 

In general terms, the report accused the federal government of failure to comply with the reporting of its military structure, logistical infrastructure, and arms control procedures to the UN Security Council. With the exception of unaccounted 1,000 AK-47 rifles supplied by the Government of government, the most sensational evidence discussed in the report is Hawiye conspiracy.

 

The evidence include clashes between Habargidir and Biyamal clans in Lower Shabelle region, Abgal and Bantu in Middle Shabelle region, and clashes between sub clan Habargidir and “heavily armed troops of Puntland” near Galkaio. Another bizarre allegation in the report is the connection of President Hassan Sheikh with Al Shabab leader Yusuf Kabakutukade for clan affiliation. SEMG did not disclose the motivation of President Hassan in supporting Kabakutukade who zealously plans to kill him.

 

SEMG has been disturbed by the discovery of attempts of the federal government to improve the cooperation between Abgal and Habargidir for strengthening the cohesion within Hawiye clan because Darods in Puntland and Jubbaland States felt threatened. This argument shows one of the many flaws of clan federalism.

 

 The report ignored to recognize the complain of the federal government about the lack of notification of arms delivered by the UN to regional states of Somalia or to acknowledge the receipt of the 47 pages report of the federal  government detailing the SNA structure, logistical infrastructure, and arms control. It also omits the publicized reconciliation efforts arried out by cabinet members, parliamentarians, security officials, and civic leaders who genuinely intervened and mediated peaceful agreements about the clashes in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions. SEMG decided to take over the investigations of both clashes from the Somali state and other Human Rights Organizations. No follow up for the clashes near Galkaio.

 

The conspiracy link of President Hassan Sheikh, Minister Abdikarim, and presidential Security Advisor Abdurahman Isse with Hawiye clan fits the strategy of the United Nations, European Union, African Union, and IGAD to divide Somalia into institutionalized clan fiefdoms under the slogan of federalism. Some clans have established their local security institutions directly accountable to Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Jigjiga. This raises the question about the usefulness of the federal government in the face of country divided into clan fiefdoms.

 

Former Foreign Minister of the Transitional National Government of Somalia, Ismail Buba, suggested in his concluding remarks during the 8th Fagaaraha Forum held in Mogadishu on Feb 15, 2014 the urgent need to review the structure of the Somali government and to separate the administration of “South Central Somalia” affairs from the federal government. His suggestion has encouraged consultation among Hawiye clan for the proclamation of “Hawiye Council for security, development, and International cooperation,” which will take over the responsibilities of the security, finance, public administration, port, airport, and local government functions and the partnership role with international forces stationed within Hawiye fiefdom. “clan (not state) monopoly of use of force (violence)” is what UN wants in Somalia.

 

Without plausible justification, SEMG has recommended a reversal of the 2013 partial lifting of arms embargo to get the quick approval for tightening, intrusive, and humiliating sanctions, which will be a blow to the federal government’s ability to gain public support and credibility. It is critical that members of the UN Security Council set aside the inflammatory SEMG report for rebuttal and further scrutiny.

 

The federal government angrily dismissed the SEMG allegations. Its report does not address the Hawiye conspiracy, but it answers the requirements of UN Security Council Resolutions. In January, the Security Advisor of President Hassan pleaded with SEMG Coordinator to give feedback about the government report to no avail. 

 

SEMG overlooked  many factors screwing up the Somali security and politics: one, the federal government populates members of all clans but it burdens and messes mainly with Hawiye clan; two, externally influenced clans defied this shared federal government by labelling it as “Hawiye representative, ” a mendacious argument and decided to remain separate; three, according to clan federalism, clan represents antagonism, hatreds, and self-importance; it stimulates the concept of “otherness, “and anti-citizenship; four, Somali National Army in south central Somalia is formed along clans ( twelve brigades) and is subordinate (ally) to AMISOM forces deployed in four sectors-Mogadishu, Beletwein, Baidoa, and Kismaio. Donors pay salaries and arms. The role of the Federal government remains to be as a liaison.

 

Incidentally, SEMG report reveals the UN deceptive position. The UN publicly supports but practically undermines the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Somalia; similarly, it declares opposition but spearheads Somali refugee repatriation in high risk area; it killed the New Deal strategy for Somalia despite expressing support; it symbolically calls for the leadership role of the federal government in the Somali affairs but practically stifles; it is silent about Somaliland rejection of UNSOM and about Kenya and Ethiopia meddling; it fetters the Somali security build up.

 

Clan federalism forces each clan to devote time, energy, and resources to pursue its short term vanity in rivalry mood with other clans. The security concern of each clan could instigate border and trade disputes, restriction of movements of people, revenge killings and harassment, and introduce the temptation of deterrent and preemptive strikes.

 

The ultimate outcome of clan federalism is to see Somali clans under permanent threat among themselves and not being anymore security concerns to neighboring countries. The use of the phrase “Somalia in peace with its international neighbors (Kenya and Ethiopia)” will be replaced by “clan X in peace with its other Somali clan neighbor(s).”  This is what the UN and Ethiopia are hoping to achieve in Somalia. It is a sad chapter of Somali history close to become a reality.

 

However, Somalis have the power (maybe not the will) to avert such tragic fate. In his timely analysis “Are Corruption and Tribalism dooming Somalia’s war on Al Shabab Extremists? Andrew McGregor reminds Somalis and foreigners the following:

 

Eliminating the Shabaab threat will remain impossible no matter what degree of international assistance and funding is provided so long as service in national and local administrations in Somalia is seen as a means for personal self-enrichment and the furtherance of clan interests at the expense of national interests. Ultimately, the path Somalia will follow will depend not on UN assistance or AU military deployments, but rather on the interest Somalis themselves have in the national project.

 

Mohamud M Uluso

mohamuduluso@gmail.com

Somalia:“clan monopoly on violence” is what UN wants in Somalia”

0

Friday, February 28, 2014

The unethical practice of UN Somalia and Eritrea Monitoring Group (SEMG) to leak disputed allegations to the media for vilification of Somali leaders and clans has done huge disservice to the efforts of statebuilding in Somalia and reinforced public distrust about foreigner powers’ intentions. Equally, it has also tarnished the reputation of the United Missions for Somalia (UNSOM) advisor to the federal Government of Somalia. SEMG, supposedly an independent Auditor-General for assessing the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions, has violated six rules necessary for the integrity of its work.

 

The six rules are: 1) In-depth examination of the consistent following of policies and procedures agreed upon by all parties, including the international community; 2) verification of the accuracy and reliability of the information collected for assessment; 3) observance of impartiality and apolitical stance with respect to interested parties; 4) investigation of constraints, inconsistencies, and conflicts related to mandated policies; 5) transparency towards investigated subjects; 6) accountability to higher impartial authority.

 

Admittedly, Somalis has weak interest in their nation building mainly for foreign manipulations.  But more dangerously, SEMG is one of the five machetes (destructive channels) used by international actors to make Somalia’s annexation inevitable. The other four machetes are: UNSOM, AMISOM, IGAD, and International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGO). The four organizations compel Somalis to own inherently contradictory policy prescriptions,  pay attention to foreign allegiance, and preside nominal government. Then, SEMG comes in to dramatize the misdeeds and failures created and nurtured by the four. This triggers humiliating international media blitz that calls for fresh international actions-intervention, sanctions, and change- in Somalia.

 

The latest report issued by SEMG on Feb 6, 2013 assesses the implementation of UN Security Resolution      2093 (2013) concerning the partial lifting of arms embargo to achieve the goal of statebuilding in Somalia. The resolution, adopted against the vigorous objection of Kenya and Ethiopia, was intended to implement the UN approved plan for the creation of Somali National Army (SNA), necessary for a sovereign Somali State.

 

Unfortunately, the report heavily influenced by foreign warlord experts on Somalia targeted Hawiye clan, particularly Abdgal, Habargidir, and Ayr sub clans for ulterior motives. It is an abuse to blame the federal government for the flaw of arms to Mogadishu Market Arms. The incendiary language used in the report against Hawiye clan clearly indicates the prejudicial frame of mind of the authors of the report.

 

In general terms, the report accused the federal government of failure to comply with the reporting of its military structure, logistical infrastructure, and arms control procedures to the UN Security Council. With the exception of unaccounted 1,000 AK-47 rifles supplied by the Government of government, the most sensational evidence discussed in the report is Hawiye conspiracy.

 

The evidence include clashes between Habargidir and Biyamal clans in Lower Shabelle region, Abgal and Bantu in Middle Shabelle region, and clashes between sub clan Habargidir and “heavily armed troops of Puntland” near Galkaio. Another bizarre allegation in the report is the connection of President Hassan Sheikh with Al Shabab leader Yusuf Kabakutukade for clan affiliation. SEMG did not disclose the motivation of President Hassan in supporting Kabakutukade who zealously plans to kill him.

 

SEMG has been disturbed by the discovery of attempts of the federal government to improve the cooperation between Abgal and Habargidir for strengthening the cohesion within Hawiye clan because Darods in Puntland and Jubbaland States felt threatened. This argument shows one of the many flaws of clan federalism.

 

 The report ignored to recognize the complain of the federal government about the lack of notification of arms delivered by the UN to regional states of Somalia or to acknowledge the receipt of the 47 pages report of the federal  government detailing the SNA structure, logistical infrastructure, and arms control. It also omits the publicized reconciliation efforts arried out by cabinet members, parliamentarians, security officials, and civic leaders who genuinely intervened and mediated peaceful agreements about the clashes in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions. SEMG decided to take over the investigations of both clashes from the Somali state and other Human Rights Organizations. No follow up for the clashes near Galkaio.

 

The conspiracy link of President Hassan Sheikh, Minister Abdikarim, and presidential Security Advisor Abdurahman Isse with Hawiye clan fits the strategy of the United Nations, European Union, African Union, and IGAD to divide Somalia into institutionalized clan fiefdoms under the slogan of federalism. Some clans have established their local security institutions directly accountable to Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Jigjiga. This raises the question about the usefulness of the federal government in the face of country divided into clan fiefdoms.

 

Former Foreign Minister of the Transitional National Government of Somalia, Ismail Buba, suggested in his concluding remarks during the 8th Fagaaraha Forum held in Mogadishu on Feb 15, 2014 the urgent need to review the structure of the Somali government and to separate the administration of “South Central Somalia” affairs from the federal government. His suggestion has encouraged consultation among Hawiye clan for the proclamation of “Hawiye Council for security, development, and International cooperation,” which will take over the responsibilities of the security, finance, public administration, port, airport, and local government functions and the partnership role with international forces stationed within Hawiye fiefdom. “clan (not state) monopoly of use of force (violence)” is what UN wants in Somalia.

 

Without plausible justification, SEMG has recommended a reversal of the 2013 partial lifting of arms embargo to get the quick approval for tightening, intrusive, and humiliating sanctions, which will be a blow to the federal government’s ability to gain public support and credibility. It is critical that members of the UN Security Council set aside the inflammatory SEMG report for rebuttal and further scrutiny.

 

The federal government angrily dismissed the SEMG allegations. Its report does not address the Hawiye conspiracy, but it answers the requirements of UN Security Council Resolutions. In January, the Security Advisor of President Hassan pleaded with SEMG Coordinator to give feedback about the government report to no avail. 

 

SEMG overlooked  many factors screwing up the Somali security and politics: one, the federal government populates members of all clans but it burdens and messes mainly with Hawiye clan; two, externally influenced clans defied this shared federal government by labelling it as “Hawiye representative, ” a mendacious argument and decided to remain separate; three, according to clan federalism, clan represents antagonism, hatreds, and self-importance; it stimulates the concept of “otherness, “and anti-citizenship; four, Somali National Army in south central Somalia is formed along clans ( twelve brigades) and is subordinate (ally) to AMISOM forces deployed in four sectors-Mogadishu, Beletwein, Baidoa, and Kismaio. Donors pay salaries and arms. The role of the Federal government remains to be as a liaison.

 

Incidentally, SEMG report reveals the UN deceptive position. The UN publicly supports but practically undermines the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Somalia; similarly, it declares opposition but spearheads Somali refugee repatriation in high risk area; it killed the New Deal strategy for Somalia despite expressing support; it symbolically calls for the leadership role of the federal government in the Somali affairs but practically stifles; it is silent about Somaliland rejection of UNSOM and about Kenya and Ethiopia meddling; it fetters the Somali security build up.

 

Clan federalism forces each clan to devote time, energy, and resources to pursue its short term vanity in rivalry mood with other clans. The security concern of each clan could instigate border and trade disputes, restriction of movements of people, revenge killings and harassment, and introduce the temptation of deterrent and preemptive strikes.

 

The ultimate outcome of clan federalism is to see Somali clans under permanent threat among themselves and not being anymore security concerns to neighboring countries. The use of the phrase “Somalia in peace with its international neighbors (Kenya and Ethiopia)” will be replaced by “clan X in peace with its other Somali clan neighbor(s).”  This is what the UN and Ethiopia are hoping to achieve in Somalia. It is a sad chapter of Somali history close to become a reality.

 

However, Somalis have the power (maybe not the will) to avert such tragic fate. In his timely analysis “Are Corruption and Tribalism dooming Somalia’s war on Al Shabab Extremists? Andrew McGregor reminds Somalis and foreigners the following:

 

Eliminating the Shabaab threat will remain impossible no matter what degree of international assistance and funding is provided so long as service in national and local administrations in Somalia is seen as a means for personal self-enrichment and the furtherance of clan interests at the expense of national interests. Ultimately, the path Somalia will follow will depend not on UN assistance or AU military deployments, but rather on the interest Somalis themselves have in the national project.

 

Mohamud M Uluso

mohamuduluso@gmail.com

World:Forced to drown her Own baby

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“This was the first time we saw a baby being born. So we were watching this baby and we were so happy. But suddenly we heard the footsteps.”

The footsteps belonged to a guard, who ordered the mother to drown her baby.

Jee Heon, survivor of a North Korean prison camp, said the mother was begging, “Let me keep the baby, please forgive me,” but the guard kept beating the mother who just gave birth. “And the mother, with her shaking hands she picked up the baby and she put the baby face down in the water.

This is just one glimpse into the cruelty the North Korean regime is inflicting on its own people every day. A UN report just presented testimonies like Jee’s in devastating volume and detail — painting a picture reminiscent of the worst crimes perpetrated by the Nazis.

It’s time the world said enough is enough — that we won’t stand by idly as brutal leaders turn on the innocent. Let’s show the people of North Korea we haven’t forgotten them and pledge to not stop until our leaders act– join the call now and share widely:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/forced_to_drown_her_baby_22/?bWiHveb&v=36547

The evidence is overwhelming: North Korea is committing crimes of the worst kind and getting away with it. But just wringing our hands in despair and giving up isn’t an option — just like it wasn’t for those who suffered years of torture at the hands of the regime’s henchmen and managed to escape. This is what our community is built for, putting injustices on world leaders’ agendas until we see action.

It’ll take a massive global effort but it’s possible: the UN’s Human Rights Council meets in days — it has the power to pass a strong resolution on North Korea which would in turn spur the UN General Assembly into action. Some countries are already taking a stand — even close allies of China, which for decades has protected the North Korean regime. Together, we can make sure the world follows.

When our call reaches 1 million signers, Avaaz will challenge global leaders, the UN General Assembly and the Human Rights Council to show courage and start condemning the regime in bulk. Sign now and share widely:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/forced_to_drown_her_baby_22/?bWiHveb&v=36547

From Burma to Syria, Avaaz members have taken action against human rights abuses by brutal regimes. Let’s not turn away from the plight of North Korea’s citizens — together we can make sure Kim Jong-un and his cronies don’t get away with murder.

With hope and determination,

Jeremy, Jooyea, Antonia, Luis, Mary, Ricken and the rest of the Avaaz team

More information:

North Korea: ‘You are brainwashed from the time you know how to talk’ (The Guardian)
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/feb/17/north-korea-human-rights-abuses-stories-un-brainwashed

The tyrant who forces mothers to drown their babies: Survivors of brutal North Korean regime reveal the chilling truth about the world’s most horrific torture camps (The Daily Mail)
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2400539/Tyrant-Kim-Jong-forces-mothers-drown-babies-Survivors-brutal-North-Korea-reveal-worlds-horrific-torture-camps.html#ixzz2uKUJz200

North Korea: Humanity at its very worst (The Economist)
http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21596999-un-report-accuses-north-korea-unspeakable-human-rights-a…

UN inquiry chairman’s letter to Kim Jong-un on North Korean rights abuses (The Guardian)
http://www.theguardian.com/world/interactive/2014/feb/17/united-nations-letter-north-korea-human-rig…

‘Abundant evidence’ of crimes against humanity in North Korea, panel says (CNN)
http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/17/world/asia/north-korea-un-report/

North Korean Defector Reveals The Horrifying Conditions Inside Secretive State’s Concentration Camps (Huffington Post)
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/10/12/north-korea-defector-yodo_n_4088122.html

IN SOMALIA, “ONCE THE VILLAGES ARE GONE, THE CULTURE IS GONE”

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 By Hassan Omer

 

Once or twice a week, a dozen amateur musicians meet under a highway overpass on outskirts of Mogadishu carting with them drums, cymbals and the collective memory of their destroyed village.

The set up quickly then play music that is almost never heard anymore, not even here where the steady drone of cars muffles the lyrics of love and betrayal heroic deeds and kingdoms lost.

The musicians used to live in odowa family bridge, village of about 300 households near the overpass. In 2009, the village was torn down to build a golf course and residents were scattered among several housing project, some a dozen miles away.

Now, the musicians meet once a week under the bridge, but the distances mean the number of participants is dwindling. A young people, especially do not have the time.

“I want to keep this going.” Said jamac, 45 old, who inherited leadership of the group from his grandfather, “when we play our music, I think of my grandfather, when we play, he lives.”

Across Somalia, cultural traditions like the odawa family’s music are under threat. Rapid urbanization means village life, the bedrock of Somali’s culture is rapidly disappearing and with it traditions and history.

“Somali’s culture has traditionally been rural-based.” Says Hassan a well-known author and scholar, “once the villages are gone, the culture is gone.”

Destroying villages and their culture also reveals deeper biases. A common insult in Somalia is to call someone farmer, a word equated with backwardness and ignorance, while the most valued cultural

When the communist took over in 1979, these traditions were mostly banned but were revived starting in the 1991s when the bare regime overthrow. The temples mostly destroyed during the Cultural Revolution were rebuilt.

However, the performers are declining in numbers and increasingly old. The universal allures of modern life such as computers, movies and television have siphoned young people away from traditional pursuits but the physical fabric of the performers’ lives has also been destroyed.

Mr. odowa walked through the village, now reduced to rubble and overgrown with wild grass and bushes. He started singing with his grandfather when he was 2. He now has an office job in the city’s public transportation company and spends all his vacation time working on the troupe.

However, odowa said that keeping their village life intact would have helped most. “It was really comfortable in the old village.” He said back in his new home, a small two-bedroom apartment high up in the apartment block a half-hour drive away.

 By Hassan Omer

Africa:Meet "The NGOMA AFRICA BAND", the popular and most wanted band based in Germany

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Soulful Vocals, Hypnotic Guitars and the driving Extraordinary rhythm of the “Bongo Dance” from East Africa

The NGOMA AFRICA BAND; known as the (Golden Voice of East Africa) or ” FFU- Field force unit”  is one of the few amongst african bands in Germany to have touched hearts and left audience dancing and week in the knees.

 Founded in 1993 and led by Tanzanian musician borne Ebrahim Makunja aka kamanda Ras Makunja – “King of Anunnaki”.

Every concert is unique, uniting the audience after a few minutes on the dancing floor.

Bongo Dansi –meaning Dance able east african dance, is the “Extraordinary Rhythm” that describes the NGOMA AFRICA BAND and makes the band the people´s choice.

Baptized under different names by excited fans – the Annunaki empire, FFU –Field Force Unit.

The NGOMA AFRICA BAND has succesfully written and released several hits amongst others the latest “Bongo Tambarare”, repertoires mostly in the native Tanzania and east african Kiswahili language.

Under the leadership and great visionary-Ebrahim Makunja AKA -Kamanda Ras Makunja; the NGOMA AFRICA BAND comprises of africa´s young and most talented musicians, drummers,guitarists bassist,percussionist, dancers amongst others multi-talented  soloist –Christain Bakotessa aka “Chris-B”  Mo Benda,Jessy Ouyah, Flora William, Jonathan Sousa aka “Jo Jo” ,Aj Nbongo making the NGOMA AFRICA BAND a complete travel party of eight vibrant musician and dancers.

Book The NGOMA AFRICA BAND and experience the extraordinary sensational Bongo dansi from East Africa´s best dancable music, best for indoor and outdoor festival and events of all kinds! Give your audience the best of Africa this season with the NGOMA AFRICA BAND

Click here for more and listen  www.ngoma-africa.com

 

Somaliland:Upcoming Four Day Oil Conference to be held in Dubai Aims to Bring Together Somaliland Officials and Four Oil Companies

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Hon Hussein Abdi Dualeh and the Director General are due to leave the country on Friday headed to Dubai the UAE where they are going to attend a four day oil conference which is expected to begin on the 2nd till the 6th. `

The conference aims to bring together Somaliland government officials and four oil companies namely Genel ,DNO,RAK GAS, ANSAN WIKFI to discuss ways to expedite oil exploration and extraction  in the country in 2014.

During the duration of conference other things which will be high on the agenda will be the issue of how the Somaliland shall work with its partners shall embark on a major public awareness and engagement with the community and to establish a security protective force to protect to ensure the safety of expatriates while executing their operation before any major operation begins.

All four oil companies have recently signed contract with the government of Somaliland to begin work on their respective blocks in 2014.

SomalilandPress. Com

Somaliland:700 households resettled in Hargesia

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NRC in collaboration with the Somaliland Ministry of Resettlement, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction held a successful handing over of the Digaale resettlement project in a ceremony held at the Digaale Community Centre in Hargeisa this week.

The event was attended by the Vice President of Somaliland H.E Eng. Abdirahman Abdullahi Ismail and other dignitaries including the Minister of the Ministry of Resettlement, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Mr. Ahmed Abdi Kahin, the Mayor of Hargeisa Municipality Mr Abdirahman Aideed Mohamed, the UNOCHA Somaliland Head of Office Mr. Francis Lenoh, and NRC Somaliland and Djibouti Area Manager Mr. Boisy Williams.

In his speech, the Somaliland Vice President expressed his happiness to witness the transformation in the lives of hundreds of people who were displaced during the 2011 drought and who are no longer internally displaced persons, thanks to the shelter and livelihood assistance from NRC and other humanitarian partners.

“It gives me great pleasure when I see all these people who used to live in poor conditions back at Mohammed Moge IDP settlement now proudly owning their homes and beginning a new life. They now have homes which can protect them from rain, hot sun and wind storms with received additional services such as water, a health post and a community centre”, said the Vice president.

vp

 

Somaliland Vice President presents a certificate of achievement to NRC Somaliland & Djibouti Area Manager Boisy Williams during the handing over ceremony. Photo: NRC/Nashon Tado

The families that have been resettled at Digaale were transferred from the Mohammed Moge IDP Settlement in an elaborate process spanning over a period of two years. This was following the acquisition of a piece of secure land after dialogue and advocacy, which resulted in a breakthrough in November 2013, allowing the IDPs to own title deeds and live in more secure conditions.

“The history and processes leading to the establishment of the Digaale settlement has been long, difficult and at times nerve-wrecking………but the end has surely justified the means” said Williams in his speech on behalf of INGOs during the handing over ceremony.

NRC with funding from ECHO constructed 700 semi-permanent shelters and installed 700 water tanks beside each home to facilitate water access, in addition to a temporary health post. Furthermore, 300 latrines were constructed, 129 shelter kits, 829 hygiene kits, 700 non-food items, 829 solar lamps and 415 sanitation kits were distributed. A community centre was also constructed with funding from the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA). Going forward, NRC with support from the Ministry of Resettlement, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction will link the project to development partners to ensure its sustainability.

However, a few gaps still exist including 129 semi-permanent shelters, 129 water tanks and 109 latrines and for which NRC has began discussions with various donors to obtain the necessary funding and other support. The NRC Somaliland programme has field operations in Hargeisa, Burao and Erigavo, with core competencies in shelter, WASH, education, food security and livelihoods while factoring protection as an integral part of all programme activities.
nrc

Source: NRC

 

Somaliland:40 International Firms Show their Interest in Developing Hargeisa Water Supply Expansion Project

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Minister of Water Resources and the Director of Hargeisa Agency have revealed that more than 40 firms from all over the world have submitted their tenders to expand the existing Hargeisa water supply grid during a joint press conference.

Director of Hargeisa water agency Mr. Ibrahim Said speaking during the press briefing said, “The visiting   representatives of the 40 firms came to the country after the UN-Habitat which has been tasked to oversee the expansion of the Hargeisa water advertised the contract on behalf of the EU which will be providing the funds for the project and representatives of those firms will be in the coming days visit the main sources of water that supply the city of Hargeisa and they will also visit the eastern and northern areas of Hargeisa which are currently receiving little or no water all.

“The representatives of the at least 40 firms from Africa, Asia and Europe present here today are those ones who have placed their tenders and have been invited here today to do assessments and evaluate the expansion work needed to be done for the Hargeisa water supply.

The Minister of Water Resources Hon Hussein Mohamed Abdille said, “Further the additional water will see an increase of household connections and a sharp reduction in water trucking to the capital through un-hygienic water tankers pumping water from contaminated shallow riverbed aquifers.

Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, has a rapidly growing population. The principal water infrastructure for the city was built in the 1970s, and is not only aged and dilapidated, but also cannot meet the growing demand for clean, potable water. Hargeisa’s limited water availability is a critical shortcoming in essential service delivery, and seriously impedes the right to water access and local economic development. 

HUWSUP will replace the current twin-transmission main that runs from the principal well field at Geed Deeble to Hargeisa with a high-capacity, single pipeline. This action will dramatically increase the capacity of Hargeisa’s system of supply from the current average of 9 million litres to a maximum capacity of 20 million litres a day: a 122 percent increase.

Upgrading the pumping and booster facilities will put in place up-to-date and cost-efficient technology, further securing the system for the long term.

By re-drilling  and rehabilitating the existing boreholes, and developing new ones, HUWSUP will increase the water supply by a minimum of 3.5 million litres every day, bringing Hargeisa closer to international minimum standards for urban water consumption. This water will be safe and affordable, improving the lives of Hargeisa residents.

 

SDF – Projects briefs_6 Water Resources

Somaliland:#FreeAJStaff action to hit 30 countries on Thursday

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• Global Day of Action called in support of journalists detained in Egypt

• Stands of solidarity, vigils and events planned in 30 cities across the world

Events supporting Al Jazeera’s detained journalists in Egypt are planned in over 30 countries for this Thursday, 27 February 2014.

Al Jazeera hopes that, through the attention of the world’s media and partners, pressure can be brought to bear on the Egyptian authorities to hasten the release of Peter Greste, Mohammed Fahmy, Baher Mohamed and Abdullah El Shamy.

Al Jazeera English’s Mohamed, Fahmy and Greste have been detained since 29 December 2013. Al Jazeera Arabic’s El Shamy has been detained without charge since 14 August 2013 and has been on hunger strike in protest since 23 January 2014.

“We truly appreciate the solidarity from everybody right around the world,” says Dr. Mostefa Souag, general director of Al Jazeera Media Network. “The pressure, support and calls for our colleagues to be released have continued to keep the story in the news. The Global Day of Action is about the freedom of the press; it is about objective reporting and ensuring journalists cannot be gagged or silenced. We ask everyone to contribute to the Global Day of Action on Thursday. Journalism is not a crime.”

The hashtag #FreeAJStaff has gone viral worldwide, with quarter of a billion impressions on Twitter alone since 1 February 2014. The campaign has already had an outpouring of popular and political support worldwide, with institutions including the White House, European Union and the United Nations calling for the release of the journalists and for press freedoms to be upheld.

The campaign looks set to ramp up further with public events taking place in Nairobi, Sydney, Manila, Islamabad, Doha, Amman, Ankara,  Berlin, London, Rio, Montreal, Washington DC and San Francisco on Thursday. Every continent of the world will see action.

Al Jazeera is urging people from all backgrounds to join in by supporting the rallies and amplifying the social media campaign using the hashtag #FreeAJstaff.

To build on the online #FreeAJstaff campaign, Al Jazeera will be using Thunderclap, which will allow people to pledge a Tweet, Facebook post, or Tumblr post containing the same message that’s unleashed, all at the same time, throughout the world.

For more information on the Global Day of Action, visit www.aljazeera.com/Freeajstaff.

For more details on Thunderclap:

1. Visit http://thndr.it/1nTMx5Z and click on a red “Support with” button for Twitter, Facebook, or Tumblr.

2. Click “Add My Support”

3. You’ll be prompted to authorize your account so Thunderclap can post a message for you; agree.

4. Spread the word and get other people to do it.

What happens:  At 14:00 GMT on Thursday, 27 February 2014, Thunderclap will post simultaneously to the hundreds of Twitter and Facebook accounts supporting the campaign in a truly global action.

For interviews, please email pressoffice@aljazeera.net.

Regards

Kevin Kriedemann & Joy Sapieka

Publicists: Africa

AL JAZEERA MEDIA NETWORK

 

Somaliland:Media Vs Government; How to regulate a free media in Somalia and Somaliland

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Somaliland media has grown exponentially for the last two decades from a handful of newspapers into a fully fledged free media and into a dozens of daily papers, including national TV and other private TV channels.  However, although media growth is partially due to fledgling democracy in Somaliland, nevertheless, media in Somaliland lacks professionalism and directions, and even viability to survive in a non productive sector.

Media in Somaliland are going through difficult phases, partly due to lack of proper qualified journalist with experience and the knowhow to run a very important sector in a democratic society. The other things which let down their profession are lack of financial backbone, in order to run a quality paper, or a decent TV channel of that matter.

It seems to me that Media in Somalia and Somaliland are abused and misused by the same people who’re crying wolf of censorship and threat of their lives.   No doubt Somalia and Somaliland media is evolving, but it seems not only they endangering their lives, but also they become an agent for hire and creators of mischief.  Firstly, they don’t self censor themselves and secondly there are no other statutory or entity in Somali/Somaliland which monitors their profession.

 

According to most countries Media regulation is the control or guidance of mass media by government and other bodies.  Therefore, this regulations via law, rules and procedures, can have various goals or objectives, for example, intervention to protect a stated public interest or matters that may be beneficial to the media or society in general.  Obviously principle targets of media regulations, as anyone can find or research on other world media are the press, radio and television, also include film, recorded music, cable, satellite, storage and distribution technology (discs, tapes, etc), the internet, mobile, phones, etc.

 

On the other hand censorship is the suppression of speech or other public communication which may be considered objectionable, harmful, sensitive, politically incorrect or inconvenient as determined by a government, media outlet or other controlling body. It can be done by governments and private organizations or by individuals who engage in self-censorship. It occurs in a variety of different contexts including speech, books, music, films, and other arts, the press, radio, television, and the Internet for a variety of reasons including national security, to control obscenity, child pornography, and hate speech, to protect children, to promote or restrict political or religious views, and to prevent slander and libel.

 

 

Now if we really study the above rules and regulations followed by most countries around the world, where does Somali/Somaliland stand in that case? The answer is very simple none or rarely.   What we have now in our countries is kind of irresponsible journalism which more often upsets the ruling government and creates enmity in an already volatile society.  And since those governments didn’t set clear regulations for the media to follow, all we have now is mistrust and blaming of each other.  Media in Somalia/Somaliland become tribal entities, and most often they don’t care or even aware the damage they do, as long as they convey their message of hate and bias directed to whomever or whatever they want to criticise or demolish.  Amazingly, considering the amount information out there to be reported and explored, all we read now is nothing more than personal attack, rumours and insults exchanged and facilitated by so called media.

 

It’s time media in Somalia/Somaliland do act and come up with ideas that could help the reputation of the profession and stop misusing it for their own end.  Media plays a very important role in a democratic society; and in fact they suppose to nurture and guide our democracy and the rule of law and not hinder it.  It’s unacceptable to have a free media without responsibilities, for instances if you make a defamatory comment on TV, radio, the internet or in print then you can be sued for libel, but since Somalia media don’t have the financial muscle to pay the fine imposed on them, they’re risking to be imprisoned.  Media around the world are the same, you just cannot write, print or say whatever you want, and then get away with it.

 

Already the government of Somaliland is becoming serious of dealing with their media, in order to regulate and censor them, by closing one of the big daily papers (Waaheen), which had a numerous opportunities to change their attitude towards a decent reporting, but to no avail.  While recently Universal TV, owned from Somalia, has been suspended and their offices closed  in Hargeisa (capital of Somaliland), due to their persistence of undermining the sovereign status of Somaliland, and by airing too many programmes that are very critical the unity and security of the nation, according to ministry of Somaliland broadcasting department.

Somehow, it seems to me that both opposition parties and Media has one thing in common, and that’s, they both want democracy and freedom without responsibilities.  Therefore, it’s no surprise here that both media and opposition parties in Somaliland use the same method of irresponsible airing of their view without inhibition, and then shield their misdeeds in the name of democracy and freedom.  And because of that, now the government is coming hard on them to regulate and censor their dangerous reporting

 

The government after long period of tolerance has started to monitor and censor of what they see as out of control and aggressive media. On the other hand the media has failed to censor themselves, and although, the government may suspend the license of some media, nevertheless, they’re still resisting to be censored, for instances, internet based news websites outlets, and other independent TV channels broadcasted abroad or via internet.  However, this may still push the government to block or charm their broadcasting capabilities, just like China, USA, and Iran and oters do when dealing with internal or external threats.  That means nowadays technology and technical knowhow will allow any government to block or jam what they perceive to be hostile to their national security.

For instances, some nations who’re blocking and jamming TV and radio broadcasting are, for example, USA, UK and others who has taken off the air Press tv, the Iranian broadcaster’s English language outlet,  two years ago, after Ofcom (office of communication-see more what they’re and do) revoked its license for breaching the communication act. Thus, Ofcom, has contacted BSKYB, the satellite broadcaster that carries the press t Channel, to have it removed from its broadcast schedule, others who done the same include also Sky Satellite service.  Also, some other western nations like Spanish broadcasting, had also decided to remove or revoke whatever agreement they have with Press TV.  Of course, it all depend on how one country perceive on another country’s broadcasting material, which weights down their decisions.  That means, if any country deems a particular broadcasting being threat to their national security, then they have the power to cut loose any broadcasting channel, by blocking, jamming, or revoking their license, according how far a country can go to control their airwaves.  Likewise, Chinese government has recently jammed BBC World News, because of the stories they regard as too sensitive to their authority or even to their Chinese subject.

 

In fact nothing was more serious than what happened to The News International phone-hacking scandal — dubbed “Hackgate“, “Rupertgate“, or “Murdochgate” by the press – is a controversy involving the now defunct News of the World and other British newspapers published by News International, a subsidiary of the then-News Corporations. Employees of the newspaper were accused of engaging in phone hacking police bribery, and exercising improper influence in the pursuit of publishing stories. And after long investigations by the British government, Ropert Murdoch corporation conceded defeat for their magnitude of wrong doings, which resulted News Internationalannounced on 8 April 2011 that it would admit liability in some of the breach of privacy, cases being brought in relation to phone hacking by the News of the World. The company offered an unreserved apology and compensation to eight claimants, but will continue to contest allegations made by other litigants news.

This resulted James Murdoch, the son of Rupert Murdoch announcing on 7 July 2011 that after 168 years in print the News of the World would publish its last-ever edition on 10 July, with the loss of 200 jobs. News Corporation said that all profits from the final edition would go to good causes. Downing Street said it had no role in the decision  James Murdoch conceded the paper was “sullied by behaviour that was wrong”, saying “if recent allegations are true, it was inhuman and has no place in our company

 

I just mentioned few countries who went a quite length, in order to control their airwaves and what their subject can hear or listen, but there are also many countries who revoked the license of TV’s and radios  broadcasting of either local or international.  Among them are USA, UK, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, China, Cuba, Spain, Israel, Venezuela, et al.  By the way, coming back to recent incident between Somaliland VS universal TV, the whole things wasn’t one incident, but a catalyst of errors previously done by Universal TV, that were deemed sensitive or danger to national security, such as airing talk shows and current affair programmes that would destabilize Somaliland existence as sovereign state.  Suffice to say, any country that have internal or external problems with unwanted media can either block and jam their broadcasting ability, or otherwise revoke their license to broadcast inside the country.  Nothing is impossible for any country to unleash their full fury against any media which they consider as enemy or instigators of hate and division among their subject.  Probably they either flex whatever power they have to dismantle any media or probably hire capable nations or agencies to do their bidding.  Either way, it’s not impossible to corner the media, even bringing a numerous libellous cases against them, to make them bankrupt or even with prison sentences. 

Naturally, everyone of us wants a thriving media, but if they behave as though they’re above the law, then someone should bring down to earth, at least that’s the hard way of civilising them, and In fact, I believe it will be good for them to go back to school, in order to learn how ‘’media Vs law’’ works, in order to find out those important issues such as, defamation, libellous act, discrimination, and hate speech, contempt of court, et al.

 

 

 

 

So, what’s the way forward for both the media and the government of Somalia and Somaliland to solve their differences, and make peaceful co-existence? I will suggest few things to this madness.  Firstly, the media in Somaliland and Somalia should censor themselves before being censored, and they should also understand what the media can and can’t report in a democratic society.  Astonishingly, I sometimes wonder whether the Media in Somaliland do understand or even aware how international media works, especially when it comes self censorship.  Are they aware, for example if they make defamation to ordinary decent members of society; what would happen to their already struggling papers? In fact, Somaliland media aren’t aware the possibilities of being sued for defamation? Indeed this alone can make them bankrupt, instead of being imprisoned.  Media in Somaliland and Somali should take their provision seriously if they want to survive and be part of democratic institutions.  Secondly, Media isn’t a child’s play without responsibilities, therefore, they should employ gate keepers whose responsibility is to monitor and examine whatever their publications or broadcasting is reporting or allowing to be read in their media outlet.

Am sorry to say, Somaliland media has become a tribal affiliated institution, which lacks a balanced and decent reporting, I have to admit, some of them are even disgrace to the profession, since all they do is more or less a prostitution of media provision. The only people we heard when government Vs Media escalates is SOLJA, (the union of media in Somaliland), but, somehow am not sure whether they train or held seminars to help their union about the media and the law, and the danger of media not self censoring themselves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ali Dhinbiil

Ali.dh@hotmail.co.uk