Friday December 19, 2025
Borama, a vibrant city in Somaliland’s Awdal region, has recently witnessed tragic events following protests that erupted earlier this month. The Somaliland government has confirmed the death of 19 individuals, with a further 214 people injured as a result of clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Governor Abdirashid Hassan Mataan, newly appointed to his post, described these events as a deeply saddening chapter for the community, with one of the deceased being a woman.
Among those injured, a significant number—194—sustained minor injuries, while 20 remain in the hospital in Borama. The urgency of medical attention led to the transfer of some patients: initially, nine individuals were sent to Hargeisa Hospital, with seven later being airlifted to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for advanced treatment. Governor Mataan highlighted that the condition of the injured is improving, fostering a sense of hope amid the turmoil.
During his first statements as governor, Mataan expressed his belief that the unrest can be contained. He emphasized the critical role the people of Awdal have played in Somaliland’s struggle for independence and their ongoing contributions to the region’s development. His commitment to restoring peace is underscored by the historical significance the inhabitants of Awdal hold in the nation’s narrative.
Somaliland’s Minister of Interior, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, echoed sentiments of reassurance, labeling Awdal as one of the country’s safest regions. He clarified that the tragic incidents were not a deliberate attack aimed at undermining Somaliland’s stability but rather an unforeseen escalation stemming from societal tensions. His statement aims to alleviate fears and restore public confidence in the local governance.
In response to the unrest, Somaliland’s Vice President, Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, has called upon the citizens of Borama and the surrounding western regions to remain vigilant. In a plea for community solidarity, he urged residents to foster peaceful coexistence, reminding them of the importance of harmony in a region that has often been marked by both collaboration and conflict.
The catalyst for the protests can be traced back to the Somaliland government’s decision to endorse the commemoration of Xeer Ciise, a traditional customary law recognized by UNESCO and vital to the Somali-Issa communities in Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Somalia. This decision sparked significant anger among segments of the Borama community, leading to protests that rapidly escalated into violent clashes with security personnel. The roots of these tensions suggest a deeper divide within the community, centered on cultural and political identities.
As the situation continues to evolve, the resilience of the Borama community remains prominent. Their historical struggle for autonomy underscores the complexities of contemporary governance in Somaliland. It remains to be seen how the local government will navigate these challenges and the role of community leaders in fostering dialogue to heal these wounds.
