BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 23, 2004/Source: UN Integrated Regional Information Network, Nairobi, in English 22 Jan 04
PUNTLAND ACCUSES DJIBOUTI OF ARMING SOMALILAND
Nairobi: The authorities in the self-declared autonomous region of Puntland have accused the Republic of Djibouti of arming the neighbouring self-declared Republic of Somaliland to enable the latter to attack and destabilise Puntland.
Abdullahi Yusuf, the president of Puntland, told a news conference in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, that Djibouti was not only arming Somaliland but also encouraging it to attack Puntland to create instability in the region.
Djibouti, along with Ethiopia and Kenya, is a member of the regional Inter-Governmental Authority on Development facilitation committee, which is steering the Somali peace talks being held in Nairobi.
The Djibouti government, however, dismissed the charges "as baseless and utter nonsense".
Foreign Minister Ali Abdi Farah, who is also in Nairobi for the peace talks, told IRIN: "Djibouti has always supported efforts to resolve Somali disputes peacefully. We will never be involved in any action that will lead to the shedding of Somali blood, and to accuse it of instigating conflict is nonsense." Farah instead urged Yusuf to withdraw his forces from Laas Caanood, the capital of Sool Region. "We want him to return to the status quo there."
Before last month's occupation of the town by Puntland forces, representatives of both Somaliland and Puntland were present in Laas Caanood. Tension between the two sides has risen ever since.
Officials from Somaliland have denied receiving support from Djibouti. Abdillahi Muhammad Du'ale, the information minister, told IRIN that it was "regrettable and unfair to involve our neighbours in this. Djibouti has always supported the stability of the region," he said.
Sool and Sanaag regions fall within the borders of pre-independence British Somaliland, but most of the clans there are associated with Puntland. These include the Warsangeli and the Dhulbahante, which, along with the Majerteen - the main clan in Puntland - form the Harti sub-clan of the Darood.
Meanwhile, a local journalist in Hargeysa, the Somaliland capital, told IRIN that heavily armed Somaliland troops had been moving towards the disputed area of Laas Caanood to reinforce forces already there.
"Unless an outside force intervenes, it is just a matter of time before the two forces (Somaliland and Puntland) clash," he said.
Africa News, January 21, 2004/BYLINE: UN Integrated Regional Information Networks
Annan Expresses Concern Over Mounting Tension in the North
United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has expressed deep concern over rising tension in northern Somalia between the self-declared republic of Somaliland and the self-declared autonomous region of Puntland over the disputed region of Sool.
Both Somaliland and Puntland claim the regions of Sool and Sanaag as theirs, and there have been reports of troop build-ups and preparations for conflict.
A statement read by the Secretary-General's spokesman, Fred Eckhard, said: "The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the increased tension between the administrations of 'Puntland' and 'Somaliland' over Las Anod in Sool Region, which threatens the outbreak of hostilities at a critical time in the Somali peace process."
The statement went to say that Annan was calling on the two sides "to exercise utmost restraint and to refrain from the use of force", and urging them to seek solutions through dialogue.
Tension has been rising between the two sides ever since Puntland forces took control of the Sool regional capital, Las Anod, late last month.
Sool and Sanaag fall geographically within the borders of pre-independence British Somaliland, but most of the clans there are associated with clans in Puntland.
Awad Ahmad Ashara, Puntland's spokesman, told IRIN that armed conflict seemed imminent.
Annan called on the parties to protect civilians and ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance.
According to the statement, the secretary-general called on all the "Somali parties to reach agreement on national reconciliation that would put an end to all the fighting and bloodshed in the country."
Talks sponsored by the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development with a view to bringing peace to Somalia have been going on in Kenya for over a year. However, the talks have been dogged by wrangles over issues such as an interim charter, the number of participants in the negotiations and the selection and number of future parliamentarians.
M2 PRESSWIRE, January 21, 2004
UN Secretary-General concerned by increased tension threatening outbreak of hostilities in Sool region
The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the increased tension between the Administrations of "Puntland" and "Somaliland" over Las Anod in Sool region, which threatens the outbreak of hostilities at a critical time in the Somali peace process.
The Secretary-General calls upon the parties to exercise utmost restraint and to refrain from the use of force. He urges them to seek a solution through political dialogue and reminds them of their responsibility to protect the civilian population located in their respective areas, as well as to ensure unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance.
The Secretary-General calls on all Somali parties to reach agreement on national reconciliation that would put an end to all the fighting and bloodshed in the country.
PressWIRE can be obtained at
http://www.presswire.net
Agence France Presse, January 20, 2004
UN's Annan urges calm in Somalia dispute
UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on Tuesday urged calm in northern Somalia, where a dispute between two self-declared autonomous regions is hampering efforts to forge a new government.
"The secretary general is deeply concerned by the increased tension between the administrations of 'Puntland' and 'Somaliland'... which threatens the outbreak of hostilities at a critical time in the Somali peace process," his spokesman said in a statement.
"The secretary general calls upon the parties to exercise utmost restraint and to refrain from the use of force," said the statement, which called on "all Somali parties to reach agreement on national reconciliation."
Relations between Somaliland in the northwest and Puntland in the northeast have deteriorated in recent weeks with both sides claiming the Sool and Sanaag regions, which straddle their border.
African leaders have warned the dispute risks boiling over into conflict in Somalia, which has not had a central government since the regime of dictator Mohamed Siad Barre was toppled in 1991.
Senior politicians and faction leaders have been meeting in Nairobi since January 9 but have apparently failed to reach consensus on how to revitalise the country's stagnant peace process.
Many consider the Transitional National Government, which controls pockets of the capital Mogadishu but little else, to be just one of the many armed groups vying for power across the country.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 20, 2004/Source: Xog-Ogaal, Mogadishu, in Somali 20 Jan 04
REGIONAL BODY IGAD INTERVENES TO STOP TENSION BETWEEN SOMALILAND, PUNTLAND
The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and some prominent traditional clan elders from Somaliland and Puntland are engaged in mediation efforts in Sool Region (disputed between Puntland and Somaliland).
IGAD, and prominent traditional leaders from Somaliland and Puntland have launched extensive efforts to minimize the hostile tension which is feared to bring the two administrations into war. Somaliland and Puntland are both claiming ownership of Sool and Sanaag regions.
A letter from the Ugandan president, who is the current IGAD chairman, was handed over to the leader of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, Dahir Riyale Kahin, yesterday. In his letter, the IGAD chairman urged the Somaliland president to stop the deployment of soldiers and refrain from waging any war. He also said that IGAD member states would mediate between the Somaliland and Puntland administrations.
It is not yet known whether he accepted the call or not.
On the other hand, a reliable report says that Ethiopia has sent a letter to the Puntland leader (Col Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmad) asking him to withdraw his soldiers from Sool Region and not to wage any war against the Somaliland administration.
The Puntland leader has not yet responded, although some other reports have indicated that Col Abdullahi Yusuf is reluctant to follow the Ethiopian suggestion. (Passage omitted).
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 20, 2004/Source: Radio Gaalkacyo, Gaalkacyo in Somali 1620 gmt 20 Jan 04
SOMALIA: PUNTLAND OFFICIALS DENY "BASELESS" CLAIMS BY DJIBOUTI FOREIGN MINISTER
The emergency committee of the Puntland regional administration in Garoowe has reacted to a statement by Djibouti's minister of foreign affairs on BBC radio in which he said Puntland was responsible for the dispute between Somaliland and Puntland over Sool and Sanaag regions.
The committee said the statements by the minister were baseless lies. The emergency committee also said in a news conference, that Puntland was not ready for renewed bloodshed in Somalia.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 20, 2004/Source: Radio Hargeysa in Somali 1700 gmt 20 Jan 04
SOMALILAND "RUNNING OUT OF PATIENCE" WITH PUNTLAND LEADER COL YUSUF
Somaliland is not currently waging aggression or war on Somalia or on the regions administered by force by (Puntland leader) (Col) Abdullahi (Yusuf) This has also never happened in the past.
This statement was made (today) by the presidential spokesman, Abdi Idris Du'ale.
Mr Abdullahi has transformed colonial boundaries into tribal boundaries and has claimed some Somaliland regions. It is possible that he would in future claim (Ethiopia's) Zone Five State (area inhabited mainly by Ogaden clan which together with Puntland's main clan, the Majerteen and others form the Darood Somali sub-tribe).
We advise Mr Abdullahi not to take Somaliland's love for peace for granted. We tell him that Somaliland is running out of patience and that if he fails to withdraws from Somaliland he will be responsible for the consequences of his actions.
It is amazing that Abdullahi would send his forces to Laas Caanood, which is part of Somaliland and accuse Somaliland of waging war.
We believe his intentions are the following:
1. To start conflict in Somaliland and create the crisis that has affected Somalia.
2. To scuttle the Somali peace talks in Nairobi.
3. To create tribal discord.
His claims that Djibouti is providing support to Somaliland are baseless and malicious.
The warlords in Nairobi who are claiming to be pacifists, and have released a statement, have now and in the past violated the Eldoret peace agreement and are not in a position to claim they are working for peace because they have violated the territorial integrity of other states.
Hence, we advise them - your country and people need peace from you. We are displeased by the fact that although the Kenyan foreign minister (Kalonzo Musyoka) is aware of the perpetrators of the war and aggression he has not admonished the aggressor and addresses the matter as if there is a conflict between two Somali factions.
Regarding the talks, we say, it is not applicable to Somaliland and they should not to involve us in this imbroglio.
The government of Somaliland once again informs IGAD (Inter-Governmental Authority on Development) AU (African Union), The Arab League, EU, the UN and all parties that value peace and security in Africa that Somaliland will take appropriate measures against Abdullahi Yusuf's provocations if he does not quickly move out of Somaliland's international boundaries and he would bear the consequences.
Agence France Presse, January 19, 2004
Tension in north Somalia could derail peace talks: Kenya
Kenya warned on Monday that tension between two self-declared autonomous regions in northern Somalia could thwart efforts to create a functional government in the Horn of Africa country.
"The emerging tension between the two administrations of Somaliland a Puntland has a potential of degenerating the region into an imminent conflict...", Kenya's Foreign Minister Kalonzo Musyoka told a news conference in Nairobi.
Relations between Somaliland in northwestern Somalia and Puntland, another self-declared autonomous region in northeastern Somalia, have deteriorated in recent weeks with both sides claiming the Sool and Sanaag regions, which straddle their border.
"The tension is raising deep concerns within IGAD (the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, an east African body trying to broker peace in Somalia), the international community and particularly within the peace process," said Musyoka.
"I would like to call upon both parties to exercise maximum restraint and shun plunging the region into a conflict that is clearly avoidable," he added.
The "president" of Puntland Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, meanwhile, accused Djibouti of supporting Somaliland in its "aggression" against his territory.
"Djibouti provided logistical support, military assistance and political backing for Somaliland, which has declared war against Puntland," claimed Abdullahi Yusuf. "Our intelligence units have confirmed all these activities," he told AFP in Nairobi.
Djibouti has in the past denied involvement in Somalia's internal affairs.
Somaliland's Finance Minister Hussein Ali Duale denied Abdullahi Yusuf's charges.
"Somaliland did not enter Puntland and it has no intetion to do so. Puntland is the aggressor and it has invaded parts of Somaliland," he told AFP by telephone from Hargeisa, Somaliland's capital.
Senior politicians and faction leaders from Somalia have been meeting in Nairobi since January 9, but have apparently failed to reach consensus on how to revitalise the country's stagnant peace process.
Somalia has not had a central government since the regime of dictator Mohamed Siad Barre was toppled in 1991.
Many consider the Transitional National Government (TNG), which controls pockets of the capital, Mogadishu, and little else, as just one of the many, mostly clan-based, armed groups vying for power and control across the country.
"Share my optimism and give me two days to report progress," said Musyoka, who is the chairman of IGAD ministerial committee steering Somalia's peace talks.
There have been 15 failed bids to negotiate durable peace in Somalia.
Last September, delegates to the latest round, which had begun 11 months earlier, endorsed a transitional federal charter. But the was immediately rejected by several key figures, including the head of TNG.
The current round of talks, originally planned to last 10 days, is expected to continue.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 19, 2004/Source: HornAfrik Online text web site, Mogadishu, in English 19 Jan 04
DJIBOUTI DENIES INVOLVEMENT IN DISPUTE BETWEEN SOMALILAND, PUNTLAND
Some of Somalia's faction leaders have accused the neighbouring Djibouti of dragging its feet on the ongoing Somali peace conference in Nairobi.
The president of the semi-autonomous region of Puntland, Col Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmad, two of the country's prominent faction leaders Husayn Aydid and Abdullahi Shaykh Isma'il have jointly made the accusation during a press conference they held in Safari Park in Nairobi where the Somali leaders retreat is currently under way.
Col Ahmad also accused Djibouti of being involved in the current dispute between Puntland and Somaliland in Laas Caanood.
Djibouti however, has denied the accusations describing them as false and baseless.
The Foreign Ministry spokesman, Muhammad Ziyad Du'ale, said that his government is making efforts to restore Somalia's sovereignty.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 19, 2004/Source: KBC TV, Nairobi, in English 1800 gmt 19 Jan 04
KENYAN FOREIGN MINISTER CONCERNED OVER GROWING SOMALILAND, PUNTLAND TENSIONS
Minister of Foreign Affairs Kalonzo Musyoka has said the emerging tension between two administrations of Somaliland and Puntland could degenerate into a conflict. He said such a conflict would undermine the ongoing Somali peace talks and called on the concerned parties to restrain themselves to avoid conflict in the region.
(Reporter, in progress) The press at a hotel in Nairobi, Kalonzo was optimistic the Somali peace process would soon yield positive results.
(Kalonzo) These talks are going on very well and we expect in the next two days, maximum, we will be calling for a press conference to report progress.
(Reporter) The results may, however, not be there if the mounting tensions between some two parties in the conflict is not solved in time.
(Kalonzo) The emerging tension between these two administrations has a potential of degenerating the region into an eminent conflict, as well as undermining the positive conclusion of the ongoing Somali consultative meetings. This tension is raising deep concerns both within the IGAD (Inter-Governmental Authority on Development) subregion, the continent, the international community, and particularly within the peace process.
(Reporter) The Safari Park (Hotel, venue of the Somali peace) talks have been going on for the last one week and so far things appear headed for the better. This may now pave way for Phase Three of the peace talks.
(Kalonzo) The leaders are properly engaged. President (Mwai) Kibaki is fully briefed about what is going on, as well as President (Yoweri) Museveni. Both leaders say that as soon as everybody is ready to go back to Mbagathi (main venue of the consultative peace talks) they will be there to launch the final phase.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 19, 2004/Source: Jamhuuriya web site, Hargeysa, in English 18 Jan 04
SOMALILAND: PRESIDENT INVITES OPPOSITION PARTIES FOR TALKS
President Dahir Riyale Kahin invited Somaliland's three political parties to take part in a meeting that will be held at the presidency.
According to highly reliable political party sources, the meeting will be attended by Mr Ahmad Muhammad Silanyo Chairman of Kulmiye (Solidarity Party) acting - Chairman of Justice and Social Welfare party (UCID) Mr Muhammad Abdullahi Urade and secretary-general of the government party UDUB.
According to these source, Mr Silanyo who has recently returned from a long trip to west Europe, the United States and Ethiopia, will brief the leader of the parties on his discussion with the officials of the countries he visited, his meetings with Somaliland communities in these countries and his discussion with Ethiopian officials on the situation in East Somaliland and the insurgency of Abdullahi Yusuf's (Puntland president) militia.
President Dahir Riyale Kahin and chairman of the opposition Kulmiye party met in camera on Tuesday. The discussions at this meeting are believed to have initiated this meeting from which a new joint policy might emerge in national strategy.
Panafrican News Agency (PANA) Daily Newswire, January 19, 2004
KENYAN MINISTER DEPLORES NEW TENSION IN SOMALIA
Nairobi, Kenya (PANA) - Kenyan foreign minister Kalonzo Musyoka Monday warned that the current tension between the two breakaway Somaliland and Puntland "posed grave potential" of plunging the entire Eastern and Horn of Africa region into a major military conflict.
Musyoka said the growing tension between the two "states" was undermining the "positive conclusion" of the on-going Somali Consultative meeting and the year-old National Reconciliation Conference being held in Nairobi.
"This rising tension is raising deep concerns both within the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) sub-region, the entire African continent and the international community especially on the peace process," Kalonzo said at a news conference here.
Speaking on behalf of the IGAD Ministerial Committee in the wake of heightened tension between the two unrecognised self-proclaimed states, Kalonzo asked parties to the Somali peace talks to "exercise maximum restraint and shun from plunging the region into a conflict that is clearly avoidable".
However, the Kenyan minister expressed optimism a major breakthrough would emerge in the Somali peace talks within the next two days.
"I will call you here within the next two days to make an announcement of a major breakthrough," Kalonzo told journalists in the Kenyan capital.
He appealed to the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union and the League of Arab States to "use their good offices and prevail upon the leaders of the two areas to refrain from any acts which would escalate into a full-fledged war".
Meanwhile, in a signed statement also issued in Nairobi Monday, Somali National Reconciliation Conference delegates described the growing tension in the Horn of Africa region as poisonous to the relationship among the neighbouring countries, which had the potential of spilling over in all directions.
"No one can under-estimate the effect of such a catastrophic new situation as it would be used by international terrorists to destabilise the region further and get a strong foothold in Somalia," said one of the faction leaders attending the conference, Hussein Aidid.
At the same time, the Puntland government has condemned what it called the declaration of war and military build up against her by the rival Somaliland, terming it ill-timed.
In another statement issued during a meeting to break the deadlock in the Somali peace conference chaired by the Kenyan foreign minister, Puntland said that it would exercise tremendous restraint despite what it termed as continued provocation and threats to avert a possible war.
Source: FEWS NET(
http://www.fews.net/centers/current/monthlies/report/?f=so&m=1001137&l=en)
Humanitarian crisis in Sool Plateau
Published: 1/18/2004
HIGHLIGHTS
Sool Plateau Update: Rains of low intensity and limited spatial coverage fell in the first week of December but did little to alleviate the current humanitarian crisis in Sool Plateau. Nutritional status surveys reflect the deteriorating food security situation of residents. An acute malnutrition rate of 18.9% (W/H<2 z-score or oedema) was found during the first round of Sool Plateau sentinel site surveillance exercise in November/December 2003. A UNICEF led mission in mid-December 2003 also recorded an equally high malnutrition rate in Sool Plateau of Sanaag (4,841 children screened). The rate was significantly higher in Sool Plateau of Sool Region (2,049 children were screened). Civil insecurity in the area is now threatening to disrupt humanitarian relief operations in the region.
Drought in Hawd of Todgheer: An inter-agency rapid assessment led by the FSAU found that the poor and lower strata of the middle wealth pastoral group are facing a high risk of food shortage, largely as a result of poor Gu 2003 and failed Deyr 2003 rains. Affected households will need to be closely monitored during the harsh, dry Jilaal season. For more information on the drought stricken region, see page 2 of this report.
Civil Insecurity: Civil Insecurity continues to present a challenge to the people of Somalia and humanitarian organizations attempting to strengthen the livelihoods of the Somali people. As reported by IRIN at the end of December, militia from Puntland occupied Las Anod and other parts of Sanag region. The government of Somaliland has deployed troops to positions outside Aynabo. Also various incidents in Kismayo and Lower Juba suggest a worsening of civil insecurity, as does militia activity in El Wak town, Gedo Region, during December.
Somaliland Gu/Karan 2003 Crop Production: The total Gu/Karan 2003 crop production is very good and the highest recorded figure in post-war years. The Gu/Karan season produced 24,915 Mt of sorghum and 3,289 Mt of maize. Some of the reasons for this good production are very good Karan rains, improved and dressed seeds provided by CINS, land preparation on time which was enhanced by IFAD providing tractors on credit. For a copy of this report please contact the FSAU Field Team Manager: Yusuf@fsau.or.ke.
A series of FSAU field workshops in Galkayo and Garowe from January 13-16, 2004 are being held to assess the severity of reported pastoral stress in the areas of Western Mudug and south of Sool and implications on food security. The results will be presented at the HRG meeting on North Somalia (20 Jan) and the SACB FSRDC meeting.
GU AND KARAN 2003 CEREAL PRODUCTION IN SOMALILAND
The average cereal production of Somaliland amounts to about 17,000 MT per year (roughly 6% of the annual cereal production of Somalia). The total Gu/Karan 2003 crop production was very good and the highest recorded figure in post-war years. The season produced 24,915 Mt of sorghum (88%) and 3,289 Mt of maize (12%). Gabiley made a significant contribution to this total figure. An estimated 20,100 MT (71%). For in depth technical analysis on the successful harvest. Please contact: Yusuf@fsau.or.ke for the his Gu/Karan 2003 Somaliland Cereal Production Report.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FSAU NUTRITION PROJECT
Results from the first round of Sool Plateau surveillance are now available. These statistics will be compared with statistics from the second round of surveillance, due to take place in January (security permitting). Trend monitoring and in depth analysis will be provided by the FSAU in February. For information on results from the first round of surveillance, please contact charles@fsau.or.ke.
SUMMARY OF INTER AGENCY RAPID ASSESSEMENT FINDINGS TO THE DROUGHT STRICKEN REGION OF THE HAWD OF TODGHEER PASTORAL ZONE
During November, Somaliland authorities and relief agencies working in the Hawd of Toghdeer appealed for assistance for the Togdheer drought stricken pastoral area. This area had suffered poor Gu 2003 rains and failed Deyr 2003 rains. Subsequently, the SACB FSRDC and an HRG called on the FSAU to take the technical lead in an inter-agency assessment to determine how serious the situation was likely to become. As a result, the FSAU, SC-UK, FEWS-Net, Oxfam, COOPI, VETAID and relevant Somaliland Ministries participated in a rapid field assessment to the Hawd of Toghdeer pastoral zone from 24-28 December.
The map below (Figure 5) shows the most affected area of Toghdeer region. It is estimated that up to 10,000 households in this area, mainly the pastoral poor group and lower levels of the middle pastoral wealth group, will experience food shortages. Two consecutive seasons of poor rainfall have led to a deterioration in livestock body condition, in turn undermining livestock production (milk and meat) and access to income options (declining livestock prices). The middle and better off groups had already migrated out of the drought area to areas where grazing is better and have managed to preserve their livestock, but the poorer pastoralists were unable to pay transport costs to move their animals. During Jilaal these families are likely to face a food deficit and the situation will require close monitoring. For further details of the three stages of suggested interventions and a copy of the inter-agency rapid assessment report (to be released at the HRG meeting on 20 Jan), please contact Abdinasir.sobe@fsau.or.ke.
Terms of Trade in Burao Market in Togdheer Region
Maintaining good terms of trade between milk and/or livestock and cereals is critical for the survival of pastoral households, particularly in drought years and during the harsh, dry Jilaal season. As mentioned above, the drought over the past two seasons has adversely affected animal body condition in Togdheer, lowering livestock prices. Low prices have a direct impact on a household's income, particularly amongst poor groups who rely heavily on the sale of livestock and milk. Declining terms of trade for pastoralists are evident in Figure 6, which shows that it takes two or three goats to obtain a sack of rice now, whereas only one goat is required in a non-drought year.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FSAU NUTRITION PROJECT
In Sool Plateau, the ongoing sentinel nutritional surveillance indicates a worrying nutrition situation with an acute malnutrition rate of 18.9% (W/H <-2 z-score/oedema) (Dec 2003 Nutrition Update). See also the Highlights on Page 1.
In the insecure region of Benadir, (districts around Mogadishu) malnutrition is particularly evident among displaced persons and the poor. In one month, 30% of children attending health facilities in the area were identified as malnourished.
Recent nutrition surveys in IDP (Internally Displaced People) settings indicate a poor nutrition situation. Nutrition surveys amongst IDP'S conducted in Hargeisa, Bossaso and Burao between June 2001 and Oct. 2003 found global acute malnutrition rates ranging between 15.3% and 18.7%. An analysis of the various studies on IDP's in Somalia indicate that they are disadvantaged by a combination of factors including : poor shelter, poor sanitation, limited access to sources of income, weak coping strategies, limited access to remittances and social support.
It is estimated that 50,000 people, mainly pastoralists from Northern Somalia, have crossed into the Somali Region of Ethiopia (Region V) due to the delay and poor performance of the 2003 Deyr rains. However these areas are not much better off as parts of Gode, Warder, Afder and Degahabour zones have also been affected by drought. Recent nutritional surveys indicate that the situation continues to deteriorate in these zones.
Table 1: Livestock Export Table for December 2003
There was no significant increase in the total number of livestock exported during December. In parts of the north and central areas, livestock body condition has become so poor that when rain fell in the first dekad, pastoralists kept back their animals for fattening up. An increased demand for animals is expected before the Haj and fattened animals will fetch more money. The Somaliland authorities continue to visit Saudia Arabia to discuss the lifting of the Somali livestock importation ban. Rumours continue to circulate that Yemeni authorities are also considering whether or not to lift the ban.
AWDAL & NORTH WEST REGION
Good rains fell in the agro pastoral areas and both livestock and crop conditions were good during December. In the highland pastoral zone rains were also good and the area continued to host animals from Hawd pastoral zone and Ethiopia's zone V. Both the coastal and sub-coastal belts received rains during December. Heavy rains and low temperatures caused hundreds of deaths (according to elders) particularly of shoats. Many of these animals had been in a weakened state after long migrations. The area is currently hosting animals from Hawd of Hargeisa, Ethiopia and the Highlands. Like last year, many animals from Shinnile district in Ethiopia are expected to arrive in this area following a poor Karan season in Ethiopia's region V. Good amounts of rainfall fell in the Hawd Pastoral zone except in districts south east of Hargeisa.
SOOL REGION
The severe drought in Sool Region continues and the latest nutritional situation (see page 1) reflects a deteriorating situation. On 4 and 5 December, the western fringe of Sool Plateau received showers which moved westwards to the Upper Nugal Valley. These rains triggered significant migratory movements. Prior to the December showers, a large proportion of Sool of Sanag pastoralists (45-55%) had made the longest-ever out migration to Sool of Bari and coastal grazing areas using trucks. The remaining Sool of Sanag pastoralists opted to move to the areas where it had recently rained mainly in the Sool plateau of Sool region. Pastoralists from Lower Nugal also moved to these areas. Given the low rainfall intensity and limited spatial coverage the huge in migration has exceeded the rangeland carrying capacity and pasture regeneration has been stunted. These rains have had little or no impact on the humanitarian crisis and the food security situation is not expected to show any substantial improvement in the near future. Infact rather than improving the situation, it appears that the incidence of disease and animal mortality is rising dramatically given the huge concentration of livestock, combined with the fact that large numbers of weakened livestock have assembled together in one place. In the lower Nugal of Taleh district the situation continues to remain serious with reports of destitute households collecting in main urban centres such Taleh and Halin. Upper Nugal valley has benefited from sporadic rains, however, the majority of camel herders have already migrated to the Hawd in search of better pasture. In the Hawd, South of Las Caanood, received localised rains which replenished berkads. Buhoodle town however did not benefit from these rains and the price of water has soared from 7,000-10,000 Ssh per drum to 35,000 Ssh per drum.
DJIBOUTI VILLE URBAN BASELINE STUDY: An Assessment of Food and Livelihood Security in Djibouti Ville
http://www.fews.net/centers/current/special/gcontent.cfm?gc_id=1000372&f=so&d=0
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 17, 2004/Source: Radio Midnimo, Boosaaso, in Somali 1030 gmt 17 Jan 04
SOMALILAND'S HEAVILY ARMED FORCES REPORTEDLY MOVING TOWARDS PUNTLAND
Widely circulating reports say that Somaliland's defence minister has arrived in Og town of Sool Region (disputed between Somaliland and Puntland.)
According to the Midnimo reporter in Laas Caanood town (regional HQ), the town was relatively calm this morning following night-long tension. Heavily armed forces loyal to the Puntland administration are stationed in the town.
However, reliable reports say heavily armed forces from Somaliland have crossed through Ceel Afweeyn town in Sanaag Region (also disputed but under Somaliland's control ). Reports from Ceel Afweeyn say the forces are heading towards Sanaag Region, adding that they were in battle wagons and other big vehicles numbering to 45.
The forces, now moving towards Sanaag Region, are headed by minister by the name of Mahmud Sa'id and Abdiqadir Abdullahi Artan, a senior military official. Both officials hail from Sanaag Region.
It is believed that the forces want to attack some areas within Puntland in order to reduce concentration of heavily mobilized Puntland forces in Sool Region (recently capture by Puntland). (Passage omitted).
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 15, 2004/Source: The Somaliland Times web site, Hargeysa, in English 18 Jan 04
SOMALILAND PAPER ATTACKS STATE'S MOVES TO PASS "HIGHLY RESTRICTIVE PRESS LAW"
In the last two weeks, when Somaliland has been under attack by (Puntland leader) Abdullahi Yusuf's militia, the two most senior government officials in this country, President Dahir Riyale Kahin and House of Representatives Speaker Ahmed Mahmud Adan (Qeybe), have been busy with raising enough legislator support for the passage by the House of a highly restrictive press law. It is just outrageous that these two gentlemen would spend so much of their time, energy and resources on an unnecessary bill while not paying enough attention to issues, like the situation in the eastern part of the country, that need their immediate and sustained attention.
The freedoms now enjoyed by Somalilanders, including freedom of the press, have not come as a gift from Mr Riyale or his two late predecessors. It is something won as a result of great sacrifices. A free press is the public's first line of defence against dictatorship and abuse of power. The free press has become an essential element of life in this country. Thanks to the local independent media, Somalilanders today are better informed not only about what is going in their country, but also of the pros and cons of many vital issues. Because of the free flow of information and debate that the independent media provides, it is possible for Somalilanders now to distinguish the precise points of an argument before making conclusions. And since everybody has a fair chance for presenting his/her views through the free press, the proponents of ideas rejected by the public are unlikely to find support for using unlawful means to impose them.
The media has played an instrumental role in the realization and consolidation of peace. Without the independent media, it is highly unlikely that Somaliland would have held the successful presidential election of April 2003.
Press freedom can also be justified on the ground of the important role that the independent press has been playing in enlightening the public about the responsibilities and obligations of the government on the one hand, and those of the citizenry on the other. It is this last role that has earned the independent press the wrath of Mr Riyale and some of the other high government officials. But public figures like President Riyale and House Speaker Qeybe are really mistaken to think that they can have it both ways: keeping their positions while at the same time wanting to be spared the scrutiny of the press. If they can't stand critical comments, they should leave office and thereby avoid the attention of the press.
Mr Riyale cannot expect the press not to report wrongdoing by his ministers, and yet refuse to clean his government of corruption. He cannot insist on surrounding himself with incompetent people, and then complain of press criticism of the poor performance of his government. Instead of trying to silence the struggling independent media, Mr Riyale should either free the government-owned media from control so that it could compete with the three privately-owned media organizations operating in the country, or stop wasting taxpayers' money by dismantling the highly ineffective ministry of information. One wonders why the president is not interested in fixing the problems of the Ministry of Information, which now almost exists only in name, instead of expending so much political capital on trying to gag the independent media? Why is the president trying to get confirmation for the already rejected minister of information, Mr Du'ale, the same minister under whose watch the ministry of information has descended into its current pitiful state?
There is no need for the Somaliland government to "regulate" the press. What is actually needed is protection of the right of people to establish their own media organizations, including radio stations, accessibility to the media and receiving or imparting information without any restrictions. Somaliland's media and journalists have already established their own code of conduct with the aim of improving journalistic standards and addressing any complaints from the public. The aggrieved can still go to court to demand redress through civil lawsuits.
At this dangerous moment in Somaliland's history, the country cannot afford to get distracted or get bogged down in divisive and intractable issues like "regulating" the press. Instead, President Riyale should unite the country behind him, focus the country's attention on the attacks by Abdullahi Yusuf's militia and secure Somaliland's eastern borders. That's the kind of leadership Somalilanders want from him.
Source: UNICEF, 15 Jan 2004
UNICEF Somalia Review Nov/Dec 2003
Drought interventions ongoing in Northern Somalia
Since early 2002, humanitarian agencies have been highlighting the serious and growing food insecurity in the Sool Plateau and surrounding areas of Sanaag, Bari and Sool regions. A succession of failed rains over the past four years has resulted in increased food insecurity among pastoral populations. In early October 2003, UNICEF participated in an inter-agency assessment mission that found the pastoralist population hard hit by loss of livestock and purchasing power due to severely depleted reservoirs and pasture/grazing land. Though no disease outbreaks were reported and malnutrition was not yet widespread, UNICEF and other UN agencies initiated a variety of interventions targeting a population of about 90,000. Interventions included child immunization, vitamin supplementation, nutritional screening and the provision of food rations for the most hard-hit families and improved access to safe water. A significant acceleration of these humanitarian interventions began in late November and has been ongoing since that time.
In December, teams comprising UNICEF and WHO personnel treated about 660 patients suffering from acute respiratory infections, diarrhoea, malaria, anaemia and skin diseases.
Creating concern among humanitarian agencies, however, is the growing tension between the local administrations in Northwest Somalia ('Somaliland') and Northeast Somalia ('Puntland'), both of whom claim the drought-affected areas as their territory. Ongoing interventions could be jeopardized or even halted if the situation escalates into violent conflict.
Security throughout Somalia
In Hargeisa, Somaliland, the traffic police commander was killed on 9 December in front of his house. A suspect was identified but has not yet been arrested.
Health programme highlights
Malaria: In November, UNICEF and WHO responded to malaria outbreaks in Baki, Balligubadle and Hargeisa districts of Somaliland by distributing some 400 insecticide treated nets in addition to providing treatment to the sick.
Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI): During the reporting period, UNICEF trained staff of health facilities in Somaliland in record keeping. The training took place in Hargeisa, Burao and Berbera towns of Galbeed and Togdheer and Sahil regions respectively. In addition, some 1250 children were immunized.
Water and Environmental Sanitation highlights
Water management: The Awdal Utility Company, created to run the Boroma Water Supply System in Somaliland, began operations in November. Seven new water kiosks and 10 household connections were made to the town supply system and the company is already providing water connections to private residences in Boroma. In November, UNICEF provided 2.2 km of pipes for the water supply system.
Geed Ballaadh Project: In Somaliland, construction work for the Geed Ballaadh Water Project continued. Installation of a generator and pump took place. The system must now be connected to tanks and water kiosks remains and some kiosks need rehabilitation.
UNICEF sponsored the local water authorities from Somaliland in attending the Pan-African Conference on Water in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 8-13 to December. During the conference key challenges faced in rural water supply, environmental sanitation and hygiene were discussed.
Education programme highlights
Training: The second phase of training for 95 primary school Community Education Committees (CEC) was held between mid-November and end-December in both Somaliland and Puntland. The aim of the training was to help the CECs to take a more active part in the management and financing of schools.
School Improvement: UNICEF organized a school improvement workshop for teachers in Somaliland. The workshop participants were trained in improvement of classroom interiors, verandahs, and school compounds; construction of low cost, locally produced teaching aids; arts and crafts projects; and games and recreational activities for the schools. The trained teachers are expected to organize school-based workshops on school improvement.
School mentoring: Mentoring activities were carried out in 52 primary schools in Somaliland and a similar number in Puntland during November and December. The mentors are expected to visit schools at least once every two months and work with teachers in enhancing the quality of teaching and learning in the schools. They also monitor the utilization of school records and assist teachers in organizing the distribution of learning materials.
Rehabilitation of schools: Rehabilitation of four classrooms, a basketball court and latrines for the Sheikh Ali Ibrahim Primary School, one of the largest schools in Hargeisa, continued in December. The school has more than 2000 children who learn in morning and afternoon shifts with about 60 students per class.
In Dami Primary School, construction of a fence and latrine facilities for girls has started. Dami is one of the poorest settlements in Hargeisa. In Lafa Rug, about 100 km northeast of Hargeisa, rehabilitation of two classrooms, latrine facilities and a playground was completed. The rehabilitation of one office and a storeroom is nearing completion.
Computer training: UNICEF is sponsoring training in computer literacy for all six regional education officers in Somaliland, their assistants, and two key local education authorities. The skills are meant to enhance their capacity in data entry, analysis and record keeping and to make it easier for them to use the Education Management Information System (EMIS). The EMIS is software that UNICEF developed to ensure easy retrieval and efficient utilization of data on primary education by local communities, education authorities and international partners. In 1998 UNICEF developed EMIS tools (class register, school register and pupil cards). Currently data is analyzed in Nairobi, Kenya.
Youth participation highlights
UNICEF, in collaboration with two youth organizations in Somaliland, held a two-day meeting to discuss ways in which youth groups and other community-based organizations could be better supported. Another meeting organized in collaboration with the Puntland administration was held for 52 youth organizations. The meeting reviewed their plans and activities and shared experiences.
Youth broadcasting: The Somaliland-based Horn of Africa Voluntary Youth Organization Committee (HAVOYOCO) produced two radio programmes during the reporting period. Some seven other youth groups from Somaliland are in the process of finalizing their programmes. The scripts are shared with UNICEF for quality assurance. Radio Hargeisa produced an introductory programme for the youth broadcasting initiative and interviewed members from Somaliland Culture and Sports Association (SOCSA) and HAVOYOCO groups.
Mentoring: The second round of mentoring for youth and other organizations continued in December in Hargeisa, Berbera and Borama in Somaliland. The mentors sensitized the youth on the harmful effects of chewing khat (an amphetamine leaf akin to the coca leaf of South America). The mentoring occurred in Gebiley, Borama, Burao, Las Anod and Hargeisa.
HIV/AIDS prevention and control highlights
UNICEF, in collaboration with local administrations and partners, organized activities to raise HIV/AIDS awareness on World AIDS Day in various locations throughout Somalia. The theme for this year's activities was ''Live and Let Live" - with focus on fighting stigma and discrimination. Unlike previous years when commemorative activities were limited to major towns, this year's activites were more widespread and took place outside the main urban centres and regional capitals. The activities highlighted the important role that families, communities and individuals could take in the prevention and control of the epidemic and the requirements of support and care for people living with AIDS. The activities included sports competitions.
UNICEF supported the commemoration of the day through the provision of publicity and information materials such as T-shirts and caps with messages in Somali on HIV/AIDS. Copies of audio cassettes containing songs specially composed for HIV/AIDS communication were distributed. The activities in Garowe, Puntland, were attended by UNICEF Somalia Representative, Jesper Morch..
Training: UNICEF organized a life skills training for 50 youth peer counsellors from Northwest, Northeast, Central and Southern Somalia and Djibouti. Training for 20 participants, including religious and community leaders in community-based counselling was also carried out.
HIV KABP study: Field work for a Knowledge Attitude Behaviour and Practices (KABP) study in Northeast and Central and Southern Somalia was completed during the reporting period. Work on the study in the Northwest should be complete in January 2004.
For further information on UNICEF, visit its website at
http://www.unicef.org/
Source: Food Security Assessment Unit, 14 Jan 2004 (Source URL:
http://www.unsomalia.org/FSAU/index.htm)
Monthly Food Security Report for Somalia Dec 2003
HIGHLIGHTS
Sool Plateau Update : Rains of low intensity and limited spatial coverage fell in the first week of December but did little to alleviate the current humanitarian crisis in Sool Plateau. Nutritional status surveys reflect the deteriorating food security situation of residents. An acute malnutrition rate of 18.9% (W/H<2 z-score or oedema) was found during the first round of Sool Plateau sentinel site surveillance exercise in November/December 2003. A UNICEF led mission in mid-December 2003 also recorded an equally high malnutrition rate in Sool Plateau of Sanaag (4,841 children screened). The rate was significantly higher in Sool Plateau of Sool Region (2,049 children were screened). Civil insecurity in the area is now threatening to disrupt humanitarian relief operations in the region.
Drought in Hawd of Todgheer : An inter-agency rapid assessment led by the FSAU found that the poor and lower levles of the middle wealth pastoral group are facing a high risk of food shortage, largely as a result of poor Gu 2003 and failed Deyr 2003 rains. Affected households will need to be closely monitored during the harsh, dry Jilaal season. For more information on the drought stricken region, see page 2.
Civil Insecurity : Civil Insecurity continues to present a challenge to the people of Somalia and humanitarian organizations attempting to strengthen the livelihoods of the Somali people. As reported by IRIN at the end of December, militia from Puntland occupied Las Anod and other parts of Sanag region. The government of Somaliland has deployed troops to positions outside Aynabo. Also various incidents in Kismayo and Lower Juba suggest a worsening of civil insecurity, as does militia activity in El Wak town, Gedo Region, during December.
Somaliland Gu/Karan 2003 Crop Production : The total Gu/Karan 2003 crop production is very good and the highest recorded figure in post-war years. The Gu/Karan season produced 24,915 Mt of sorghum and 3,289 Mt of maize. Some of the reasons for this good production are very good Karan rains, improved and dressed seeds provided by CINS, land preparation on time which was enhanced by IFAD providing tractors on credit. For a copy of this report please contact the FSAU Field Team Manager : Yusuf@fsau.or.ke
A series of FSAU field workshops in Galkayo and Garowe from January 13 -- 16 2004 are being held to assess the severity of reported pastoral stress in the areas of Western Mudug and south of Sool and implications on food security. The results will be presented at the HRG meeting on North Somalia (20 Jan) and the SACB FSRDC meeting (21 Jan).
GU AND KARAN 2003 CEREAL PRODUCTION IN SOMALILAND
The average cereal production of Somaliland amounts to about 17,000 MT per year (roughly 6% of the annual cereal production of Somalia).
The total Gu/Karan 2003 crop production was very good and the highest recorded figure in post-war years. The season produced 24,915 Mt of sorghum (88%) and 3,289 Mt of maize (12%).
Gabiley made a significant contribution to this total figure. An estimated 20,100 MT (71%). For in depth technical analysis on the successful harvest. Please contact : Yusuf@fsau.or.ke for the his Gu/Karan 2003 Somaliland Cereal Production Report.
RESULTS FROM FIRST ROUND OF SOOL PLATEAU SURVEILLANCE
Results from the first round of Sool Plateau surveillance are now available. These statistics will be compared with statistics from the second round of surveillance, due to take place in January (security permitting). Trend monitoring and in depth analysis will be provided by the FSAU in February. For information on results from the first round of surveillance, please contact charles@fsau.or.ke
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FSAU NUTRITION UPDATE
In Sool Plateau, the ongoing sentinel nutritional surveillance indicates a worrying nutrition situation with an acute malnutrition rate of 18.9% (W/H <-2 z-score/oedema) (Dec 2003 Nutrition Update). See also the Highlights on Page 1. In the insecure region of Benadir, (districts around Mogadishu) malnutrition is particularly evident among displaced persons and the poor. In one month, 30% of children attending health facilities in the area were identified as malnourished. Recent nutrition surveys in IDP (Internally Displaced People) settings indicate a poor nutrition situation. Nutrition surveys amongst IDP'S conducted in Hargeisa, Bossaso and Burao between June 2001 and Oct. 2003 found global acute malnutrition rates ranging between 15.3% and 18.7%. An analysis of the various studies on IDP's in Somalia indicate that they are disadvantaged by a combination of factors including : poor shelter, poor sanitation, limited access to sources of income, weak coping strategies, limited access to remittances and social support. It is estimated that 50,000 people, mainly pastoralists from Northern Somalia, have crossed into the Somali Region of Ethiopia (Region V) due to the delay and poor performance of the 2003 Deyr rains. However these areas are not much better off as parts of Gode, Warder, Afder and Degahabour zones have also been affected by drought. Recent nutritional surveys indicate that the situation continues to deteriorate in these zones. For further information on FSAU nutrition surveys and related nutritional information : please contact : noreen.prendiville@fsau.or.ke
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 14, 2004/Source: Radio Shabeelle, Mogadishu in Somali 0500 gmt 14 Jan 04
SOMALILAND MINISTER REPORTEDLY IN DJIBOUTI TO DISCUSS BORDER ZONE, COASTLINE
Visiting Somaliland Interior Minister Isma'il Adan Usman yesterday held talks with Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh. The minister conveyed a message from Somaliland President Dahir Riyale. The minister and the president discussed possible cooperation between Somaliland and Djibouti in security and seizure of contraband goods.
Other reports say that the most important issue behind the visit by Somaliland Interior Minister Isma'il Adan Usman was to complete unsigned agreement on the separation of two controls on the Somali side and in the Djibouti side between the Lawya Cade zone along the common border to create a wide open space that would ensure control of movement of contraband goods. The distance between the two controls is less than 100 meters.
According to reports from Lawya Cade, attemps at separating the two controls further during the Somaliland interior minister's trip to Lawya Cade, met adamant refusal by the local people. The trip by Somaliland Interior Minister Isma'il Adan Usman and the secret visit by Somaliland Foreign Minister Edna Adan Isma'il during which she stayed in Djibouti (for several days) were not covered by the Djibouti local media.
Edna Adan's trip was also reportedly to discuss the deployment of foreign soldiers along Somalia's northern coastline, which is a part of Somaliland's efforts to gain obtain funds and gain recognition.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 14, 2004
SOMALILAND MINISTER SAYS CLAN LEADERS IN DISPUTED TOWN OPPOSED TO PUNTLAND
The Somaliland minister of housing and rural development, Fuad Adan Ade, who has been in charge of a military operation in Laas Caanood (southeastern Somalia, district claimed by Somaliland, Puntland administration) in the last few weeks, and was involved in clashes with militiamen from Puntland who had attacked Laas Caanood is currently in Burco, Toghdeer Region, for a visit.
The Jamhuuriya reporter in Toghdeer Region, Kayse Ahmad Digale, yesterday interviewed the minister on the current situation and tension in Laas Caanood and Sool Region.
The following is the interview:
(Jamhuuriya) Mr minister give us a detailed description of the situation in Sool Region, especially Laas Caanood town.
(Ade) Laas Caanood is in their hands; there is nothing to hide from you. I have been on the outskirts of Laas Caanood in the last few days, however, we were informed this morning that some Majerteenian (Puntland's main clan) forces have withdrawn from the town and are currently in Adhi-Cadeeye where they want to set up a base. The Somaliland forces are in Yagoori. The truth is that they want fighting in civilian-populated areas, while Somaliland wants fighting on the border.
(Jamhuuriya) If the Majeertenian (forces) are Adhi Caddeeye where are the (Somaliland) national forces?
(Ade) Our forces reached Jidda yesterday and they are now beyond Yagoori. I and Faratoon, the minister of Resettlement, were there and we deterred them from moving on to Laas Caanood, however, they are now prepared.
(Jamhuuriya) Clan leaders and members of public in Sool Region have not expressed dissatisfaction towards the Majeertenian forces who are deployed in Laas Caanood. Somaliland forces have meanwhile withdrawn from the town, is it wrong to say they are supporting them?
(Ade) There are eight clan leaders in Laas Caanood, seven of which are opposed to the Majeertenian forces. They were opposed to them from the onset and they are opposed to the arrogance which is being exhibited. Yesterday, Garad Mahmud Mashqare came to Yagoori to see me to convey condolences to me. He had an awful letter from the Puntland governor and had begged soldiers manning a road block for two hours to leave town. There is a man there who is very loyal (to Puntland), very powerful and one you would think is a president. He gives orders. If he orders the arrest of someone, the person is arrested at times he (just) looks like an ordinary soldier. The truth of the matter is that most of them are not loyal but are just scared.
(Jamhuuriya) Mr minister it is reported that the Majeertenian administration has sent troops to Sanaag Region. The troops are now in the eastern region, how true is this?
(Ade) I'm sure Buuhoodle is the place where they are passionate about and have renamed Cayn Region. They are eager to see fighting between brothers in the area. I'm not sure about eastern Sanaag but they are interested and passionate about Buuhoodle.
(Jamhuuriya) Mr minister what is the number of dead and wounded on your side?
(Ade) Two young men have died and four were injured. They have arrested two young men who were detached - that is Aqil Husayn Adan Ade, a son of mine and a cousin who was driving and whose car they took away. They took the people they arrested directly to Garoowe (Puntland administrative HQ, about 150km away) and the injured to Laas Canood hospital. On their side, they lost four men who were buried the same night in Garoowe. They also sent away patients in Garoowe hospital and admitted seven of their men who were injured.
(Jamhuuriya) What is your mission here in Burco?
(Ade) I'm here to thank the people and government of Somaliland, to brief the people on the real situation on the ground and to inform the people that their country is being occupied and they should deliver it. I will return this evening or tomorrow.
(Jamhuuriya) Have you ever asked the clan leaders and educated people in Sool about the need for these (Puntland) forces to withdraw from Laas Caanood?
(Ade) They have been asked. It is only the brave who can say that. The truth of the matter is that the people have not done what was expected of them. It is just a question of fear. These (Puntland forces) are not men who are related to the people there or with clan affiliation to Somaliland. They did not even believe they could get to Laas Caanood. They are puzzled and wondering about this place.
Source: Jamhuuriya web site, Hargeysa, in Somali 13 Jan 04
Africa News, January 13, 2004/BYLINE: UN Integrated Regional Information Networks
Somalia;War of Continues Between Puntland And Somaliland
The authorities in the self-declared republic of Somaliland have warned neighbouring Puntland to "stop playing with fire" and withdraw its forces from the disputed region of Sool, a senior Somaliland official told IRIN on Wednesday.
Tension has been rising between the two sides ever since forces of the self-declared autonomous region of Puntland took total control of the Sool regional capital, Las Anod, late last month.
Abdillahi Muhammad Du'ale, the Somaliland information minister, told IRIN on Tuesday that Somaliland had been patient and had ignored numerous provocations from Puntland with a view to averting destabilising confrontations, but the situation had now "reached a point at which we can no longer ignore their actions".
"The Majerteenia [Puntland] must remove their forces at once or take full responsibility for the consequences of their action," he warned.
However, the Puntland spokesman, Awad Ahmad Ashara, told IRIN that "Puntland forces are within our borders, since Las Anod is an integral part of Puntland". He accused the Somaliland authorities of instigating the conflict, adding that the people of the area "do not consider themselves part of Somaliland".
Sool and Sanaag regions fall geographically within the borders of pre-independence British Somaliland, but most of the clans there are associated with Puntland. These are the Warsangeli and the Dhulbahante, which, along with Majerteen - the main clan in Puntland - form the Harti sub-group of the Darood.
Du'ale said Somaliland had been working since 1991 towards the achievement of a lasting peace "within the borders of the former British Protectorate" and had "been successful in reconciling the various clans." He charged that "continuous provocations" by Col Abdullahi Yusuf, Puntland's president, were meant to derail the "stability and the democratisation process and thwart the success story of Somaliland".
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 13, 2004/Source: Radio Hargeysa in Somali 1700 gmt 13 Jan 04
SOMALILAND: FOREIGN MINISTER WARNS PUNTLAND STATE OVER "PROVOCATIONS"
The foreign minister of the republic of Somaliland, Mrs Edna Adan Isma'il, this morning held a news conference at her office and discussed some diplomatic moves by Somaliland on the international front.
The news conference was attended by local journalists and local media agencies. Mrs Edan discussed her latest trip to Djibouti which she said was very important to Somaliland.
Discussing the US-Somaliland relations, Mrs Edna said she had met officials from the US State Department on four occasions and discussed how to strengthen the relations between the two countries and how to safeguard Somaliland's territorial waters.
Mr Edna said the provocations by Majertenia (Puntland administration) in Sool Region would be met by stern action.
Finally, she urged the people of Somaliland to be wary of anyone who tries to provokes them and interferes with their territorial boundaries.
BBC Monitoring International Reports, January 13, 2004/Source: TV Djibouti in Somali 1900 gmt 13 Jan 04
DJIBOUTI: PRESIDENT GUELLEH RECEIVES VISITING SOMALILAND MINISTER
The president of Djibouti, Ismail Omar Guelleh, today received the minister of internal affairs of Somaliland, Hon Isma'il Adan Usman, who conveyed a message to the Djibouti president from the Somaliland president Dahir Riyale Kahin.
The meeting was held this morning at the presidency and was attended by the minister of interior and decentralization, Hon Abdoulkader Doualeh Waiss.
The president of the republic and the Somaliland minister discussed the relations between the Republic of Djibouti and Somaliland especially on security issues and the fight against contraband goods on the border.
The Somaliland minister paid a courtesy call on the Djibouti prime minister, Dileita Mohamed Dileita. He is also toured some sectors of Djibouti City.
AllAfrica.com, January 12, 2004, BYLINE: Jeffrey Herbst
SOMALILAND DESERVES A CLOSER LOOK
At least a small part of the future of Africa is being played out in Somaliland, the northwest portion of Somalia that declared its independence in 1991. In its bustling but impoverished capital of Hargeysa, the most striking contrast with most African cities is the sense of order. Police -- who, given their salaries, are almost volunteers -- stand in the hot sun and direct obedient drivers. Money-changers sit on the side of the street with huge piles of cash visible, waiting for customers.
Order is supposed to be the defining characteristic of a state, but Somaliland is recognized by no country in the world as a sovereign entity. Instead, the world insists on clinging to the fiction that Somalia has a government that rules over a united territory. Understanding why the world pretends that Somaliland does not exist tells us much about the foibles of the international politics of recognition.
Somaliland was a British protectorate during the colonial period. In 1960, during the rush to decolonization, Somaliland was independent for five days before joining with former Italian Somaliland to create the Somali Republic. In 1989 the government of thug-President Mohamed Siad Barre declared war on Somaliland because of fears that the Somalilanders wanted to go it alone. Government fighters, taking off from the Hargeysa airport, systematically bombed the city, destroying just about every building. In an event all but unnoticed by the international community, 50,000 people were killed and approximately 500,000 of the population of 2 million became refugees in neighboring Ethiopia.
For several years, strife and conflict continued, but Somaliland persevered. Order was gradually restored and a government formed; the refugees returned and embarked on a long process of rebuilding. In 2001, 98 percent of voters opted in a free and fair election for a new constitution that boldly proclaimed the case for independence.
Somaliland then had successful, internationally monitored, local council elections in 2002 and a free and fair presidential election in April 2003. The presidential election was most notable because the ruling UDUB party, led by President Dahir Rayale Kahin, won by only 217 votes out of almost 500,000 cast. The opposition party KULMIYE challenged the tally but, in a moment of extraordinary responsibility given Somalia's history of having weapons resolve almost every conflict, eventually accepted the results. Somaliland is planning parliamentary elections this year (the legislature is currently appointed). At that point, it will have a far more impressive democracy than most African countries.
One would think that the natural response of the outside world to the extraordinary accomplishments of the Somalilanders would be respect and recognition, especially because Somalia still does not have a government and is still in absolute ruins a decade after one of the most expensive humanitarian interventions in history. That is not the logic of the Horn of Africa. About the only thing that the southern Somalis can agree on is that they do not want Somaliland to secede.
The rest of Africa has not been of any more help. One of the decisions that African leaders took at independence was to retain the irrational boundaries they had received from colonialists, because they could not think of anything better and because they thought that any credence given to self-determination would cause the continent to descend into chaos. The permanence of boundaries has become a major asset for African leaders who do not have to prove that they control their territories or even that they are a legitimate government in order to be granted international recognition and sovereign equality.
The Somalilanders made their own peace without the benefit of international mediators and conflict resolution experts. Of course, they still face extraordinary problems. Literacy may only be 30 percent; education for girls is left to Koranic schools; significant parts of the government are corrupt; just about all men have weapons at home and a good many of them spend much of their income and afternoons chewing kat leaves, an addictive stimulant imported from Ethiopia. In addition, the recent killing of an Italian nurse and a British couple raised concerns across Somaliland that it is still vulnerable to terrorist attacks from those who are determined not to let secession go forward.
Nevertheless, recognizing Somaliland would be a strong signal to the rest of Africa that performance matters and that sovereignty granted in the 1960s will not be an excuse to fail forever. Few regions of any African country actually want to secede; thus the world could recognize the achievements and legal idiosyncrasies of Somaliland without experiencing massive disruptions of Africa's map. The Somalilanders, almost unanimously, ask what more they can do when the international community continues to recognize Liberia, Sierra Leone, Democratic Republic of the Congo and other anarchic, violent places as sovereign units. It is time to give them an answer.
Jeffrey Herbst is chairman of the department of politics at Princeton University. This commentary was first published in the Washington Post on January 2, 2004.