GAROWE (Kaab TV) – Under the shade of a tree, a traditional Somali venue for peace negotiations, the conflict in Xarfo town, a rural town in Mudug region, has reached an initial resolution on Tuesday.
The agreement, witnessed by Puntland’s Interior Minister Abdi Farah Said, marks a critical step toward restoring peace after days of violence between the Reer Mahad and Mohamed Omar clans of the Majerteen sub-clan.
Local authorities report that 14 people were affected by the conflict, with four killed and 10 others injured.
The fighting, which lasted two days, centered around disputes over rural land and access to water wells, culminating in the destruction of a vital well that served the local community.
The violence forced much of the local population to flee, leaving schools closed and many still afraid to return to their homes.
Discussions for a comprehensive and lasting peace are set to begin on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at the residence of Sultan Mohamed Sultan Mohamoud in Xarfo.
In today’s preliminary agreement, Interior Minister Abdi Farah Said announced strict measures to prevent further hostilities.
Ceasefire Commitment
Both parties have agreed to a complete ceasefire.
Clan militias must vacate Xarfo and move to designated areas agreed upon during the meeting. Weapons are prohibited within and around the town.
The clans will prepare for the upcoming peace conference to address the root causes of the conflict.
Any party breaking the ceasefire will be fined $20,000 and held accountable for any resulting damages.
Puntland’s government will assume responsibility for ensuring Xarfo’s security.
The clans involved, Reer Mahad and Mohamed Omar, will equally share the expenses for the peace conference and hospitality.
Local leaders endorsed the agreement, expressing hope for long-term stability. Xarfo District Commissioner Abdirahman Hirsi emphasized the importance of peace.
“Xarfo district is at the heart of Puntland. It doesn’t need bullets—it needs peace and development,” Commissioner Hirsi said.
On his side, Mudug Regional Governor Faisal Sheikh Ali (Jifo Jabsade) addressed the need for accountability.
“When an oppressive criminal is killed, instead of condemning his actions, some cry out claiming, ‘We’ve lost a son.’ That mindset is not right. We need clan leaders to prevent future violence and work with the government to bring criminals to justice,” stated Governor Faisal.
Women’s Role in Peacebuilding
Women played a significant role in advocating for peace. Mamo Hawo, a respected local peace advocate, delivered a compelling speech urging accountability and unity.
“We are a Muslim and noble people. The cow’s milk that is on our shoulders—if we spill it, the regret will be ours,” she noted in her poem addressed to the warring sides.
Hawo challenged elders to take responsibility for their sons’ actions and reminded the community that without peace, everything, including their livelihoods, would be lost. She further warned about the consequences in the hereafter, saying, “Killing and looting will never be forgotten.”
Hawo also called for the government and the local community to work together, emphasizing the need for a deep assessment of the underlying causes of the recurrent conflict.