Known for its rich farmland, abundant harvests, and vital role in feeding communities across Somalia, the town became a symbol of prosperity and a place remembered with deep affection by generations who called it home.

Its reputation was captured in the popular Somali saying: “Adduunyo Jowhar ka joog, aakhiro janno” — loosely translated as: “In this world, live in Jowhar; in the hereafter, live in paradise.”

The phrase reflected the admiration locals had for the town, suggesting that Jowhar was among the finest places one could experience in life.

But the Jowhar of today faces a very different reality.

Climate change, recurring droughts and floods, declining agricultural production, and insecurity have transformed the lives of many residents.

A town once known for feeding much of Somalia now struggles with food insecurity and economic uncertainty, leaving many communities in increasingly precarious conditions.

Yet, despite these challenges, the memories of Jowhar’s golden years remain strong.

The nostalgia for its fertile lands, peaceful communities, and unique identity continues to shape how residents view their town.

In this episode of Baraarug, local journalist Abdulkadir Mohamed Abaabow, who has lived in Jowhar for decades, shares his memories of a town that has undergone dramatic transformations.

He reflects on Jowhar’s journey through different eras — from the rule of warlords and clan militias, to periods of militant control, and finally to its current administration under Hirshabelle State, a federal member state of Somalia.

Through his personal experiences, Abaabow explores how Jowhar’s landscape, people, and identity have changed over time — while highlighting why the town remains deeply cherished by those who know its history.

The post Jowhar: A Once Flourishing Farming Hub Still Alive in Memory appeared first on Kaab TV.

On Sunday, AUSSOM troops conducted a security patrol along the main road linking Jowhar Airfield to Jowhar town as part of ongoing efforts to maintain stability and ensure the safe movement of civilians, goods, and humanitarian assistance.

The patrol formed part of routine operations focused on securing critical supply corridors and preventing security threats in the area.

Maj. Désiré Ndihokubwayo, Officer in Charge of Operations for AUSSOM Sector 5, said the patrols are designed to maintain security along major roads and surrounding communities, enabling residents to carry out their daily activities without disruption.

“These operations are conducted to ensure security on the main roads and surrounding areas, allowing the population to go about their daily lives safely and without interruption,” Maj. Ndihokubwayo said.

The latest patrol follows an inspection by Maj. Gen. Michel Ndenzako, Commander of AUSSOM Sector 5, who recently visited key installations at Jowhar Airfield to assess security and strengthen the protection of troops and critical infrastructure.

During the visit, he ordered the reinforcement of defensive positions along the runway, enhanced security patrols, and improved rapid-response capabilities to counter threats posed by Al-Shabaab and other armed groups.

AUSSOM said Sector 5 troops remain committed to supporting Somali-led security efforts by securing strategic supply routes, protecting critical infrastructure, and facilitating the free movement of people and goods throughout Jowhar and surrounding areas as part of broader stabilization operations in central Somalia.

The post AUSSOM Strengthens Security Operations Around Jowhar Airfield appeared first on Kaab TV.

JOWHAR (Kaab TV) – Several explosions and armed attacks struck Jowhar overnight raising security concerns in the capital of HirShabelle State as the region prepares for upcoming elections.

According to local sources and security officials, the attacks involved roadside bombs, grenade explosions, and targeted shootings in different parts of the city, with powerful blasts heard across central Jowhar late Sunday night.

The first explosion occurred in the Horseed neighborhood near Laanta Isnaay, where a Somali government security officer identified only as Haaroole was targeted in an apparent assassination attempt. The officer was reportedly injured in the attack and later taken for medical treatment.

A second attack involved a hand grenade thrown at a military camp housing the 3rd Brigade of the Somali National Army, commanded by General Saneey Abdulle, near the Jowhar police station. Soldiers stationed at the camp responded by opening fire shortly after the explosion.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties resulting from the blast or the subsequent exchange of gunfire.

In a separate incident, armed assailants attacked and killed a security officer stationed at a checkpoint in Jowhar before reportedly seizing his weapon and fleeing the scene.

No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the coordinated attacks, although similar incidents in the region have frequently been linked to Al-Shabaab militants, who continue to carry out bombings and targeted assassinations across central and southern Somalia.

Officials from HirShabelle and Somali security agencies had not issued an official statement at the time of publication. However, government and HirShabelle security forces reportedly launched security operations early Monday morning to search for the attackers and restore stability in the city.

The attacks come at a sensitive political moment as Jowhar prepares to host HirShabelle’s upcoming regional elections, which are expected to include the selection of a new parliament and regional president.

Political competition within HirShabelle has intensified in recent months, with rival political figures and clan leaders positioning themselves ahead of the electoral process.

Security analysts warn that the latest violence could further complicate preparations for the elections, particularly as Somali authorities continue efforts to strengthen security institutions and prevent militant groups from disrupting political activities.

Jowhar, located in the Middle Shabelle region, remains one of Somalia’s key administrative and political centers and has repeatedly faced security threats linked to the country’s broader conflict with extremist groups.

The post Multiple Explosions Rock Jowhar Ahead of HirShabelle Elections appeared first on Kaab TV.

Several doctors and midwives—many of whom lack sufficient experience in assisting women during labor—have reportedly caused severe complications for mothers seeking safe delivery at the facility. As a result, many women have suffered intense pain and life-threatening pregnancy-related conditions.

Witnesses described an incident in which a midwife was seen using her phone during a delivery, despite being responsible for two lives in a critical moment. By the grace of God, both mother and baby survived. However, staff showed little compassion or professionalism: they failed to perform a necessary incision on a mother giving birth to her second child, instead forcefully pressing on her abdomen to push the baby out.

According to someone present at the hospital, a young girl in labor was even told to leave after staff insisted she was not pregnant. Moments later, her condition deteriorated, and complications during childbirth led to her developing fistula—crushing the hope she once had for a safe delivery. Only after her situation worsened did experienced doctors begin to provide specialized care, which came far too late.

If the problems at this hospital remain unaddressed, countless mothers and their children will continue to face inadequate care and unqualified staff—conditions that could amount to a death sentence for families relying on Jowhar Maternity Hospital.

Local authorities, including the District Administration of the Hirshabelle Region and the Somali Ministry of Health, have urged residents to raise their concerns about the facility’s declining standards.

They are calling for stronger oversight of the skills and qualifications of the midwives working there in order to protect the many mothers already harmed and to prevent further tragedies

The post Jowhar Maternal Hospital Turning Into a Slaughterhouse for Mothers and Newborns appeared first on Kaab TV.

The changes were formalized through a presidential decree issued on Monday, which cited Articles 56 and 57 of the Hirshabelle State Constitution.

These provisions empower the President to appoint, dismiss, or reassign Cabinet members whenever deemed necessary to enhance government performance and accountability.

The President appointed the following individuals to new leadership roles:

• Bashi Abdi Mohamed – Minister of Labor and Social Affairs

• Saleh Mohamed Hassan – Minister of Energy and Water Resources

• Abdikarim Nur Hassan (Doob-yare) – Minister of State for Information, Culture, and Tourism

• Omar Mohamed Soomane – Deputy Minister of Finance and Economic Development

In a statement released by the presidential office, President Guudlawe emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration of the government’s performance over the past months.

He noted that the reshuffle is part of his administration’s broader strategy to accelerate development initiatives, improve the efficiency of public institutions, and ensure the effective delivery of essential services to the people of Hirshabelle.

The President also reiterated his commitment to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability across all levels of the regional administration.

He encouraged the newly appointed officials to work closely with their respective ministries and regional partners to meet the aspirations of Hirshabelle’s citizens.

This latest Cabinet reshuffle reflects ongoing efforts by the Hirshabelle government to reinvigorate its executive team and align leadership roles with current development priorities, particularly in the areas of social welfare, infrastructure, and economic growth.

The post Hirshabelle President Guudlawe Reshuffles Cabinet, Appoints Four New Ministers appeared first on Kaab TV.

The announcement was made through a presidential decree issued earlier today from the Office of the President in Jowhar, the administrative capital of Hirshabelle.

The decree, which was publicly explained by Mohamed Shuriye Noor, Director of Information and Community Relations at the Hirshabelle Presidency, also named Mohamed Arab Hussein Mohamed as the new governor of Hiraan.

His appointment follows a formal recommendation from Yusuf Ahmed Hagar Dabaged, the Vice President of Hirshabelle.

Background and Experience of the New Governor

Mohamed Arab Hussein Mohamed is not new to the political landscape of Hirshabelle. He previously served as the Chairman of the Electoral Committee for the Somali Federal Parliament elections in 2021, overseeing the voting process in the Hirshabelle constituencies.

His prior experience in managing critical national processes is seen as a strong asset as he steps into the governorship of one of Somalia’s most strategically significant and politically sensitive regions.

Underlying Tensions and Dispute

The dismissal of Muse Salad comes against the backdrop of escalating internal tensions within the Hirshabelle administration.

Over the past few weeks, serious disagreements had emerged between the former governor and Vice President Yusuf Dabaged. The core of their dispute centered around tax revenues collected at Ugas Khalif Airport in Baledweyne, a key city in Hiraan region.

Sources close to the administration have confirmed that the clash over the control and allocation of airport tax revenues significantly strained the working relationship between the two leaders.

The situation reportedly reached a point where effective governance was no longer tenable, prompting President Guudlawe to intervene with today’s decision.

Political Implications and Regional Autonomy Concerns

It remains unclear how the ousted governor Muse Salad will respond to the dismissal. Historically, several former governors in Somalia have resisted such decrees, often citing constitutional irregularities or the lack of sufficient federal authority in their regions.

This scenario is particularly relevant in the case of Hiraan, where Hirshabelle’s control has long been contested.

Many residents and local leaders in Hiraan, especially in Baledweyne, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Hirshabelle administration, accusing it of marginalization and limited service delivery.

As a result, the regional government’s influence in Hiraan has been tenuous at best, and political appointments from Jowhar are often met with skepticism or outright opposition.

With these dynamics in play, the future cooperation between the new governor and local stakeholders remains uncertain.

President Guudlawe’s decision reflects a broader effort to stabilize internal governance within Hirshabelle, but it also risks deepening regional divisions if not managed carefully.

The new governor, Mohamed Arab, will have to navigate a complex political terrain, balancing his loyalty to the central Hirshabelle administration with the demands of Hiraan’s increasingly vocal local leadership and community.

As of now, no official statement has been released by Muse Salad regarding his removal, but political observers are closely watching for his next move, which could influence the region’s fragile stability in the days ahead.

The post Political Shake-Up in Hirshabelle: President Guudlawe Dismisses Hiraan Governor Amidst Growing Tensions appeared first on Kaab TV.

These groups have been operating in various neighborhoods across the city, engaging in acts of violence, theft, and intimidation, which have alarmed both residents and local authorities.

Residents report that these children—some as young as 10 years old—are forming loosely structured gangs that patrol the streets in the evening and nighttime hours.

Their activities range from petty theft and harassment to more serious offenses such as armed robbery and physical assault.

The increasing boldness and organization of these youth groups have created a deep sense of insecurity among the population.

Local communities have voiced their frustrations to authorities on multiple occasions, highlighting how the presence of these gangs has made daily life more difficult.

Many business owners have reported losses due to theft and vandalism, and parents express fear for the safety of their children while commuting to school or playing outside.

In response to these growing concerns, the Minister of Security for Hirshabelle State, Mohamed Abdirahman Kheyr, has issued a strong statement, assuring the public that government security forces are actively working to address the problem.

“Our forces are always ready and on standby to safeguard the security of the city and its residents. We will take firm action against anyone—regardless of age—who threatens the peace and stability of Jowhar,” he said.

Over the past several months, Jowhar has witnessed a noticeable uptick in criminal activities attributed to these youth gangs.

While the exact causes behind the rise in youth violence are complex and multi-faceted—ranging from poverty and lack of education to unemployment and social neglect—the consequences are being felt across all sectors of the community.

Authorities are currently drafting new measures aimed at curbing youth gang violence, including increased police patrols, community outreach programs, and the possible implementation of juvenile rehabilitation initiatives.

Local leaders and civil society organizations are also calling for long-term solutions that address the root causes of youth delinquency.

As the situation continues to develop, the people of Jowhar remain hopeful that with coordinated efforts from security forces, government institutions, and the community, peace and order will soon be restored in their neighborhoods.

The post Rising Youth Gang Violence Threatens Security in Jowhar City appeared first on Kaab TV.

The directive, released through an official press statement, underscores the administration’s commitment to preserving security and ensuring legal procedures are strictly followed at all entry points.

According to the Ministry, it is now explicitly prohibited for aircraft carrying military personnel, weapons, or military equipment to land in any of the airports operating within Hirshabelle State unless they have obtained prior approval and clearance through the established governmental channels.

The order has been formally communicated to all relevant stakeholders, including civil aviation authorities, private companies, international organizations, and any other entities operating at or through the region’s airports.

“It is strictly forbidden for armed military planes or those transporting illegal weapons and military equipment to enter any airport in Hirshabelle without undergoing the official procedures set by the Hirshabelle government,” the Ministry’s statement reads.

The Ministry further emphasized that any violation of this directive will be treated as a serious breach of the law and a direct threat to the region’s stability. Individuals or groups found engaging in or facilitating such activities, whether directly or indirectly, will face severe legal consequences.

“The Ministry of Transport and Aviation reiterates that it will not permit any aircraft—military or otherwise—carrying weapons or armed personnel without prior knowledge and authorization from the Hirshabelle administration,” the statement concluded.

This decision comes at a politically sensitive time for Hirshabelle. Reports indicate that some political actors in the region have recently sought to bring in armed personnel and military support in a bid to assert political influence and apply pressure on the administration.

The government fears such movements could escalate tensions, undermine law and order, and potentially lead to armed confrontations or destabilization.

Broader Implications and Context

The Hirshabelle State, one of Somalia’s five federal member states, plays a crucial role in the country’s security and political landscape. With strategic cities such as Jowhar and Beledweyne under its administration, the control of its airspace and airports is vital not only for regional stability but also for national security.

This latest move aligns with broader efforts by the federal member states to assert more control over their internal security frameworks, particularly at a time when Somalia continues to face threats from armed insurgent groups and increasing political rivalries.

Observers see the Ministry’s announcement as a preemptive step to prevent the militarization of political disputes, ensuring that no faction is able to use force to influence administrative decisions or leadership transitions.

As political activity in the region intensifies, the Hirshabelle administration is signaling a zero-tolerance approach to any unlawful militarized maneuvers.

The post Hirshabelle Government Bans Unauthorized Military Aircraft Landings Amid Rising Political Tensions appeared first on Kaab TV.

It is geographically situated in the central and southern parts of the country, encompassing the Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions.

To the north, Hirshabelle borders the Galmudug State, while to the southwest it shares boundaries with South West State and the Banadir region (which includes the capital, Mogadishu). To the west lies the international border with Ethiopia, and to the east is the Indian Ocean. The administrative capital of Hirshabelle is Jowhar, while Beledweyne, a major city in Hiran, also plays a significant political and economic role in the state.

Historically, the Hiran region was one of the original eight regions of Somalia before the 18-region model was adopted in the late 1980s.

In 2012, as part of Somalia’s federalization process, the Federal Government approved the merger of Hiran and Middle Shabelle to form the Hirshabelle State. This move was based on Article 49 of the Provisional Constitution, which outlines the formation of regional states.

However, from the outset, the formation of Hirshabelle faced serious political and administrative challenges. Local communities—especially in Hiran—expressed strong opposition, citing lack of inclusive consultation, unequal representation, and inadequate power-sharing.

Although the federal government declared Hirshabelle a functioning regional state in 2016, it was largely a symbolic move without actual local legitimacy or effective governance.

Hirshabelle is home to a number of influential Somali clans and communities, including the Hawadle, Gaalje’el, Abgaal, Jareerweyne, and others. These clans have long histories in the region and have played pivotal roles in Somalia’s social and political landscape.

The name Hirshabelle itself is derived from the combination of the two regions: Hiraan and Shabelle (Middle Shabelle).

Despite the richness of its cultural and historical identity, internal divisions and unresolved grievances among communities have hampered efforts to build a unified regional administration.

The governance of Hirshabelle has been marred by incompetence, corruption, and political fragmentation. Following the 2016 formation of the state, there was hope for progress. However, by 2017, when President Mohamed Abdullahi “Farmaajo” assumed power at the federal level, expectations for effective regional governance were crushed.

Rather than supporting institutional building, critics argue that President Farmaajo’s administration dismantled fragile local systems, pursuing clan-based favoritism and political patronage. This deepened the mistrust among communities and led to the further erosion of public confidence in the regional administration.

When President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was re-elected in 2022, many residents of Hiran and Middle Shabelle hoped for a new direction. However, three years into his presidency, little to no tangible development has been seen in the region. Basic services—such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security—remain virtually non-existent for most citizens.

A stark example of the region’s instability occurred recently in Beledweyne, where a violent confrontation took place between security forces loyal to Governor Ali Jeyte Osman Dabageed and those affiliated with Muuse Salaad, a rival local commander. The dispute, reportedly over control of airport tax revenues, escalated into an armed clash that left nearly 20 people injured.

To make matters worse, Muuse Salaad ordered the closure of Beledweyne airport, halting all flights and cutting off a vital lifeline for the local population. No government institution—regional or federal—has taken responsibility for the incident, highlighting the complete breakdown of law and order in the region.

Parliamentarians elected from Hiran were expected to serve as the voice of their people in both the regional and federal governments. Instead, many have proven politically inexperienced and disengaged, focusing more on personal interests and social media posturing than advocating for their constituents.

Meanwhile, the local population continues to suffer from political marginalization, economic hardship, and lack of essential services. There is a growing sense of political hunger among the people—a desire for real leadership, genuine representation, and meaningful change.

With less than eight months remaining until the next regional election, the people of Hirshabelle are once again facing a crucial crossroads. They are being asked to choose leaders, but confidence in the current political class is at an all-time low.

The upcoming elections must not become a platform for ambitious but inexperienced individuals who lack the vision, integrity, and commitment required for leadership. Instead, Hirshabelle desperately needs:

• Competent and principled leadership focused on serving the public.

• Equitable governance that ensures fair representation for all clans and regions.

• Accountability and transparency in financial and administrative matters.

• A real effort to rebuild public trust in both the regional and federal government institutions.

The story of Hirshabelle is a reflection of the broader challenges facing Somalia’s federalism project. It is a region rich in history and potential, but currently suffering under weak leadership, political infighting, and systemic neglect.

Without immediate and serious reforms, Hirshabelle risks remaining a symbolic state in name only, failing to meet the needs of its people and contributing to ongoing instability in Somalia.

The people of Hiran and Middle Shabelle deserve better. They deserve peace, services, representation, and a government that works for them—not one that exacerbates their suffering.

The post The Struggles of Hirshabelle: A Failing Regional Administration in Need of Real Reform appeared first on Kaab TV.

According to the decree, the dismissal was attributed to a lack of performance by the governor. However, this reasoning has sparked significant discussion and confusion, as the Adan Yabal district has been under the control of the Al-Shabaab militant group for several months. Since the takeover, the Somali government has had little to no physical presence in the area, making it virtually impossible for any appointed official to operate on the ground.

This situation has led many observers and members of the public to question the logic behind the dismissal. Critics argue that Governor Omar Macallin Abdulle was essentially rendered powerless from the beginning of his term, due to the security situation and the lack of government control over the district. “How can a governor perform duties in a district where the government itself has no access?” one resident asked after reading the dismissal letter.

Others have pointed out the broader challenge facing the Hirshabelle administration, noting that a significant portion of the Middle Shabelle region remains under Al-Shabaab control. Adan Yabal is just one of many districts where government authority is largely symbolic, and where insurgents continue to operate freely.

The Ministry of Interior has not commented on how it intends to replace the outgoing governor or how a new appointee might safely access or administer the district.

This development highlights the ongoing challenges in asserting government authority in regions still under militant control, and it raises questions about the criteria used to evaluate local officials operating under such dangerous and constrained conditions.

The post Governor of Adan Yabal Dismissed Amid Al-Shabaab Occupation appeared first on Kaab TV.