Renewed Tensions Grip Somalia’s Gedo Region as Federal Troops Seal Kenya Border Article

 

Beled-Hawo, Somalia – Tensions are once again on the rise in Somalia’s Gedo region, particularly in the border town of Beled-Hawo, as fears grow over renewed clashes between federal forces and troops loyal to the Jubaland administration.

The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has heightened military alert levels and sealed the border with neighboring Kenya, citing security concerns. Reports indicate that Jubaland-aligned fighters are regrouping in the Kenyan town of Mandera, raising the risk of cross-border confrontations.

Military sources confirmed that Somali federal forces have launched a series of operations on the outskirts of Beled-Hawo. These measures are aimed at preventing destabilization and asserting federal authority in this historically volatile area.

In a parallel development, Colonel Osman Sheikh Abdi Qorax “Niiniile,” commander of the 10th battalion under the 43rd division, arrived in Garbaharey the regional capital of Gedo, at the head of a high-level delegation to evaluate the security situation.

The possibility of renewed clashes looms large, particularly in Beled-Hawo and Garbaharey, where past confrontations have erupted over contested authority and territorial control. The standoff further reflects the strained relations between the federal government in Mogadishu and the Jubaland administration, led by Ahmed Madobe.

Local residents warn that the fragile calm in Gedo could quickly unravel unless urgent dialogue is initiated to ease tensions and find a sustainable political solution.