By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed Fartuun Bile Mahmoud Jimale as the new Secretary-General of the Banadir Regional Administration, marking a significant step toward enhancing women’s participation in Somali governance.
The appointment was confirmed by trusted sources within Villa Somalia, the presidential palace. President Hassan Sheikh signed the official decree on Friday, just before departing for a diplomatic visit to Djibouti.
Fartuun succeeds Faisal Arale, who had served in the post since 2022. Afrah’s appointment at the time came following the recommendation of MP Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbalolshe, a former intelligence chief and influential figure in Somali politics.
Fartuun Bile Mahmoud Jimale is no stranger to Somali politics. She previously contested for the House of the People seat HOP004, currently held by MP Abdinasser Haji Shirwa, during elections conducted in Beledweyne, the capital of the Hiiraan region.
Her recent appointment is seen by some political analysts as being backed by individuals close to the president. Key among them is Hussein Sheikh Mahmoud, a brother to President Hassan Sheikh, and Maryan Haji Elmi Wasuge, a respected veteran of Somali politics. Maryan was the first woman to chair the Somali National Women’s Organization, appointed in 1975 under the former central government led by Mohamed Siad Barre.
Fartuun’s appointment is being widely viewed as a progressive move toward inclusive leadership in Somalia, particularly in Mogadishu, where the Banadir Regional Administration holds significant political and administrative power.
Her selection aligns with growing calls for increased female representation in both local and national government structures, a cause long championed by Somali civil society and international partners.
If implemented with authority and independence, her leadership could pave the way for stronger governance, service delivery, and gender equity in the capital region.
