By Horn Africa News
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s federal government has extended an offer of amnesty to Jubbaland regional forces positioned outside the border town of Beled-Hawo, Gedo region, following fierce clashes on Monday that left multiple soldiers dead and several others wounded.
The fighting, which broke out on the outskirts of Beled-Hawo, involved Somali National Army (SNA) units and armed Jubbaland forces reportedly stationed near the Kenyan border. The clashes caused significant tension in the area, prompting fears of renewed instability in the already fragile Gedo region.
Beled-Hawo District Commissioner Shire Abdullahi, speaking to Media on Tuesday, confirmed the government’s offer and expressed condolences to the families of those killed. He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured soldiers.
“The Federal Government is ready to offer amnesty to Jubbaland troops on the outskirts of the town, provided they surrender and cooperate with national forces,” Abdullahi said. “We urge our brothers in Jubbaland to take this opportunity for reconciliation rather than confrontation.”
The district commissioner also appealed to the Kenyan government to demonstrate “good neighbourliness” by helping return weapons reportedly seized from Jubbaland troops. Kenyan territory borders Beled-Hawo, and regional tensions have often been heightened by cross-border dynamics, including allegations of external interference in Somali internal disputes.
While the government did not release an official death toll, local sources report that the clashes caused “heavy casualties” on both sides. Eyewitnesses say the fighting forced some residents to flee temporarily, fearing further violence.
The amnesty proposal is part of a wider federal effort to de-escalate tensions in Gedo, a strategic region that has long been at the centre of political and military disputes between Somalia’s federal government and the Jubbaland administration, led by President Ahmed Mohamed Islam “Madobe.”
Federal authorities have repeatedly accused Jubbaland of maintaining unauthorized armed units in Gedo, while Jubbaland officials argue that their forces are protecting local communities from insecurity.
For now, the situation in Beled-Hawo remains tense, with military movements continuing in surrounding areas. Somali officials say mediation efforts are ongoing, with both political and clan elders expected to play a role in resolving the crisis peacefully.
