02/05/2025
Open Letter to Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre
Dear Prime Minister,
Iโm writing to you as someone born in Somalia, raised in the United States, but forever connected to my roots. Iโve watched our country from afar, hopeful in some moments, heartbroken in others. I still believe in Somalia. I believe in a Somalia that is strong, united, and respected on the world stage. But for that to happen, leadership needs to be rooted in service, not ceremony.
Your recent visit to Las Anod was historic โ no question. It was the first time a Somali Prime Minister set foot in SSC-Khaatumo. That matters. But what matters more is what comes after that visit. Because if that trip was just about being seen, taking photos, and delivering speeches, then Iโm afraid it will be remembered as another missed opportunity.
What struck me most wasnโt the visit itself โ it was the way the people of Khaatumo received you. After everything theyโve been through โ conflict, marginalization, being caught between bigger political interests โ they still welcomed you with open arms. That kind of grace, that kind of resilience, deserves more than a handshake. It deserves real investment. Real commitment.
The people didnโt fight for federal recognition just for a flag or a name. They fought because they wanted a voice, a future, and a fair chance at development. They need roads, schools, healthcare, jobs โ not symbolic visits and one-day attention. The money and effort that went into planning this trip could have been spent building something lasting. Even one new well, one school renovation, one medical clinic wouldโve made a difference.
As a Somali-American, I also see this from another angle. Somalia is more than just our homeland โ itโs a strategic partner, a place with global relevance. And from where I stand, if Somalia is going to remain a stable ally to countries like the U.S., we have to make sure regions like SSC-Khaatumo donโt get left behind. If we donโt help them thrive, someone else will fill that vacuum โ and not necessarily with Somaliaโs or Americaโs best interests at heart.
This is a crucial time. Youโve taken a first step, but it has to lead somewhere. The recognition of Khaatumo as a federal member state must be followed by real support. As of today, I do not see any legal documents stating the pathway of Khaatumo becoming a member State. Let this not be just a page in your political resume. Let it be the start of something real โ for the people who welcomed you, believed in your leadership, and are still waiting for change.
There are other regions aspiring to become Member States, and we must not overlook them; recognizing these areas is essential to empowering them as they chart their path toward a prosperous future.
We, in the diaspora, havenโt forgotten Somalia. We just want to see our country treated with the seriousness and respect it deserves โ especially the parts that have been forgotten for too long.
