Latest news in Somalia? September 28th, 2026
28-09-2026
Security & Conflict
Baidoa Clashes: Heavy fighting erupted in Baidoa between Somali government forces and regional militia aligned with former Southwest State President Abdiaziz Mohamed Laftagareen. The clashes follow weeks of escalating political and security tensions regarding the administrative control of Southwest State.
Counter-Insurgency Operations: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre made remarks addressing federal security strategies against Al-Shabaab, reflecting on previous military offensives and ongoing stabilization efforts. Concurrently, regional partners, including Djibouti, have called for sustained international security assistance during Somalia’s broader transition period.
Economy & Governance
2027 Budget Consultations: Somalia’s Ministry of Finance kicked off public consultation sessions in Mogadishu for the upcoming 2027 national budget. The framework prioritizes expanding domestic tax revenue, reducing dependence on external financing, and managing economic pressures related to regional maritime shipping disruptions.
Puntland Relations: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre publicly dismissed concerns regarding the potential secession of the Puntland regional administration, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to national unity despite ongoing electoral and constitutional disputes between Garowe and Mogadishu.
Humanitarian & Infrastructure
Food Insecurity Warnings: Humanitarian agencies, including Save the Children, released updated alerts highlighting severe malnutrition risks across central and southern Somalia. Compounding factors such as localized droughts, aid funding gaps, and displacement continue to affect vulnerable populations.
Regional Infrastructure: In Puntland, regional authorities inaugurated the initial phase of the NAGAAD urban drainage project in Garowe to improve stormwater management ahead of upcoming seasonal rains.