CALI WAJIIS calls for assistance for Somalis in Mooyaale affected by conflict

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – Sheikh Ali Wajiis, who is among the advisors to the President of Somalia, has called on the leaders of the federal government, regional states, and the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia to assist the Somalis living in Moyale, accusing the Ethiopian government of what he termed "ethnic cleansing".

He stated that the situation in Moyale requires a joint response, warning that the silence of Somali leaders could encourage the forceful takeover of other areas inhabited by Somalis.

“We must assist our Somali brothers in the Moyale district,” said Ali Wajiis.

The Sheikh directed his accusations at the Ethiopian government and the Oromo ethnic group, mentioning the towns of Diridhaba and Baabili, which he claimed have previously been forcefully taken. He warned that if the situation in Moyale is not addressed, it could escalate from “Jigjiga to the sea of Somalia”.

The Conflict in Moyale

Moyale is located on the border of Ethiopia and Kenya, with different parts of the city being administered by the Somali Regional State and the Oromia region of Ethiopia. The conflict there is rooted in a long-standing dispute over administrative boundaries and land contested by the Borana community of the Oromos and the Garre community of the Somalis.

The conflict monitoring organization ACLED has reported that the latest tensions began on October 18, after a new office belonging to the Somali Regional State administration was opened in a disputed area of the city, with the regional flag being raised.

A 13-year-old Oromo girl died in the clash, with conflicting reports about how she died. ACLED reported that the fighting intensified on October 22, involving forces from both regional governments and militias, before spreading to other areas near Moyale.

The conflict has caused widespread displacement. The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, reported on October 28 that local officials estimated that up to 50,000 people had crossed into Kenya, with registration and verification of the numbers still ongoing.

Many of the displaced are women and children. Some have settled with relatives and host communities, while others have taken shelter in schools and churches. UNHCR described food as the most urgent need, and there is also a need for clean water, shelter, sanitation services, and medical care.