South West leader meets traditional elders as reconciliation efforts gather pace

BAIDOA, Somalia — South West state leader Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nur, widely known as Aadan Madoobe, met traditional elders at the presidential palace in Baidoa on Wednesday as efforts to promote reconciliation and social cohesion in the region continued.

The meeting focused on the role of traditional elders in supporting reconciliation talks, peacebuilding and efforts to strengthen unity among communities in South West state, according to a statement from the regional administration.

Aadan Madoobe stressed the importance of strengthening the role of traditional leaders, particularly in efforts to build understanding, lasting peace and unity among the people of South West.

Traditional elders attending the meeting presented the regional leader with their views and recommendations on how to accelerate the reconciliation process and strengthen peace and social cohesion, the statement said.