North-East State of Somalia — Time to Get Used to the Name

It didn’t come easy. It took blood, and it took sacrifice. It took delicate negotiation, mutual respect, and voices from every corner, both state and federal. It took the wisdom of elders and the stubborn hope of youth.

From the very beginning, there were doubts. There were those who said the revolution of Las-Anod wouldn’t hold, that the people lacked the resolve to see it through.

I’m glad those voices are now silent.

Somalia’s newest state is not just a name on paper. It’s a political reality. It brings with it the promise of unity and the potential of untapped wealth beneath its soil: oil, minerals, and more.

And if there’s any region with the will to turn raw land into real opportunity, it’s the North-East. The people have already proven it with grit and with grind.

Our elders have done their part, and we will forever be grateful for their resolve, wisdom, and leadership.

Our young men and women have shown extraordinary determination, paid in blood and sweat to reclaim dignity and defend our people and land.

But now, the moment calls for something different. It’s time for the youth to rise, not just in spirit, but in structure. This is the time to be pivotal in the state-building efforts.