Canada – Ali Mohamed Hirabe, a prominent leader in Somali independence history and the country’s first Minister of Information, died on Monday in Canada. He was 100 years old.
Known fondly as “Ali Hagarey,” Hirabe leaves a century-spanning legacy marked by his key involvement in the Somali Youth League (SYL) and his efforts to build Somalia’s state media infrastructure.
A Founding Father
Hirabe played a central role in Somalia’s shift from trusteeship to independent republic. His passing signifies the end of one of the last connections to the era that achieved independence in 1960.
Current Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Daud Aweis, confirmed the death, calling Hirabe a committed public servant whose impact lasted decades.
“May God have mercy on the late Ali Mohamed Hirabe, a SYL leader who held various ministerial positions. His death impacts the whole Somali nation due to his major historical contributions, and I offer condolences to the Somali people, particularly his children and family,” Aweis stated.
From Adale to the United Nations
Born in the coastal town of Adale in the Middle Shabelle region, Hirabe obtained formal education before committing to the anti-colonial fight. He advanced in the Somali Youth League (SYL), becoming its Secretary-General.
His political skills were noted early. In the UN Trusteeship era, Hirabe joined Abdullahi Issa Mahmoud at the United Nations General Assembly, where they pushed for Somalia’s independence schedule and conditions.
Building National Institutions
After independence in 1960, Hirabe became Minister of Information in the first civilian government under Prime Minister Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke. He helped establish the national press and broadcasting systems.
A notable achievement was signing the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the People’s Republic of China on media collaboration. This pact aided in broadening Somalia’s global ties and improving its media outreach.
Hirabe stayed active in Somali politics during the 1960s, acting as Minister of State in 1967 and holding a parliamentary seat until the 1969 military coup.
Legacy in Exile
After the central government’s fall in 1991, Hirabe moved to Canada. Even in exile, he influenced Somali politics, promoting unity and safeguarding Somali heritage from overseas.
Hirabe is survived by his children, extended family, and a nation that honors him as a trailblazer of its independence.
