Baidoa, Somalia – Baidoa, Somalia’s Southwest State interim capital, is preparing to host “Peace Week,” an initiative aimed at fostering unity, celebrating heritage, and promoting stability across the region.
The week-long program, set to begin in the coming days, will feature cultural events, traditional performances, and community dialogues. Organizers say the initiative is designed to bring residents together after years of conflict and to strengthen social cohesion through shared values.
A highlight of the celebrations will be the official launch of the Maay Dialect Academy, a new institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the Maay language. The academy is expected to serve as a hub for research, teaching, and cultural exchange, underscoring the role of local identity in building sustainable peace.
Southwest State officials, civil society leaders, and peace advocates have all welcomed the initiative, describing it as a crucial step in amplifying local voices and supporting reconciliation efforts.
The program also includes forums where community elders, youth groups, and women’s organizations will discuss ways to prevent conflict, resolve disputes peacefully, and strengthen resilience against extremist influence.
Baidoa, long regarded as a cultural and linguistic heartland of southern Somalia, has faced recurring challenges of displacement, insecurity, and political tensions. Local leaders believe that cultural revival, combined with inclusive dialogue, can help bridge divides and encourage long-term stability.
Peace Week comes as Somalia continues its broader state-building process, with regions like Southwest playing a pivotal role in shaping reconciliation and national unity.