Kismayo, Jubbaland – Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe, the President of Jubbaland State, convened a high-level consultative meeting with regional traditional elders on Saturday at the presidential palace in Kismayo, Somalia’s interim capital.
According to an official statement from the Jubbaland State House, the talks centered on the current political landscape of the federal member state and the elders’ crucial role in sustaining peace, stability, and community development. The president emphasized that traditional leadership remains integral to conflict resolution, social cohesion, and navigating political transitions.
Elders from multiple clans attended the closed-door session, where they discussed the importance of collaboration between state institutions and community leaders ahead of anticipated national political arrangements, including looming debates over the 2026 electoral model and ongoing constitutional changes.
Participants reportedly underscored the need to protect gains made in security and governance, particularly in areas recently recovered from al-Shabaab. They also raised concerns over local reconciliation, inclusion in decision-making, and improving public services in rural districts.
President Madobe praised the elders for their influence in defusing tensions and guiding younger generations toward dialogue rather than violence. He encouraged continued engagement with regional authorities to strengthen stability across Jubbaland’s territories.
The meeting comes amid heightened political negotiations at the national level, with federal and regional leaders expected to intensify consultations in the coming months. Authorities in Kismayo said similar forums will be held to ensure elders retain a voice in shaping both state-level policies and Somalia’s broader governance roadmap.