Mogadishu, Somalia – In a landmark development for Somalia’s federalization process, the Ministry of Interior and Federal Affairs has officially announced the recognition of a new Federal Member State: the Northeastern State. The announcement was made public via the ministry’s verified X (formerly Twitter) account, where it also revealed the new state’s official name and flag.
The Northeastern State becomes the seventh recognized member of the Federal Republic of Somalia, joining the existing six: Puntland, Galmudug, HirShabelle, Southwest, Jubbaland, and Banadir (Mogadishu), which currently functions with special status under the federal structure.
According to the ministry’s post, the creation of the Northeastern State follows extensive consultations, community engagement, and vetting in accordance with Somalia’s Provisional Constitution and federalism guidelines. The new state is expected to play a significant role in advancing local governance, regional stability, and equitable development in Somalia’s northeast.
The unveiling of the new flag symbolizes the beginning of institutional formation, which will include the establishment of a state assembly, executive, and judiciary under the oversight of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS).
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive federalism and ensuring all regions are represented under the national framework. Further details on the leadership structure, territory, and administrative arrangements of Northeastern State are expected in the coming weeks.