Jubaland presidential candidate and governance and security expert Dr. Abdullahi Ali has criticized the Jubaland administration over what he described as its failure to prioritize the liberation of Middle Jubba, saying the continued control of the region by Al-Shabaab has prolonged the suffering of hundreds of thousands of civilians.
Speaking during the launch of Led by the Mind, Anchored by Faith, authored by Nasra Mohamed, Dr. Ali used the occasion to call for renewed efforts to reclaim Middle Jubba, arguing that security operations must be matched by long-term plans for governance, education, and economic recovery.
He began by congratulating Nasra Mohamed on becoming a published author, describing her achievement as a milestone that would inspire girls and young women across the region.
Dr. Ali said Nasra’s journey demonstrates the power of education, perseverance, and opportunity, noting that her experiences as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, Muslim, Somali, Kenyan, African, and Black woman enrich her voice and serve as an example for future generations.
However, he said many girls in Middle Jubba remain unable to pursue similar opportunities because large parts of the region continue to be under Al-Shabaab control.
According to Dr. Ali, girls living in the region continue to face insecurity, forced marriage, restricted access to education, and limited opportunities to realize their full potential.
He argued that the prolonged failure to liberate Middle Jubba has denied generations of children the chance to grow up in peace and contribute to Somalia’s development.
“The liberation of Middle Jubba is not only a military objective; it is a moral imperative,” Dr. Ali said.
He added that every year the region remains under militant control is another year in which young people are deprived of education, hope, and opportunity.
Dr. Ali called for a comprehensive stabilization strategy following the liberation of the region, saying security gains must be followed by the restoration of civilian administration, expanded access to education and healthcare, strengthened local governance, and economic opportunities for women and youth.
He also urged Somali communities in Kenya and the wider diaspora to play a more active role in advocating for the people of Middle Jubba, saying support for those living under militant rule should extend beyond governments to include professionals, religious leaders, civil society, and citizens.
The Jubaland presidential hopeful said every girl in Middle Jubba deserves the same opportunity to learn, lead, and succeed as Nasra Mohamed, expressing hope that one day young women from the region would launch their own books and help shape Somalia’s future through education and leadership.
Dr. Ali underlined that leadership should ultimately be judged by its ability to restore freedom, dignity, and opportunity to communities affected by conflict, urging greater urgency in efforts to liberate and stabilize Middle Jubba.
