In brief
- Goobjoog News reported on 20 May 2021 that at least 20 people were killed in two weeks of clan clashes in HirShabelle state.
- Fifteen deaths in Beletweyne were linked to a dispute over a bridge the International Organisation for Migration was to construct.
- The report does not confirm official death tolls or provide any updates after 20 May 2021.
Goobjoog News reported on 20 May 2021 that at least 20 people had been killed and scores injured in the preceding two weeks following clan clashes in Beletweyne and Jowhar, both in HirShabelle state.
The report attributed 15 of those deaths to fighting in the localities of Baladul Amin, Ba'ad Buuke and others on the outskirts of Beletweyne. According to the article, the clashes broke out between the Makane and Jijeelle clans over a bridge that the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) was to construct in the area. One side supported the construction, while the other claimed ownership of the land, Goobjoog News said, citing several sources.
Several other people were admitted to local medical facilities. Goobjoog News, citing its correspondent, said government soldiers briefly intervened but later left as fighting intensified.
The report did not identify any official source confirming the Beletweyne death toll, nor did it name the medical facilities. It also did not state the bridge's cost, contract value or funding source, and it gave no timeline for the clashes beyond the two-week window.
Separately, the same Goobjoog News article reported that six people, including two senior officials attached to the office of HirShabelle President Ali Gudlawe, were killed on a Wednesday in Jowhar in a clash between the Ma'awisley militia, which emerged in 2019 against Al-Shabaab, and government forces.
Reconciliation talks opened in Beletweyne on 20 May 2021 to resolve hostilities between the two clans, Goobjoog News reported. Deputy federal defence minister Abdifatah Qasim was leading the talks, which brought together elders and local administration officials. The article did not report any outcome from those talks.
Goobjoog News published no updates after 20 May 2021 in the cited report, and no independent verification of any figure or event in the article has been provided.
Frequently asked questions
What triggered the fight over the bridge in Beletweyne?
Goobjoog News reported that the Makane and Jijeelle clans clashed over a bridge the IOM was to construct. One side supported construction, while the other claimed ownership of the land.
Who was involved in the violence?
The Beletweyne fighting reportedly involved the Makane and Jijeelle clans. Separately, in Jowhar, the Ma'awisley militia clashed with government forces.
What is the status of the bridge project?
Goobjoog News reported the bridge was 'to be constructed' by the IOM but did not state whether construction had begun or was completed.