A section of Ogaden leaders who attended Kamude Grand Convention in Wajir town. PHOTO/UGC.
By ABDULHAKIM SHERMAN
Leaders from the Ogaden community have urged their people to come together and work towards a common goal.
The leaders were speaking during the Kamude Grand Convention, a significant event for the Ogaden community, organized to foster unity and address the challenges facing the community in Kenya and the broader Horn of Africa region.
The Kumade Grand Convention, held at the Wajir County Stadium, was attended by hundreds of community leaders, elders, youth, and women from various parts of Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, and the diaspora.
The convention deliberated on issues ranging from political representation to economic development and social cohesion.
The event was graced by prominent leaders, including Kenya’s former ambassador to Botswana, Mr. Mohamed Shidiye, and the former Member of Parliament for Fafi Constituency, Mr. Barre Shill.
Mr Shidiye, a respected elder and diplomat with vast experience in international relations emphasized the importance of unity among the Ogaden community, urging the people to come together and work towards a common goal.
The envoy highlighted the historical struggles of the Ogaden people and the need to preserve their identity, culture, and language in the face of modern challenges.
“We are at a crossroads,” Shidiye remarked. “Our unity is our strength. Divided, we are vulnerable to external forces that seek to marginalize us. But united, we can achieve great things and secure a prosperous future for our children.”
Mr Shidiye also spoke on the importance of political representation, urging the Ogaden community to participate actively in Kenya’s political processes.
Kenya’s former ambassador to Botswana, Mr. Mohamed Shidiye (Right) during Kamude Grand Convention in Wajir town. PHOTO/UGC.
He stressed that unity among the Ogaden people would enhance their bargaining power and ensure that their voices are heard at both the national and regional levels.
Mr Barre Shill, the former Fafi MP, echoed Shidiye’s sentiments and called for the community to focus on education and economic empowerment.
Mr Shill, known for his advocacy for pastoralist rights during his tenure in Parliament, highlighted the need for the Ogaden community to invest in education as a tool for development.
“Education is the key to our future,” Mr Shill said. “We must ensure that our children receive quality education, so they can compete in today’s world. Our youth are our future leaders, and it is our responsibility to equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.”
Mr Shill also touched on the importance of economic development, calling for the community to explore new avenues for economic growth, including agribusiness and trade.
The former Fafi Mp urged the community to support local businesses and work together to create opportunities for the youth and women.
Throughout the day, various panels and discussions were held, addressing topics such as conflict resolution, the role of women in community leadership, and strategies for improving access to education and healthcare in Ogaden-majority regions.
The convention provided a platform for members of the community to voice their concerns and share ideas on how to address the challenges they face.
