Former President Donald Trump recently made statements regarding immigration from specific nations and subsequently referred to Somalia and Somali Americans. He advised Somali Americans to return to Somalia, describing the nation as a challenging environment and referring to its people as "garbage." This followed remarks concerning a reduction in immigration from certain countries.
Background on Somalia
Somalia has experienced decades of clan-based conflict and is currently engaged in efforts against the Islamist insurgent group al-Shabab. The country faced a period of instability following the overthrow of President Siad Barre's military regime in 1991. Over the past three decades, millions of Somalis have emigrated, settling in various countries globally, including the United States.
Reactions to the Remarks
Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democrat born in Somalia, criticized Trump's comments, describing them as "vile." She highlighted the contributions of Somali Americans to the United States.
Within Somalia, individuals also expressed their commitment to improving the country, despite existing challenges related to security, economic conditions, and governance.
Civil Society Initiatives in Somalia
Several initiatives demonstrate local efforts to address societal needs:
- Dr. Abdulkadir Abdirahman Adan, a dentist, established the country's sole free ambulance service in Mogadishu, operating in a city frequently targeted by al-Shabab attacks. Adan stated that their service is vital because "every life has an equal value … no one should be left to die just because helping them is not safe."
- The Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre, led by Ilwad Elman, operates Somalia's first rape crisis center. The organization also facilitates the rehabilitation of youths formerly associated with militias, conducts educational programs, and provides ocean therapy for children affected by violence and trauma.
- Abdiaziz Kediye, a former Somali Premier League player, founded the country's first amputee soccer team, providing an athletic outlet for individuals who lost limbs due to conflict.
- Bilan media, an all-female newsroom, focuses on news reporting and governance oversight. Farhia Mohamed Hussein, a reporter at Bilan, noted ongoing positive developments in Somalia, including youth entrepreneurship, technological adoption, artistic creation, and increased female leadership, asserting that "Somali people never give up."
Ahmed Soliman, a Horn of Africa researcher at the British think tank Chatham House, remarked on the significant contributions made by both the Somali population within Somalia and its diaspora.
U.S.-Somalia Relations
Despite the aforementioned statements, the U.S. government maintains its support for Somalia. The U.S. has a long-standing engagement with Somalia, viewing it as a bilateral partner in stabilizing security against al-Shabab. U.S. forces provide training to the Somali army and conduct drone strikes against al-Shabab targets. Data from the liberal think tank New America, citing U.S. Africa Command, indicates an increase in these strike rates since the Trump administration began.
Ilham Ali Gassar, a Somali representative in the East African Legislative Assembly and an expert in governance, commented that statements critical of Somalia are deeply impactful. She also emphasized the long-standing partnership between the two nations, stating its significance extends beyond any single political movement or individual.