The Ministry of Justice, Religion, and Constitution of the SSC-Khaatumo administration has officially issued a public call urging all residents within its territories to perform the Rain Prayer (Salaatul Istisqaa’), in response to the ongoing drought affecting the region.

According to a statement from the Office of the Minister of Justice, Religion, and Constitution, Gen. Cabdi Fataax Maxamed (Xijaar), the prayer will be held simultaneously across all SSC-Khaatumo regions on Thursday, April 3, 2025.

“The Office of the Minister of Religion informs all residents of SSC-Khaatumo that on Thursday, April 3, 2025, they are urged to come out in unity and perform the Rain Prayer (Salaatul Istisqaa’) to seek rain and mercy from Allah,” the ministry’s statement read.

The announcement specifically called upon:

1. Religious scholars, preachers, and local officials to lead the organization and guidance of the prayer.
2. The general public of SSC-Khaatumo to participate in an orderly, disciplined manner, rooted in Islamic morals and devotion.

The ministry concluded by encouraging all residents to collectively pray for rainfall and divine mercy over the drought-stricken areas.

This call comes as weather forecast agencies predict below-average rainfall during the 2025 Gu’ season, raising significant concern about the growing humanitarian crisis in Somalia .