Laascaanood, Somalia – Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, held a key meeting with traditional elders from the SSC-Khaatumo regions on Saturday evening in Laascaanood, the administrative capital of the Sool region.

According to a statement released by the Office of the Prime Minister, the discussions centered on bolstering national unity, advancing the peace and reconciliation process, and ensuring long-term stability in Somalia. The Prime Minister underscored his administration’s dedication to reinforcing government institutions and safeguarding the cohesion of the Somali people.

“The Prime Minister emphasized that his government is committed to strengthening state institutions and preserving the unity of the Somali nation,” the statement read.

This engagement follows the Prime Minister’s historic visit to Laascaanood, marking the first visit by a sitting Somali Prime Minister to the region in over four decades. His arrival was seen as a significant moment in federal engagement with the SSC-Khaatumo administration.

The SSC-Khaatumo administration, established in October 2023 following a declaration by local elders, is currently a transitional authority officially recognized by the Federal Government of Somalia. The administration covers the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn and aims to eventually become a full-fledged federal member state.