Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somalia is mourning the loss of Ahmed Elmi Gure, a veteran pilot and the founder of Hiiraan Online, who passed away overnight in Ottawa, Canada due to an illness. Gure was a pivotal figure in Somali media and aviation, remembered for his significant contributions and unwavering dedication to his country.

Tributes from Leaders and Colleagues

Deputy Prime Minister of Somalia, Salah Ahmed Jama, extended his condolences, stating, “I am sending my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the people on the death of pilot Ahmed Gure, the founder and manager of Hiiraan Online. Ahmed was known for his hard work, intelligence, and love for his country. He created a platform for debate and clear information.”

Somalia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Abukar Osman (Baale), expressed his grief on X, saying, “It is with profound sadness that I mourn the loss of my uncle & a friend, Captain Ahmed Gure. His contributions to Somali media via @hiiraan are immeasurable. My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, & all who knew him. May Allah grant him Jannah.”

Farhan Mohamed Jimale, former BBC Somali Service journalist and current spokesperson for the Somali Prime Minister, also expressed his sorrow, “I am devastated to learn about the death of my brother and good friend, Captain Ahmed Gure – the founder and managing editor of @hiiraan. A true friend to humanity. His remarkable personality and character will always be remembered. May Allah rest his soul in eternal peace and grant him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.”

Abdirashid Hashi, former Director of the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, shared, “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend Ahmed Gure in Ottawa, Canada. Ahmed’s contagious laughter and pleasant personality will be missed by all who knew him. May Allah grant him Jannah and bestow patience and perseverance upon his loved ones.”

A Life of Dedication and Achievement

Ahmed Gure was born in Jalalaksi district in Hiiraan region in 1956. He later moved to Beledweyne and then Mogadishu for his studies. Gure trained at the Lufthansa Aviation Training Centre in Germany before returning to Somalia to work as a pilot for Somali Airlines. On July 1, 1999, he founded Hiiraan Online in Ottawa, Canada, establishing it as one of Somalia’s leading news websites.

Former Minister of Planning for the Somali Federal Government, Abdirahman Aynte, remembered Gure fondly, saying, “My deepest condolences to the family of my dear friend Ahmed Elmi Gure, the founder of @hiiraan, the leading Somali news aggregator. A former Somali Airlines pilot who loved aviation more than journalism, Mr. Gure gave me my first journalism job at his leading news website. May Allah bless his soul, elevate him to the highest Jannah and bestow patience upon his loved ones.”

Mohamed Abdullahi, Professional Civil Servant also expressed his grief, “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Capt. Ahmed Gure, founder of Hiiraan Online & former Somali pilot. His contributions to journalism & aviation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to the people of great #Somalia, family & friends during this difficult time.”

Legacy and Impact

The Mogadishu24 team shared their profound sorrow, “We share profound sorrow with the families and friends of Captain Ahmed Gure, founder of Hiiraan Online. May his soul rest in peace.”

Ahmed Gure’s legacy as a pioneer in Somali media and a dedicated professional in aviation will be remembered by many. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Somalia, providing a platform for informed discussion and contributing to the nation’s awareness and development.