MOGADISHU, Somalia — Kenya has launched efforts to mediate between Somalia’s federal government and Jubbaland amid rising tensions over constitutional reforms.
Diplomatic sources said Tuesday the initiative seeks to bring President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubbaland leader Ahmed Madobe to direct negotiations.
The talks aim to ease a growing tension that has sparked clashes between federal troops and Jubbaland forces near Beled Hawo and Ras Kamboni.
Fighting has spilled across the border, disrupting life in nearby Kenyan towns and raising concerns about regional stability and cross-border security risks.
Officials in Kismayo confirmed Nairobi’s interest in mediation but said they await formal communication or agreement from Villa Somalia in Mogadishu.
Jubbaland authorities accused the presidency of misinformation after Mogadishu called reports of a phone call between the two leaders “fabricated.”
The crisis reflects widening divisions over proposed constitutional amendments and electoral reforms, potentially destabilizing Somalia’s already fragile federal structure, analysts warn.
Kenya’s move shows an alarm over Somalia’s fragile peace. Nairobi hosts refugees, contributes troops to the AU mission and remains active in regional diplomacy.
Neither Somalia nor Kenya has issued an official public statement regarding the status or scope of the mediation effort at this time.
