Intense clashes have erupted between Somali Federal Government forces and Jubbaland units near Raas Kambooni in Lower Jubba.
Somali Federal Government forces and Jubbaland administration units engaged in intense clashes near the strategically significant town of Raas Kambooni in Lower Jubba early on Tuesday. The fighting, which erupted approximately 30 kilometers from Raas Kambooni in the Manaraani area, involved heavy artillery and gunfire, resulting in unverified casualties on both sides.
Jubbaland officials accused federal forces of instigating the confrontation. In a statement, the Jubbaland administration claimed its forces inflicted “significant losses” on federal troops flown into the area, who had attempted to retake defensive positions near Raas Kambooni. The Federal Government has not yet officially responded to these allegations.
Raas Kambooni’s proximity to the Kenyan border and access to key Indian Ocean trade routes make it a critical flashpoint in the ongoing struggle between Somalia’s central government and the semi-autonomous Jubbaland administration. Tensions have escalated since federal reinforcements were deployed to the region, which Jubbaland interprets as a bid to undermine its autonomy.
The confrontation also highlights a broader political struggle tied to contentious electoral processes. While the Somali Federal Government advocates for a “one person, one vote” system to unify the country’s elections, Jubbaland and Puntland argue that current security and economic challenges render such elections unfeasible. Jubbaland conducted its own elections, proposing 2026 as a more practical timeline for national elections, a stance Mogadishu rejected.
Reports indicate federal authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Jubbaland leader Ahmed Madobe, further heightening tensions. The deployment of forces by both sides to Raas Kambooni escalated into armed conflict, reflecting the fragility of Somalia’s federal system and ongoing challenges to centralized authority.
Residents of the Manaraani area report an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty as violence continues, with concerns about further escalation in the coming days.
