Ahmed Madobe, President of Jubbaland, departed Kismayo on Saturday morning for his first international trip since his controversial re-election in November. The election, rejected by Somalia’s Federal Government, has sparked significant tensions and raised questions about the legitimacy of his administration.

This trip is a strategic effort by Madobe to address political and economic challenges while asserting Jubbaland’s position within Somalia’s federal structure.

In Nairobi, Kenya, Madobe will meet diplomats and international representatives to discuss the ongoing conflict between Jubbaland and the Federal Government. Key issues include governance disagreements, resource-sharing, and security coordination.

The meetings are expected to set the tone for future relations and potentially ease the growing mistrust that has strained the federal system.

Madobe’s journey will also take him to the United Arab Emirates, where he aims to secure regional support and investment for Jubbaland’s development. The UAE has played a pivotal role in Somalia, funding infrastructure projects and supporting counter-terrorism efforts.

Madobe seeks to leverage this relationship to bolster Jubbaland’s security and economy, ensuring stability and progress for his administration.