MOGADISHU — Somalis fund house in honor of former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo in Merca, Lower Shabelle region, marking a symbolic political and civic milestone.
Community elders and residents inaugurated the residence in the Ceeljaalle area of Merca town on Saturday. Organizers financed the project through donations from Somalis inside the country and from the diaspora.
The initiative reflects public support for the former president and highlights ongoing political divisions in Somalia.
“Thank You President” Campaign Drives Fundraising
Organizers built the house under a nationwide campaign called “Thank You President.”
They explained that the campaign aimed to recognize:
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Leadership during Farmaajo’s presidency (2017–2022)
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Federal reconciliation efforts
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Anti-corruption measures
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Security operations against al-Shabab
Ceeljaalle was among areas cleared of al-Shabab during his administration. The federal government later incorporated the area into reconciliation programs.
Organizers described the project as a symbol of civic engagement and national appreciation.
Construction Cost and Contributions
The project cost approximately $295,000, with total public contributions reaching about $300,000.
Key details:
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Groundbreaking ceremony: March 21, 2023
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Location: Ceeljaalle area, Merca town
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Funding source: Public donations
Supporters framed the project as evidence of grassroots political participation.
Farmaajo Responds to Supporters
Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo thanked contributors and described the campaign as a demonstration of public ownership of governance.
He expressed appreciation to both civilians and members of the armed forces who supported the initiative.
However, Farmaajo stated that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud requested a halt to the fundraising effort. He indicated that he complied with the request.
Somali Presidency Rejects Claim
The Office of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud rejected the assertion.
Abdiaziz Golfyare, director of communications at the Somali Presidency, clarified that no discussion occurred between the two leaders regarding the house.
He added that at the time referenced, President Hassan Sheikh focused on:
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Military operations against al-Shabab
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Debt relief negotiations
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Efforts to lift the international arms embargo
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Diplomatic engagement
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Institutional rebuilding
The presidency described reports of such discussions as inaccurate.
Political Reaction and Broader Context
The house inauguration has generated mixed reactions across Somalia.
Supporters view it as:
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A tribute to leadership
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A sign of unity
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A grassroots political movement
Critics argue that the project reflects deep political polarization.
Merca remains a historically strategic and symbolic town in Lower Shabelle. Therefore, the project carries both political and security significance.
Why It Matters
The decision by Somalis to fund a house in honor of former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo in Merca highlights:
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Ongoing public engagement in Somali politics
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Strong political loyalties beyond electoral cycles
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Continued debate over leadership legacy
As Somalia navigates post-conflict recovery and institutional reform, symbolic projects like this continue to shape public discourse.
