Kenyan’s Aden Duale Affirms Support for Somalia Federal Government.

Kenyan’s Aden Duale Affirms Support for Somalia Federal Government.

Garissa, Kenya – May 17, 2025

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Bare Duale, has reaffirmed the Kenyan government’s unwavering support for the Federal Government of Somalia, emphasizing a policy of direct engagement only with Somalia’s federal leadership in Mogadishu.

Speaking on Saturday at a cultural event in Garissa town organized by Garissa County Governor Nathif Jama, Minister Duale stated: “I speak on behalf of the Kenyan government and President William Ruto. We only deal with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.” His remarks were met with loud applause from the crowd, which included dignitaries from other parts of Kenya, Somali region of Ethiopia and local leaders.

The minister’s firm statement is widely seen as a clear message against attempts by Somalia’s federal member states to bypass Mogadishu and engage directly with foreign governments such as Kenya. Duale warned against misinformation, saying: “People should not believe” what he term as “hearsay,” a comment many interpreted as a rebuttal to claims by supporters of Jubaland’s Ahmed Madobe, who allege Nairobi’s quiet backing of his administration.

Known for his candor and strong political convictions, Duale used the platform to reiterate Kenya’s commitment to regional stability and respect for Somalia’s sovereignty. “Our relationship is based on mutual respect with the legitimate federal leadership in Somalia. Any other narrative is not official policy,” he said.

The minister also took the opportunity to welcome and praise the visiting delegation from Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, underscoring the importance of cross-border cultural and economic cooperation. “We appreciate the presence of our Somali brothers from Ethiopia and look forward to stronger ties,” Duale remarked.

In closing, the Defence Minister thanked Governor Nathif Jama for organizing the event, calling it “a celebration of unity, culture, and regional partnership.”

The Garissa cultural event brought together Somali communities from across Kenya, the Somali Region of Ethiopia, and special guests from Somalia, reflecting the deep cultural and familial ties across the region.