Echoes of Trauma: Unmasking the Dark Legacy of Terrorism on Somaliland’s Psyche

For decades, the people of Somaliland have been subjected to horrific acts of violence and terror, leaving deep, indelible scars on their collective psyche. The latest chapter in this dark saga unfolded in Lasanod in 2022, but to fully grasp the gravity of the current trauma, one must first look back to the 1980s, when the Hargeisa Holocaust forever altered Somaliland’s fate.

In the early 1980s, under the iron-fisted rule of the Somali dictator Siad Barre, Somalilanders faced a brutal onslaught that mirrored the darkest periods of human history. Barre’s regime orchestrated a massacre against the people of Somaliland, killing an estimated half a million individuals. This genocidal campaign, characterized by mass killings and systematic violence, was not just an attack on a region but an attempt to erase an entire people from existence. The echoes of this atrocity resonate to this day, often likened to the Holocaust experienced by Jews under Hitler’s regime, reflecting the sheer scale of suffering inflicted upon Somaliland.

Fast forward to 2022, and the suffering of Somalilanders was reignited with the assault on Lasanod by Somali Darood clan terrorists. This attack, which targeted civilians and soldiers alike, was not merely a violent confrontation but a continuation of a historical pattern of terror aimed at breaking the spirit of the Somaliland people. The assault was marked by extreme brutality, including torture and execution of prisoners of war, depicted in harrowing footage and propaganda disseminated online. The terrorists’ propaganda campaigns, showcasing scenes of death and suffering, were designed to demoralize and incite fear among Somalilanders while furthering their violent agenda.

The psychological impact of these events on Somalilanders cannot be overstated. Our analysis reveals that the trauma inflicted by such propaganda and violence is profound and far-reaching. The repeated exposure to graphic content depicting the torture and murder of Somalilanders has resulted in a spectrum of psychological distress. Many have reported symptoms akin to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including severe anxiety, persistent nightmares, and acute emotional instability. This reaction is not merely a personal struggle but a collective trauma that reverberates through the community.

The recent research highlights that while Somalilanders’ reactions to terrorist propaganda vary, the common thread is the severe emotional and psychological toll it takes. Scenes of extreme violence and suffering trigger intense emotional responses, such as sadness, anger, and fear. The constant barrage of such content can lead to long-term mood disorders and disrupt daily life, affecting concentration, memory, and overall mental health.

Veterans of the Somaliland National Movement (SNM), who endured the Hargeisa Holocaust, display a heightened awareness of the dangers posed by such content. These individuals, having lived through the horrors of Barre’s regime, approach terrorist propaganda with a more cautious mindset compared to younger generations. Their experience underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of trauma and the importance of historical context in addressing current psychological impacts.

The experimental findings from our study further emphasize the urgency of addressing these issues. The biofeedback data indicates that those exposed to terrorist propaganda exhibit stronger emotional reactions and greater psychological distress compared to those who view less disturbing content. This suggests that the intensity of the visual stimuli plays a significant role in exacerbating trauma, highlighting the need for protective measures and mental health support.

The international community’s response to Somaliland’s plight has been woefully inadequate. The atrocities inflicted upon Somalilanders by both Barre’s regime and the recent Lasanod attackers deserve global condemnation and intervention. The lack of significant international support reflects a broader failure to address the psychological and humanitarian crises faced by this beleaguered region.

To mitigate the ongoing trauma, it is imperative for Somaliland to implement comprehensive mental health strategies. This includes enhancing support services, providing mental health training, and developing coping mechanisms to help individuals deal with the psychological impact of terrorist propaganda. Effective policies should also involve international cooperation to ensure that Somalilanders receive the necessary support to heal from their profound losses.

In conclusion, the suffering of Somalilanders is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of terrorism and violence. From the horrors of the Hargeisa Holocaust to the recent Lasanod attacks, the psychological scars remain deep and pervasive. The global community must recognize and address these issues with the urgency and compassion they demand, offering not just sympathy but tangible support to help Somalilanders reclaim their peace and dignity.

As Mpox Threatens to Worsen the Crisis, Key Actions Needed to Address the Outbreak Amidst Regional Conflicts

As the mpox outbreak continues to surge through East Africa, including Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, the situation has reached a fever pitch. The epidemic, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo in January 2023, was declared a public health emergency by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and the World Health Organization in August 2024. The spread of this viral disease is particularly alarming in regions plagued by conflict.

The intersection of mpox and ongoing or recent conflicts presents a grim scenario. War-torn countries in East Africa and the Horn, such as Sudan and Somalia, face catastrophic healthcare challenges. In Sudan, over a year of relentless conflict has crippled 70% of health facilities, leaving the remaining ones besieged by attacks and shortages. Similarly, Somalia, grappling with decades of strife, has one of the world’s lowest childhood immunization rates. Ethiopia, with its recent Tigray conflict, saw its healthcare system in tatters, a crisis that our research underscores.

The Tigray conflict (2020-2022) offers a sobering lesson. The federal blockade led to a collapse of the healthcare system, massive displacement, and severe damage to health facilities. Our research from 2021 revealed that 39% of infants received no basic vaccinations due to the war. This was further corroborated by a recent WHO report, highlighting simultaneous outbreaks of several infectious diseases in Sudan’s states.

These past experiences underscore the dire need for a robust response to the mpox outbreak in conflict zones. Here’s how we can effectively manage the situation:

1. Integrate Vaccine Distribution with Humanitarian Aid: Efficient deployment of mpox vaccines requires blending with broader humanitarian efforts. Coordination ensures that vaccines are delivered alongside other essential supplies, leveraging existing logistical frameworks to reach those in need.

2. Engage Local Communities: Building trust with local communities is crucial. By involving local leaders and residents, we can protect frontline workers from conflict-related dangers and foster acceptance of the vaccine. Establishing permanent vaccination teams from within these communities will enhance the response.

3. Collaborate with Military and Security Forces: Securing the safe delivery of vaccines may necessitate military escorts, similar to practices in humanitarian aid. This collaboration is vital to navigate conflict zones and ensure uninterrupted vaccine delivery.

4. Negotiate Access with Conflict Actors: Understanding and negotiating with the various factions controlling conflict areas can reduce operational risks. Securing physical access through dialogue with these groups is essential for effective vaccine distribution.

5. Address Transit and Cross-Border Vaccinations: Given the frequent displacement of populations in conflict zones, vaccinating at transit points is crucial. This approach will ensure that those moving across borders or fleeing violence are protected.

6. Deliver Vaccines to Refugee and Internally Displaced Person Camps: Special attention must be given to camps housing refugees and internally displaced persons. These areas are particularly vulnerable and require targeted vaccination efforts to prevent the spread of mpox.

In conclusion, the mpox outbreak in East Africa’s conflict zones demands a multifaceted response. By integrating vaccination efforts with humanitarian aid, engaging local communities, and collaborating with military forces, we can mitigate the impact of this deadly virus. The lessons from past conflicts, combined with strategic planning, will be pivotal in controlling the spread of mpox and safeguarding public health in these turbulent regions.

The Swedish government, through the administration of Järva District in Stockholm, has launched a targeted swimming training program for Somali mothers. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and well-being of children during the swimming season and offer benefits to the mothers themselves. Scheduled to commence in early September, the program will span several months and has already attracted over twenty registrants.

The Swedish government is fully funding the cost of the courses, including payment for instructors. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to community health and safety. Abdirashid Mohamed, Järva District Commissioner, highlighted the origins of this program, noting that it was reinstated following requests from local mothers who recognized the value of swimming lessons for both themselves and their children.

While the program initially targeted Somali mothers, it is open to all women in the district, encompassing both Somali and non-Somali residents. Järva District, with a population of approximately 92,000, aims to extend this opportunity to all mothers. The goal is not only to provide essential swimming skills but also to foster social connections among the women, as their children often attend the same schools.

The primary aim of the swimming lessons is to ensure that mothers can confidently accompany their children to swimming areas during the hot season. This initiative is designed to alleviate fears and enhance mothers’ ability to support their children in water safely. Additionally, the program promotes socialization and community integration among the participants.

Swimming is recognized for its numerous health benefits. It contributes to cardiovascular health by improving arterial function and reducing the risk of heart disease. The exercise involved in swimming engages multiple muscle groups, which supports overall fitness and longevity. Studies suggest that regular swimming can lead to a longer life and improved joint health, underscoring its value as a holistic physical activity.

The swimming training program in Järva District represents a significant investment in community health and safety. By providing Somali mothers with the skills to support their children in swimming and encouraging broader social engagement, the Swedish government is addressing both practical and communal needs. The program’s emphasis on inclusivity and health benefits highlights its potential to positively impact the lives of many families in the district.

As Mpox Cases Surge Across Africa, Nigeria’s New Vaccine Arrival Marks a Key Step in Combating the Epidemic

In a significant boost to Nigeria’s efforts against the mpox outbreak, the country has received its first shipment of vaccines, courtesy of the United States. The donation, consisting of 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine, arrives at a critical moment as the disease surges across Africa, with Nigeria itself grappling with a substantial increase in cases.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has escalated into a severe public health threat, particularly across Central and West Africa. The Democratic Republic of Congo and several East African nations, including Burundi and Kenya, are at the epicenter of the outbreak. The World Health Organization recently categorized mpox as a global health emergency, intensifying international efforts to curb its spread.

Nigeria, one of the hardest-hit countries, has reported over 40 confirmed cases and approximately 830 suspected ones across 13 states. This alarming rise in infections has prompted urgent action. U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills highlighted Nigeria’s preparedness to deploy the vaccine effectively, noting the government’s detailed vaccination plan designed to maximize the impact of this crucial donation.

“The Nigerian government has crafted a comprehensive plan to use these vaccines strategically,” Mills stated. “This plan ensures that we achieve the greatest possible benefit from this initial 10,000-dose shipment.”

The vaccine’s arrival is particularly timely, as the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported a staggering 22,863 mpox cases across the continent. Of these, 3,641 have been confirmed, with over 620 deaths documented in 13 African Union member states.

Nigeria’s primary health care director, Muyi Aina, revealed that the vaccine rollout will focus on states with the highest case numbers, predominantly in the southern regions. “We will prioritize these areas and collaborate with state officials to create tailored plans for vaccine distribution,” Aina explained.

Despite the urgency, vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge. WHO representative Walter Mulombo emphasized the importance of addressing misinformation. “The vaccine has proven effective against smallpox and shows promise for mpox,” he said. “We must rely on scientific evidence rather than succumb to unfounded fears.”

The international community is rallying to support Africa’s response to mpox. Germany is preparing to donate 100,000 vaccine doses to East Africa, further bolstering the region’s fight against the outbreak. Nigeria, while making strides, faces ongoing hurdles including vaccine shortages and delivery delays, underscoring the need for continued global assistance.

As Nigeria embarks on this crucial phase of its vaccination campaign, the stakes are high. The arrival of the mpox vaccines marks a pivotal moment in the battle against the disease, offering hope for containment and control in a region severely impacted by this evolving health crisis.

International Organization for Migration Targets Vulnerable Populations and Strengthens Cross-Border Response

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has issued an urgent appeal for $18.5 million to bolster health care services and preventive measures across East and Southern Africa. This substantial funding request aims to address the needs of migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities who are particularly vulnerable due to their precarious living conditions and limited access to health care.

The IOM’s appeal highlights the dire situation faced by these high-risk groups, whose mobile and often unstable lifestyles make them more susceptible to mpox. The funds will be used to support a comprehensive preparedness and response plan that focuses on infection prevention and control, particularly at crucial border points.

“The required $18.5 million will significantly enhance our ability to respond to the needs of these vulnerable populations,” the IOM stated. The plan includes initiatives to boost the capacity of national health care workers, fortify border health measures, and identify high-risk areas for effective disease monitoring and containment.

The Mpox Epidemic in the DRC: A Deepening Crisis with Global Implications

This appeal comes on the heels of declarations by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that mpox constitutes a public health emergency of international and continental concern. As of the latest update, the Africa CDC has reported 17,541 cases and 517 deaths across 13 African countries.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains the epicenter of the outbreak, bearing the brunt with 96% of cases and 97% of deaths reported in 2024. The DRC has recorded a staggering 16,700 confirmed or suspected mpox cases, including over 570 fatalities. In contrast, South Africa has reported 24 cases and three deaths, while Cameroon has confirmed five cases with two deaths.

Other affected countries include Burundi with over 100 cases, Nigeria with 39 cases, Liberia with five, Rwanda with four, and Ivory Coast and Uganda with two each. Kenya has reported a single confirmed case.

The IOM’s proposed interventions aim to mitigate the disease’s impact on these vulnerable populations by improving their access to medical care, enhancing cross-border health coordination, and implementing robust infection control measures. With the situation growing more urgent, the IOM’s efforts represent a crucial step in containing the outbreak and safeguarding the health of millions across the region.

Mpox Outbreak in Africa Risks Becoming the Next Global Pandemic

How Human Actions Fuel the Spread of Deadly Animal Diseases

From COVID to Mpox: Unveiling the Alarming Truth Behind Zoonotic Diseases

The mystery of how diseases leap from animals to humans has never been more urgent. The world was blindsided by COVID-19, and now, mpox—a disease with its origins in the animal kingdom—has been declared a global health emergency. But what drives these pathogens to cross the species barrier? The answer might just be more startling than you think.

In his provocative new book, Fighting an Invisible Enemy, virologist Barry Schoub, a pioneer in communicable disease research, delves into the disturbing reality of zoonotic diseases. These are illnesses that make the leap from animals to humans, often with catastrophic consequences. Schoub’s revelations paint a grim picture of how our actions are not just influencing but actively accelerating these dangerous spillovers.

The process begins with a zoonotic spillover—a term that might sound clinical, but it’s anything but benign. Imagine a virus, lurking in an animal, suddenly finding a way into the human population. This isn’t just a rare occurrence; it’s becoming alarmingly common due to human encroachment on wild habitats. As we invade once-remote ecosystems or force wild animals into closer contact with human settlements, we create perfect conditions for these pathogens to jump species.

This leap isn’t straightforward. For a virus to infect a human, it must attach itself to specific receptor sites on our cells, much like a key fitting a lock. When this rare fit occurs, the virus invades, replicates, and starts a chain of infection. The virus then exits the initial host and moves on to infect others, potentially triggering an outbreak.

But what drives these spillovers? It’s not just the virus’s adaptability; it’s our relentless behavior. The global wildlife trade, both legal and illegal, continually brings exotic animals into contact with humans. Our agricultural expansion and deforestation force animals out of their natural habitats, pushing them into human spaces. Wet markets in various parts of the world, where live animals are sold and slaughtered, provide a perfect storm for viruses to jump to humans.

Adding fuel to the fire is climate change. Extreme weather, deforestation, and habitat destruction create conditions ripe for new diseases to emerge. The Nipah virus outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore in the late 1990s is a chilling example. Droughts and deforestation drove fruit bats into orchards, where they transmitted the virus to pigs, which then infected humans. This outbreak, which resulted in hundreds of deaths, was only controlled through mass slaughter of pigs.

Today, air travel accelerates the spread of these diseases, making what took months in the past happen in days. The 21st century’s rapid global connectivity, combined with human activities that damage our environment, mirrors the challenges faced by indigenous populations in the past. Just as Europeans introduced devastating diseases to the Americas centuries ago, modern humans are unwittingly creating conditions for new pandemics.

The stark reality is that as we continue to damage the planet and encroach on wildlife, we are not only risking our health but also paving the way for the next catastrophic outbreak. The invisible enemies are already among us, and our behavior could be the key to whether they become the next

The Controversy Surrounding Imbalu as Uganda’s Sacred Ceremony Transforms into a Tourist Attraction

A profound cultural clash is unfolding as the once-sacred Imbalu circumcision ritual is repurposed for tourist appeal. The traditional celebration, held every two years among the Bamasaaba people near the Uganda-Kenya border, has sparked a heated debate over its commercialization and the impact on local customs.

The scene in Mbale was a paradox of vibrant festivities and simmering discontent. As dancers and drummers paraded through the streets, the public celebration of Imbalu masked a brewing controversy. The ritual, which involves the circumcision of thousands of boys as part of their transition to adulthood, has been rebranded into a major tourist event with a ceremonial inauguration that drew significant financial support—over $120,000—from the Ugandan government and corporate sponsors.

General Jude Mudoma, known as the Umukuuka, defended the transformation of Imbalu, arguing that it aligns with Uganda’s national development goals. “Everything is changing as the population expands,” he explained. “People may not manage to follow the cultural processes, but we are fighting through the clan system that Imbalu remains intact.”

Despite his arguments, the Umukuuka’s decision has ignited a storm of backlash. Many Bamasaaba locals accuse him of undermining the ritual’s sacredness by commercializing it. The conflict came to a head at the August 3 inauguration, where an angry crowd protested outside the traditional shrine, citing disrespect over the use of a mixed-breed bull as sacrificial offering—a departure from the sacred local breed traditionally used.

Wasukira Mashate, a respected elder and cultural custodian, condemned the Umukuuka’s actions, alleging that the traditional clan leaders, who hold true spiritual authority, were sidelined. “Our leadership is being hijacked by national political leaders,” Mashate asserted. “It was for our own benefit culturally, but now it is becoming a national event because the government of Uganda has captured it.”

Tensions flared as the inauguration was delayed by protests and disputes over the sacrificial animal. The Umukuuka, sitting among dignitaries, remained unmoved, while the local clan members refused to present the first group of initiates. The ceremonial disruption highlighted a deep rift between traditionalists and those embracing modernization.

The ritual, which will continue through the end of 2024, remains deeply controversial. While some see Imbalu as essential for social cohesion and cultural identity, others criticize its brutal aspects. Tribal circumcision, performed with a knife fashioned from melted nails, is a violent rite that has sparked debates about safety and human rights, similar to controversies in other African countries like South Africa.

In Kampala, the cultural significance of Imbalu is overshadowed by the commercialization that has turned the event into a spectacle. “The street dancers and politicians give a bad picture,” said Emmanuel Watundu, a father of a recent initiate. He criticized the carnival atmosphere as a departure from the ritual’s solemnity.

Yet, Wilson Watira, who chaired the Imbalu organizing committee, defended the government’s involvement. He framed it as an effort to showcase Bamasaaba culture to a global audience while maintaining its traditional essence. “We want to show the world that even when we are performing this culture, it can also attract other people,” Watira said.

The controversy surrounding Imbalu encapsulates a broader struggle between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to modern influences. As Uganda navigates this complex terrain, the future of Imbalu and its role in Ugandan society hangs in the balance, reflecting the challenges of balancing tradition with tourism in a rapidly changing world.

Global Alarm Raised as New Mpox Clade Spreads Beyond Continent

Sweden has reported its first case of a highly contagious strain of mpox, marking the first known infection of this variant outside Africa. This new strain, linked to an ongoing outbreak in central and eastern Africa, has triggered alarm among health officials worldwide.

The case in Sweden comes just a day after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency. This declaration followed a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has now spread to at least 12 other countries in the region.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the urgency of a coordinated international response. “It’s clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” Ghebreyesus stated on Wednesday.

The Mpox Epidemic in the DRC: A Deepening Crisis with Global Implications

In response to the escalating crisis, the international vaccine alliance Gavi has mobilized up to $500 million to support vaccine distribution to affected countries in Africa. Gavi CEO Sania Nishtar assured that the funds are ready to be deployed, though vaccine approval from the WHO is still pending. The WHO anticipates this approval by September to facilitate the global rollout of vaccines.

The declaration of a global health emergency over mpox marks the second occurrence in two years. The WHO initially declared a global emergency in 2022 when the disease, previously known as monkeypox, spread to nearly 100,000 individuals worldwide, predominantly affecting gay and bisexual men.

This year alone, Africa has reported over 14,000 mpox cases and 524 deaths. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted a 160% increase in cases and a 19% rise in deaths compared to the same period last year. The current outbreak involves mpox clade 1b, a more virulent strain compared to the previous clade 2 associated with the 2022 outbreak.

Mpox, first identified in 1958, is not airborne like COVID-19. Instead, it spreads through close contact with the skin or bodily fluids of an infected person. The disease presents with flu-like symptoms, including fever and chills, accompanied by a painful rash with lesions. Symptoms typically last two to four weeks and usually resolve on their own.

The emergence of this more severe mpox strain outside Africa underscores the global reach of infectious diseases and the need for vigilant international cooperation. As Sweden’s case adds a new dimension to the crisis, the world watches closely for further developments and the efficacy of the forthcoming vaccines.