Somalis from Tana River plot political future in landmark Nairobi meeting

A group of Somali professionals from Tana River County who met at a Nairobi hotel on August 16, 2025/HANDOUT

A group of Somali professionals from Tana River County convened at a Nairobi hotel for a landmark meeting aimed at fostering unity within their community and laying groundwork for a new political direction.

The closed-door gathering brought together professionals from diverse sectors — including business, education, civil service, and political leadership — all united by a common vision: advancing the socio-political standing of the Somali community in Tana River County.

Following several hours of deliberations, the group addressed the media, outlining key resolutions reached during the meeting.

MaryanRoon Mohamed, one of the lead organisers, emphasised the importance of internal cohesion and a collective approach to political participation.

“Today, as a community of Somali professionals, we met in Nairobi to deliberate on ways of uniting the community and charting a political discourse,” said MaryanRoon.

“We believe this will mark a turning point toward greater unity and political maturity for our people in Tana River.”

Sala Ward MCA Mohamud Ali Barrow, who highlighted the urgency of forging a unified political identity, echoed her sentiments.

“This meeting was purely about unity and ways of bringing together the Somali community in Tana River County,” Barrow said.

“But we also agreed on the importance of working with other communities in the county to form a joint political agenda.”

In a significant move, the group announced plans to unveil a new political party in the coming days, signaling a more structured and inclusive approach to political engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election.

While the name and finer details of the new outfit remain under wraps, sources close to the organisers said the party will focus on good governance, inclusion, and empowering marginalised voices, especially women and youth.

By focusing on unity, inclusion, and development-oriented leadership, the professionals aim to realign local politics with broader national ideals.

The Nairobi meeting is expected to be the first in a series of countywide consultative forums. Similar engagements are planned in key towns across Tana River.

Political observers see the emerging movement as a potentially transformative force in the region, with the capacity to redefine alliances and shift the county's leadership landscape.