Warsame, this is not some foreign-sponsored “mashruuc.” But these young people have simply reached their boiling point because of the grave injustice inflicted on them by their own government.
I respect you, so rather than going on the defensive, let me explain—if you are willing to listen, walal.
■ Livestock exports form the cornerstone of Somaliland’s economy, accounting for roughly 60 percent of its total output—far outweighing all other economic activities combined.
Within this vital trade, Burco stands preeminent: it channels approximately 70 percent of the country’s livestock exports, with an average of 10,000 heads sold daily, according to USAID assessments and official government figures.
Yet, despite its indispensable role, Burco receives none of the 10 percent royalty tax on these transactions—an exclusion rooted in some stupid law called Xeer 12.
Given that this region is Somaliland’s economic lifeline, sustained by its unmatched livestock production and import networks, why should its people remain silent while their hard-earned dollars flow to other regions and their own is neglected?
Moreover, their children are forced to carry guns even when grazing livestock because of Somaliland’s unending conflict with Somalia—while children elsewhere hear gunfire only during celebratory Eid fireworks.
Why would they pay more in tax & in casualty only to receive less security, development, and service than the other regions in Somaliland?
"Rag cadaalad waaya
Sida cawsha kala yaac"
I honestly believe this will make or brake Somaliland, so maybe it's time we address the issue. Do you agree?