By Mohamed Mukhtar Ibrahim
Saturday December 23, 2023
In the heart of Djibouti, against the backdrop of its scenic beauty and welcoming weather, the 7th Annual Forum for Ideas organised by the Heritage Institute unfolded, promising intellectual stimulation and fruitful exchanges among Somali policymakers, intellectuals, and diaspora representatives. My journey from Mogadishu began on December 18, 2023, with the Forum scheduled to run from the 19th to the 21st, offering a timely opportunity for dialogue and reflection.
This year's theme, "Fostering a Culture of Peace in the Horn: Advancing Conciliation and Social Cohesion among Somalis," resonated with the pressing need for unity and collaboration in the region. The annual pilgrimage of Somali-speaking communities from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and the diaspora has turned this event into a cornerstone for shared insights and perspectives.
The Forum's inaugural day featured a compelling keynote speech by Abdiqadir Jirde, a Member of the Somaliland Parliament, who shared valuable insights from Somaliland's experience in state-building. His cautionary note about the potential pitfalls of having only two political parties struck a chord, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in political representation. The day unfolded seamlessly, setting a positive tone for what would come.
The second day commenced with a high-level panel discussing "The Role of Horn of African States in Conciliation, Conflict Mitigation, and Management of Fault Lines." However, the day took an unexpected turn when Dr. Uweis Abdullahi interrupted one of the concurrent panels that I was in, which was moderated by Ali Nur, Executive Director of Gredo, with sad news – the passing of Somali Minister for Women and Human Rights Development, Khadijo Mohamed Diriye, in Djibouti.
Minister Khadija, Prime Minister Hamza Barre, and other government dignitaries came to Djibouti to attend the Forum. The news cast a pall over the Forum, transforming the vibrant discussions into a solemn atmosphere of grief and reflection. The Heritage Institute, in a gesture of respect and mourning, rightfully chose to cancel the remaining sessions of the Forum in honour of the late Minister.
The planned official dinner at the Presidential Palace, usually a celebratory closing event, was repurposed to host a dua for Minister Khadija, marking the conclusion of the Forum on a sombre note. This unexpected turn of events underscored the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of global politics, reinforcing the imperative for fostering peace, unity, and conciliation among the Somali people.
In conclusion, attending the 7th Annual Heritage Institute Forum for Ideas in Djibouti was an emotionally charged and intellectually enriching experience. Beyond the scheduled panels and discussions, the unforeseen events surrounding Minister Khadija's passing added a poignant layer to the Forum's significance. It served as a stark reminder that, even in the pursuit of political and social ideals, our shared humanity should always take precedence. As we collectively navigate the challenges ahead, the Forum for Ideas remains a vital platform for fostering understanding, resilience, and a commitment to a peaceful and united Horn of Africa.
Mohamed Mukhtar Ibrahim
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