Demonstrations in Somalia’s South West State have highlighted public support for the country’s longstanding partnership with Türkiye, as officials and residents praised Ankara’s contribution to Somalia’s security, development and humanitarian needs.
During rallies held in Baidoa, Berdale, Afgooye, Wanlaweyn and Jasiira on September 15, participants carried Somali, Turkish and South West State flags and displayed images of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan alongside those of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Residents had gathered in stadiums and streets to express appreciation for Ankara’s support. Some participants described Türkiye as a close and dependable partner that had stood with Somalia during difficult periods, according to TRT Haber.
The Baidoa rally brought together residents and South West State officials, who praised Türkiye’s assistance to Somalia and rejected efforts to damage relations between the two countries.
The demonstrations came after protests in parts of Jubaland and Puntland linked to allegations surrounding a reported airstrike in Doolow, in Somalia’s Gedo region. Local authorities and political figures have alleged that Turkish aircraft were involved in the September 3 incident, which reportedly targeted the residence of former Somali Custodial Corps commander General Mahad Abdirahman Aden, also known as Taliye Shub.
Türkiye has not publicly claimed responsibility for the reported operation, and Somalia’s federal government has also denied involvement and announced a fact-finding investigation.
The federal government said preliminary information raised questions about whether the incident was caused by an airstrike, suggesting instead that explosives may have been assembled inside a building at the compound.
Türkiye and Somalia have developed close ties since the early 2010s. Ankara has provided humanitarian assistance, supported infrastructure and development projects, trained Somali security personnel and assisted the country’s efforts against al-Shabaab. Türkiye also operates a major military training facility in Mogadishu, where Somali soldiers, including elite Gorgor commandos, have received instruction.
Somali federal authorities and South West State officials have continued to defend the partnership, arguing that Türkiye’s support has strengthened national institutions and contributed to Somalia’s security and reconstruction efforts.
