Mogadishu Residents Voice Disappointment,Resilience Following Trump’s Remarks
Mogadishu,Somalia - Residents of Mogadishu are expressing a mix of hurt and defiance after former U.S. President Donald trump reportedly made disparaging remarks about Somalia during a recent rally.While the comments have sparked outrage, Somalis emphasize the enduring partnership between their nation and the united States, particularly in the ongoing fight against the al-Shabab insurgency.
The remarks, made public this week, come at a sensitive time for Somalia, which continues to grapple with political instability and security challenges. Despite the former president’s rhetoric,the U.S. government maintains a meaningful security and progress presence in the Horn of Africa nation, providing crucial support to the Somali federal government. This sustained collaboration, experts say, is vital for Somalia’s long-term stability and counterterrorism efforts.
“Statements that demean Somalia or its people are deeply hurtful,” stated Ilham Ali Gassar, a Somali representative in the East African Legislative Assembly and an expert in governance and peace-building. “however,for decades our two nations have worked together… That deep partnership is far bigger than any single political movement or individual.”
The U.S. has been actively involved in Somalia for decades,training the Somali army and conducting regular drone strikes against al-Shabab targets. Data from U.S. Africa Command, analyzed by the liberal think tank New America, indicates a considerable increase in these strike rates since the Trump administration took office in 2017.
“the U.S. has been engaged in Somalia for decades,they are an vital bilateral partner,an critically important partner in helping the Somali federal government to stabilize its security against the Islamist insurgency al-Shabab,” explained researcher Soliman.
On August 20, 2025, markets and bazaars in Mogadishu bustled with activity as residents whent about their daily lives, demonstrating a resilience that belies the political noise.Abdirahman Hussein contributed reporting from Mogadishu.
