Galkayo (WDN) — In a powerful display of maturity and civic responsibility, young people from the Galmudug side of Galkayo have sent a heartfelt message to their counterparts in Puntland, urging them to reject political division and protect the peace and brotherhood that bind the city together.

The message, issued amid heightened political tensions in Somalia, calls on the youth of both sides to refuse attempts by politicians to turn them against one another for political purposes.

Addressing young people in Puntland-controlled Galkayo, the Galmudug youth emphasized that the two communities are not enemies but neighbors, friends and brothers who share the same culture, history and way of life.

“Galkayo is one city. The people living on both sides are brothers, sharing the same culture, blood and life.” The young people acknowledged that Galkayo has experienced conflict in the past but stressed that residents on both sides have also experienced the benefits of peace and coexistence.

They urged young Somalis not to allow political disagreements among leaders to become conflicts among ordinary citizens.

“If political differences exist between leaders, let the politicians disagree. But do not allow those disagreements to come between us, the youth and the people. Do not let young people be turned against one another.”

A Message of Hope and Responsibility

The message has been welcomed as a striking example of young people taking an honorable role in protecting their communities rather than becoming instruments of political confrontation.

The Galmudug youth made clear that they want their relationship with Puntland counterparts to be defined by mutual respect, cooperation and shared development—not by political rivalry.

“Expect no trouble from our side—only development. We expect the same from you.” They also called on residents to use upcoming political events and public gatherings as opportunities to strengthen peace, friendship and social cohesion rather than deepen divisions.

Their message was simple but powerful:

Galkayo’s youth are turning years of division into a new chapter defined by peace, shared prosperity, and collective development. “Galkayo is our common home. Galmudug and Puntland are neighbors. The people on both sides are brothers.”

For a city that has historically experienced the consequences of political and clan tensions, the appeal carries significance far beyond social media. It is a reminder that the future of Galkayo belongs not to political factions, but to the people who live there—and that its young generation can choose cooperation over confrontation.

As the backbone of Somalia’s future, the youth of both sides of Galkayo are sending a message: unity, peace, and development are the foundation of a better future. Their shared aspirations transcend political and regional divisions, demonstrating that young Somalis can be a force for reconciliation, cooperation, and progress.

At a time when political disputes elsewhere in Somalia threaten to spill into communities, the message from Galkayo’s youth offers a welcome alternative: Galkacyo is one united city.

WardheerNews