Somalia News
"Over 40 Killed in Renewed Fighting in Bardhere."
UN Integrated Regional Information Networks
Source: www.allafrica.com
Fighting in the area of Bardhere has escalated in recent days, which has led to the death of at least 40 people. The area of Bardhere is located to the west of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. Fighting erupted when forces of the opposition Somali Reconciliation and Restoration Council (SRRC) attacked Bardhere in an attempt to dislodge the Juba Valley Alliance (JVA). The JVA is a pro-Transitional National Government group that unites three different clans, while the SRRC is a group of individuals opposed to the Transitional National Government.
Many areas in Somalia have proven to be dangerous and events, such as those
in Bardhere, are not uncommon. As a result of the escalating fighting among
factions within the country the U.N. has decided to temporarily relocate the
international staff of the United Nations and Nongovernmental Organizations
until the situation becomes more stable.
Somalia is far from being a stable country that can actively and effectively
participate in the international scene. Somalia is still in its infancy of
its development and the increased competition between different clans and
groups has made this process even more difficult.
Update:
"Hundreds Flee Fighting in Southwest."
UN Integrated Regional Information Networks
February 20, 2002
Source: www.allafrica.com
As a result of yesterday's conflict, many families are fleeing from the area due to increased fear of extended periods of escalation of fighting. People also fear that if the fighting is not contained it will spread to other regions in the country: "..If the fighting in Gedo Region is not contained quickly, 'it could dramatically worsen an already precarious humanitarian situation, not only in Gedo but also in neighboring Bakol and Bay regions'."