Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur “Aden Madobe” has completed his first 90 days as President of South West State, a period marked by efforts to establish his administration, strengthen security, address political challenges and set out a development agenda for the state.
Elected on June 10, 2026, Aden Madobe came to office with significant political experience, having previously served as Speaker of Somalia’s House of the People. His election gave him a strong parliamentary mandate, but the first three months have also demonstrated the complex political and security environment facing South West State.
The First 90 Days
During his first three months, the administration focused on forming government institutions and setting priorities.
A new cabinet was appointed in July, while the administration also placed considerable attention on security in and around Baidoa. Meetings with security officials, visits to frontline forces and coordination with federal security institutions have been part of efforts to strengthen stability.
Education has also featured prominently. The administration continued to oversee education activities across South West State, including Grade 8 examinations involving thousands of students.
Another important development was the relaunch of the South West Transformation Plan 2026–2031, which outlines priorities including education, healthcare, economic development, employment, infrastructure, governance and resilience.
However, these initiatives remain at an early stage. A plan or government appointment does not automatically translate into improved conditions for citizens.
Security Remains the Biggest Challenge
Security is likely to remain the most immediate test for Aden Madobe.
Baidoa and surrounding areas have experienced political and security tensions, including clashes involving forces aligned with former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen. The continued presence and activities of Al-Shabaab also represent a major security challenge.
The administration therefore faces a difficult task: strengthening security while preventing political disputes from developing into further armed confrontation.
A sustainable security strategy will require not only military operations but also intelligence, community cooperation, civilian protection and coordination between South West State and the Federal Government.
Political Reconciliation
Political reconciliation will be another major test during the next 90 days.
The administration will need to engage political opponents and influential actors across South West State in order to reduce tensions and build broader confidence in the government.
Aden Madobe’s parliamentary support provides an important foundation, but long-term stability will depend on whether his administration can expand political legitimacy beyond the institutions that elected him.
The Next 90 Days
The next three months could be more important than the first three.
The administration will be expected to move from establishing government to delivering results.
Key questions include:
- Can the government improve security in Baidoa and other parts of South West State?
- Can it reduce political tensions and promote meaningful reconciliation?
- Can security forces be strengthened while remaining professional and unified?
- Can the South West Transformation Plan be converted into practical projects?
- Can the administration improve education, healthcare, infrastructure and employment opportunities?
- Can it strengthen government institutions and public financial management?
- Can it extend effective governance beyond Baidoa to the wider South West State?
Long-Term Outlook
The long-term success of Aden Madobe’s administration will depend on whether it can establish a balance between security, political stability, economic development and accountable governance.
If the government succeeds in reducing conflict, strengthening institutions and delivering visible services, it could consolidate its position and create a stronger foundation for South West State.
If political divisions and insecurity continue, however, development plans may struggle to move beyond policy documents.
Short Verdict
Aden Madobe’s first 90 days were largely a period of transition, government formation and setting priorities.
The next 90 days will be a test of delivery.
The central question is no longer simply whether Aden Madobe can form an administration, but whether he can turn political leadership and government plans into security, stability, public services and development for the people of South West State.
The first 90 days were the beginning. The next 90 days could determine the direction of the administration.
Warsan Radio — The Voice of the People
