Somalia: Fighting Erupts in Baydhabo Between Southwest State Forces and Somali Army Faction

5 February 2026
Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)

Baidoa, Somalia — Intense fighting erupted again on Thursday in western Baidoa, the capital of Somalia's Bay region, between forces of the Southwest State Darawiish and troops loyal to a Somali National Army officer, Col. Abdirahman Nishow.

The clashes, which began early Wednesday morning, escalated in the afternoon after reinforcements reportedly arrived for Col. Nishow's unit, believed to be part of the 8th Battalion, 60th Division.

In an interview with Shabelle TV, Col. Nishow said his residence was attacked by Southwest State forces. "They came to my home, and there is gunfire," he said.

The fighting has been reported in the Onadka and Cali Amxaar neighborhoods, extending toward Sodonka Road. Sources told Shabelle TV the clashes stem from a land dispute. Casualty figures have not yet been confirmed.

Read the original article on Shabelle.

Tagged:
Copyright © 2026 Shabelle Media Network. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 90 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.