Somali Cultural Icon Axmed Naaji Remembered as Voice of Hope

Axmed Naaji Sacad Cali Naasir, a celebrated figure in Somali culture, passed away in London at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of over six decades as a revered singer, composer, poet, and cultural icon, writes Mohamed Haji Ingiriis for The Conversation Africa.

Born in 1939 in Mogadishu during Italian colonialism, Naaji's talent for singing was nurtured in government schools where he learned Arabic and Italian songs, praising the newly-designed Somali flag. He joined the Somali Youth League and entertained attendees at their meetings with his songs.

Naaji's career took flight when he became a radio show host in 1961, gaining recognition both on air and in Mogadishu's streets. He bridged the divide between northern and southern Somalia and enriched Somali music. During the military coup of 1969, he adapted to the changing political landscape, continuing to thrive during the golden era of the military regime in the early 1970s, gaining both domestic and international acclaim. However, by the 1980s, Somalia plunged into civil war, and Naaji, unwilling to support any side, composed no songs during the conflict. He fled to Yemen, where he advocated for peace and a unified Somalia through his music.

Naaji continued his work in exile, focusing on nationalistic and patriotic songs, aiming to rebuild Somalia from the ashes of war. He toured the world and contributed significantly to peace and reconciliation efforts in Somalia.