The Somali town of Rage Ele, known for its friendliness and hospitality, has struggled to fulfill its immense potential since the Khawarij terrorists took control. Nestled between the districts of Warshiikh, Jowhar, and Adale, all under Hirshabelle state, Rage Ele has a rich history and unique features that make it stand out.
According to the mayor of Rage Ele district, during the occupation of the Khawarij terrorists, the residents were unable to construct their homes freely. The terrorists demanded arbitrary amounts ranging from 20 to 100 dollars per person, without any consideration for the cost of construction. As a result, many people, especially the impoverished ones, were not able to build their homes.
The situation was extremely disturbing, and those who refused to comply with the extortion demands were threatened with serious consequences. As a result, many people fled to the capital, while those who remained behind were put in a difficult situation.
Recently, the local community members of Rage Ele district gathered to discuss the current state of their community and the region as a whole. National media joined them in one of their early morning meetings, where the locals pointed out how the Khawarij terrorists prevented the residents from constructing the town.
“When it comes to hospitals and housing, we haven’t been able to build any for the past three years. If you raise a single stone, it would cost you one hundred dollars,” they said.
However, the situation is gradually changing. The district’s governor explained how the Khawarij collected money from every individual and household in Rage Ele district. The locals were forced to pay a certain amount of money, which varied based on the number of people in each household, including women and children and every elderly person. But now, a hospital is being built, and efforts are being made to provide comprehensive healthcare services to the people of Rage Ele district and surrounding areas.
Previously, the people of Rage Ele district had to travel over 100 km to receive medical assistance, as the area was surrounded by military forces belonging to both the local and national governments. With the hospital being built, comprehensive healthcare services will be accessible to the locals.
Rage Ele is a town with immense potential, and its people have shown their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. With the construction of the hospital and other efforts to develop the town, Raage Ele is on its way to becoming a thriving community once again.
By Abdiqani Abdullahi
