Reconciliation conference Kicks off in Marka

Reconciliation conference for clans of Marka town started on Monday in the town following deadly clan clashes in and around the town that claimed lives of over thirteen people .

Goobjoog News correspondent says the aim of the conference is to end the hostilities and tensions and strengthen the brotherly bond among the clans in the region.

The traditional elders and the administration of Southwest state are expected to attend the conference.

The conference comes less than two week after Six children and their mother dead when their house was burnt down by armed people.

The incidents happened on 19th this month at a village in the outskirt of Marka town of Lower Shabelle region.

The family members were identified as Khadija Mohamed Samow (the mother), Farhiya Sheikh Abdikadir Ga’al, Naima SheikhAbdikadir Ga’al, Ahmed Abdikadir Ga’al, Mulki Abdikadir Ga’al, Muzamil Abdikadir Ga’al, Noor Abdi Osman.

Marka town, which is the epicenter of the conflict pitting two Somali clans, has become a deserted town, as members of the rival clans left toward areas, which their community are majority to avoid been caught in retaliatory raids by marauding clan militia.

The two warring clans have over the years been fighting for supremacy and control of the district that has degenerated into clashes.

Tension and conflict between the two clans have historically resulted from competition for natural resources, but recently the emerging tensions are attributed to political disagreements over governance issues.