The Mursade (Somali: Mursado, Mursal; Arabic: مرسده) are a Somali subclan, part of the Karanle clan, which is itself a part of the larger Hawiye Tribe. They primarily reside in the central regions of Somalia, with a particular focus on the Galgaduud, Mudug, Middle Shabelle, Lower Shabelle[1] and Banadir regions, among others. The Murusade clan can trace their roots back to the earliest inhabitants of Mogadishu, the capital city of Somalia.[2] It holds a position of great significance and influence within the urban landscape. Their presence can be felt in various spheres of life in the metropolis, attesting to their prominence and contribution to the socio-cultural fabric of the city.[3]

Murusade
مرسده
Regions with significant populations
Banadir, Galguduud, Lower Shabelle, Mudug and Middle Shabelle
Languages
SomaliaSomali & Arab LeagueArabic
Religion
Sunni Islam
Related ethnic groups
Hawiye clans and other Somali clans

Overview edit

 
Imam Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi, Somali Imam and General of the Adal Sultanate, Ruler of Harar and Conqueror of Ethiopia. Member of the Seexawle Karanle brother of Murusade.

The Murusade, who are an integral part of the Karanle[4] clan family, consist of various sub-clans, including the Gidir, Kariyee, Sexawle, Faduma, and Murusade themselves. Among the larger Hawiye tribe, the Murusade holds significant importance as one of the most prominent sub-clans. It is noteworthy that the Hawiye trace their lineage back to Irir,[5] one of the esteemed sons of Samaale. Consequently, the Murusade share close kinship ties with other Samaale clans.[6] Directly descending from Karanle, who holds the distinction of being the eldest son of Hawiye, the Murusade have played a pivotal role in mediation throughout history. The Karanle clan, to which the Murusade belong, is revered for their valiant efforts in combating foreign invaders in both Somalia and Ethiopia, as these two nations historically shared an extensive border.[7] In fact, the Karanle are considered the maternal ancestors of numerous prominent clan families, including the Hiraab, the Bimal, and certain Ogaden subclans.[8]

As a young child, Murusade, whose given name is Mursal, also known as Waadere (adere is the alternative name for the city of Harar where Mursal was born), and his sister Fadumo embarked on a journey that led them to central Somalia, thereby separating them from their Karanle siblings. It is worth mentioning that Fadumo married Hiraab,[9] who is recognised as the progenitor of the Hiraab clan.[8] Interestingly, according to folk tales, Hiraab initially did not wish for Murusade to accompany them on this journey and even attempted to remove him along the way. However, Murusade consistently managed to find his way back, earning him the epithet 'heridiid,' future denier, which is still occasionally used by the Hiraab clans.[10] This anecdote highlights the resilience and determination displayed by the Murusade community up to this day.

 
An old map of Harar, the traditional homeland of the Karanle, featuring the Gadabuursi, Geri, Issa, Karanle Hawiye and Berteri Jidwaaq Somali communities.

The Murusade hail from a background of nomadic agro-pastoralism and have a widespread geographical presence within the central regions of Somalia.[11] Their influence has been extensive in moulding the historical, political, and economic development of these regions. Of particular significance is their predominant position in the El Buur district, an area that has been inhabited since the 13th century and has served as a crucial economic hub during the Ajuuran Sultanate and subsequent eras.[12] The region was historically important due to its extensive reserves of valuable minerals and various other valuable resources.[13] Throughout history, this particular area has held great significance as it served as a crucial hub for the extraction of sepiolite, alongside other highly sought-after resources. These resources were then utilised in the creation of traditional Somali handcrafts, including but not limited to the renowned dabqaad, also referred to as unsi, as well as incense burners, potteries and jewellery among an array of other captivating traditional Somali handcrafts. El Buur is also the place of origin of the local pipe-making industry.[14]

Furthermore, the Murusade also hold a significant presence in Moqdishu, where they form the majority population alongside the Abgaal clan.[15] In the past, there was a fair division between the Murusade group and the Abgaal community. However, with the evolution of Mogadishu into the capital city of Somalia, a wave of Somali migrants flocked to establish themselves there. Consequently, the governing administrations introduced new regulations regarding land acquisition, which compelled the Murusade to cede their own territories and lands.[16] The Murusade are widely recognised for their entrepreneurial spirit, which is reflected in their ownership of a disproportionately high number of businesses in Moqdishu and elsewhere, including the well-known enterprise, Hormuud. Their entrepreneurial endeavours have not only contributed to the economic landscape of the capital but have also cemented their status as key players in the business sector. In conclusion, the Murusade clan, and their heritage, have left an indelible mark on the central regions of Somalia.[17] Their historical, political, and economic influence cannot be understated, particularly in the El Buur district and Moqdishu.

Despite facing challenges in recent times, such as land disputes with neighbouring clans, the Murusade continue to demonstrate their resilience and entrepreneurial prowess, further solidifying their position as a prominent clan in Somali society.[18]

Distribution edit

 
I.M lewis map of the distribution Somali clans including the Murusade

The Murusade clan predominantly resides in the central and southern regions of Somalia particularly in Galgaduud and Mudug which fall under the Galmudug state of Somalia, in addition to Banadir, Lower Shabelle and Middle Shabelle, as well as to varying extents in Bay and Bakool.[2][1][19]

Within Galgaduud, the Murusade primarily inhabit the central El Buur district, constituting the majority of the region. Additionally, they can be found in neighboring districts such as El Dher, Galhareri, and others. Furthermore, the Murusade also inhabit in the neighbouring Mudug region, particularly in districts like Hobyo.[20]

In Lower Shabelle, their communities can be found stretching down from the Dayniile district in Benaadir along the coast, most notably in Afgoye,[1] Merca, Qoryooley, and Barawe, among others.[21][19]

I.M Lewis (1995) states about the Murusade presence in Lower Shabelle:[22]

The Murosade, who have become detached in the process of tribal movement, are found in small groups in the region of Merca and, in a larger body, below the Shebelle around Afgoi. They are essentially pastoralists although they practise some cultivation, and in the Merca region are engaged in the caravan trade.

 
Distribution Somali clans including the Murusade

In Banadir, the Murusade are predominantly clustered around the national capital Mogadishu also, forming some of the earliest inhabitants in the city.[23] They mainly inhabit the districts of Daynille, Hodan, Hawle-Wadag and Warta-Nabada but can also be found in other districts.[24] The Mursade clan has established itself as a prominent force in these regions, transforming them into crucial centers that serve as epicenters of activity for a sizable community. This community is deeply engaged in the process of molding and influencing the social, economic, and political fabric of the city.[25] Through their active involvement, the Mursade clan has played a pivotal role in nurturing the advancement and progress of Mogadishu, making it an even more vibrant and dynamic metropolis.

Genealogy edit

  • Samaale
    • Irir
      • Hawiye
        • Karanle
          • Gidir Karanle
          • Sexawle Karanle
          • Karaiye Karanle
          • Mursal Karanle (Murusade) [4]
            • Khelibaar
            • Wacayle
            • Makahaan
            • Himyar
            • Hayle
            • Jiilaal
            • Wacsi
              • Sabti
                • Majabe Sabti
                  • Abakar
                    • Israfiil Abakar
                      • Hasanle
                        • Mohammed Mahmuud
                        • Carif Mahmuud
                        • Omar Mahmuud
                        • Siicow Mahamuud
                      • Gabood
                        • Abakar Wasuge
                          • Mahamuud Abakar
                          • Ahmed Gaab
                          • Jim'ale
                        • Mahamuud Wasuge
                        • Mataan Wasuge
                        • Gurey
                          • Hassan Gurey
                      • Dhaleey
                        • Adam Cigalle
                        • Mahmuud Wehiliye
                        • Ali Abdalle Dhaleey
                    • Oodweyne Abakar
                      • Hussein
                        • Najac
                          • Mahamuud
                          • Ali
                        • Mohammed Hassan
                      • Mahamuud
                        • Hashane
                          • Mohammed Cigalle (Dhagaweyne)
                            • Osman
                            • Jibriil
                            • Mahamuud
                            • Ahmed
                            • Ali
                            • Omar
                            • Amanle
                            • Saldhale
                            • Jim'ale
                          • Adam Cigalle
                          • Amaanle
                        • Ibrahim
                          • Goondale
                          • Dirir
                    • Saeed
                      • Tuurweyne Saeed
                      • Abdirahmaan Saeed
                      • Aadan Saeed
                      • Rooble Saeed
                  • Habar Idinle
                    • Ayansame
                      • Hassan
                        • Dumaal
                          • Muhammed Ali
                          • Ahmed Ibrahim
                      • Hussein
                        • Hassan Gadaf
                          • Adan Sultan
                            • Abdullahi Adan Sultan
                            • Cadow Adan
                            • Musa Adan
                    • Kumacade
                • Ibrahim Sabti
                • Abdalla Sabti
                  • Absuge
                    • Mohammed Yar
                      • Adan gaab
                      • Hassan caad
                      • Abu-bakr Mohammed
                    • Mahamuud Faqaay
                      • Ahmed Musa
                      • Osman Musa
                        • Isse Osman
                        • Roble Osman
                      • Ali Musa
                      • Hagaleey
                  • Ilkaguduud
                    • Hassan
                    • Caraale
                    • Hareed
              • Foorculus
                • Habar Muhammed
                  • Muhammed Foorculus (Hilibi, Bah Sheekhal)
                    • Qanyare Ishijwaaq
                      • Tolweyne Qanyare
                        • Mahamed Wehiliye
                        • Abakar
                          • Huursho Abakar
                          • Hassan Abakar
                          • Gaab Abakar
                        • Ali Omar
                        • Saaberey
                        • Mataan Ali
                      • Yabar Qanyare
                        • Cigalle
                        • Ali
                        • Aden
                        • Reer Farah
                    • Hassan Ishijwaaq
                      • Cisman Mahamed
                        • Hassan Adde
                      • Ahaalow
                    • Omar Ishijwaaq
                      • Ma'alin Cigalle
                      • Abdalla Cigalle
                      • Mataan Cigalle
                      • Hassan Cigalle
                  • Ahmed Foorculus (Daguuro, Bah Ajuuran)
                    • Bah Maqafaad
                      • Faqay
                      • Isse
                      • Hassan
                    • Bah Muse
                      • Da'ale
                      • Afeey
                      • Geedow
                    • Bah Roon
                      • Osman
                      • Arablawe
                • Habar Ceyno (Bah Abgaal)
                  • Mahadle
                  • Mahammed
                    • Sharey
                  • Tashiil
                    • Ali
                      • Tolweyne Ali
                        • Omar Faqi Hassan
                        • Aalim Reer Ugaas
                      • yabar Ali
                      • Omar Ali
                        • Uurgale
                          • Adam
                          • Hussein
                          • Ali
                        • Ali
                          • Gadafley
                          • Khilaaf
                            • Ahmed
                            • Idris
                            • Aflah
                    • Abdalla Irba
                      • Idriis
                      • Saleebaan
                      • Huud
                    • Habar yaabiye
                      • Jibraael
                      • Qardabo

Notable people edit

  • Hassan Ali Kheyre, former prime minister of Somalia
  • Mohammed Afrah Qanyare, former faction leader, Politician and Businessman (Deceased)
  • General Mohammed Sheikh Osman, former general and politician.(Deceased)
  • General Elmi Nuur, former general of the SNA. Received the highest medals of honour in service of the Somalia's defence during the 1964 Ethio-Somali border war.[26](Deceased)
  • Hassan Moalim, current minister of constitution and justice.
  • Ali Mohamed Osoble, Member of parliament, Co-founder of the USC and vice-chairman of the SNM. (Deceased)
  • Abdulkadir Yahya Ali, a peace activist known for his work through his own Centre for Research and Dialogue.
  • Abdirahman Yusuf Hussein Aynte, politician and journalist. worked for the BBC, VOA and Al Jazeera English. Former Minister of Planning and International Cooperation and former Senior Advisor to the President of Somalia.
  • Ibrahim Omar Mahadale, Former deputy governor of Banadir, Current member of parliament.
  • Ahmed Mohamud Yusuf Chairman & CEO of Hormuud Telecom, winner of the CEO of the Year Award at the World Communications Award
  • Hiirey Qasim Wehelie, Prominant politician and businessman, served as governor and district commissioner in several regions and as Minister of Housing and Urban Development. (Deceased)
  • Elian Yahye, Somali Dutch activist and Netherland youth representative for the United Nations.
  • Mohammed Moallim Hassan, former politician and minister of fishery and marine resources.
  • Mariam Arif Gassim, Former Member of parliament, Former Chair of the Constitution Review Committee of the Federal Parliament of Somalia and credited author of Somali history.
  • Mohamed Hassan Xaad, First and current chairman of the elders council of the Hawiye Somali clan family formed to represent the Hawiye clan and advocate for their interests.

References edit

  1. ^ a b c International organisation for immigration in Somali: Community Stabilization Index Lower Shabelle – January 2022 https://somalia.iom.int/sites/g/files/tmzbdl1041/files/documents/COSI_Lower%20Shabelle_Location_Report_Afgooye.pdf
  2. ^ a b "Maggiore, Corpo Di Stato". Tipografia Regionale. 1938. p. 40.
  3. ^ "Other Nations and the Clans of the Wyandot", The Eighteenth-Century Wyandot, Wilfrid Laurier Press, pp. 75–105, 2014-04-17, doi:10.51644/9781554589579-005, ISBN 978-1-55458-957-9, retrieved 2024-03-03
  4. ^ a b "(PDF) Karanle Hawiye Irir Samaale Hiil Abroone Sixawleftpmirror.your.org/pub/wikimedia/images/wikipedia/so/b/b...Taacuud Faasi Axmed Makki Garaad Kaamil Aw Qariib Afxaaj Laagsuge Buraale". dokumen.tips (in Somali). Retrieved 2024-03-03.
  5. ^ UNHCR Somalia, Genealogical Table of Somali Clans https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/local/1413573/bsvec1_unhcr2000.pdf
  6. ^ Ahmed, Ali Jimale (1995). The Invention of Somalia. The Red Sea Press. ISBN 978-0-932415-99-8.
  7. ^ Atti del ... Congresso geografico italiano. Congresso geografico italiano. 1894. p. 362. ISBN 9788857528175.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  8. ^ a b Cerulli, Enrico (1959). Somalia (in Italian). Vol. 2. Istituto poligrafico dello Stato P.V. p. 243.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  9. ^ Cassanelli, Lee (1982). The Shaping of Somali Society: Reconstructing the History of a Pastoral People, 1600-1900. University of Pennsylvania Press. p. 107. ISBN 0812278321.
  10. ^ Labagarre, Hersi M. (July 6, 1998). "The Voice Of Modern Somali". Angelfire (in Somali).
  11. ^ Clanship, Conflict and Refugees: An Introduction to Somalis in the Horn of Africa https://arcadia.sba.uniroma3.it/bitstream/2307/4150/1/Clanship_%20conflict%20and%20refugees_An%20introduction%20to%20Somalis%20in%20the%20Horn%20of%20Africa.pdf
  12. ^ "Afar Arimood that became famous in Elbur, the city of Al-Shabaab was captured this afternoon". BBC News. 25 August 2023.
  13. ^ Gure, Abdulkadir (February 2016). "Properties and Applications of Sepiolite Clay Mineral from El-Bur and its potential role for Somalia's long-term Economic Development". Sunlight | Water and Environmental Consultancy Services – via Research Gate.
  14. ^ Abdullahi, Mohamed Diriye (2001). Culture and customs of Somalia. Culture and customs of Africa. Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press. ISBN 978-0-313-31333-2.
  15. ^ Somali Dialogue Platfoem: Prospects for District Council Formation and democratization in Banadir Regional Administration December 2023 https://riftvalley.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/pb_EN_BRA-DCF_WEB3.pdf Page 14
  16. ^ "UNTOLD HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KARANLE, HAWIYA'S FIRST SON AND THE SOMALI NATION'S UNIFIER OF KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM". Karanle.Blogspot. 22 March 2014.
  17. ^ "Hawiye (Somali clan) / Hawiya". 101lasttribes.
  18. ^ Richburg, Keith (January 21, 1993). "Somali Clan Fights Remain Intractable".
  19. ^ a b COMMUNITY STABILIZATION INDEX LOWER SHABELLE-QORYOOLEY JANUARY 2022 International Organisation For Migrationhttps://somalia.iom.int/sites/g/files/tmzbdl1041/files/documents/COSI_Lower%20Shabelle_Location_Report_Qoryooley.pdf
  20. ^ Lewis, I.M. (1969). Peoples of the Horn of Africa (Somali, Afar and Saho) North Eastern Africa. Taylor & Smith. p. 33.
  21. ^ EU-Programme, African Land Policy: Lower Shabelle Report https://www.africalandpolicy.org/eu-programme/sites/default/files/Somalia_Lower%20Shabele%20report_final.pdf Page 19
  22. ^ Lewis, I.M (1995). Peoples of the Horn of Africa. International African Institute. ISBN 9781569021057.
  23. ^ Giuseppe, Caniglia (1907). "Genti di Somalia". N/A: 2.
  24. ^ Finnish Immigration Services Somalia: Fact-Finding Mission to Mogadishu in March 2020 – Security situation and humanitarian conditions in Mogadishu https://migri.fi/documents/5202425/5914056/Somalia+Fact-Finding+Mission+to+Mogadishu+in+March+2020.pdf Page 7
  25. ^ Alasow, Omar Abdulle (2010-05-17). Violations of the Rules Applicable in Non-International Armed Conflicts and Their Possible Causes: The Case of Somalia. BRILL. ISBN 978-90-04-18988-1.
  26. ^ "Miscellaneous history, politics, war & nobility". Medium. October 23, 2022.