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Residents of Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, reacted angrily on Wednesday to comments made by US President Donald Trump during his address to the World Economic Forum in Davos, describing the remarks as offensive and ill-informed.
In the speech, Trump reportedly derided Somalis living in the United States as having low intelligence and portrayed Somalia as a country without effective governance. He also criticised US lawmaker Ilhan Omar, whose comments Somali officials and members of the diaspora have denounced as racist.
Speaking to reporters, Mogadishu resident Said Ahmed said Trump’s comments showed a disregard for international norms, arguing that the US president often acts in ways that undermine diplomatic standards and international law.
“He does a lot of things that violates international laws, so he seems someone who doesn’t care about the international diplomatic norms in broader nation.”
Another resident, Adnan Ahmed, said Trump’s language about Somalia was inappropriate and misleading, but insisted that Somalis would not be defined by his words. He said Somalis had proven their resilience and success, adding that the country would continue to progress despite such remarks.
“I believe Trump is wrong and needs to correct his behaviour and character, particularly regarding his comments about Somali issues.
He often appears erratic, and his language is often unhealthy. However, we Somalis are indifferent to his words. We are successful people, and with God’s help, we believe our country will thrive.”
The comments have drawn widespread condemnation both in Somalia and abroad, with critics saying they reinforce harmful stereotypes and ignore the contributions of Somali communities, particularly in the United States.
Hayat Mohamed, a resident of Mogadishu, said Trump’s statements failed to recognise the role Somalis have played in developing the US and warned that such rhetoric could ultimately damage America’s global standing. She urged Somali authorities to formally respond to the remarks.
“Trump is not a good person, and I believe Somalis have contributed to the development of his country.
“His derogatory statements about us will ultimately harm his own nation. He has failed to acknowledge what Somalis deserve, and as a result, we no longer respect him. I hope our government will address his remarks appropriately.”
Trump’s comments come against increased scrutiny of Somali immigrants in parts of the United States, including Minnesota and Maine, where recent immigration enforcement actions have sparked protests and public outrage.
