The following information on a clan called Shiqal was provided by a Professor of History who specializes in Somalia. The Shiqal is spread throughout Somalian territory. Most are affiliated with the Hawiye clan, which is allied with General Aidid. Some members of the clan are nomadic and some live in the coastal area around Genashi. A third segment of the clan lives in eastern Ethiopia. The members of the clan around Genashi have been facing some problems since the war erupted in 1991, and some have been "kicked off" their land (9 Nov. 1994).

The attached articles mention a clan which may be pronounced as Shiqal; however different spellings, such as Sheegal, Sheekhaal and Sheikkel are used.

This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

Professor of History, specializing in Somalia, Ottawa. 9 November 1994. Telephone interview.

Africa Confidential [London]. 18 March 1994. Vol. 35, No. 6. "Somalia: When the West Leaves."

Agence France Presse (AFP). 23 March 1994. "Clan Fighting Leaves Six Dead." (NEXIS)

APS Diplomat Recorder. 26 March 1994. "Somalia March 22 Clan Fighting." (NEXIS)

Samatar. Ahmed I. Socialist Somalia; Rhetoric and Reality. 1988. London: Zed Books Ltd.