Information specific to the Hadamo could not be found among the sources currently available to the DIRB. The information provided below relates to the Rahanweyn in general. According to the Supplement to Information Session on Country Conditons on Somalia, the Rahanweyn and the Dighil reportedly constitute about 17 per cent of the population of southern Somalia (15 Feb. 1996). The Rahanweyn number about 570,000 and "are located in the area between the Juba and Shebelle river. The main centre being Baidoa." They share a common language with the rest of the population but belong to the Sab branch of the Somali genealogy (ibid.). The source states that the only distinct difference between the Rahanweyn and the rest of the Somalis is that the latter are agriculturalists rather than nomads, an occupation that is despised by the rest of the Somalis (ibid.). This sources further states that "given their somewhat inferior status in Somali society, it is not surprising that the Dighil and Rahanweyn have not played a very major role in Somali politics." (ibid.).

According to the Editor of Somali Update, Bernhard Helander, the Rahanweyn and the Dighil have had a "politically disadvantaged position in the past." (Supplement to Information Session on Country Conditions on Somalia 15 Feb. 1996, 75). He adds that the two groups speak a distinct dialect of Somali and deviate albeit slightly, in their social and economic organization from the norms of the other groups (ibid.).

For corroboration and additional information on the Rahanweyn, please consult the various Responses to Information Requests on the same topic.

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.

Supplement to Information Session on Country Conditions on Somalia, Toronto Front, 15 February 1996.

Helander, Bernhard. "Vulnerable Minorities in Southern Somalia and Somaliland," in Supplement to Information Session on Country Conditions on Somalia, Toronto Front. 15 February 1996.