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2005 was a great year, filled with drama and developments of all sorts. For Ogadenia, it marked the start of a new hope, hope for peace and stability. To reach this far, the intellectuals and the region�s traditional leaders put tireless efforts forward to find lasting solution to the Ogaden�s long time problem.

Ogadens have experienced droughts and other problems that followed during past year, however, Ogadens who witnessed those problems and survived must pat themselves on the back. They must give hug each other and a kiss. And pray for each other.

This New Year comes with many promises. The most important of all is the promise of peace, an atmosphere where every Ogaden would have a chance to go back home. It is one thing that many Ogadens are looking forward to and hope it comes true.

Although, the evils of corruption, deception, mismanagement and violence are rooted so deep in the make of the social fabric that it could take generations to turn things around, I am confident that in this age and time, it may not be too hard to achieve. Ogadens have learned hard lessons. They traveled too many foreign lands, learned new recipes and new cultures. They acquired new accents and languages. They learned that every nation owns it is own land and thus countries have borders. They learned that they are not welcome in Hargeysa. They learned that Moqadishu is not the one they have known. They learned that daily flight from Godey airport doesn�t end at Heathrow, Frankfort or JFK airports. They have learned that west and east home is best. They learned to love Ogadenia, because it is the only one they have.

With the dust settling on more than 60 years of problems, Ogadenia is ready to move on. The people in Ogadenia are all advocating for peace and political stability in the region. They tired of wars. For the first time, all parties in the region�s politics are ready for peace. The land is rich and the soil is potent. Ogadenia is awaiting a new start. Ogadens would have themselves to blame for any future failure.

Rather than be ashamed and get drowned in self-pity, Ogadens should be proud of themselves. This is a new beginning and with 2006 comes many promises. There is a need for many things in the new Ogadenia, including justice. The majority must and should respect the rights of the minority. However, justice can only prosper in an atmosphere of peace.

Now, every Ogaden must come forward and contribute whatever he/she has and more to nation building, beginning with peacemaking. Peace is the cornerstone of any social development. And it is achievable. Blaming each other and playing prophets of doom will not help any. There are many lessons in Ogadenian history books.

Happy New Year Ogadenia, you have great days ahead of you!!!

By Abdullahi Khalif-Gariile
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