May 13, 2008

A Note of Tribute To Mr. Said Maygag Samatar - By Suleiman Egeh

Innaa Lilaahi Wa Innaa ilaahi Raajicuun: My family and I extend our condolence to the family of Mr. Said Maygag Samatar. A week did not pass since we heard about the passing of another great leader, activist, philanthropist, a father and visionary.

A tremendous sadness befall on the family, former school mates and all those who knew Mr. Said M. Samatar or effected by his philanthropy, and endless efforts to help the people of our beloved country-Somaliland.

Mr. Said born into a fairly large, prominent and well-known Hargeisa family, the Maygag Samatar family. I had the opportunity to know Said from childhood days in Hargeisa, Amoud Secondary school, Lafoole College of Education and later on here in the United States.

I have again seen him in the successful Sopri Washington conference of 2006. The very long time I knew Mr. Said I have never seen angry, or disparaging those who disagree with him. He was always that magnanimous and happy human being. Surely a great leader and an icon is lost here. But as devote Muslims we must be realistic as every human being will die.

It will be very difficult to fill his shoes for a very long time to come. May Allah bless his soul was a skillful negotiator, avid debater and a deeply religious person

Apparently Mr. Said will leave an indelible impact on the advocacy and development of modern Somaliland.He was the incarnation of a multidimensional leader regarding his tireless efforts to advance the well-being of our country. Allah bestowed him with extensive knowledge in community relations and power of persuasion.