Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed (Caato) has strongly defended the Somali community in the United States following inflammatory remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who referred to Somali immigrants as “garbage” while federal authorities prepare a targeted immigration enforcement sweep in Minnesota.
Deputy Governor Muhumed condemned the comments as reckless and harmful, saying they unfairly singled out a community that has contributed significantly to American society.
He noted that Minnesota’s Somali population, the largest in the US, is deeply rooted in the state’s economic, social, and civic life.
“Somalis in America are law-abiding, hardworking people who have built businesses, raised families, and strengthened the communities they live in,” the deputy governor said.
“Targeting them with demeaning language only fuels fear and undermines social cohesion.”
The U.S. operation is expected to focus on individuals believed to be in the country unlawfully, despite census data showing that most Somalis in Minnesota are either U.S.-born or naturalized citizens.
The Trump administration has also paused immigration applications from Somalia, further heightening anxiety.
Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed Caato argued that Somalis often face discrimination because of their business success and resilience. He urged leaders “to champion dignity, not division.”
Somali migration to the U.S. has been driven by decades of conflict, drought, and extremist violence in the Horn of Africa, where al-Shabab continues to carry out deadly attacks. Humanitarian pressures — including climate-related disasters and fragile health systems — have further displaced populations.
Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed said global leaders should focus on addressing the root causes of displacement rather than vilifying vulnerable communities.
