Hadraawi

Mahamed Ibrahim Warsame 'Hadraawi' is one of the greatest, most cherished and beautiful Somali poets and philosophers. During this time, most of his work is focused, like others at that time, on the theme of love.

In these high days of romance, Hadrawi produced poems like Seventy Midhabley and songs such as, Baladweyn, Love Blood Written, Mother, Daughter, Wonderful. One could write a whole book about each song and poem as they all have their own story.

Mahamed Ibrahim Warsame 'Hadraawi' is one of the most valued Somali poets and philosophers; he is often hailed as the most influential Somali artist of his time. His early work concerned love, and his songs were sung by some of the greatest Somali singers.

As the political climate changed, so did his focus; his work began to address more social and political issues. He campaigned for the alleviation of social ills through his work under great pressure. During the Siad Barre reign, he was imprisoned as a political prisoner. Upon his release, he resumed his struggle against wrongdoing and inequality.

To show his solidarity with those in need, Hadraawi went on a peace march throughout different cities of Somalia ravaged by the civil war in 2004. What began as one-man’s walk became a march of tens of thousands of Somalis who followed Hadraawi from city to city.

Hadraawi is courage personified.