Key statistics

1979
First Recorded Activity

First Attack
2025
Profile Last Updated

How to Cite

Crenshaw, M., & Robinson, K. (2025). Mapping Militants Project. Rice University. https://doi.org/10.25613/G0K4-WF70
Mapping Militants Project. “Marhan Clan .” Last modified July 31, 2025. https://mappingmilitants.org/node/3013/

Profile Contents

Narrative

Narrative of the Organization's History

Organization

Leadership, Name Changes, Size Estimates, Resources, Geographic Locations

Strategy

Ideology, Aims, Political Activities, Targets, and Tactics

Interactions

Foreign Designations and Listings, Community Relations, Relations with Other Groups, State Sponsors and External Influences

Maps

Mapping relationships with other militant groups over time in regional maps

Main Tabs Group

Overview
Formed: 
January 1, 1979

Also referred to as the “Marehan Clan”, the Marhan Clan was first active in the 16th century, fighting against the Ethiopian empire. Like other clans, the Marhan aimed to increase its own political power and territory. Additionally, it is the clan that Siad Barre, the former leader and dictator of Somalia, belongs to, which is why it supported Barre’s regime. The group also helped form the Somali National Front following the collapse of Barre’s regime and took part in the ensuing civil war. Since the civil war, the group has been involved in the recent uptick in interclan conflict. It has fought with the Sure sub-clan over control of the Cabudwaaq district, located in the Galmudug state in central Somalia.  

Organization

Vertical Tabs

Strategy

Vertical Tabs

Interactions

Vertical Tabs