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Gedo is a region (gobolka) in south western Somalia. Its capital is Garbahaarreey with Bardera being the largest. Gedo region (gobol in Somali) is bordered by Ethiopia, Kenya and the Somali regions of Bakool, Bay and Jubbada Dhexe.
Gedo is the second largest region of Somalia (with Bari being the largest). In 1996, Gedo's population was estimated to be 527,800. Most of Gedo region is arid semi desert except for a thin strip of line along the Jubba river. Baardheere town is largely populated by Ogaden and Rahanweyn clans,and is economically strong and the bread basket of the region.
However, the economy of the region has always been a depressed one. At one time, the U.N. released a report indicating that business in this region was less than in any other region in Somalia. The economy heavily relies on old models, external food aid and lifestock. The region is characterized by extreme drought, conflict, and lack of clean drinking water.
There is simmering animosity between the majority Rahanweyn clan and the smaller, but politically dominant, Mareehan (Daarood) clan. Although the Mareehan and Rahanweyn frequently inter-marry, there is a rivalry for the scant resources and food aid in this region.
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