SUMMARY

The Sheikhal (sometimes spelled Shekash, Sheikhaal, Sheekhaal, Sheikal or Shikal) are a sub-clan of the Dir, one of six major Somali clan families. The group is dispersed over Somali territories in Ethiopia, Kenya and northeastern Kenya. Traditionally, the Sheikhal were the religious leaders of their communities, forming relationships with other Somali clans and setttled or moved with them. This had the effect that the group as such did not occupy any territory of their own. In Ethiopia they had this type of relationship primarily with the Ogadenis, the largest Somali group in the country.

When Ethiopia became a federation in the mid-1990s, ethnic groups scrambled to secure territorial claims, which would in turn ensure representation at all levels of government. The Sheikhal soon realised the implications for their group and began aquiring territory of their own. After negotiations between Sheikhal elders and elders from other Somali clans the group was allowed to settle in Raso, a locatlity in Raso, a locality forty kilometers northwest of West Imi town. Between 2001 and 2002, 20 000 to 30 000 Sheikhal migrated to Raso.

The Sheikhal have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.