These resonating words were written by Somali nationalist poet Maxamuud Axmed Dabagooye. Born in Buhoodle; he was part of the Hegan troupe of Somalia’s national police force.

This poem-turned-song was to be his last as he enlisted in the SNA (Somali National Army) and subsequently requested to be sent to the front-lines (Somalo-Ethio war) where he ultimately was martyred in Dhagaxbuur district in 1977.

Ilaahay ha u naxariisto

My rendering of the words might not be accurate as I have taken a literal approach.

I am a martyr
A gentle breeze in
abundance with prosperity
is my resting camp
Forcing you to forget life

You foolish occupier
Who inflicted me
with hidden wounds
and made me incapacitated
Surely I will never share peace with you

If peace is unachievable
From whichever side
An occupier can never overpower me
And I do not extend any mercy to him

I made a solemn pledge
My intention is clear-cut [i.e. liberate the Somali lands]
If I don’t return oh my flag
My luminous flag
May Allaah safeguard you

Waxaan ahay naftii hure
Neecaw qabawiyo
Nimco iyo barwaaqiyo
Sabad kagu nagaadiyo
Noloshaba illoobee

Nacasaw gumeysigan
Nabarada qarsoon niyo
Nacaan iga hadhayn niyo
Igu reebay naafada
Nabad lama wadaagee

Nidar baan hore u maray
Niyadeydu waa meel
Haddii aanan soo noqon
Calankeyga nuurow
Allahayaw ku nabad geli

Hadii nabad lawaayana
Dhankastaba ha noqotee
Nacas igama libin helo
Naxariisna uma galo