SAD NEW: BBC legend d!es as heartbroken tributes pour in for ‘remarkable journalist’
The broadcaster famously worked for the BBC’s World Service.
Mohamud Abdi Ali Duale has tragically died (Image: Facebook)
Mohamud Abdi Ali Duale has tragically died. During his career, the journalist, popularly known as Duale, worked for the BBC’s World Service and as a historian for BBC News Somali, where his distinctive voice echoed in listeners’ homes for decades. The presenter covered world news before contributing to the service as a historian, sharing past accounts and updates on Somaliland’s progress.
While a cause of death has yet to be revealed, Duale reportedly died in London on Friday (July 17), and the tragic news prompted an outpour of tributes from heartbroken listeners. Taking to social media, former BBC reporter M.M Dhoore announced: “A veteran Somali journalist who worked for the BBC and many local media outlets, Mohamoud Abdi Ali (Ducaale), passed away on Friday evening in #London. His iconic radio voice still echoes in the ears of the Somali people.”
Taking to X/Twitter, Somalia’s minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Daud Aweis added: “I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my former colleague, Mohamud Abdi Ali Duale, at the BBC World Service. May Allah grant him the highest level in Jannah and forgive his shortcomings. May He comfort his family & loved ones & reward them with patience.”
MP Abdilahi Gacmadhere of Somaliland also shared a touching post, writing: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of veteran journalist and historian Mahamoud Abdi Ali Duale. Throughout his life, the late Duale made remarkable contributions to documenting and preserving the history, struggles, and national journey of the Republic of Somaliland.
“His dedication, commitment, and service to safeguarding our collective memory will remain a lasting legacy for generations to come. My heartfelt condolences go to his family, colleagues, and the people of Somaliland. May Almighty Allah have mercy on his soul, forgive his shortcomings, and grant him the highest place in Jannat al-Firdaws,” the politician concluded.
Mohamud Abdi Ali Duale was inundated with tributes (Image: X)
As a third penned: “Very sad to hear of the passing of one of the greatest and most gifted Somali journalists. I was fortunate to have worked with him and to have spent time with him socially in London.
“Duale, as he was popularly known, was incredibly down-to-earth and one of the coolest people you could ever meet. When Duale was reading the world news on BBC Somali, it was always a must-listen and a joy. His voice, delivery, and professionalism made every bulletin memorable. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
In addition to his time at the BBC, Duale’s broadcasting career also saw him join Somalia’s Radio Mogadishu in 1973 and conduct interviews on the nation’s widely popular Xusuus-Reeb programme, which features in-depth interviews with veterans, politicians, and elders who recount pivotal eras in Somali history.
