Sheikh Abdi Abukar Gaafle, Somali: (Sheekh Cabdi Gaafle), was a leader of the Biimaal Revolt against Italian occupation of southern Somalia. Born in Armadow (Ceelwareegow) near Marka District, Somalia in 1852, he died in 1922 in Laantabuur, Raaxoole District, Somalia. He is described as one of the best known resistance leaders in the history of southern Somalia.
Sheikh Abdi Abikar GÃÂfle or also more famously known as GÃÂfle (Somali: Sheekh Cabdi Abiikar "Gaafle"). A famous Bimaal maâÂÂallin (teacher-sheikh) and warrior born in âÂÂArmadobe village in 1852. He was also a prominent figure in the BimÃÂl Revolt against the Italians. He met his end in 1922.[1]
He grew up finishing his Quranic education and studies at home, he was afterwards sent for higher Islamic education to Ceel Jaale center close to Merca. He studied the subjects of:
1.Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)
2.Tafseer (Qur'anic translations and interpretations),
3.Hadith (Prophet MuhammadâÂÂs tradition, Sunnah).[2]
Sheikh Abdi Abikar GÃÂfle learned from well known sheikhs at that time like Sheikh Usman Sheikh Hassan and Sheikh Muhammad Abdalla, also known as 'Baarmawaaye'. Gaafle continued to become a well-known individual in the Bimal community.
In 1888, Gaafle started to travel increasingly all over the Shabelle Valley preaching his ideology, teaching and warning the public and about the Italian colonizers.
GÃÂfle took part in the Igalle shir(clan council) in June 1896 and led an army against the Italians. GÃÂfle was behind the alliance with the Dervishes and their leader Sayid Mohamed. Although the Dervishes provided GÃÂfle with firearms, they would not fight with him. GÃÂfle is said to have continued his resistance until 1908.