By David Fisher

Wajid, Somalia, October 07, 2007 - When Somalia's only All Blacks supporter put up a sign declaring his loyalty, it almost sparked another outbreak of violence in the fractious country.

The declaration "All Blacks supporters' waiting lounge", nailed to the rough shelter, had the local militia believing it involved racial segregation.

But the militia quickly changed their tone after learning that there was no racial slight behind the "All Blacks" sign.

"After some initial confusion by the local militia, that All Blacks was some sort of reference to segregation at the airfield, they are now firm NZ rugby supporters," Kiwi Mark Townshend wrote.

Townshend is based at Wajid, a small dirt airfield in south-central Somalia.

While the supporters' lounge is at the airport, the games can be seen a few kilometres away, where a generator, television and satellite dish catch the latest from the Rugby World Cup.

Townshend said the support, in some cases, became "too enthusiastic caused by the heat and Ramadan fasting", resulting in guns being thrust at those who refused to pledge their support.

"Any Kiwis flying through Wajid are welcome to overnight and watch the games," he said.

Source: The New Zealand Herald