By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin

As Somaliland embarks on a new era under the leadership of President Abdirahman Mohamed Ali, the nation is presented with a unique and pressing opportunity to confront its most enduring challenges. Among them is the urgent need to reconcile and rebuild peace in the eastern provinces, an effort that holds the key not only to securing lasting stability but also to reuniting over 300 soldiers, including senior military commanders, with their families.

These captured soldiers are not just individuals—they are symbols of courage, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment of Somaliland’s armed forces to defend the nation’s sovereignty. Their continued absence is a national tragedy, leaving families in anguish, communities fractured, and the morale of the armed forces tested. The time to act is now, and the current administration’s peace-building efforts in the eastern regions provide a timely and critical opportunity to address this crisis.

The Legacy of Conflict

The recurring violence in Somaliland’s eastern regions has deep and complex roots. While local grievances, clan dynamics, and economic disparities have played a role, the broader context of regional geopolitics cannot be ignored. For decades, Mogadishu has orchestrated a destabilization campaign against Somaliland, aiming to undermine its de facto independence and thwart its aspirations for international recognition. This campaign has been bolstered by external support, with reports indicating that Egyptian and Chinese weapons and finances have been funneled into the region to fuel unrest and destabilize Somaliland’s hard-won stability.

These efforts are not just an attack on Somaliland’s sovereignty but also a calculated attempt to weaken its social fabric and stall its progress. The eastern regions have borne the brunt of these machinations, with repeated outbreaks of violence causing immense suffering and disruption.

A New Administration’s Bold Vision

President Abdirahman Mohamed Ali has wasted no time in signaling his administration’s commitment to addressing these challenges head-on. His bold reforms, including a 50% increase in the monthly salaries of the armed forces, the appointment of younger and more dynamic leadership for the military and police, and significant investments in upgrading military hardware, are transformative steps that underscore his vision for a stronger, more resilient Somaliland.

These measures have already begun to restore public confidence in the government and boost the morale of the armed forces. By valuing the sacrifices of those who defend Somaliland’s sovereignty, the administration is reaffirming the bond between the state and its citizens. However, as crucial as these reforms are, they must be complemented by a comprehensive approach to peace-building in the eastern regions—an effort that must prioritize the safe return of captured soldiers and address the root causes of the conflict.

Reconciliation and Peace-Building: The Way Forward

The process of reconciliation in the eastern provinces is not just a political imperative but a moral one. Peace-building offers the best chance to heal divisions, restore trust, and create a foundation for lasting stability. Engaging local community leaders, clan elders, and other stakeholders in meaningful dialogue is essential to addressing historical grievances and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Central to this process must be the negotiation for the release of the captured soldiers. Their return would not only reunite them with their families but also serve as a powerful symbol of the government’s commitment to its people and its values. It would demonstrate that Somaliland does not abandon those who serve it and that it is willing to exhaust all efforts to secure their safety.

Moreover, the return of these soldiers would be a significant step toward rebuilding trust between the government and communities in the eastern regions. It would send a clear message that peace and reconciliation are not abstract ideals but tangible goals that prioritize human lives and dignity.

Addressing the Root Causes of Conflict

While reconciliation is essential, it is equally important to address the underlying factors that have fueled instability in the eastern regions. Somaliland must confront the influence of external actors, particularly Mogadishu’s destabilization campaign and its support from Egypt and China. By exposing and countering these efforts, Somaliland can strengthen its position on the international stage and reinforce its case for recognition as an independent state.

This requires a multifaceted strategy that includes enhancing border security, increasing transparency in governance, and investing in the development of the eastern regions. By addressing economic disparities and providing opportunities for education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, the government can undermine the appeal of external interference and create a more unified and resilient Somaliland.

A Moral Imperative

The safe return of captured soldiers is not just a political or military issue—it is a moral imperative. These men and women risked their lives in service to Somaliland, and their continued captivity is a stark reminder of the cost of conflict. Their families, who endure daily anguish and uncertainty, deserve closure and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Somaliland has a proud history of resilience and self-reliance. Its journey toward independence and recognition has been marked by perseverance and determination. By prioritizing the safe return of captured soldiers, advancing peace-building efforts, and addressing the root causes of conflict, the new administration can demonstrate the same spirit of determination that has defined Somaliland’s struggle for sovereignty.

A Call to Action

President Abdirahman Mohamed Ali has the opportunity to set a powerful tone for his administration—a tone of compassion, courage, and commitment to the values that underpin Somaliland’s democracy. The challenges are immense, but so too are the opportunities.

By focusing on reconciliation in the eastern regions, negotiating the release of captured soldiers, and addressing the broader geopolitical factors at play, Somaliland can take a decisive step toward lasting peace and stability. These efforts will not only strengthen the nation internally but also bolster its standing on the international stage, showcasing Somaliland as a beacon of hope and resilience in the Horn of Africa.

The time to act is now. Let us honor the sacrifices of our soldiers, support their families, and work tirelessly to bring them home. Let us seize this moment to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous Somaliland—one that stands as a testament to the power of determination and the enduring spirit of its people.