AUSTIN, Texas – In a recent interview with Saab TV, Jama Ayaanle Feyte, a prominent Somaliland-born political analyst and journalist based in Austin, Texas, detailed the accelerating efforts of the global Somaliland diaspora to secure formal international recognition, particularly from the United States.
Feyte, who coordinates advocacy efforts across North America and Europe, outlined a multi-faceted strategy. He highlighted that the Somaliland diaspora in Texas is preparing a significant push to partner with U.S. lawmakers, specifically naming Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), to formally advocate for recognition.
This grassroots initiative complements the official diplomatic work of the Somaliland Mission in Washington D.C., led by Ambassador Bashir Goth. Feyte noted the Mission’s critical progress in engaging members of Congress, especially those on foreign relations committees, and influential think tanks. These efforts are culminating in preparations for an official visit to Washington by H.E. President Muse Bihi Abdi.
Countering False Narratives with a Confident Vision
When addressing disinformation campaigns spread by outlets aligned with the Federal Government of Somalia (SFG), Feyte argued for a strategic shift. “Countering the SFG’s activities requires a move from a defensive posture to an assertive, confident, and proactive one,” he stated. He emphasized that the focus must be on demonstrating Somaliland’s tangible value as a stable, democratic, and economically viable partner.
“Somaliland is a proven, de facto sovereign state that has built peace from the ground up for 33 years,” Feyte told Saab TV. “The SFG’s campaign to undermine this stability is not about ‘unity’ but about extending a weak and often chaotic central government’s control. Supporting Somaliland’s stability is not just about our right to self-determination; it is in the direct security and economic interest of the international community.”
The Case for U.S. Recognition: Why Somaliland Matters
Feyte pointed to an open letter already sent to Senator Cruz that elaborates on the strategic rationale for U.S. recognition, framing it as a matter of mutual interest:
1. A Beacon of Stability: Somaliland has maintained peace, democracy, and orderly transitions of power for over three decades—a stark contrast to Somalia, which remains a haven for terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab.
2. A Critical Security Partner: Somaliland actively cooperates with U.S. military forces (AFRICOM) to combat extremism, piracy, and counter the influence of adversarial nations like Iran and China in the volatile Horn of Africa region.
Through sophisticated diplomacy, public relations, and unwavering internal unity, Feyte believes Somaliland can successfully neutralize opposition and achieve its long-sought goal of taking its rightful place among the community of nations.
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