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Somaliland: The Council of Ministers’ Meeting Held This Afternoon and Other Key Points

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth

Hargeisa – The 20th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), and attended by the Vice President of Somaliland, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi, was held today at the Presidential Palace.

This session extensively addressed the commemoration and celebration of May 18th, the day marking the restoration of Somaliland’s sovereignty and independence, both within the country and internationally.

Additionally, the Council of Ministers emphasized that May 18th stands as a day of shared sentiment, unity, and solidarity among the valued people of the Republic of Somaliland, both at home and abroad.

Key Agenda Items of the 20th Session of the Council of Ministers:

1) Security and Stability of the Country:
The Council of Ministers received a comprehensive briefing from the Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Arab, regarding the overall security situation in the country. The minister stated that the country’s security remains stable, except for routine criminal activities within society and traffic accidents, which cause the highest number of fatalities and injuries.

  1. Economic Situation of the Country:
    The Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdullahi Hassan Aden, presented a general report on the country’s financial conditions and the progress of tax collection, particularly the General Sales Tax (GST). The minister noted that national revenue is progressively increasing day by day.

3) Modernization of the Armed Forces, Securing Ceel-Afweyn, and Military Upgrades:
The Minister of Defense, Mr. Mohamed Yusuf Ali (who was part of the delegation led by the Vice President of Somaliland), provided the Council with a detailed report on the various stages of three key initiatives: the modernization of the armed forces, securing Ceel-Afweyn, and the military’s technological upgrades—all of which hold significant importance for the nation. The minister acknowledged that these efforts faced notable challenges but required urgency and dedication. He emphasized that, with the grace of Allah (SWT), the President of Somaliland has consistently supported decisive actions to ensure the success of these initiatives.

4) The Measles Outbreak:
The Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, briefed the Council on the measles outbreak affecting some regions of the country. The minister stated that the ministry is making extensive efforts to contain the spread of measles. He mentioned that the ministry has launched public awareness campaigns and accelerated vaccination programs targeting children under five years of age.

5) Work Visit Report to the United Arab Emirates:
The Minister of Investment and Industrial Development, Mr. Said Mahmoud Buraale, informed the Council about an official work visit he and his team undertook to the UAE, particularly Dubai, following an invitation from the global port management company DP World. The minister highlighted that the visit provided valuable lessons and experiences related to national development strategies.

6) Preparations for the May 18th Celebrations:
The Minister of the Presidency, Mr. Khadar Hussein Abdi, presented a report on the progress of preparations for the commemoration of Somaliland’s Sovereignty and Independence Day. The minister shared the planned programs and ceremonies for this year’s national celebrations. He noted that the Ministry of Education is playing a crucial role in this year’s preparations, actively engaging school students across the country in the May 18th celebrations.

7) Decentralization System:
During the 20th session, the Council of Ministers revisited discussions on the government’s decentralization policy for regional and district administrations, specifically focusing on:
1) Political decentralization,
2) Administrative decentralization, and
3) Fiscal decentralization.

All ministers underscored that decentralization empowers local decision-making, enhances accountability, and improves the delivery of tailored public services.

Conclusion:
At the end of the discussions on the 19th and 20th sessions, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), directed the Council to establish a committee comprising ministers and subject-matter experts to further examine the decentralization framework, ensuring alignment with the provisions of the National Constitution.

U.S. rejects appeal to fund peacekeeping operations in crisis-hit Somalia

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The United States has rejected a United Nations proposal to help finance the African Union’s new peacekeeping mission in Somalia.

-The U.S. has declined to support a UN proposal to finance the African Union’s new peacekeeping mission in Somalia.

-The rejection impacts the transition from the African Union’s current mission ATMIS to the restructured AUSSOM initiative.

-Persistent unrest due to Al-Shabaab insurgents complicates stability and peace efforts in Somalia.

The rejection impacts the transition from the African Union’s current mission ATMIS to the restructured AUSSOM initiative.

Persistent unrest due to Al-Shabaab insurgents complicates stability and peace efforts in Somalia.

The Trump-led administration has rejected an African Union appeal to fund its new Somalia peace mission, citing operational concerns and poor burden-sharing.

A senior AU delegation visited Washington recently in a final push to secure backing for AUSSOM, which is set to replace ATMIS (African Union Transition Mission in Somalia) in July.

ATMIS is an AU-authorized peacekeeping mission that replaced the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and aims to support the Somali Security Forces in combating al-Shabaab and securing the country.

On 2 May, US senators introduced the “AUSSOM Funding Restriction Act of 2025,” aiming to block US contributions to AUSSOM under resolution 2719.

The U.S. decision has dealt a major blow to international efforts aimed at stabilizing the country as it transitions from ATMIS to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM).

Despite nearly two decades of military presence by the African Union in Somalia, the Islamist insurgent group Al-Shabaab remains deeply entrenched and increasingly emboldened.

While initial AU deployments helped reclaim key areas from militant control, recent offensives by Al-Shabaab have reversed many of those gains.

 

The ongoing crisis in Somalia has led to widespread suffering, with millions facing food insecurity and displacement due to conflict between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab.

The ongoing crisis in Somalia has led to widespread suffering, with millions facing food insecurity and displacement due to conflict between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab.

AU’s financial burden

ATMIS, the outgoing African Union mission, faces a severe financial crisis, with nearly $100 million in unpaid salaries and mounting debts, undermining peacekeeper morale and raising concerns about a potential security vacuum in Somalia.

According to a report by the Security Council Report, the US has expressed consistent opposition to the use of the 2719 framework for Somalia.

The framework was adopted in December 2023 and marks a significant development in the financing of African Union (AU)-led peace support operations (PSOs), allowing, for the first time, the use of UN-assessed contributions to fund such missions on a case-by-case basis

“The US has maintained that Somalia is not an appropriate context for the application of the 2719 framework and has opposed the hybrid implementation model, arguing that it does not reflect the spirit or intent of resolution 2719. The US has suggested exploring alternative financing options that extend beyond the traditional donor base.” the report noted

To address this, the UN and AU have agreed to cut $124.9 million from the AUSSOM budget by reducing peacekeeper pay, removing insurance costs, and cutting back on flights and equipment.

As a result, the revised AUSSOM budget is now $166.5 million, down from the projected $190.2 million.

They also hope to fund mine-clearing work through donations instead of the main budget. The UN says these cuts were tough decisions but necessary to keep the mission going without asking member countries to pay more.

Several Security Council members, including EU countries, have stressed the need for diversified funding and cost-sharing for Somalia’s peace mission, while China has urged traditional donors to maintain strong financial support.

In contrast, the US has consistently opposed using the 2719 framework for Somalia.

The ongoing crisis in Somalia has led to widespread suffering, with millions facing food insecurity and displacement due to conflict between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab. Political instability and clan divisions have further weakened the government’s authority.

While Somalia plans to hold direct elections in 2025, the crisis may disrupt the process. Displacement and Al-Shabaab’s control over regions could limit voting,

Source: Business Insider Africa

Somaliland: Environment Ministry Delegation Visits Kenya to Strengthen Climate Collaboration

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Nairobi, Kenya – A high-level delegation from Somaliland’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, in partnership with Action Aid, recently concluded a productive knowledge exchange visit to Kenya. Led by Mr. Adan Ahmed Hassan, Director of the Climate Change and Environmental Protection Department, the delegation received an official welcome from Somaliland Embassy representatives in Nairobi.

The visit’s highlight was a strategic engagement with the University of Nairobi, where delegates met with the Climate Change Institute Director and faculty deans. The productive discussions yielded agreements on:
– Advanced degree programs (Master’s and PhD) and vocational training
– Collaborative environmental and climate change research initiatives

The delegation’s itinerary included an extensive tour of Kenya’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), where they:
– Met with senior leadership including the Deputy Director-General
– Examined operational frameworks across departments
– Established a five-point cooperation agreement covering:
1. Capacity building for environmental professionals
2. Development of ecological standards
3. Modern environmental management systems
4. Climate impact assessment protocols
5. Joint scientific research programs

The visit culminated at Nairobi’s renowned Arboretum and National Herbarium, where experts demonstrated cutting-edge plant conservation techniques. This engagement resulted in a landmark agreement to synchronize nursery operations between Somaliland’s environmental ministry and Kenya’s premier botanical institution.

This exchange marks a significant step in regional environmental cooperation, positioning both nations for stronger climate resilience through shared expertise and institutional partnerships.

Somaliland: House of Representatives Begins Debate on Mortgage Law Bill

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The House of Representatives has commenced deliberations on the proposed Mortgage Law Bill (No. XXX/2024), which governs immovable property transactions.

During today’s parliamentary session—chaired by the Speaker of the House, Hon. Yasin Haji Mahmoud Hir (Faratoon)—members were briefed on the agenda, which included debating the Mortgage Law for Immovable Property (Legislative Bill No. XXX/2024).

The bill, comprising 19 articles, will be examined clause by clause in the ongoing discussions.

Introduced by the House of Representatives, the legislation aims to establish a regulatory framework for mortgages involving immovable assets, such as and, residential properties, and related holdings. Its primary objective is to ensure legal safeguards for both citizens and institutions engaged in the mortgage system.

Today marked the first day of deliberations with four members participating in the debate. Discussions are expected to continue in the following days, God willing.

Somaliland NEC Presents Voter Registration Assessment and Reform Plan to Political Parties Taskforce

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) no today convened a meeting with the National Political Parties Taskforce (Taskforce) to review key findings on the country’s voter registration system.

During the session, the NEC presented an independent assessment report conducted by KPMG, a globally recognized leader in system audits and evaluations. The report analyzed the Somaliland Voter Registry, identifying critical challenges in data management, technical infrastructure, and operational tools. It also provided actionable recommendations to enhance the system’s credibility and efficiency.

As a key outcome of the meeting, the NEC submitted its **Comprehensive Voter Registration Implementation Plan to the Taskforce. The plan, informed by KPMG’s expert analysis, outlines a structured approach to modernizing Somaliland’s voter registration process, ensuring alignment with international best practices and the assessment’s findings.

This collaborative effort marks a significant step toward strengthening electoral transparency and public trust in Somaliland’s democratic processes.

Somaliland President Holds Strategic Meeting with Academy for Peace and Development Leadership

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa– The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), accompanied by the Chairman of the National Peace Committee, convened a high-level meeting today with the senior leadership of the Academy for Peace and Development (APD), including its Executive Director, Mr. Mohamed.

During the productive discussions, President Irro commended APD’s pivotal role in Somaliland’s state-building journey, particularly its contributions to peace, sustainable development, and the consolidation of democratic governance. “The Academy has established itself as an indispensable national institution through its rigorous research, policy expertise, and decades of practical experience,” the President noted.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the partnership, President Cirro stated, “My government will strengthen its collaboration with APD to advance our national development agenda and democratic aspirations.”

The APD leadership expressed appreciation for the President’s engagement, with the Executive Director stating, “This meeting marks a significant step in deepening our institutional cooperation with the government, particularly in the areas of conflict resolution, governance reform, and democratic institution-building.”

Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining APD’s legacy as an independent, research-driven institution while aligning its work with national priorities. The discussions concluded with a shared commitment to formalizing frameworks for ongoing policy dialogue and program implementation.

The meeting, described by participants as “highly constructive,” reflects the growing synergy between Somaliland’s government and its premier policy research institution as the nation enters a new phase of its development.

CELEBRATION OF THE 34TH ANNIVERSARY OF SOMALILAND’S RESTORATION OF SOVEREIGNTY BY THE SOMALILAND COMMUNITY IN BELGIUM

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Somaliland community residing in Belgium 🇧🇪 celebrated the 34th anniversary of the restoration of sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland in a grand ceremony on the evening of Saturday, May 10, 2025.

The historic commemoration, held in the city of Antwerp, was attended by members of the community’s committee, numerous representatives from various sectors of the community, as well as delegates from the Somaliland communities in Luxembourg 🇱🇺, Germany 🇩🇪, and the Netherlands 🇳🇱.

Speaking at the event were the Chairman of the Somaliland Community in Belgium & Luxembourg, Omar Jama Warsame, other committee members and community elders, as well as Somaliland’s Representative to the European Union, Brigadier General Kaysar Abdullahi Mohamed, who joined the celebration via telephone while on an official trip abroad. All the officials and speakers emphasized the historic significance of this day for the Somaliland nation, as well as the vital role unity and solidarity play in the progress and aspirations of the Republic of Somaliland.

As part of the commemoration program, the Community Committee honored six outstanding individuals, mostly women, with certificates of recognition in appreciation of their significant contributions to organizing this national celebration and the overall activities of the community.

Somaliland diaspora communities across the world are celebrating the May 18 anniversary in numerous countries.

“Unity is the Key to Our Success.”
“Together we achieve success.”

Should Somaliland Relocate it’s Capital?

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Should Somaliland Relocate ts Capital?

Dear readers, today we examine a pressing question for Somaliland’s future: Should the commercial capital be separated from the political and diplomatic capital?

Hargeisa, Somaliland’s current capital, faces severe congestion and strained infrastructure. The city struggles to balance its roles as an economic hub, administrative center, and diplomatic focal point. Rapid urbanization, inadequate planning since independence in 1991, and limited international investment have left Hargeisa overburdened—unable to efficiently manage transportation, public services, and government operations.

Sheikh: A Viable Alternative for the Political Capital?

Sheikh, a historic city in the Saaxil region, holds untapped potential. Before Somaliland’s independence in 1960, it served as a key administrative and educational center under British rule, prized for its cool climate and strategic proximity to Berbera. Today, it hosts the University of Technology and Science of Somaliland, positioning it as a potential hub for governance, diplomacy, and intellectual growth.

Global Precedents: Divided Capitals

Many nations have successfully separated political and commercial capitals to optimize governance and urban development:
– Nigeria:- Abuja (political) vs. Lagos (commercial)
– South Africa:-Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial)
– Tanzania:- Dodoma (official capital) vs. Dar es Salaam (economic center)
– Australia:- Canberra (political) vs. Sydney/Melbourne (economic)
– USA:- Washington, D.C. (government) vs. New York (financial/diplomatic)

A Call for National Dialogue

While Somaliland’s Constitution designates Hargeisa as the official capital, the growing strain on the city warrants reconsideration. The Chief Justice’s recent push for public consultation opens the door to debate: Could Sheikh become the administrative and diplomatic capital, easing pressure on Hargeisa while leveraging its economic strength near Ethiopia?

Your Voice Matters:
“Should Sheikh become Somaliland’s political capital, or should Hargeisa retain both roles?

By Ismail Ali Ahmed

Somaliland Inaugurates $100 million agriculture project with US-Based African Food Security

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Somaliland Ministry of Agriculture has announced a $100 million agriculture development project to boost food production across the region. The project is being funded and implemented by African Food Security, a US-based company specializing in agricultural development.

The initiative was formally signed by Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro and publicly announced by the Minister of Agriculture Development, Mahmoud Egeh Yusuf, alongside Deputy Minister Mukhtar Haaji Muxumed Farah.

According to a press release from the Ministry, African Food Security highlighted Somaliland’s strategic location, stating the region has potential to become a key exporter of agricultural products to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the future.

President Irro emphasized that improving agricultural production is a top priority for his administration, especially as food insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges in Somaliland.

Currently, most food consumed in Somaliland is imported, while local agricultural output remains minimal and insufficient to meet the population’s needs. Officials say limited investment in the sector, severe water shortages, and arid environmental conditions have hindered agricultural development.

The partnership with African Food Security is expected to address some of these barriers and lay the groundwork for long-term food sustainability and economic growth.

Somaliland President and Electoral Commission Review 2024 Polls, Commit to Strengthening Democracy

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) convened a high-level meeting today with the National Electoral Commission (NEC) to evaluate the successful 2024 elections and discuss enhancements for future electoral processes.

President Irro lauded the NEC’s exemplary management of the harmonized presidential and political party elections held on November 13, 2024, which were widely acclaimed for their transparency, efficiency, and adherence to democratic standards.

“The NEC’s professionalism and dedication have set a benchmark for credible elections, earning Somaliland **international commendation, ” the President stated. He particularly recognized the commission’s successful implementation of biometric voter registration for Somaliland’s armed forces, a critical step in ensuring an inclusive and fraud-resistant electoral system.

In response, NEC officials expressed gratitude for the government’s unwavering support and presented key insights from their post-election assessment. The review highlighted achievements, identified challenges, and outlined actionable recommendations to further refine the electoral framework.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to safeguard Somaliland’s democratic progress, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration between the presidency and electoral authorities.

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