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Message to the Somaliland Diaspora on the International Day of Family Remittances- MoFA

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June 16th 2025

Message to the Somaliland Diaspora on the International Day of Family Remittances

Dear Members of the Somaliland Diaspora,

On this International Day of Family Remittances, the Diaspora Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation extends sincere congratulations and gratitude to the Somalilanders living abroad. Your contributions through remittances have reached a record close to $2 billion, accounting for 45% of Somaliland’s GDP, while thus Somaliland emerges as one of the top ten largest recipients of remittances in Sub-Saharan Africa. This remarkable achievement reflects your ongoing commitment to supporting families and communities at home.

Remittances are more than financial transfers. They represent the strong cultural ties, kinship, and social cohesion that connect Somalilanders worldwide. Your regular support helps provide essential needs, build resilience during crises, invest in businesses, and fund community development projects.

Your efforts are vital to Somaliland’s national development and the goals outlined in Somaliland Vision 2030. The government recognizes the important role you play in advancing economic growth and social stability. Your contributions have not gone unnoticed. The government of Somaliland recognizes and deeply appreciates the considerable role of our diaspora in the national development agenda. You are not only ambassadors of our culture and values abroad but also pillars of progress and stability at home.

As we mark this special day, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the partnership between the government and the diaspora. We will continue to work tirelessly to create an enabling environment for your investments, safeguard your interests, and ensure that your voices are heard in shaping the future of Somaliland.

Thank you for your dedication and support. Together, we continue to build a stronger and more prosperous Republic of Somaliland.

Sincerely,

Ougbad Nassir Omar

Director, Diaspora Department

President Cirro Launches Somaliland’s First Children’s Convention, Declares Youth “Backbone of the Nation”

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa-His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) today inaugurated Somaliland’s inaugural National Children’s Convention, marking African Child Day during a historic gathering at the Presidency.

The landmark event – the first dedicated children’s assembly in Somaliland’s history – was hosted by the Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs and Family in partnership with national institutions and international development organizations.

In a keynote address, President Cirro framed the day as a national reckoning:
“Children’s Day demands we confront our sacred duty: to protect every child’s dignity and rights while investing in their future. This is our religious obligation, legal mandate, and civic imperative.”

The President issued a stark progress warning:
“National development remains impossible while our children lack basic rights – especially education and healthcare.”

He identified three non-negotiable pillars for youth development:
1. Education– Building capable future leaders
2. Healthcare– Ensuring foundational wellbeing
3. Social Protection– Guaranteeing dignity and security

Concluding with a direct pledge to Somaliland’s youth, President Cirro declared,”To our children: You are the backbone of this nation. We will amplify your voices, support your responsibilities, and build the future of your dreams.”

Somaliland Environment Minister and Alight Explore Cooperation to Mitigate Climate Change Impacts

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Somaliland, Mr. Abdillahi Jama Cismaan (Geel-jire), today hosted a delegation from the international organization Alight at his office.

The meeting focused extensively on critical issues concerning environmental protection and addressing the impacts of climate change in Somaliland.

During in-depth discussions, both sides examined the overall state of the environment, the growing threats posed by climate change, and strategies to foster sustainable cooperation aimed at minimizing environmental risks and climate change-induced damage.

Somaliland Intensifies National Livestock Health Surveillance with Advanced Veterinary Training Program

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa– The Ministry of Livestock Development today launched a high-priority training initiative to strengthen Somaliland’s capacity in livestock disease surveillance and epidemic response systems.

Core Mission
The intensive multi-day program will upskill 20 regional veterinarians in:
• Real-time digital disease reporting
• Early outbreak detection protocols
• Advanced field diagnostic techniques

Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdirahman, Director of Animal Health,  during the launching of the campaign emphasized that the Veterinarians are our primary defense against animal epidemics. This training will dramatically enhance your skills in disease tracking, emergency preparedness, and containment strategies critical for our US$1 billion livestock sector.”

Program Framework
1. National Integration – Synchronizes regional clinics with Hargeisa headquarters through unified digital dashboards
2. Modernized Surveillance – Implements WHO-compatible disease reporting standards
3. Strategic Deployment – Targets veterinarians from high-density livestock zones (Woqooyi Galbeed, Togdheer, Sahil regions)

Operational Implementation
• Trainees will receive field diagnostic kits and digital tablets upon certification
• Mandatory data accuracy standards established for development planning
• New epidemic alert protocols to be operationalized nationwide

National Significance
This initiative represents a major advancement in Somaliland’s veterinary infrastructure, directly supporting:
✓ Pastoral livelihoods (65% of population)
✓ Meat/dairy export safety compliance
✓ Prevention of zoonotic disease transmission.

Senior Officials Present
• Eng. Hassan Jama Hassan (Director, IT Systems)
• Dr. Hassan Ahmed Hassan (Director, Animal Resources)
• Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Nur (Maroodi-Jeex Regional Coordinator)

Somaliland Vice President Opens Key Conference on Humanitarian Coordination Forum

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Hargeisa-The Republic of Somaliland Vice President, Hon. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, officially opened a critical conference today in Hargeisa aimed at strengthening and coordinating humanitarian aid efforts across the nation. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs, addressed the pressing issue of declining aid support for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Somaliland.

The conference brought together government officials, representatives of humanitarian organizations, and key stakeholders to strategize on improving aid delivery and support for vulnerable populations. Mukhtar Abdi Jama, Director General of the Ministry, opened the session with a detailed overview of the conference’s goals, followed by remarks from the Deputy Minister and Halimo Ilmi, speaking on behalf of humanitarian agencies.

Notable speakers included Mohamed Sulub, President of Hargeisa University, and Mohamed Jama Kodbuur, a member of Somaliland’s House of Representatives, who praised the Ministry for its timely initiative. Minister Saleban Ducale Haji Jama underscored the conference’s importance, outlining the actionable outcomes the government seeks to achieve.

In his keynote address, Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi emphasized the shared responsibility of the government and citizens to support refugees and IDPs. “It is our collective duty to uplift the most vulnerable among us, ensuring they receive the assistance they need to rebuild their lives,” he stated.

The conference is expected to produce a roadmap for enhanced coordination among humanitarian actors and sustainable solutions to address the challenges faced by displaced communities in Somaliland.

Somaliland Water Minister Holds Crucial Meeting with Oxfam Leadership

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – Honourable Abubakar Abdirahman Good, Minister of Water Resources Development of the Republic of Somaliland, held a significant meeting with senior officials from the Oxfam organization.

The objectives of the meeting were:

  1. Information sharing and strengthening bilateral cooperation.
  2. Joint operation of desalination plants located in the Sool and Sanaag regions.
  3. Expanding the coverage of desalination plants to meet public demand, and collaboration on the sustainability and management of these facilities.
  4. Preparation of the Haji Abdi Waraabe Technical Institute, with support for training programs related to desalination plants.

The discussions also covered enhancing the knowledge and skills of local technicians through joint training, experience-sharing, and capacity building in equipment installation and maintenance.

The meeting fostered new hope and optimism regarding the improvement of clean water services and the future of collaboration between the two parties.

Growing Momentum for Somaliland Recognition Celebrated Globally

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In a heartening development for the Horn of Africa, the push for Somaliland’s international recognition is gaining unprecedented momentum, with prominent voices in the global community rallying behind its remarkable journey. Sir Gavin Williamson, a respected British MP, took to X earlier today to celebrate this milestone, spotlighting the Republic of Somaliland Independence Act introduced by U.S. Representative Scott Perry on June 13, 2025.

Sir Gavin’s post radiated optimism, declaring, “This is an exciting moment as the momentum for Somaliland recognition continues to grow! I’m thrilled to see Rep. Scott Perry’s ‘Republic of Somaliland Independence Act’ highlight Somaliland’s remarkable 33 years of stability, democracy, and cooperation.” He encouraged the world to “celebrate this progress and support a nation building a legacy of peace!”

The act, introduced by Rep. Perry, underscores Somaliland’s inspiring track record since reclaiming its independence in 1991. For over three decades, the nation has demonstrated resilient governance and a commitment to democratic values, earning praise from international observers. The timing of this initiative aligns with a wave of positive attention following high-level dialogues in Nairobi, where Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Irro recently welcomed global delegates to foster regional cooperation and peace.

As the world watches, this movement promises to strengthen ties and inspire further collaboration. With leaders and citizens alike celebrating Somaliland’s achievements, the global community stands poised to embrace a new chapter of peace and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.

Somaliland Education Minister Leads Meeting to Showcase Primary Curriculum Review Progress

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In a pivotal step toward modernizing Somaliland’s education system, the Ministry of Education and Science convened a high-profile meeting today at its headquarters to showcase progress in the ongoing review of the primary education curriculum. The gathering, held in the Ministry’s conference hall, brought together scholars, intellectuals, community leaders, and senior officials to discuss the transformative initiative.

The meeting was inaugurated by Minister of Education, Prof. Ismail Ducale Yusuf, alongside Director General Abdirahman Hussein Haji Hirsi and members of the National Committee tasked with steering the curriculum revision. Dr. Mustafa Khadar, a leading figure in the review process, delivered an in-depth presentation outlining the milestones achieved since the reform began, the current phase of development, and challenges encountered. He emphasized plans to roll out a modernized curriculum designed to elevate educational quality and meet global standards.

Community representatives seized the opportunity to engage directly with the Minister and the Committee, posing critical questions and offering recommendations. Discussions centered on enhancing curriculum quality, equipping students with market-relevant skills, and aligning education with Somaliland’s national development goals. Attendees praised the Ministry’s inclusive approach, noting the transparent and participatory nature of the reform process.

“This is a landmark moment for Somaliland’s education,” said Prof. Yusuf in his opening remarks. “Our goal is a curriculum that not only reflects our cultural values but also prepares our youth for the demands of the 21st century.”

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to a collaborative process, ensuring the revised curriculum addresses contemporary needs while fostering skills for both local and international job markets. The new framework is expected to roll out in phases, with further consultations planned to refine its implementation.

Somaliland Welcomes World Bank Experts to Advance Customs Modernization

The Director of the Customs Department at Somaliland’s Ministry of Finance, Mr. Abdirahman Ismail Hussein, warmly welcomed a delegation of World Bank experts to the country today, marking a significant step in Somaliland’s ongoing financial reforms.

The visiting specialists are tasked with supporting the implementation of the Government Financial Management Reform Program, with a specific focus on modernizing and streamlining the nation’s customs services. Their mission aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in Somaliland’s customs operations, a critical component of the country’s economic development strategy.

During their visit, the World Bank delegation is scheduled to hold high-level meetings with Ministry of Finance officials and conduct site visits to key customs facilities across the country. These engagements are expected to provide valuable insights and recommendations to bolster the modernization efforts.

This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Finance’s intensified efforts to overhaul the government’s financial management systems, reflecting Somaliland’s commitment to improving public service delivery and fostering economic growth.

The arrival of the World Bank experts underscores the international community’s continued support for Somaliland’s development agenda, as the nation works toward a more robust and modern financial framework.

The Strategic Imperative of Recognizing Somaliland: Implications for Stability in the Horn of Africa

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The Strategic Imperative of Recognizing Somaliland: Implications for Stability in the Horn of Africa-Liban Ismail-Chairman of Somaliland Good Governance

Abstract

The Republic of Somaliland—though lacking international recognition—has sustained peace, democracy, and self-governance since its self-declared independence in 1991. This paper examines the historical and legal legitimacy of Somaliland’s claim to statehood and explores how its formal recognition would contribute to peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa. It argues that international recognition is not only legally necessary but also strategically vital to regional and global stability.

1 Introduction

The Horn of Africa continues to face persistent political instability, conflict, and governance crises. Within this context, the Republic of Somaliland presents a rare case of stability, democratic governance, and effective self-rule. Despite operating as a de facto state for more than three decades, Somaliland remains unrecognized by the international community. This paper contends that recognizing Somaliland is consistent with international law and would play a constructive role in stabilizing the broader region.

2 Historical and Legal Foundations of Statehood

Somaliland gained independence from British colonial rule on 26 June 1960 and was recognized by more than 30 countries (Bradbury, 2008). It voluntarily unified with the Trust Territory of Somalia on 1 July 1960 to form the Somali Republic. However, this union lacked a binding legal framework, and, over time, political marginalization and civil conflict undermined its legitimacy (Farley, 2010).

Following the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, Somaliland withdrew from the union and reinstated its sovereignty. Under the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States (1933), a state must possess a defined territory, a permanent population, an effective government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states—all of which Somaliland demonstrably satisfies (Crawford, 2006).

3 Governance and Institutional Resilience

Somaliland has developed and sustained democratic institutions through locally driven peace-building processes. It has held multiple multiparty elections, ensured peaceful transfers of power, and upheld constitutional governance (Walls, 2013). Unlike southern Somalia, which has experienced ongoing conflict and foreign military presence, Somaliland’s stability has been maintained largely through indigenous systems of governance that combine traditional elders with modern political structures (Höhne, 2015).

Additionally, Somaliland operates a functioning judiciary, independent security forces, a national currency, and public-service systems, thereby exhibiting the core attributes of a sovereign state (Eubank, 2012).

4 Geostrategic Importance and Regional Contributions

4.1 Maritime Security and Counterterrorism

Situated along the Gulf of Aden—a vital international shipping lane—Somaliland plays a critical role in regional maritime security. It has cooperated with international partners on anti-piracy and counterterrorism initiatives despite lacking formal diplomatic status (Pham, 2012). Recognition would enhance its capacity to contribute to collective security arrangements and global maritime governance.

4.2 Regional Diplomacy and Peace-Building

Recognition would enable Somaliland to participate in regional fora such as the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Such participation could facilitate more constructive relations with Somalia and promote dialogue grounded in mutual respect and sovereignty (Bryden, 2003). Normalizing relations would shift the dynamic from confrontation to cooperation, thereby advancing peace-building across the Horn of Africa.

5 Economic Integration and Development Potential

Recognition would unlock opportunities for Somaliland to access international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF, attract foreign direct investment, and negotiate trade agreements. The expansion of the Port of Berbera—supported by investments from the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia—positions Somaliland as a potential logistics hub for East Africa (de Waal, 2020). Its strategic location could foster greater regional trade connectivity and economic interdependence, promoting prosperity and reducing drivers of conflict.

6 Risks of Continued Non-Recognition

The prolonged lack of recognition isolates Somaliland from the international system, impedes its development efforts, and reinforces political disenfranchisement. Continued non-recognition may also sow internal discontent, weaken state legitimacy, and create openings for extremist actors (International Crisis Group, 2006). It deprives the region of a potential contributor to stability and economic growth.

7 Conclusion

Recognizing Somaliland is both a legal obligation and a strategic opportunity for international and regional actors. Somaliland fulfills all conventional criteria of statehood, and its consistent governance, democratic performance, and contributions to peace make it a model in a region fraught with instability. Formal recognition would enable more effective cooperation in security, trade, and diplomacy while reinforcing the value of peaceful self-determination. In the long term, recognition would lay a foundation for sustainable peace and development in the Horn of Africa.

References

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Bradbury, M. (2008). Becoming Somaliland. James Currey.

Bryden, M. (2003). No Quick Fixes: Coming to Terms with Terrorism, Islam, and Statelessness in Somalia. Journal of Conflict Studies, 23(2), 24–56.

Crawford, J. (2006). The Creation of States in International Law (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.

de Waal, A. (2020). The Horn of Africa: Strategic Dynamics and Regional Security. World Peace Foundation.

Eubank, N. (2012). Taxation, Political Accountability and Foreign Aid: Lessons from Somaliland. Journal of Development Studies, 48(4), 465–480.

Farley, B. R. (2010). Recognizing Somaliland: International Law and the Failed State. Chicago Journal of International Law, 10(1), 119–134.

Höhne, M. V. (2015). Traditional Authorities and State Building in Somaliland: Not Only an African Phenomenon. Africa Spectrum, 50(1), 79–101.

International Crisis Group. (2006). Somaliland: Time for African Union Leadership (Africa Report No. 110).

Pham, J. P. (2012). The Somaliland Exception: Lessons on Post-Conflict State Building from the Part of the World That Didn’t Collapse. African Security, 5(2), 117–143.

Walls, M. (2013). A Somali Nation-State: History, Culture, and Somaliland’s Political Transition. International Journal of African Renaissance Studies, 8(1), 5–21

Liban Ismail Abdilahi

Chairman of Somaliland Good Governance