By Goth Mohamed Goth

The vibrant Somaliland community in Edmonton, Canada, marked the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s National Day on May 18, 2025, commemorating more than three decades since the restoration of the nation’s sovereignty. The spirited celebrations, held in a bustling public square, brought together generations of Somalilanders and allies to honor their heritage and shared history.

Attendees adorned traditional attire and Somaliland’s iconic unity flag, symbolizing resilience and self-determination, as they gathered with joy and patriotic enthusiasm. Families, youth, elders, and local leaders joined Canadian government officials and distinguished guests to celebrate the occasion, reflecting the community’s integration and multicultural harmony in Edmonton.

The event featured stirring speeches that recounted Somaliland’s journey, emphasizing its historical struggle for recognition and the enduring significance of May 18 as a day of national pride. Cultural performances took center stage, with traditional Somali dances, soulful poetry, and folk songs echoing the rich tapestry of Somaliland’s identity. Attendees savored authentic Somali cuisine, while children participated in lively cultural games, fostering intergenerational connections.

In a heartfelt tribute, honorary certificates were awarded to community members and allies who have championed Somaliland’s cause and contributed to preserving its cultural legacy abroad. The celebrations not only showcased Somaliland’s distinct heritage but also reinforced the community’s unity and determination to keep their homeland’s story alive on the global stage.

The festivities concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity, underscoring the Edmonton community’s role as a beacon of Somaliland’s enduring spirit and aspirations.

The Somaliland Government has intensified efforts to implement initiatives encompassing economic development, healthcare, social cohesion, community advancement, security, justice, and decentralized governance

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Republic of Somaliland has entered a pivotal new chapter in its state-building agenda, intensifying efforts to advance economic resilience, social welfare, security, and governance reforms. This second phase underscores the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and institutionalizing democratic principles.

Key Priorities for 2025
During May 2025, the Somaliland Council of Ministers and Presidency unveiled a comprehensive strategy to accelerate progress in five critical areas:
1. Security Stabilization: Expanding counter-terrorism efforts and modernizing defense systems.
2. Economic Revitalization: Boosting revenue collection, trade, and infrastructure investment.
3. Governance Reform: Decentralizing authority to empower local administrations.
4. Social Equity: Enhancing healthcare, education, and support for vulnerable groups.
5. Public Engagement: Strengthening civic participation in decision-making.

President Irro’s Vision: “Peace and Progress Above All

In a public address, His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro reaffirmed his administration’s focus on national unity and development:
“Our mandate is clear—to deliver stability, opportunity, and dignity for every citizen. Distractions will not deter us from this mission.”

Under President Cirro’s leadership, the government has prioritized transparency and collaboration, earning heightened public trust and international recognition for Somaliland’s institutional reforms.

—Breakdown of Strategic Milestones

1. Decentralization: Empowering Local Governance
   A landmark initiative to devolve power to regional and municipal authorities is underway. A presidential-appointed technical committee—comprising ministers, legal experts, and civil society representatives—is drafting a decentralized governance framework aligned with Somaliland’s Constitution. This move aims to enhance service delivery and grassroots accountability.

2. Economic Growth: Strengthening Fiscal Foundations
   Finance Minister Abdullahi Hassan Aden reported a 22% year-on-year increase in tax revenue, driven by streamlined GST implementation.
   “Our fiscal discipline and anti-corruption measures are restoring confidence in Somaliland’s economic potential,” he stated.

3. Security Modernization: Protecting Stability
   Defense Minister Mohamed Yusuf Ali announced the completion of a biometric registration system for all national forces, alongside enhanced counter-insurgency operations in the Ceel-Afweyn corridor. These measures aim to safeguard territorial integrity and civilian safety.

4. National Orphan Care Fund: A Lifeline for Vulnerable Youth
President Cirro launched the National Orphan Care Fund with an inaugural government pledge of $100,000. The fund will provide education, healthcare, and vocational training for over 5,000 orphaned children, with plans to expand through public-private partnerships.

1. Public Solidarity Day: Uniting Communities
   Effective May 2026, Somaliland will annually commemorate Public Solidarity Day (May 10) to promote volunteerism, charitable giving, and civic education. The initiative seeks to bridge societal divides and address poverty through collective action.

2. Agricultural Transformation: Partnering for Food Security
   Following talks with African Food Security, Somaliland secured a $15 million grant to modernize farming techniques and livestock management. The project aims to increase agricultural exports by 40% by 2030, reducing reliance on food imports.

—A New Era of Institutional Maturity
Somaliland’s second-phase reforms reflect a maturing nation focused on equitable growth, participatory governance, and global engagement. By prioritizing social cohesion and institutional accountability, the government aims to solidify its case for international recognition while delivering tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, Somaliland– The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), hosted a high-level meeting today at the Presidential Palace with Nelli Mikkola, Finland’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs overseeing relations with Somaliland and Somalia.

The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral cooperation, with emphasis on advancing shared priorities in regional security, social development, and the promotion of good governance. President Cirro expressed appreciation for Finland’s enduring support to Somaliland’s people and reiterated Somaliland’s commitment to fostering regional peace and stability through dialogue and inclusive conflict resolution.

Reflecting on his administration’s progress, President Cirro highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including the strategic restructuring of Somaliland’s Armed Forces, the successful completion of a modern national census, modernization efforts across all branches of the Somaliland National Armed Forces (SNAF), and the peaceful resolution of the protracted conflict in El Afweyn district.

The President underscored critical areas for Finnish partnership, notably healthcare systems, educational infrastructure, vocational training programs, and institutional capacity-building to strengthen governance frameworks.

Deputy Minister Mikkola lauded Somaliland’s recent transparent elections and orderly transition of power, commending the administration’s constructive approach to mitigating tensions in the eastern regions. She reaffirmed Finland’s readiness to collaborate in priority sectors, including public health, education, conflict mediation, and peacebuilding initiatives. Additionally, she extended an invitation for President Cirro to visit Finland, acknowledging his prior ties to the country.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, reflecting mutual understanding and alignment of strategic interests. Both parties expressed optimism for deepened cooperation in pursuit of sustainable development and stability

Sheffield-In a historic milestone, Safiya Saeed, a Somaliland-born British citizen, has been elected as the 128th Lord Mayor of Sheffield, becoming the first Black Muslim woman wearing a hijab to hold this prestigious position. The inauguration took place at Sheffield City Council’s Annual General Meeting at Sheffield Town Hall, attended by proud family members from Somaliland and members of the local community.

Councillor Safiya Saeed, a member of the Labour Party and a single mother of five, has been a dedicated member of the Sheffield City Council since 2021 and previously served as Deputy Lord Mayor and Chair of the North East Local Area Committee. “I am incredibly proud to step into the role of Lord Mayor, making history as the first Black woman wearing a hijab to hold this position in Sheffield,” Saeed said. “This city has truly become my home, a place where I have always felt I belong.”

Saeed, who is also the founder of Reach Up Youth, an initiative empowering young people, aims to transform Sheffield into a thriving hub for investors, entrepreneurs, charities, and residents to build partnerships and amplify the city’s diverse voices. Her election has been celebrated widely, particularly by the Somaliland diaspora, one of the oldest and most active diaspora communities in the UK, known for its significant contributions to both Sheffield and Somaliland.

The Somaliland community in Sheffield has long been a driving force in advocating for the recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Notably, Sheffield City Council was the first UK local council to recognize Somaliland’s independence on April 2, 2014, a move that inspired other councils, including Bristol, Cardiff, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Tower Hamlets in London, to follow suit between 2014 and 2019. These efforts highlight the diaspora’s commitment to their homeland’s sovereignty, which Somaliland declared in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government.

The Diaspora Agency of Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation extended heartfelt congratulations to Saeed, noting that her achievement marks a significant moment for the Somaliland diaspora and their contributions to global civic leadership.

Saeed’s election comes at a time when Somaliland continues to seek international recognition as a sovereign state, having maintained relative stability and democratic governance for over three decades despite lacking formal acknowledgment from foreign governments. Her role as Lord Mayor is expected to further spotlight the Somaliland diaspora’s influence and the ongoing push for recognition.

As Sheffield’s new Lord Mayor, Safiya Saeed stands as a symbol of inclusivity, resilience, and community leadership, inspiring not only the people of Sheffield but also the global Somaliland diaspora.

The Somaliland diaspora marked the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s reclamation of it’s independence on May 18, 1991, with vibrant celebrations across North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia. These events showcased cultural pride, unity, and the ongoing push for international recognition, highlighting the diaspora’s significant contributions to Somaliland’s development and global advocacy.

Some of the Global Celebrations and Contributions

• Canada (Edmonton): KULAN, a non-profit, hosted a cultural festival in a local park with over 200 attendees, featuring traditional dances, flag displays, and a children’s art competition envisioning a recognized Somaliland. Canada’s Shadow Minister for Public Safety, Shadow Minister for Public Safety & Emergency Services Hon David Shepherd, was honored for supporting Black communities, reinforcing diaspora ties with local leaders.

• United Kingdom (London): The Somaliland Community Association UK organized a rally in Trafalgar Square, with hundreds marching for recognition, followed by a petition submission to the UK government. A cultural evening included Somali poetry, music, and a documentary screening, emphasizing advocacy and heritage.
• Australia (Melbourne): The “Somaliland Unity Cup” soccer tournament and family picnic brought the community together, with traditional dishes and storytelling sessions for youth. A video message from Somaliland’s Foreign Minister thanked the diaspora for their advocacy.
• Sweden (Stockholm): An academic symposium, “Somaliland at 34: Achievements and Aspirations,” discussed Somaliland’s democratic progress and diaspora advocacy, followed by a cultural showcase with dhaanto dances and Somali tea, educating attendees about Somaliland’s stability.
• United States (Minneapolis): A hybrid event featured a virtual celebration with speeches and poetry, paired with an in-person fundraising gala raising funds for educational projects. Attendees in traditional attire danced to Somali music, emphasizing development support.
• Ethiopia (Addis Ababa): A diplomatic forum, “Somaliland-Ethiopia Partnership: A Path to Recognition,” focused on economic ties via Berbera Port, followed by a cultural exchange with music and cuisine, strengthening Somaliland-Ethiopia bonds.
• Yemen (Sana’a): Despite regional challenges, a modest gathering featured prayers, poetry, and a donation drive for Somaliland students, reflecting resilience and solidarity across the Gulf of Aden.
• Germany (Berlin): An art exhibition, “Visions of Somaliland,” showcased works on independence and heritage, drawing diverse crowds. A youth session encouraged social media advocacy, paired with traditional music performances.
• South Africa (Johannesburg): A business forum highlighted Somaliland’s economic potential, focusing on trade and Berbera Port, followed by a networking event with live music and cultural displays, fostering African diaspora connections.

Diaspora Contributions

• Economic Impact: 1.3bn remittances since last four years according to the central bank and this estimate is also mentioned in the NDP III among others fund education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Fundraising during 2025 events supported schools and clinics, while diaspora investments bolstered Hargeisa’s tech sector, enabling live-streamed celebrations.
• Cultural Preservation: Events featured traditional dances, poetry, and cuisine, reinforcing identity for diaspora youth. The UK’s Somali GCSE campaign ensures linguistic continuity.
• Political Advocacy: Rallies, petitions, and social media campaigns amplified calls for recognition, targeting governments like the US (via the Somaliland Partnership Act) and the African Union. Diaspora professionals advise Somaliland’s government on policy.
• Community Building: Events fostered unity and integration, with initiatives like Cardiff’s flag-raising and Helsinki’s cultural showcase strengthening ties with host nations.

The 2025 Independence Day celebrations underscored the Somaliland diaspora’s role as a global voice for their homeland. Through cultural festivals, diplomatic forums, and fundraising, they showcased Somaliland’s stability, democratic achievements, and economic potential while advocating for recognition. Despite challenges like non-recognition and brain drain, their economic contributions, cultural preservation, and political advocacy—amplified by events in 2025—demonstrate a resilient commitment to Somaliland’s future. The Somaliland Diaspora Agency praised these efforts, noting their critical role in raising global awareness.