Addis Abeba – Somaliland, a self-declared republic in the Horn of Africa, has functioned autonomously since proclaiming independence in 1991, despite lacking international recognition. Over the years, it has built a functional democracy, held regular elections, maintained judicial independence, and achieved relative stability in a region often characterized by disorder. Its strategic location near the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait also lends it considerable maritime and geopolitical significance.

This article argues that Somaliland offers a range of opportunities—particularly for India. By advancing a compelling case for formal engagement, it will demonstrate how India could deepen its Indo-Pacific strategy and counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region through a bold and rarely exercised move in modern diplomacy: the formal recognition of Somaliland.

Geopolitical counterbalance

Establishing official ties with Somaliland would bring India closer to the Bab al-Mandab Strait—a critical maritime chokepoint through which approximately 10% of global trade flows. Access to ports such as Berbera offers India a strategic maritime advantage, particularly in light of China’s expanding military presence in nearby Djibouti.

Somaliland’s coastline offers India a strategic gateway to the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. Given that approximately 90% of India’s trade is seaborne, secure access to maritime routes is essential. Berbera represents the closest viable location for a future Indian maritime base west of the Malacca Strait, potentially reducing India’s dependence on existing facilities in locations such as Réunion or Madagascar.

India’s strategic posture aligns with the principles of defensive realism—emphasizing power projection without direct confrontation. The Somaliland coast lies directly across from China’s naval base in Djibouti. Gaining surveillance access in Berbera would enable India to monitor critical sea lanes and counterbalance the growing influence of other powers in the region.

Such a strategic position would significantly enhance India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy, complementing its existing maritime presence in Chabahar, Duqm, and along the East African coast. Integrating Somaliland into India’s maritime domain awareness would contribute to a network of strategic encirclement around China’s Maritime Silk Road.

As a leading advocate of South-South cooperation, India stands to enhance its influence by supporting Somaliland’s institutional capacity building. Initiatives such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program and the Pan-African e-Network already align with Somaliland’s development needs. This approach stands in sharp contrast to the extractive and infrastructure-intensive Chinese diplomacy. Indian assistance would foster people-to-people connections and reinforce democratic legitimacy in the region.

Soft power projection

Somaliland fulfills all the criteria for statehood as outlined in the Montevideo Convention of 1933: a permanent population, a defined territory, an effective government, and the capacity to engage in foreign relations. From a constructivist perspective, Somaliland’s democratic credentials merit normative recognition by India. Despite its lack of formal recognition, Somaliland upholds press freedom, conducts competitive elections, and maintains traditional mechanisms for conflict resolution.

Somaliland’s bold diplomatic engagement with Taiwan since 2020 can be interpreted as a challenge to Chinese orthodoxy. In this context, India—currently engaged in ongoing border tensions with Beijing—could adopt a strategy of strategic hedging. A decentralized axis involving India, Somaliland, and Taiwan would represent a form of unofficial diplomacy grounded in shared democratic values.

India’s potential diplomatic recognition of Somaliland would be consistent with its historical support for the independence struggles of Namibia and Bangladesh.”

India and Taiwan are already cooperating in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education. This understated Taiwan policy complements Somaliland’s commitment to pluralism and its pursuit of international recognition. As a member of the Quad, India benefits from an informal alignment with fellow democracies, reinforcing its image and credibility as a liberal power.

India’s potential diplomatic recognition of Somaliland would be consistent with its historical support for the independence struggles of Namibia and Bangladesh. Unlike China and Russia, India places greater emphasis on democratic legitimacy rather than the preservation of regimes. India has historical precedent for such a move, notably its support for Bangladesh’s independence in 1971. Recognizing Somaliland would reaffirm India’s post-colonial ideals and open avenues for trade, intelligence sharing, and regional cooperation.

India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision emphasizes maritime cooperation and regional stability. In this context, Somaliland—particularly the Emirati-managed Port of Berbera—offers a potential strategic foothold for India in the western Indian Ocean.

Somaliland should be integrated into India’s SAGAR framework to foster a collaborative maritime order in the Indian Ocean. Such cooperation would strengthen regional security, support economic resilience, and promote the sustainable development of the blue economy.

Expansion of maritime security

Somaliland’s geographic proximity provides India with opportunities to conduct anti-piracy missions, humanitarian assistance, and logistical operations. Given the rise in maritime crimes—including arms trafficking, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and drug smuggling—joint enforcement efforts are increasingly vital. Somaliland could be integrated into India’s existing network of naval bases in Seychelles, Mauritius, and Oman, thereby contributing to the formation of a western Indo-Pacific arc of stability.

Establishing formal relations between Somaliland and India could pave the way for joint ventures in mineral development, fisheries, coastal tourism, and diaspora engagement. Additional areas of cooperation might include port logistics, utilization of air corridors, and defense technology exchanges.

Somaliland is actively engaged in piracy prevention, maritime law enforcement, and the development of its coast guard. India, in partnership with Kenya, could conduct joint naval exercises, share surveillance technologies, and coordinate counterterrorism efforts—particularly against threats posed by Al-Shabaab. With its fleet of nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers, India is well positioned to utilize Berbera for maintenance, refueling, and intelligence operations.

With the expansion of BRICS to include Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE, Somaliland is increasingly positioned as a strategic bridge. India is well placed to lead and shape this emerging dialogue.

Recognizing Somaliland would reinforce India’s image as a principled power committed to democracy and post-colonial justice. It would also grant India strategic access to the Port of Berbera, enhance the maritime framework of the SAGAR initiative, and solidify India’s standing as a credible leader within the BRICS+ grouping. AS

Editor’s Note: Gulaid Yusuf Idaan is a senior lecturer and researcher specializing in diplomacy, politics, and international relations in the Horn of Africa. He can be contacted at Idaan54@gmail.com

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa– The Ministry of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland today convened a broad consultative meeting in Hargeisa, focusing on the drafting process of the National Health Policy, which is currently under development.

The high-level meeting centered on establishing a modern health law that will institutionalize the framework for nationwide healthcare services and create a unified system for managing the country’s health sector.

The session was officially opened by the Deputy Minister of Health Development, Ms. Samsam Mohamed Salah, who emphasized that the health policy serves as a critical foundation for improving healthcare services and ensuring an efficient, transparent, and people-centered health system.

“We consider this policy the backbone of the nation’s healthcare system. It is essential that all health stakeholders contribute meaningful insights and recommendations to produce a comprehensive and widely agreed-upon law,” stated Ms. Samsam.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including:
– Assistant Directors from various departments of the Ministry
– Representatives from specialized hospitals
– Members of the Somaliland Healthcare Professionals Association
– Officials from international health organizations operating in the country

During the discussions, participants thoroughly debated key aspects of the draft policy, submitting critical feedback and proposals expected to be incorporated into the final version. All attendees expressed strong support for establishing an official health law capable of addressing current challenges and gaps in Somaliland’s healthcare infrastructure.

In closing, the Ministry of Health Development reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring an inclusive and transparent policy development process, with active participation from all healthcare stakeholders and public health advocates across the nation.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa -The 23rd session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), convened today at the Somaliland Presidential Palace.

Key agenda items discussed included:

National Security and Stability Briefing:
Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Arab, reported sustained security and political stability across all six regions of the country. He emphasized that traffic accidents remain a national crisis, representing the leading cause of fatalities nationwide. The Minister urged the development of a comprehensive national strategy to reduce road accidents.

Finance, Revenue, and Economic Activity Report:
Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdullahi Hassan, highlighted a significant increase in commercial activity and market transactions, reflecting public confidence in the new government’s economic policies. To boost national revenue, the Ministry has reviewed and reassessed key tax streams, including:
1. Payroll Income Tax;
2. Rental Income Tax;
3. Business Income Tax;
4. Goods and Services Tax (GST).
The Minister assured the Council of continued growth in revenue collection efficiency.

National Health Situation Update:
Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, provided an overview of the country’s health sector, confirming no emergent health crises or public complaints. Measles vaccination and infant immunization campaigns are progressing as planned. The Ministry is also actively implementing the Somaliland Child Nutrition Program.

Ministry of Religion and Endowments Briefing:
Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Bashe Dahir Jama, outlined the Ministry’s critical role in coordinating with all religious scholars across denominations*. He stressed the Ministry’s responsibility in:
– Public awareness campaigns;
– Upholding core societal values (strengthening faith, countering harmful rhetoric threatening national security/unity);
– Addressing unethical conduct on social media, proposing a unified government response

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa –Mr. Mukhtar Haji Mohamed Farah, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture Development of the Republic of Somaliland, today closed a workshop that successfully approved two policies and two laws.

This workshop marked the culmination of extensive, long-term efforts to develop the Agricultural Inputs Law, the Agricultural Cooperatives Law, and their corresponding policies, which were critically needed.

The two-day workshop, held at the Maansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, began with a summary by Abdikani Hassan of the WFP project supporting the development and implementation of these policies and laws. Abdikani, the project coordinator, thanked the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture for their consistent support.

The coordinator expressed profound gratitude to all participants involved in developing the two policies, from the initial day of the process to its successful conclusion today. He also thanked the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) for funding this program.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Saleban Tukaale addressed the forum. He commended the Ministry of Agriculture Development for its dedicated efforts and commitment to securing beneficial policies and laws for the ministry. Saleban also pledged that the participants’ commitment would continue until the task is fully completed.

Deputy Minister Mukhtar Haji Mohamed Farah, who officially closed the workshop, thanked the participants for their presence during the two days dedicated to finalizing the laws and their policies. The Deputy Minister also highlighted how these policies and laws will enable accountability and transparency, streamline planning, ensure sustainable development and equity.

The Deputy Minister urged the workshop participants to maintain their commitment until the process is fully finalized. He further elaborated on the significant benefits of having these policies and laws in place.

Ministry of Parliamentary Relations Convenes Meeting to Accelerate National Legal Reforms**

Hargeisa – Mr. Khadar Nuur Cabdi Buubaal, Director General of the Ministry of Parliamentary Relations and Constitutional Affairs, today convened a coordination meeting with the National Legislation Reform Committee. The session was attended by Committee Chairman Prof. Mahmoud Hussein Farah and Deputy Chairman Mr. Muhiyadin Abdi Haji.

Held at the Committee’s headquarters, the meeting included department heads from the Committee, ministry officials, and Committee staff members.

Discussions centered on:
– Strengthening inter-institutional collaboration
– Expediting the national legal reform process
– Aligning efforts with the government’s development agenda to implement transformative nationwide reforms

Director General Buubaal commended the Committee’s diligent service to the nation, highlighting its successful revision of outdated legislation including:
– The Penal Code
– The Criminal Procedure Code
– The Civil Code
– The Civil Procedure Code

In a historic step toward building a resilient and sustainable future, the Republic of Somaliland officially launched the “Somaliland Climate Smart Education System Initiative 2025” Wednesday 18th June. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Science, aims to transform the nation’s education system to address the challenges posed by climate change while ensuring equitable access to quality education.

The launch event, held in Hargeisa, was led by Minister of Education Prof. Ismail Ducale Yusuf, who emphasized the initiative’s role in fostering a climate-adaptive education system. “This is a pivotal moment for Somaliland’s future. By integrating climate resilience into our schools, we are equipping our children with the knowledge and infrastructure to thrive in a changing world,” he said.

The initiative focuses on three key pillars: developing climate-resilient school infrastructure, introducing environmental and climate-focused curricula, and enhancing community awareness of sustainable education practices. It aims to upgrade schools in climate-vulnerable areas to withstand extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and strong winds, ensuring uninterrupted learning. New curricula will teach students about environmental science, climate change, and sustainable practices, preparing them to be proactive stewards of their environment.

The meeting saw participation from key stakeholders, including the Director General of the Ministry, Abdirahman Hussein Hirsi, and representatives from Save the Children, the Ministry of National Planning, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and the National Food Reserve. Collaborative efforts will focus on integrating green technologies, such as solar-powered classrooms and rainwater harvesting systems, into schools.

“This initiative is not just about education; it’s about securing a sustainable future for Somaliland,” said Amin Ahmed Ahmed, Director of the Planning and Policy Department. “By working with our partners, we are building schools that can endure climate challenges and inspire a generation to act responsibly toward our planet.”

The “Climate Smart Education System Initiative 2025” aligns with global frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It is expected to serve as a model for other nations in the Horn of Africa facing similar climate challenges.

The Somaliland government has committed to a multi-year plan to implement the initiative, with initial projects rolling out in vulnerable regions by early 2026. The Ministry of Education calls on international partners and donors to support this transformative effort to ensure every child in Somaliland has access to a safe, quality, and climate-resilient education

In a vibrant and uplifting ceremony, the Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs honored refugee children residing in Somaliland as part of World Refugee Day celebrations. Held at the Hargeisa Cultural Center, the event brought together young refugees, government officials, and representatives from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to recognize the resilience and potential of these children.

The ceremony featured the distribution of educational materials as gifts to the children, aimed at supporting their learning and growth. Mukhtaar Abdi Jamac (Baaxo), Director General of the Ministry, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the bright future ahead for refugee children. “Despite facing many challenges, these children have not been deterred from having hopes, dreams, and talents. They are the future of our society,” he said.

Hana Abdisalan Mohamed, Director of the Refugee Department, highlighted the transformative power of opportunity, stating, “Every refugee child, if given a chance, could become a doctor who heals or a teacher who shapes a new generation.” Mohamed Abdi Bakaal from UNHCR echoed these sentiments, stressing the universal rights of children. “No matter where they come from, every child deserves safety, a warm welcome, and hope,” he noted.

The event was filled with joy, featuring cultural games, entertainment programs, and activities designed to spark happiness among the children. For many, the day offered a rare moment of celebration and a chance to dream of brighter futures, either in Somaliland or in their homelands, should peace allow their return.

World Refugee Day, observed globally to raise awareness of the plight of refugees, was marked in Somaliland with a powerful message of solidarity. The event left an indelible mark on the children, who eagerly await next year’s commemoration, carrying hopes of peace and opportunity.

#SolidarityWithRefugees

For more information, contact the Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs or UNHCR Somaliland.