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Britain must stand ready to recognise Somaliland

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The country is a successful democracy that has reasserted its independence, and is pursuing peace and security, says Alun Michael

Give that Somaliland is such a beacon of democracy in Africa, your article seems to be unduly negative about the prospect of its recognition, saying that this will “infuriate” Somalia.

The former British Somaliland was given its independence in 1960 and chose to join with the former Italian Somaliland to form Somalia, while the former French Somaliland wisely chose to sit it out as Djibouti. Its reward, during the rule of the dictator Siad Barre, was death and destruction in the “hidden war”, a period when many were resettled to Britain (particularly Cardiff, where the first Somalis had arrived in the 1850s) from refugee camps, mainly in Ethiopia.

It is now 34 years since Somalilanders pushed back Barre’s army and reasserted its independence. Since then, we have seen several peaceful transitions from one president and party to another following elections.

In 2007, I led a UK parliamentary delegation, supported by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, to Somaliland and we also visited the African Union in Addis Ababa to ask why it had not yet recognised Somaliland. The answer was that an internal report recommending recognition was gathering dust because some of its members feared that recognition might encourage breakaway provinces in other countries. But Somaliland is not a breakaway province – it’s a nation that reasserted its independence and has shown a capacity for building its own democratic institutions, pursuing peace and security, and fostering economic growth.

 

Ministry of Resettlement and IOM Empower 56 Repatriated Youth with Financial Grants

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In a significant step toward supporting reintegration and economic empowerment, the Somaliland Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), distributed financial grants to 56 young Somalilanders on Tuesday 3rd June, 2025. These individuals were recently repatriated from North African countries after attempting dangerous illegal migration journeys.

The grant handover ceremony, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Hargeisa, was attended by key figures, including the Ministry’s Director General, Mukhtaar Cabdi Jaamac, Deputy Minister Cabdiraxmaan Shide Bille, and representatives from both the Ministry and IOM. The grants are designed to help the recipients establish small businesses, fostering self-reliance and economic growth within their communities.

During the event, officials urged the youth to approach their ventures with dedication and to strategically utilize the financial support to achieve sustainable outcomes. “This is an opportunity for you to rebuild your lives and contribute to Somaliland’s development,” said Director General Mukhtaar Cabdi Jaamac. Deputy Minister Bille emphasized the importance of responsible use of the funds, noting that the Ministry will closely monitor the beneficiaries to ensure the grants are invested in their proposed business initiatives.

The initiative reflects Somaliland’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by returnees and preventing further risky migration attempts. The Ministry and IOM reaffirmed their collaboration to provide ongoing support, ensuring these young individuals can reintegrate successfully and contribute to the nation’s progress.

For further information, contact the Somaliland Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs or the IOM office in Hargeisa.

Somaliland cabinet hails President in strengthening international cooperation

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland lauded and commended the President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro’s efforts to strengthen Somaliland’s international cooperation and enhance its strategic position in the region.

This was noted in the 22nd Session of the members of the cabinet meeting chaired by the President soon after arrival in the country, while flanked by the Vice President H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, was held on Tuesday evening at the Somaliland Presidential Palace.

The agenda discussed at the 22nd Session of the Council of Ministers consisted of three items:

  1. Report on the Security Situation in the Country,
  2. Report on the Economic Situation in the Country,
  3. Report on the Visit of the President of the Republic of Somaliland to Kenya.

(1) National Security:

The Minister of the Ministry of Interior and Security gave the session a general report on the country’s security situation, noting that overall the country’s security is stable and there are no conflicts or tensions in all regions of the country; except for daily normal petty criminal acts that occur in society and traffic accidents.

(2) Economy:

The Minister of Finance and Economic Development gave briefs on general report on the country’s economic situation and the progress of collecting taxes in the country, especially the GST.

The Minister said that from 01.07.2025, all telecommunications companies in the country will implement the GST tax that is due to them to be paid directly to the country’s Treasury system.

The Minister also informed the Council that the National Economic Development Committee (consisting of Members of the Cabinet and the Governor of the Bank of Somaliland) will submit to the Council of Ministers by the end of June a feasibility study on the most appropriate methods to develop the economy.

(3) President’s Kenyan trip:

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, gave a report to the Council of Ministers on his travels to Kenya.

The President gave a general briefing on the most important outcomes of the Nairobi trip, stressing the importance of strengthening and enhancing the cooperative, economic and diplomatic relations that Somaliland has with countries in the region.

He said that during the period he and his delegation were in Kenya, they had made great strides. Kenya is a country that is politically and economically self guided in the Horn of Africa.

The President said that he had met with the President of the Republic of Kenya, Mr. William Ruto, who leads a broad-based government. Similarly, the President met with the popular Kenyan politician, Mr. Raila Odinga, as his party is part of the coalition government currently ruling Kenya.

The President and his delegation also met with the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Kenya, Mr. Moses Masika Wetangula, and some members of Parliament, discussing many issues of importance to the Somaliland nation.

He specifically pointed out that the trip to Nairobi managed to get valuable friends who are ready to work with the nation on the cause of Somaliland.

In conclusion, the cabinet commended the President’s efforts to strengthen Somaliland’s international cooperation and enhance its strategic position in the region.

The visit to Kenya marks important steps in Somaliland’s pursuit of regional cooperation, economic growth, and diplomatic recognition.

Somaliland president urges world to recognise sovereignty

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (centre), Public Law Professor PLO Lumumba(left) and Somaliland Ambassador to Kenya Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Mohamoud at KICC in Nairobi. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as Irro, has urged the international community to recognise Somaliland’s sovereignty, saying the self-declared republic operates as a stable democratic state.

He made the appeal on Saturday during a meeting with the Somaliland Community in Kenya at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.

Somaliland is not just an aspiration, but a functioning reality,” said Abdullahi, adding, “We are a nation forged not through external imposition but through the collective will of our people.”

His remarks came days after a meeting with President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi, which raised questions about Kenya’s position on Somaliland.

Abdullahi’s spokesperson, Hussein Aden Igeh, shared an image of the two leaders on X and said the meeting took place on the same day Somaliland opened a liaison office in Nairobi.

He made the appeal on Saturday during a meeting with the Somaliland Community in Kenya at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.

“Somaliland is not just an aspiration, but a functioning reality,” said Abdullahi, adding, “We are a nation forged not through external imposition but through the collective will of our people.”

His remarks came days after a meeting with President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi, which raised questions about Kenya’s position on Somaliland.

Abdullahi’s spokesperson, Hussein Aden Igeh, shared an image of the two leaders on X and said the meeting took place on the same day Somaliland opened a liaison

“The two Heads of State engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on matters of mutual interest and regional significance, with particular attention to bilateral cooperation including the promotion of trade, investment, economic development and enhanced air connectivity,” explained Igeh.

He added that the leaders also discussed peace, education and institutional development.

The meeting reaffirmed the strong and longstanding relationship between Somaliland and Kenya, a partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared values and a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity across the region,” observed Igeh.

Abdullahi said Somaliland, which marked 34 years since declaring independence from Somalia on Saturday, May 18, has held six peaceful multi-party elections with smooth transfers of power.

Our recent presidential election, praised by international observers, reaffirmed Somaliland’s commitment to a political culture where ballots, not bullets, decide leadership,” noted Abdullahi.

He urged global partners to view Somaliland not as a charity case but as a source of stability and growth in the region.

“Somaliland is a nation that delivers tangible returns in regional stability, trade and democratic proof of concept,” Abdullahi explained.

“We ask, how many more decades must Somaliland prove itself before the world acknowledges what our people have long known?”

He outlined future priorities including infrastructure, climate resilience and youth employment but said formal recognition remained critical.

“Today is not just a celebration, it is a reaffirmation that our cause is just, our resolve unshaken and our future bright,” added Abdullahi.

Dahabshiil Celebrates Madaraka Day with Kenyans, Highlights Role in Connecting the Diaspora

By
Goth Mohamed
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0
As Kenya marks its 62nd Madaraka Day, a day commemorating the nation’s attainment of internal self-rule in 1963, Dahabshiil Money Transfer has joined millions of Kenyans in celebrating the spirit of independence, resilience, and unity. In a heartfelt message shared on X earlier today, the financial services provider reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kenyans worldwide through secure and affordable money transfer services.
Madaraka Day, observed annually on June 1, holds deep historical significance for Kenya. It marks the day in 1963 when the country achieved internal self-governance, a crucial step toward full independence, which was later realized on December 12, 1964, now celebrated as Jamhuri Day. The term “Madaraka,” meaning “authority” in Swahili, reflects the transfer of power to the Kenyan people after decades of British colonial rule since 1920. This year, under the hashtag #KenyaAt62, citizens both in Kenya and across the diaspora are reflecting on the nation’s journey, with celebrations featuring parades, cultural events, and community gatherings.
Dahabshiil’s message, posted on X, resonated with the day’s themes of freedom and unity. “Freedom won, unity strong, Kenya rising.” 
In its statement, Dahabshiil emphasized its role in fostering connections for Kenyans, particularly the diaspora, during this significant holiday. “As you celebrate with your loved ones, we remain committed to making it easier, safer, and faster to stay connected through our trusted money transfer services — wherever you are in the world,” the company wrote.  
Dahabshiil, a leading money transfer service provider in Africa with a presence in over 120 countries, has long been a trusted partner for Kenyans sending remittances home. According to the Central Bank of Kenya, diaspora remittances are a critical contributor to the country’s economic growth, with monthly surveys tracking inflows through formal channels like banks and international transfer services. The United Nations has praised Dahabshiil as “the only safe and efficient option to transfer funds to projects” in the region, a testament to its reliability over its 50 years of operation.
The company’s services are particularly vital in the Horn of Africa, where it facilitates instant transfers to platforms like eDahab in Somalia, Somaliland as well as to countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan. Beyond financial services, Dahabshiil has also been recognized for its corporate social responsibility initiatives, which focus on empowering communities through health and education programs across the region.
MadarakaDay2025, #FreedomToConnect,  #SendMoneyHome
For more information on Dahabshiil’s services, visit www.dahabshiil.com or follow them on social media.

The Somaliland Diaspora Department proudly hosted a dynamic networking and engagement event

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Somaliland Diaspora Department of Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Somaliland proudly hosted a dynamic networking and engagement event last evening, bringing together influential and dedicated members of the Somaliland diaspora community.

This gathering aimed to strengthen collaboration on ongoing departmental initiatives and to solicit valuable feedback and suggestions for future programmes, ensuring that the department continues to serve the diaspora with greater impact and relevance.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CWZ227pTb/

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the concept note for the highly anticipated Diaspora Week Conference, scheduled to take place from July 27th to 31st. Attendees were invited to participate in an open mic session, providing a platform to share their insights and recommendations on how to make this year’s conference more impactful and truly driven by the diaspora for the diaspora.

We encourage all members of the Somaliland diaspora to lend their voices and support to these important initiatives. Your engagement is vital to our collective success and to the continued advancement of our community worldwide. Join us as we work together to build a stronger, more connected Somaliland diaspora.

Opposition Forum Accuses President Hassan Sheikh of Undermining Somalia’s Foundational Political Agreements

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Mogadishu -The National Salvation Forum (Madasha Samata-bixinta Mucaaradka), chaired by former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, has issued a statement accusing current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of undermining the core political agreements forming the foundation of Somalia’s Third Republic.

The Forum explicitly stated that the President’s actions are damaging the principles of collaboration and the agreed-upon state-building framework. They issued a strong warning about the dangers this poses to the nation’s future.

Regarding security, the Forum called for national unity against terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS (Daesh), urging the government to consolidate efforts to save the nation and preserve statehood. However, they sharply criticized the government’s military strategy, particularly its perceived neglect of the Somali National Army (SNA) and local militias.

The statement also expressed serious concern over the expired mandates of the Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Southwest regional states. The Forum condemned both the extensions of these mandates and the integration of the states into the President’s political party as illegal maneuvers. They asserted these actions reveal President Hassan Sheikh’s intent to extend his own term and secure unilateral victory in future elections.

The Forum further accused the President of exerting “political overreach’ over the Federal Member States of Puntland and Jubaland. They warned that his actions perpetuate political conflict, especially concerning the Gedo region, and demanded the immediate lifting of the blockade on areas under Jubaland administration.

To address the crisis, the Forum proposed an immediate National Conference involving:
1. Federal Government leaders
2. Federal Member State leaders
3. Opposition politicians
The goal would be to strategize on saving the nation and unifying efforts against terrorism.

They also strongly emphasized the urgent need to resolve conflicts stemming from:
* Controversial constitutional amendments
* Non-consensual electoral processes
* Management of the national economy
* Agreements on natural resources

Finally, the National Salvation Forum called for the resumption of dialogue between Somalia and Somaliland. They stressed this is essential to counter what they described as “foreign agendas seeking to partition the Somali nation.”

Somaliland and the Spirit of Pan-Africanism: Why the Recognition of Somaliland Would Strengthen Africa, Not Weaken It.

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Hamse Khaire

On the evening of May 31st , 2025, something remarkable unfolded in Nairobi — not with fireworks or fanfare, but with quiet conviction. Professor P. L. O. Lumumba, a name that resonates across Africa as a voice for justice, unity, and Pan-Africanism, stood beside His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro at a celebration of Somaliland’s independence. It wasn’t just a photo-op. It was a moment charged with meaning — a declaration that the African dream of unity has space for Somaliland.

This story began on September 11, 2021, when Lumumba visited Hargeisa for the first time. There, he met Irro, then the leader of Somaliland’s opposition. That meeting — warm, intellectual, and sincere — left an imprint. Lumumba was not simply welcomed; he was understood. In Irro, he saw not just a politician, but a statesman — a man capable of articulating a vision of statehood grounded in self-reliance, peace, and democratic will.

Since then, Lumumba has stood alongside Somaliland’s journey. Over 1,300 students have graduated from Unity University, an institution he helped establish — a living testament to the soft power of ideas and education. But it was during tonight’s May 18th celebration that Lumumba made his boldest commitment yet: the establishment of a Pan-African Institute in Hargeisa, backed by a trade delegation arriving in the coming months.

It was a moment rich with symbolism and clarity. For years, critics have argued that recognizing Somaliland would fracture the fragile dream of Pan-African unity. But Lumumba, with his characteristic eloquence, dismantled this fallacy. “If you are a father and a family man, and your children go out and start their own families,” he said, “it does not mean the family is broken. It means it is growing stronger.”

Somaliland is not an outlier on the continent, nor is it a renegade from its roots. It is a mature nation — self-sufficient, responsible, and ready to take its place at Africa’s table. Lumumba’s framing offers a new paradigm for African unity — one based not on the colonial cartography of the past, but on the legitimacy of governance, stability, and the will of the people.

Irro, now president, stands as a new model of African leadership. Persuasive without being polemical, principled without being rigid, he has done what few could: win the endorsement of one of Africa’s most passionate integrationists without compromising Somaliland’s sovereign aspiration. That is no small feat.

This is the real Somaliland: a place that doesn’t let go of visitors — and a cause that doesn’t let go of the conscience. As Lumumba’s words echoed through Nairobi, it became clear that the recognition of Somaliland is no longer a question of if, but when — and when it comes, it will not divide Africa. It will dignify it.

In truth, Africa does not need fewer examples of independence done right. It needs more. Somaliland, in all its imperfections and triumphs, is one of them. And Pan-Africanism, at its best, should be big enough to welcome it home.

About the author:

Hamse Khaire, currently the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Somaliland, is also a blogger and political commentator based in Hargeisa. He served as the National Campaign Manager for Waddani in the 2017 presidential election. Hamse also served as Waddani’s Trade and Industry Secretary, The secretary of Planning and Policy among others.

Somaliland: Economic and Investment Review Forum Convened in Hargeisa

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development of the Republic of Somaliland hosted the third session of the Ministerial-level Economic Development Committee.

Chaired by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdillahi Hassan Aden, the extended meeting featured comprehensive reports and recommendations on advancing the national economy through policy formulation, legislative frameworks, and research studies.

Key agenda items underwent thorough deliberation:

  1. Analysis of National Production Constraints: Examination of challenges impeding domestic output.
  2. Investment and Industrial Sector Review: Deliberations on investment climate and industrial development.
  3. Livestock Sector Assessment: Analysis of current pastoral conditions and livestock production.
  4. Import Substitution Strategy: Evaluation of domestically produced goods to reduce foreign exchange expenditure on imports, and methods to boost local manufacturing to decrease import dependency.
  5. Agricultural & Livestock Workforce Development: Detailed discussion on establishing technical skills training programs for workers in crop cultivation and livestock production.

This working session, part of a series of high-level meetings, reflects ongoing initiatives to develop the economy of the Republic of Somaliland. Coordination is led by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development , supported by a Ministerial Committee and specialized technical sub-committees comprising relevant ministries and key economic sector stakeholders.

Furthermore, the mandate of the Ministry of Finance has been formally expanded. Reflecting this enhanced role through its revised title, the Ministry now explicitly incorporates the “Economic Development” function, prioritizing the advancement of the nation’s core economy.

MoFAIC Announces Somaliland Diaspora Week

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Diaspora Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation convened a consultative meeting on Thursday, 29th May 2025, at Hargeisa’s Ali Jirde Hall. The session brought together selected leaders of Somaliland diaspora communities from various nations who are currently visiting or have permanently repatriated to the homeland.

The primary objectives were to present operational programs and planned activities for diaspora services and community engagement, and to solicit feedback from attendees. These initiatives align with the Ministry’s Foreign Affairs Strategy and the government’s “Unity & Action” policy championed by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.

Key Announcements by Director Ugbaad Naasir Cumar:
1. National Diaspora Policy: The administration has finalized the National Diaspora Policy during its short tenure, slated for imminent launch. This policy accelerates efforts to enhance diaspora engagement and community ties. It will significantly improve departmental efficiency, stakeholder coordination, and community organization to deliver measurable outcomes.
2. Airport Welcome Desk: A dedicated Diaspora Welcome Desk has been established at Egal International Airport.
3. Diaspora Week Transformation: The 6th Annual Somaliland Diaspora Conference will be expanded into “Somaliland Diaspora Week” (27–31 July 2025), featuring diverse programs to deepen diaspora participation in national development.

https://we.tl/t-0WXnaGmtjP

Diaspora Representatives’ Contributions:
Attendees from the UK, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Canada, Yemen, and other countries—including formally repatriated professionals—unanimously emphasized the diaspora’s critical role in Somaliland’s economy and nation-building. They highlighted persistent challenges in financing investments and development participation, urging collaborative solutions to strengthen diaspora involvement and homeland connectivity.

Call for Diaspora Trust Fund:
Participants strongly endorsed the proposed framework for the Somaliland Diaspora Trust Fund, urging the Ministry to expedite its launch and operationalization. They emphasized its necessity as a structured mechanism to consolidate and streamline diaspora financial contributions to national development.

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