By Goth Mohamed Goth

‎Hargeisa, 05 July 2025 – An important meeting was held today at the headquarters of the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), bringing together representatives from independent media outlets in Somaliland and SOLJA’s senior leadership. The meeting focused on discussions initiated by the independent media regarding various pressures they face from the government, issues significantly impacting press freedom and the work of journalists.

‎A formal memorandum submitted by the media to SOLJA contained detailed legal complaints, highlighting violations of the Constitution and other laws of the country. The memorandum listed the following key points:

‎Complaints from the Independent Media:

‎Unlawful Detention of Journalists: During the current government’s term, 16 journalists have been detained, while others have fled the country. These detentions occur in a manner inconsistent with the country’s laws.

‎Blocking Media Access to Press Conference Venues The media is being prevented from conducting interviews and programs in hotels. Government orders imposing these restrictions constitute a complete violation of freedom of commerce and freedom of expression.

‎Obstruction in Accessing Government Information & Data. The media does not receive the information it needs from government ministries and agencies. Government departments have been closed off to them, and the President’s pledge to provide journalists with necessary information has been abandoned.

‎Harassment and Attacks Against Journalists: Phone threats targeting journalists are increasing, restricting press freedom and freedom of opinion.

‎Violations Against the Media: Other violations directly perpetrated by the government include infringements on the rights to organize, distribute, access, and disseminate news. Notably, journalist Yaasir Axmed Cabdilaahi was detained for gathering and publishing true information.

‎SOLJA listened attentively to the media’s discussions and pledged to:

‎* Defend the rights of journalists.

‎* Intensify efforts to uphold the Constitution and freedom of expression.

‎* Vigorously engage with government institutions to find swift solutions to the existing complaints.

‎The Association urgently calls upon the President and the security agencies to resolve these complaints promptly to strengthen democracy and freedom of expression in Somaliland

By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a significant step toward improving regional connectivity, the Somaliland Road Development Agency has begun laying asphalt for the first ten-kilometer section of the long-awaited Balligubadle-Hargeisa road. The milestone was marked by a ceremony attended by government ministers and agency officials, signaling a strong commitment to infrastructure development.

This newly paved section connects Gunburaha district to Magaalo Xaali, addressing one of the route’s most challenging segments. Officials from the Somaliland Road Development Agency and the Ministry of Transport and Road Development stated that the project, utilizing high-quality “Rooga” asphalt, is expected to enhance transportation efficiency and safety.

The development follows President Muse Bihi Abdi’s recent groundbreaking ceremony and fulfills a decades-long promise made by successive Somaliland administrations. The road is anticipated to boost economic activity and improve access for communities in the Hawd region, who have expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress.

“The government’s dedication to unity and action is evident in this transformative project,” stated Minister of Transport Hon. Osman. Local residents echoed this sentiment, celebrating the road as a vital link for trade and travel.

The Balligubadle-Hargeisa road project is part of Somaliland’s broader infrastructure modernization efforts. Officials have pledged to complete the remaining sections in a timely manner, with further updates expected as construction continues.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro today welcomed a high-level delegation led by the European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Ambassador Annette Weber, at the Presidential Palace.

This meeting focused on strengthening cooperation and partnership between the Republic of Somaliland and the European Union (EU).

Firstly, the President of the Republic of Somaliland thanked the Special Representative and her delegation for their historic visit to Somaliland. Similarly, the President expressed gratitude for the development support and assistance provided by the European Union to Somaliland, particularly in the areas of Governance and State Institution Building, economic sectors, education, water, food security, strengthening democratic processes, the Environment, and Climate Change.

During the meeting, President Bihi assured EU Special Representative Annette Weber of the unwavering commitment of the Somaliland government to maintaining peace, stability, and the democratic system in the Horn of Africa region.

The President informed the EU representative that his government prioritizes strengthening peace and peaceful coexistence among all the people of Somaliland. He highlighted the tangible achievements his new government has made during its short time in office, such as the unconditional expansion of the peace zone in the eastern Sool region, the resolution of conflicts in the Sanaag region, and the demobilization of over 6,000 militia members along with their weapons and vehicles – a task accomplished without external assistance to Somaliland.

Furthermore, the President clearly outlined the crucial security and strategic role the Republic of Somaliland plays in safeguarding the security of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. He emphasized that Somaliland is a country bordering this maritime zone with a coastline exceeding 800 km, making its role indispensable and impossible to overlook.

For her part, the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Ambassador Annette Weber, thanked the President of the Republic of Somaliland for the warm reception and his significant time during her historic visit to Somaliland. She commended President Bihi for his statesmanship and wise leadership, noting that Somaliland stands out as a beacon of stability in a region otherwise marked by conflict and instability.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa-The Ministry of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland and the humanitarian organization Medacross officially signed a significant three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today.

The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, was formalized by the Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashiir Hirsi, and the President of Medacross, Dr. Daniele Regge. This new agreement establishes an official partnership between the two entities, focusing primarily on providing critical medical interventions for vulnerable children requiring urgent healthcare in displacement camps across the country, especially those lacking financial means.

Minister Dr. Hussein Bashiir Hirsi welcomed Medacross President Dr. Daniele Regge, thanking the organization for its consistent support to vulnerable communities in Somaliland. The Minister emphasized the importance of this new partnership, stating that it will significantly address the healthcare needs prevalent in displacement camps.

Dr. Daniele Regge affirmed Medacross’s full commitment to implementing the agreed activities, noting that the plan aims to reach thousands of children requiring specialized medical care. He added that Medacross is prepared to increase its efforts in providing health support to vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, Medacross officially handed over an Emergency Rescue Ambulance to the Ministry during today’s ceremony. This vehicle will be specifically utilized for health activities carried out within the displacement camps. The ambulance is intended to facilitate patient transportation, particularly during emergencies, to ensure timely life-saving measures and access to urgent medical care.

Finally, this three-year agreement is part of the ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health Development and its international partners to achieve accessible and equitable healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable population segments and those residing in remote areas.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa–Somaliland’s Minister of Local Government and Urban Development, Mr. Hassan Ahmed Duale (Hassan Macalin), met with a delegation from the Swiss Government currently visiting the country with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in local governance and urban development.

The high-level talks, held in Hargeisa, focused on identifying collaborative opportunities to bolster Somaliland’s local government institutions, enhance urban infrastructure, and promote sustainable development.

Minister Duale emphasized the critical role of international partnerships in supporting Somaliland’s efforts to build resilient and effective local governance systems. He was joined by the Ministry’s Director General, Ali Ige Mohamoud, and several department directors.

The Swiss delegation was led by Ms. Martina Durrer, Regional Head of International Cooperation for the Horn of Africa. It included representatives from Swiss embassies in Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Burundi, underscoring Switzerland’s regional commitment to development in the Horn of Africa.

This engagement represents a step forward in Somaliland’s ongoing efforts to deepen international ties and advance its development agenda, specifically in local governance and urban planning.