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Somaliland President Holds Strategic Talks with Senior U.S. Military Command Officials

By
Goth Mohamed
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By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), held a high-level strategic meeting on Tuesday with senior officials from the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM).

The discussions focused on strengthening security cooperation, enhancing bilateral ties, and addressing regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

President Irro welcomed the delegation to Somaliland and emphasized the nation’s strategic importance as a reliable partner for peace and security. The talks covered key areas for collaboration, including bolstering regional security mechanisms and deepening the partnership between Somaliland and the United States.

“The President underscored Somaliland’s vital role in promoting peace and stability throughout the Horn of Africa,” a statement from the President’s office noted. “He reiterated that Somaliland has been a responsible and democratic entity for over three decades, actively contributing to security, social development, and peaceful coexistence in the region.”

President Irro also acknowledged and appreciated the support from U.S. legislative bodies towards Somaliland’s cause, noting a positive evolution in U.S. foreign policy regarding the region.

In response, the senior U.S. military officials praised Somaliland for its enduring security and stability. They recognized its critical role in safeguarding maritime and territorial security and committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation further, particularly in the areas of security, training, and technical support.

The meeting signifies the continued and growing engagement between Somaliland and international partners on matters of regional security and cooperation.

Somaliland Central Bank Hands Over Waaheen Market Project to Daryeel Construction

By
Goth Mohamed
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By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA – In a significant step to accelerate economic recovery and urban development, the Central Bank of Somaliland has officially transferred construction responsibilities for the government-owned portion of the iconic Waaheen Market to Daryeel Construction Company. The handover marks the Central Bank’s first direct venture into project financing, highlighting its expanding role in fostering national growth.

The ceremony, held at the market site in Hargeisa, was presided over by Director General Yassin Jama Ahmed. He emphasized the project’s urgency and national importance. “This initiative is a pivotal step in revitalizing our economy,” Ahmed stated. “We are committed to completing the market’s development within one year, transforming it into a modern commercial hub that will generate jobs, boost tax revenues, and foster sustainable trade. Waaheen is more than a market—it is the heartbeat of Hargeisa’s commerce.”

Daryeel Construction, a leading Somaliland firm with over 25 years of experience in residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects, accepted the contract. Chairman Keyse Shukri Jama, a sector veteran recognized for pioneering sustainable building practices, praised the partnership as a “testament to Somaliland’s ingenuity.” He extended thanks to President Muse Bihi Abdi for his leadership and to the Central Bank’s executives for their support in fast-tracking the project.

The project is a critical phase in the market’s recovery after a catastrophic fire in April 2022 destroyed hundreds of shops and severely impacted the city’s tax base. Waaheen Market historically contributed up to 55% of Hargeisa’s municipal revenue. Reconstruction efforts, supported largely by domestic resources, have already seen progress. In December of last year, 24 blocks containing 644 modern shops with enhanced safety measures and amenities were inaugurated.

This latest handover focuses on the remaining municipal section, aiming to bring the entire market to full operational capacity. The development aligns with broader economic strategies promoted by the Somaliland Central Bank, including financial inclusion and digital payment systems. Analysts predict the completed market will significantly boost local GDP, support thousands of traders, and reinforce Somaliland’s position as a resilient trade hub in the Horn of Africa.

With Daryeel Construction set to begin work next week, optimism is growing among vendors and residents. “We’ve waited too long for this,” said Amina Hassan, a longtime stall owner. “With the Central Bank’s backing, Waaheen will rise stronger, attracting buyers from across the region.”

SL-SAG Calls Diaspora Action Needed: Support H.R. 5300 to Strengthen Somaliland U.S. Relations.

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Washington, D.C. The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) urges the Somaliland diaspora and friends of Somaliland in the United States to take immediate action to support H.R. 5300 the Department of State Policy Provisions Act, which has passed the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee. This legislation contains provisions that could significantly advance Somaliland’s international engagement and strengthen U.S.–Somaliland relations.

Why We Must Fight for H.R. 5300

H.R. 5300 includes Section 305, which directs the U.S. government to:

  • Establish a U.S. representative office in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital.
  • Issue separate travel advisories for Somaliland, recognizing its stability and security as distinct from Somalia.

This bill is crucial because:

  1. It formally distinguishes Somaliland from Somalia in U.S. policy, acknowledging Somaliland’s peace, democracy, and governance.
  2. It opens the door for investment, travel, and development, strengthening Somaliland’s economy and global presence.
  3. It enhances diplomatic engagement, giving Somaliland a direct channel to U.S. policymakers.

Without strong advocacy from the diaspora, the bill may stall before reaching the full House or the Senate, delaying Somaliland’s opportunity to advance its international position.

Stronger Calls to Action for the Diaspora

SL-SAG calls on all Somalilanders and allies in the U.S. to act now:

  1. Contact Your Representatives and Senators Urge them to support H.R. 5300 and advocate for Somaliland’s distinct status.
  2. Organize Community Outreach Host local meetings, coordinate campaigns, and share information with friends, family, and civic organizations.
  3. Amplify on social media highlight the importance of H.R. 5300 with posts, hashtags, and messages tagging U.S. lawmakers.
  4. Engage Faith and Civic Leaders Mobilize respected local leaders to publicly advocate for the bill.
  5. Write to U.S. Media Submit op-eds and letters to the editor emphasizing why U.S. recognition of Somaliland’s stability matters.

“This is a historic moment for Somaliland,” said Abdirisaq Cadami, SL-SAG spokesperson. “If we do not act collectively and decisively, we risk losing this chance to secure U.S. support for Somaliland’s development, stability, and international standing. Our voices can influence Congress; we must use them.”

Contact: Abdirasaq Cadami Spokesperson, Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG)

Renowned BBC Somali Journalist Abdilahi Haji Unveils Memoir in London, Spotlighting Dahabshiil’s Enduring Legacy

By
Goth Mohamed
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In a glittering evening that bridged decades of journalistic grit and Somali resilience, veteran broadcaster Abdilahi Haji launched his long-awaited memoir, Abdilahi Haji: My Life Through News Media, at a high-profile event in the heart of London. Sponsored by the Dahabshiil Group, the gathering drew an eclectic crowd of community leaders, fellow journalists, and diaspora figures, celebrating not just a personal odyssey but the unyielding spirit of Somali storytelling.

Haji, who dedicated over 40 years to the BBC Somali Service, traces his extraordinary journey in the book—from the raw edges of free press amid turmoil to front-row seats at history’s pivotal moments. Pages brim with vivid accounts of Somali upheavals, diplomatic intrigues, and the quiet heroism of delivering unfiltered truths to millions tuning into BBC airwaves across the Horn of Africa. “This isn’t just my story,” Haji remarked during his keynote, his voice steady with the gravitas of a lifetime in the field. “It’s a testament to the voices we’ve amplified, the risks we’ve taken, and the hope we’ve carried through every broadcast.”

The event’s grandeur owed much to Dahabshiil’s stewardship, a nod to the company’s deep-rooted commitment to cultural preservation and community upliftment. As Africa’s largest money transfer network, Dahabshiil—founded in the modest shops of Burao and now spanning 126 countries with 10,000 employees—has long transcended finance to become a lifeline for Somalis navigating exile, disaster, and renewal. CEO Abdirashid Duale, whose own path from childhood errands in his father’s Burao store to global stewardship mirrors Haji’s narrative arc, took the stage to laud the author as a “beacon of integrity.”

“I’ve known Abdilahi for over three decades,” Duale shared, his words laced with warmth. “He wasn’t just a client wiring funds to families in need; he embodied the honesty and generosity that define our shared world. This book unearthed tales even I hadn’t heard—like his youthful encounter with Emperor Haile Selassie. Buy it, read it; it’s a mirror to our collective soul.” Haji, in turn, hailed Duale’s vision, crediting Dahabshiil’s innovations for channeling aid through droughts, floods, and fires to remote villages in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. “Abdirashid isn’t just a businessman,” Haji said. “He’s the architect of quiet revolutions, ensuring no Somali is left adrift.”

The launch comes at a poignant time for the Somali diaspora, as global remittances—fueled by outfits like Dahabshiil—hit record highs amid ongoing regional challenges. With Somaliland’s minimalist state-building experiment holding firm despite odds, as noted in recent analyses, events like this underscore the diaspora’s role in weaving threads of heritage and progress. Attendees, including BBC alumni and Somali business pioneers, left buzzing, many clutching signed copies and vowing to spread the word.

As copies fly off shelves in London bookshops and online, My Life Through News Media promises to resonate far beyond its pages—a clarion call for truth-tellers everywhere. For those eager to dive in, it’s available now through select retailers, with proceeds supporting Somali media initiatives. In Haji’s words, closing the night: “Journalism isn’t about headlines; it’s about heartbeats. Let’s keep the story alive.”

SOMALILAND ELDER KILLED IN AIRSTRIKE; MP DEMANDS INVESTIGATION

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Mogadishu, Somalia – Thursday, September 18, 2025 – Member of Parliament Aisha Ahmed Abdallah has issued a strong condemnation of the assassination of Elder Omar Abdillahi Abdi, who was killed in a suspected airstrike in the Sanaag region.

In a press statement, MP Abdallah extended her deepest condolences to the elder’s family, his community, and the people of Sanaag, whom she said had lost a figure of great wisdom and stature.

She placed ultimate responsibility for the incident on the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), stating it has a fundamental duty to protect Somali airspace and ensure the safety of its citizens.

“The targeted killing of Somali citizens without due process of law is completely unacceptable,” the MP declared. “The Federal Government has a sacred duty to protect the life of every citizen. The administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has failed in this responsibility.”

Abdallah called on the Somali public, political leaders, and intellectuals to reject this act and not to normalize such grave violations of national sovereignty and human rights. She also urged the people of Sanaag to stage peaceful protests, cautioning them against having their legitimate anger exploited by politicians pursuing narrow personal interests.

The MP demanded an immediate, independent, and comprehensive investigation to establish the facts surrounding the airstrike, identify those responsible, and ensure they are held accountable.

“Justice must be served. This matter transcends the loss of a single individual; it strikes at the heart of our national honor, our sovereignty, and our future security,” she stated.

Concluding her statement, MP Abdallah reaffirmed her unwavering support for the people of Sanaag and all Somalis in their struggle to defend their rights and security.

Taiwan Celebrates the Launch of Somaliland’s Gender Advisory Office and Advocates for ICAO Inclusion at UNGA80

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

On September 17, 2025, Taiwan’s Representative Office in Somaliland celebrated the launch of the Gender Advisory Office (GAO) at the Damal Hotel in Hargeisa, marking a significant milestone in the decade-long partnership between the two nations. Supported by the European Union and Somaliland’s parliament, the GAO underscores Taiwan’s commitment to advancing gender equality in Somaliland, a nation that is celebrating 35 years of independence while facing ongoing challenges to global recognition.

In a keynote address, senior Taiwanese diplomat Ambassador Allen Leu used the metaphor, “Even the Burj Khalifa starts from one grain of sand,” to highlight the GAO’s role as a foundational step toward greater progress. The launch coincides with the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), where global leaders are addressing gender equality and collaborative governance. Taiwan, ranked sixth globally on the OECD Social Institutions and Gender Index under CEDAW, emphasized its progressive gender policies, including strong female representation in government and robust anti-discrimination measures.

The GAO’s establishment strengthens Taiwan’s soft power in Somaliland, where it has maintained a de facto embassy since 2009 despite limited formal diplomatic ties globally. The ceremony, attended by local and international leaders, featured a Somali-language banner promoting women’s issues, symbolizing shared goals. Taiwan’s prior investments in Somaliland’s health and education sectors reflect a mutual resilience against diplomatic isolation—Taiwan from China, and Somaliland from the African Union and the global community. Somaliland’s strategic position along the Red Sea, recently underscored by Ethiopia’s 2024 recognition agreement, amplifies the partnership’s significance.

As UNGA80 focuses on gender disparities, Taiwan’s efforts in Somaliland could enhance its international visibility. Concurrently, Taiwan’s Somaliland Mission amplified a message from Foreign Minister @chia_lung, thanking U.S. Senator @SenTedCruz for advocating Taiwan’s full membership in @icao. In a letter to @SecRubio, @SecDuffy, and @JCS_ICAO, Cruz emphasized that Taiwan’s inclusion is essential for ICAO’s vision of “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future.”

Somaliland and Taiwan Discuss Strengthening Media and Cultural Ties

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed-Yasin Sh. Ali Ayanle, hosted a high-level meeting with Hon. Allen Leu, Taiwan’s Representative to Somaliland, and accompanying officials at his office in Hargeisa today.

The engagement underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on mutual cooperation amid recent advancements in the financial, technological, and maritime sectors. The meeting aimed to promote mutual understanding, offer a formal welcome, and establish a framework for collaborative efforts between Somaliland’s Ministry of Information and the Taiwanese Representative Office.

Attendees from the Somaliland side included the Deputy Minister, Director General, Director of Planning, Director of Administration, Deputy Director of Radio, and Head of Monitoring and Evaluation.

Key discussion points highlighted strategic priorities:

  1. Countering Misinformation: Both parties agreed to intensify joint efforts in combating propaganda and false narratives directed against Taiwan and the Republic of Somaliland, utilizing their shared experiences in digital resilience.

  2. Media and Cultural Exchange: Emphasis was placed on collaborative initiatives in modern media, information sharing, and promoting the cultural heritage of both Somaliland and Taiwan to foster public awareness and strengthen people-to-people ties.

  3. Showcasing Achievements: The Ministry presented an overview of its foundational milestones and notable successes, receiving positive feedback from the Taiwanese delegation on Somaliland’s progress in information management and public outreach.

  4. Awareness Programs: Plans were outlined for co-developing reports, campaigns, and programs to highlight the value of bilateral cooperation and the fraternal bonds between Somaliland and Taiwan, targeting both domestic and international audiences.

  5. Capacity Building: Opportunities for ministry staff to access Taiwanese training programs, scholarships, and educational grants were explored, with a call for active participation to enhance professional skills in information and cultural sectors.

This meeting follows several recent developments that have strengthened Somaliland-Taiwan relations.

Somaliland Signs $70 Million Deal to Transform Hargeisa Airport into a Regional Hub

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a significant boost to its aviation and economic infrastructure, the Republic of Somaliland has signed a landmark $70 million agreement to modernize Egal International Airport in its capital, Hargeisa. The deal, announced by Presidential Spokesperson Eng. Hussein Adan Cige (Deyr), represents the largest single investment in the country’s civil aviation history and highlights Somaliland’s increasing engagement with global business partners.

The agreement was finalized at the Dubai International Financial Center between Somaliland’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Hon. Fu’ad Ahmed Nuh, and representatives from the International Maharat Investment Company, a Dubai-based firm specializing in infrastructure development.

The ambitious project aims to comprehensively upgrade the airport’s facilities. Planned improvements include extending runways, constructing new passenger terminals, and installing enhanced security and modern navigational systems. These upgrades are designed to accommodate larger aircraft, significantly increase passenger capacity, and position Hargeisa as a key gateway for regional trade and tourism in the Horn of Africa.

“This investment is a game-changer for Somaliland’s economy,” said Eng. Deyr in a statement. “It reflects our unwavering commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and forging deeper ties with the international community. Somaliland is open for business, ready for investment, and eager for meaningful global cooperation.”

The partnership with Maharat, a company with a portfolio of projects across the Middle East and Africa, is seen as a vote of confidence in Somaliland’s stable governance and business-friendly environment. Minister Nuh stated during the signing ceremony that the project would “not only modernize our skies but also elevate Somaliland’s profile on the global stage.”

Industry experts predict the modernized airport could handle up to one million passengers annually by 2030, a substantial increase from the current annual traffic of approximately 200,000. The enhancements are also expected to pave the way for direct flights to major international hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, and Addis Ababa, further integrating Somaliland into global economic and supply chains.

With construction scheduled to begin in early 2026, this development marks a new chapter in Somaliland’s pursuit of economic self-sufficiency and broader international recognition.

Somaliland Government Reinforces Livestock Export Ban and Moves to Approve Fisheries Law

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Hargeisa, Somaliland – The 35th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland convened today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting was chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) and co-chaired by H.E. Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi.

The council deliberated on several key national issues, with ministers providing comprehensive briefings on their respective sectors. The following is a summary of the proceedings:

  1. Security Situation Briefing

The Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Carab, reported that the overall security situation across all six regions of the country remains stable. He confirmed the absence of any significant disturbances or instability and further noted that the nation continues to enjoy complete political stability.

  1. Economic and Revenue Update

The Minister of State for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Ismail Mawlid Abdullahi, provided an update on the nation’s fiscal health. He reported that the National Revenue Collection for September 2025 is on track to meet its targets and expressed optimism for continued improvement in the nation’s revenue and economic performance throughout the remainder of the year.

The Minister also informed the council that strategic studies and plans to strengthen the national economy and boost domestic production are advancing systematically. These initiatives are being overseen by the Council’s High-Level Economic Committee, which has recently submitted comprehensive proposals.

  1. Drought Relief Efforts

A member of the National Drought Relief Committee and Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Dahir Jama, delivered a briefing on the drought response. He stated that relief efforts are progressing effectively, highlighting the rehabilitation of water wells and the successful distribution of food aid to the regions with the most critical needs.

  1. Livestock Export and Quality Standards

The Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Dr. Omar Shucayb Mohamed, provided a positive update on the livestock sector. He reported that the Ministry is enhancing the export system and enforcing stringent quality control measures for livestock.

A key policy highlighted was the complete ban on the export of underage livestock, a measure designed to protect the national breeding stock and uphold quality standards. The Minister emphasized that this step is crucial for strengthening Somaliland’s reputation in international markets and securing the sector’s long-term economic future. He also noted an increase in health inspections and monitoring of livestock.

  1. National Health Situation

The Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, presented a report on the public health situation. He outlined the ongoing provision of health services across the regions while also acknowledging significant national challenges that require addressed.

The Minister detailed the severe impact of recent global funding cuts from the United States government on critical health programs administered by the Ministry. These cuts have created a substantial financial shortfall and posed a major challenge to public health services. Despite this, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to securing and strengthening public health services through international cooperation to ensure the people of Somaliland receive sustainable, high-quality healthcare.

  1. Deliberation on the National Fisheries Law

The Council of Ministers concluded a rigorous two-week deliberation on the Somaliland National Fisheries Law (Act No. 84/2025). Following extensive discussions, proposals, and a detailed review of the law’s articles, H.E. President Cirro issued a directive. Noting the critical importance of the fisheries sector, the President instructed the Council to integrate its recommendations into the draft and ensure it is harmonized with other existing national laws. The technical drafting committee was tasked with finalizing the document, with a view to its approval scheduled for next week.

Traditional and Religious Leaders in Eastern Regions Demand Answers from Puntland Over Airstrike Killing of Elder

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

BADHAN, SANAG – Traditional elders, intellectuals, and religious leaders from the Sanaag, Haylan, and the western parts of the Bari region have issued a formal and urgent demand to the Puntland government, seeking a transparent explanation for the deadly airstrike that killed a respected elder and the ongoing use of airstrikes that have terrorized local communities.

The demand, outlined in a strongly-worded statement, comes in the wake of the killing of Caqil (Chief) Cumar C/laahi Cabdi Ibraahim on September 13, 2025. According to the statement, the elder was traveling alone from the city of Ceelbuh to Badhan in the Sanaag region when his vehicle was struck by three missiles near the village of Jicanyo.

The leaders condemned the attack, describing the slain chief as “a stabilizing traditional elder” who was widely known for his work in promoting “security, peace, and reconciliation throughout the country and its people.” They emphasized that he was a key figure in peacebuilding and was not a legitimate target.

The statement poses four critical questions to the Puntland administration:

  1. Identification of Perpetrators: They demand to know who authorized and carried out the airstrike using an aircraft and missiles, and who was complicit in the killing.
  2. Motivation for the Attack: They question why a peace-promoting elder was specifically targeted in what they imply was an assassination.
  3. Official Silence: They challenge the Puntland government’s continued silence on this “brutal killing” and the “large-scale attacks” that have been launched against the people and territories of Sanaag and Haylan.
  4. Inaction on Previous Complaints: They ask why the government has ignored their weeks-long pleas and complaints about the aircraft that have been sowing “fear and panic” among the populace, which culminated in the elder’s death. They note that these aircraft are still active.

The leaders, representing the voices of their communities, have declared that they await a prompt and satisfactory response from the Puntland leadership. They warned that based on the government’s reply, they will formulate a “comprehensive and significant general position” regarding the security and stability of their people and regions.

The ball is now in the court of the Puntland government, as pressure mounts from its eastern regions for accountability and a immediate halt to military operations threatening civilian lives.

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