Women in Somaliland have long been recognised as the backbone of society, tirelessly contributing to the nation’s development. Whether through supporting their families, driving economic activity, or building communities, their efforts are undeniable. However, a pressing question arises: how involved are women in Somaliland’s political field?
The unfortunate reality is that their representation in politics has never matched their contributions to society. For many years, women in Somaliland have been excluded from positions of power and decision-making. In previous governments, including the most recent administration led by former President Muse Bihi Abdi, women’s political inclusion was minimal at best. Few, if any, women held ministerial positions or seats in parliament. While there were isolated instances of women assuming public roles, these were exceptions rather than the norm.
This lack of representation reflects a deeper societal challenge. Somaliland’s culture, rooted in tribal systems, remains a significant barrier to women’s political participation. Traditional norms have historically placed men in dominant roles, particularly in leadership and governance, leaving women with limited opportunities to step into positions of authority. Despite the strides Somaliland has made as a developing democracy, societal attitudes continue to reinforce the notion that leadership is a man’s domain.
Moreover, the issue has not received the level of attention it deserves. Conversations about women’s political participation are often sidelined, treated as secondary to other national priorities. This lack of visibility has limited meaningful change and has left many women feeling excluded from the political process.
Over the past few years, however, there has been a growing movement for change. Women’s rights activists and civil society organisations have tirelessly campaigned for the introduction of gender quotas in government. A gender quota would reserve a specific percentage of seats for women, ensuring their participation in governance. Activists argued that such a system would be a transformative step toward equality, offering women a fair chance to contribute to Somaliland’s political development. Unfortunately, these efforts have so far been met with resistance and rejection.
With the election of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, widely known as Ciro, there is a sense of renewed hope and cautious optimism. The Ciro administration has assumed office with pledges of reform, inclusivity, and progress. The people of Somaliland have embraced the new government with great expectations, aspiring for a more promising future. Among these hopes is the pressing question of whether the new leadership will tackle the persistent exclusion of women from political participation.
Promisingly, the new adminstration has already shown promising signs of change. President Ciro has made a historic move by appointing three women to key leadership positions within his cabinet:
- Mrs. Milgo Mohamed Elmi Sanbalooshe – Minister of Labor and Social Affairs.
- Mrs. Kaltuun Sheikh Hassan Madar – Minister of National Planning.
- Samsam Mohamed Salah – Deputy Minister of Health Development.
This marks a significant and inspiring moment for Somaliland. For the first time in years, women are being visibly recognised and appointed to influential positions in government. These appointments are not just symbolic—they represent a concrete step toward greater inclusion and equality. By placing capable women in leadership roles, the government is sending a powerful message: women have a place in shaping Somaliland’s future.
For Somaliland’s women, this progress is both a victory and a source of inspiration. The inclusion of women in leadership positions provides much-needed role models for the younger generation. Young girls and women across Somaliland can now look up to these leaders and believe that they, too, can aspire to become ministers, policymakers, and political leaders. Representation matters, and seeing women in positions of authority helps break down cultural and societal barriers that have long held them back.
However, this milestone also raises important questions. Will this progress continue, or is it a one-time gesture? Will the new administration implement policies that promote women’s participation in politics at all levels? Will there be a renewed push for a gender quota to secure women’s representation in parliament and other government bodies? These questions remain unanswered, but they are important for Somaliland’s future.
The Ciro administration has an opportunity to set a new precedent. By advocating policies that promote gender equality, creating platforms for women’s leadership, and challenging cultural barriers, the new government can pave the way for a more inclusive and progressive Somaliland.
In conclusion, while challenges remain, the appointment of three women to ministerial roles is a significant step forward. It signals that change is possible and that Somaliland’s leaders are beginning to recognise the value and contributions of women. This moment is one to celebrate, but it is also a call to action. Activists, policymakers, and citizens must continue to push for greater representation and ensure that women are given the space and opportunities they deserve.
The future of Somaliland depends on the inclusion of all its citizens, and women, as the backbone of society, must play a central role in shaping that future. Whether the new government delivers on its promises remains to be seen, but for now, Somaliland’s women can look to the future with renewed hope and determination.
