In a significant step toward enhancing energy access, the Minister of Energy and Minerals of Somaliland, Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, officially opened the tender process for the electricity expansion project in Borama. The ceremony, held at the office of the Somaliland Electricity Sector Recovery Project (SESRP) implementation unit, was attended by key officials, including Dr. Shuayb Osman Mahmoud, Director General of the Ministry of Energy, and Mr. Mohamed Mahmoud Abdi (Malow), Director General of the Somaliland Energy Commission.

The event commenced with a detailed briefing by Mr. Abdifatah Omar Abdilahi, Head of the SESRP, outlining the project’s objectives. Mr. Mohamed Mahmoud Abdi expressed the Energy Commission’s enthusiasm for supporting this initiative, which aims to bolster Borama’s energy infrastructure.

Dr. Shuayb Osman Mahmoud formally inaugurated the tender, emphasizing that the evaluation of bidding companies would follow a transparent and equitable process. “Our goal is to deliver affordable, safe, reliable, and clean energy to the people of Borama,” he stated, underscoring the commitment to a fair selection process.

Closing the ceremony, Minister Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to transparency and accountability. He noted that the evaluation committee had been sworn in to uphold the Ministry’s policies and regulations. The Minister also extended gratitude to all companies submitting bids and wished them success in the process.

The Borama electricity expansion project is a cornerstone of Somaliland’s efforts to improve energy access and drive sustainable development. With a focus on clean energy sources, the initiative is poised to transform the region’s energy landscape, benefiting residents and businesses alike.

In a significant cultural and political event, the Chairman of Somaliland’s WADDANI party, Hon. Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, attended a grand ceremony last night in Hargeisa to launch a book dedicated to the life and legacy of the late Mujaahid Ibrahim Koodbuur. The event celebrated the heroic contributions of Koodbuur, a revered figure who sacrificed his life for his country and people.

Mujaahid Ibrahim Koodbuur, may Allah have mercy on him, is remembered for his courageous actions, most notably his daring operation on April 12, 1983, when he infiltrated the Birjeex base. Driven by his resolve to free his imprisoned comrades enduring severe oppression, Koodbuur’s mission became a symbol of resistance, though it came at a great cost, with some of his fellow fighters martyred.

Speaking at the event, Chairman Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan emphasized Koodbuur’s vision, stating, “Ibrahim Koodbuur struggled so that his people could achieve statehood.” His words underscored the enduring relevance of Koodbuur’s fight for Somaliland’s sovereignty and dignity. The chairman’s participation highlighted WADDANI’s commitment to honoring national heroes and supporting efforts to document Somaliland’s history, while also encouraging the book’s author for their contribution to preserving this legacy.

The event drew a distinguished crowd of community leaders, scholars, and activists, who shared heartfelt reflections on Koodbuur’s life and his relentless fight for justice. Their speeches emphasized his role as a unifying figure in Somaliland’s struggle, reinforcing the importance of remembering such heroes to foster national pride and resilience.

The WADDANI Party Media Office stated, “This event is a testament to our commitment to honoring those who fought for our freedom. Mujaahid Ibrahim Koodbuur’s legacy will continue to inspire us as we work toward a more inclusive and just Somaliland.”

The newly launched book, now available to the public, is expected to serve as a vital resource for understanding Somaliland’s history and the sacrifices made by its heroes. The ceremony marks a significant moment for the WADDANI party as it continues to position itself as a champion of cultural preservation and progressive governance ahead of future elections.

The Government has expressed profound gratitude to U.S. Congressman Scott Perry for introducing the “Republic of Somaliland Independence Act” (H.R. 10402), a groundbreaking legislative proposal aimed at formally recognizing Somaliland as an independent nation. The bill, introduced on June 12, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s 34-year quest for international recognition, highlighting its stability, democratic governance, and strategic importance in the Horn of Africa.

According to a statement from the Somaliland National News Agency (SOLNA), Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Abdirahman Dahir Adan, praised Congressman Perry for his bold and visionary leadership. “This legislative initiative is a historic step forward,” the minister stated, commending Perry’s courage in championing Somaliland’s cause. “We deeply appreciate his efforts to advance a bill that acknowledges Somaliland’s sovereignty and its role as a beacon of peace and democracy in a volatile region.”

The minister recently met with Congressman Perry in the United States to discuss accelerating support for Somaliland’s recognition. These discussions underscored the potential for strengthened U.S.-Somaliland ties, particularly in counterterrorism, trade, and regional stability, given Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden. The bill proposes a shift in U.S. foreign policy to foster cooperation with Somaliland.

As the “Somaliland Independence Act” moves through Congress, it could redefine U.S. foreign policy in the Horn of Africa, potentially making Somaliland the first nation to gain formal U.S. recognition as an independent state. The Somaliland government remains hopeful that this legislation will inspire other nations to follow suit, cementing its place as the 55th African state.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Cape Town, South Africa –The Republic of Somaliland participated officially in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from June 12-13. Somaliland’s presence garnered significant recognition from the South African government, signaling its growing importance in continental green energy initiatives and international cooperation.

High-Level Participation:
The Somaliland delegation was led by:
* Dr. Mohamed Aw Dahir Ibrahim Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change
* Ambassador Ayan Mohamoud Mohamed, Senior Envoy, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

Presidential Welcome:
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa personally welcomed the Somaliland delegation during the summit’s opening ceremony. President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of Somaliland’s attendance, describing it as a “visible example of Somaliland’s engagement on global platforms.”

Strategic Bilateral Meetings:
During the summit, the Somaliland delegation engaged in high-level discussions with key South African and international officials, including:
* Samantha Graham, Deputy Minister of Electricity
* Dr. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI)
* Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, Senior Official, Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) & African Union Liaison
* Alan Winde,** Premier of the Western Cape Province

Discussions centered on:
1. Enhancing cooperation in green hydrogen and renewable energy.
2. Somaliland’s potential role in Africa’s future energy transition.
3. Fostering research, innovation, and development opportunities across the region and continent.

Diplomatic Recognition & Reinforced Ties:
In a notable gesture of diplomatic recognition, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Parks Tau, hosted a special honor dinner for the Somaliland delegation. This event further strengthened bilateral relations, explicitly acknowledging Somaliland as a key stakeholder capable of contributing significantly to Africa’s regional development and energy future.

Commitment Affirmed:
Somaliland’s active participation in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025 underscores its commitment to playing a leading role in global discussions on clean energy, climate action, and the advancement of regional and international partnerships.

By M.A. Egge

The latest session of the weekly Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, saw the discussions of various issues that ranged from the national security situation, general economy of the country, the education sector, to planning etc.

The meeting culminated with the distribution of the Energy Act and the Somaliland Diplomatic Missions Act for their perusal.

The session was chaired as usual by the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, who was flanked by the Vice President His Excellency Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, on Wednesday.

According to a press release by the spokesman of the Presidency Mr. Hussein Adam Igeh, the agenda of the week was as follows: –

𝟏. Report on Security and Stability in the Country: Brief given by the Minister of Interior and Security, Hon.  Abdallah Mohamed Arab.

𝟐. Report on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs: Briefing by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Abdillahi Hassan Aden.

𝟑. Livestock Export Report and the difference in Livestock Export Processes and how to improve it: Reports by the Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Hon. Dr. Omar Shucayb Mohamed

4. Report on the DALJIR Program prepared by the Ministry of Constitution and Parliamentary Relations: Reported by the Minister of Constitution and Parliamentary Relations, Hon. Ahmed Aw Daahir Haaji Hassan.
5. Preventing and mitigating schools’ transportation accidents: briefs given by the Ministers of Education, Training and Science and also Transport and Road Development, the honourables Professor Ismail Duale Yusuf, and Osman Ibrahim Nur (Af-gaab) respectively.
6. Report on the situation in El-Afweyn and the Peace Process, including the government delegation that participated in the Celebration of Eid al-Adha with the community: Reported by the Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Daahir Jama.
7. Policy Making of Ministries and Harmonization of the National Master Plan of Somaliland: This was reported by the Minister of the Ministry of Planning and National Development, Miss. Kaltuun Sh. Hassan Abdi.

𝟖. Distribution of the Draft Energy Law and the Diplomatic Missions Law of the Somaliland (𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐜𝐭): This briefing was made by the Attorney General Mr. Abdisamad Omar Maal.

Louise Hancock, the UK Representative in Somaliland, held a key meeting today with MP Barkhad Batuun to discuss the political empowerment of the Gabooye minority community ahead of the 2026 Parliamentary and Local Council Elections. The discussions focused on increasing the representation of the Gabooye, a historically marginalized group known for their limited access to education, economic resources, and political power, as highlighted by the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA).

The meeting comes at a critical juncture as Somaliland prepares for its upcoming elections, aligning with broader regional shifts toward democratic reforms. Hancock emphasized the importance of ensuring the Gabooye community’s voice in the political process, stating on X, “We discussed a range of issues concerning the minority community he represents, including increasing their political representation.”

Batuun, a vocal advocate for the Gabooye, shared images of the meeting, noting discussions on development projects, security, and the community’s participation in the elections. This engagement marks a potential turning point for the Gabooye, who have long faced side-lined under Somaliland’s clan-based political system.

As Somaliland navigates this transitional period, the international community, including the UK, appears poised to support inclusive governance. Stakeholders will watch closely to see if the 2026 elections mark a new era for the Gabooye and other marginalized groups—or if entrenched interests will prevail.