Nearly 100 lawmakers from both chambers of Federal Parliament have condemned a government’s decision granting exclusive rights to a foreign businessman, Abu-Yasir, to export Somali livestock.
In a joint statement on Monday, legislators accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of favouring a foreign business person over local Somali traders, who have historically played a significant role in the livestock industry and export sector.
Lawmakers alleged that Abu-Yasir, based in Djibouti, has a history of defrauding Somali traders and exploiting local businesses. “We strongly condemn President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision to grant Abu-Yasir, a foreign businessman with a controversial history in Somalia, exclusive rights to export Somali livestock.”
“This is the first time in Somalia’s history that a single individual has been granted control over livestock exports, a critical revenue source for our economy,” the lawmakers emphasized, warning of potential setbacks to the nation’s economic growth.
The lawmakers emphasized that the President’s decision would exclude many Somali traders from fair and free competition, leading to corruption, economic collapse, and job losses for Somali citizens.
Somaliland’s Minister of Livestock, Omar Shu’ayb Mohamed, has recently accused the Somali federal government of interfering in livestock exports through the Berbera port and diverting tax revenues to the Ministry of Finance. He rejected the federal government’s decision to award exclusive rights to Abu-Yasir.
Federal Ministry of Livestock has yet to respond to the allegations from members of parliament.
Livestock trade remains a critical revenue source for Somalia and its regions. A World Bank report states livestock exports have injected over $3 billion into the Somali economy over the past five years. Major ports like Berbera, Bossaso, Mogadishu, and Kismayo facilitate the trade.
The report highlighted that in 2023, Somalia experienced a 92% increase in livestock export value, reaching $1.07 billion, compared to $558.4 million in 2022. This marked the highest value of animal exports in the country’s history.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Dahir Adan, has made a strong statement regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the former government and Ethiopia. Addressing the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Somaliland Parliament, he expressed his concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the agreement, which pertains to Ethiopia’s access to the sea through Somaliland and Ethiopia’s potential recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty.
The Minister underscored that Somaliland’s sovereignty and pursuit of international recognition should never be compromised or traded. He stated, “Somaliland will not be abused for getting recognized. We will not enter into agreements that lack the approval of the relevant committees and institutions.“
The Foreign Minister pointed out that neither he nor his political party has seen the MoU document. He asked the committee, “As parliamentarians, have you seen this document? As a party, we have not. The only information we have is based on what former President and Ethiopian officials have said, which often contradict each other.”
Ethiopia’s Role and Unfulfilled Promises
The MoU, signed in January 2024 by former President Muse Bihi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa, promised Ethiopia access to the sea through Somaliland. In return, Somaliland was supposedly assured of Ethiopia’s recognition. However, Minister Adan emphasized that there is no concrete evidence of Ethiopia making such a commitment. “We are only aware of discussions and speculation. Ethiopia has not officially committed to recognizing Somaliland,“ he remarked.
The agreement sparked significant tensions with Somalia, which claimed sovereignty over the disputed maritime territory. These tensions culminated in December 2024 when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan mediated discussions in Ankara, reportedly resulting in Ethiopia retracting its commitment to the MoU. Somalia hailed the outcome, but Ethiopia has yet to officially confirm or deny this development.
A New Administration, A New Approach
Minister Adan reaffirmed Somaliland’s steadfast dedication to its independence, stating, “We will not enter hell for the sake of recognition. Somaliland cannot be abused by false promises or traded for political gains.“
Since reclaiming its independence in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government, Somaliland has maintained relative peace and developed functioning state institutions. Despite this progress, no country has officially recognized its sovereignty, leaving Somaliland in diplomatic limbo.
The Foreign Minister’s statement highlights the delicate balance Somaliland must maintain as it seeks recognition while protecting its sovereignty and ensuring that agreements are made transparently and in the best interests of its people.
Hafsa Omer organizes a collection of cassette tapes at the Hargeysa Cultural Center, where she leads the digitization of over 14,000 recordings to preserve Somaliland’s rich cultural and historical legacy. CREDIT / First Post
Amid the hum of a small cassette player, 21-year-old Hafsa Omer is working to preserve the voices and stories of Somaliland’s cultural and historical legacy by digitizing thousands of cassette tapes containing decades of music, poetry, and personal accounts that encapsulate the region’s identity.
Hafsa Omer, a social worker and manager of the digital archival project at the Hargeysa Cultural Center, has undertaken the painstaking task of digitizing a collection of more than 14,000 cassette tapes. These tapes, spanning over 50 years, are a treasure trove of Somaliland’s musical, cultural, and political history.
“People don’t see these things as important, but I do because my people—they don’t write, they don’t read—all they do is talk.”
The collection includes rare recordings of Somali National Movement (SNM) meetings, 1970s counterculture music, and even private messages exchanged during the war. Some tapes chronicle the daily lives of ordinary Somalilanders, while others feature iconic plays and poetry critiquing the authoritarian regime of Siad Barre.
For Hafsa, the project is deeply personal. Among the tapes is a recording from 1985, in which her late aunt Khadija shares family news and recounts the hardships of war.
The effort is vital for a nation whose history has largely been passed down orally. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains internationally unrecognized. For a region striving to assert its identity on the global stage, preserving its cultural legacy is more important than ever.
The Hargeysa Cultural Center, where Omer works, was founded in 2014 by Jama Musse Jama, a mathematician who envisioned a space dedicated to preserving Somaliland’s heritage. The Center houses over 10,000 cassettes collected from abandoned music studios, diaspora donations, and private collections smuggled out during the war.
“You find tapes that were recorded underground,” Jama explained. “Groups of people would gather, sitting together in secret sessions, often just friends talking about politics. These were things they couldn’t say publicly because of the dictatorship.”
In addition to archiving these recordings, the Center promotes youth engagement with heritage through workshops, exhibitions, and festivals, including the renowned Hargeysa International Book Fair.
The project also preserves recordings from Somaliland’s golden era of music in the 1970s and 1980s. This was when the region flourished as a hub for poetry, plays, and music, with artists using their work to celebrate love, critique oppression, and inspire resistance.
Digitizing the tapes is a monumental task. As of now, fewer than 5,000 cassettes have been cataloged, and only 1,100 have been digitized. The process involves carefully playing each tape to assess its contents and converting it to a digital format.
The effort faces societal resistance as well. Hafsa notes that Somaliland’s post-war conservatism sometimes clashes with the liberal artistic expressions found in the tapes. “Even my mother would scold me for listening to music instead of the Quran,” Hafsa shared.
Yet, her work continues to gain attention. In addition to local support, the initiative has drawn international recognition, with journalists and scholars commending the effort to preserve Somaliland’s rich cultural heritage.
Hafsa and her team hope to create a digital library that Somalilanders at home and abroad can access, ensuring these voices remain part of the national identity.
In his recent article on Real Clear World, Mogadishu’s Ambassador to the U.S., Dahir Hassan Abdi, staunchly defends Somalia’s unity. However, his argument overlooks crucial realities about Somaliland’s unique history, governance, and its potential to bolster U.S. interests in the Horn of Africa. Recognizing Somaliland as an independent state is not only justified but also serves America’s strategic, security, and moral imperatives better than perpetuating the status quo.
Somaliland’s Unique Historical and Legal Basis for Independence
Somaliland’s quest for recognition is not a typical secessionist movement. In 1960, Somaliland voluntarily merged with Somalia to form a union, which failed disastrously due to systematic oppression, atrocities, and genocide under Somalia’s military regime. Following a lengthy war, Somaliland reclaimed its independence in 1991, citing Somalia’s collapse. Its claim to sovereignty is grounded in legal and historical legitimacy, with borders aligning with those of the former British Somaliland Protectorate—a recognized colonial entity that gained independence on June 26, 1960. Recognizing Somaliland would affirm its distinct historical trajectory rather than setting a precedent for other Somali regions.
A Beacon of Stability in a Volatile Region
For over three decades, Somaliland has maintained peace, stability, and democratic governance despite the absence of international recognition. It has held multiple free and fair elections, established functioning institutions, and provided security for its citizens—achievements that starkly contrast with Somalia’s struggles with instability, corruption, and extremism. Recognition would reward these democratic gains and provide a model for governance in the region, countering the narrative that African states are doomed to conflict.
Counterterrorism and Security Collaboration
Far from fostering instability, Somaliland’s recognition would enhance counterterrorism efforts in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland has consistently opposed extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS, which exploit Somalia’s weak governance. Its security forces, though limited by a lack of recognition, have successfully secured its borders and denied extremist groups a foothold. Partnering with a recognized Somaliland would provide the U.S. a stable ally with access to critical maritime routes and counterterrorism operations, complementing efforts in Somalia rather than undermining them.
Preventing a Domino Effect of Fragmentation
Dr. Abdi’s warning of a “domino effect” if Somaliland gains recognition misrepresents the situation. Somaliland’s independence bid is rooted in unique circumstances that are not replicable elsewhere in Somalia. Delaying recognition perpetuates grievances and could lead to renewed conflict. Conversely, a recognized Somaliland could stabilize the region, demonstrating how negotiated outcomes and governance reforms can address aspirations for self-determination.
Lessons from Sudan and Other Cases
Citing South Sudan as a cautionary tale is a false equivalency. Unlike South Sudan, Somaliland has a proven track record of governance and conflict prevention. South Sudan’s challenges stemmed largely from its lack of institutional readiness—a problem Somaliland does not share. Recognizing Somaliland would highlight the importance of governance and capacity-building in statehood, distinguishing it from less-prepared nations.
Advancing U.S. Strategic Interests
Recognition of Somaliland would secure America’s foothold in a geostrategically vital region. Somaliland’s location on the Gulf of Aden provides unparalleled access to one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. A formal partnership would allow the U.S. to establish a reliable ally for monitoring regional threats, countering Chinese influence, and securing energy and trade routes. Unlike Somalia, which remains heavily reliant on external aid, Somaliland offers a partner ready to contribute to shared objectives.
Moral Responsibility and Regional Development
Ambassador Abdi’s argument that fragmentation worsens humanitarian crises overlooks how denying recognition to Somaliland undermines its ability to attract investment and development aid. Recognition would empower Somaliland to address poverty, climate challenges, and governance reforms effectively. A strong, independent Somaliland would also pressure Somalia to prioritize national reconciliation and institutional reforms, fostering long-term stability.
Conclusion: A Strategic and Moral Imperative
Recognizing Somaliland is not about abandoning Somalia but recalibrating U.S. policy to reflect on-the-ground realities. Somaliland’s proven track record of stability, its distinct historical claims, and its strategic importance make it a reliable partner in advancing U.S. interests. Far from weakening the region, recognition would create a robust ally in the Horn of Africa and incentivize Somalia to address its internal challenges more effectively. By recognizing Somaliland, the U.S. can foster a stable, secure, and more prosperous future for the region, while failing to do so risks endorsing stagnation and rewarding failure over progress.
About the Author
Ambassador Rhoda J Elmi, Former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs & Former Deputy Minister of Finance Republic of Somaliland
This possibility of Somaliland being recognized as a new nation in Africa by the United States is intriguing for global politics but also because of the possibility of opening up the region to freedom of religion. Please read, and please pray for God’s will and purpose for Somaliland.
British Somaliland made a decision in 1960 that they were soon to regret. After gaining independence, they joined forces with the newly freed Italian Somaliland in the south forming the Republic of Somalia. This history is important for the advance of the gospel in Africa!
“During the late 19th century, Somalia became a focal point of European colonial ambitions, leading to its partition among various powers. The British established control over the northern region, known as British Somaliland, while the Italians took control of southern Somalia, forming Italian Somaliland. To the northwest, the French colonized what is now Djibouti. The Ottoman Empire also maintained a presence along Somalia’s coastal areas during this period. Despite the division, Somali resistance to colonial rule was fierce, exemplified by figures like Sayid Mohamed Abdullah Hassan, who led a protracted 20-year struggle against British and Italian forces.
The drive for independence gained momentum in the mid-20th century. In 1960, British Somaliland gained independence on June 26, followed shortly by Italian Somaliland on July 1. These two territories united to form the Somali Republic. The new nation embarked on a Pan-Somalism movement, aiming to unify all Somali-inhabited territories, including parts of neighboring Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti.
Somalia’s descent into civil war and state collapse began in 1991 with the overthrow of the military regime led by Siad Barre, who had ruled since 1969. Following his ousting, the country plunged into chaos as clan-based militias and warlords vied for power, leading to the disintegration of central authority. The absence of a functioning government exacerbated violence, lawlessness, and humanitarian crises, including famine and mass displacement. Efforts by international forces, such as United Nations peacekeeping missions and U.S. military interventions, were largely unsuccessful and culminated in high-profile incidents like the 1993 “Black Hawk Down” event in Mogadishu. Amid the turmoil, regions like Somaliland declared independence in 1991, while Puntland established autonomy in 1998, though both sought different paths to stability. Meanwhile, extremist groups like Al-Shabaab emerged, further destabilizing the country. The prolonged conflict devastated Somalia’s infrastructure, economy, and social fabric, leaving a legacy of fragmentation and suffering that continues to shape the nation’s recovery efforts today.”
Against this backdrop, Semifor Africa, an online journal carried this headline in a December 10th article written by Yinka Adegoke: A Trump White House looks set to recognize the world’s newest country. He writes,
“Somaliland, a self-governing region within Somalia, will be much closer to being recognized by the United States as the world’s newest country when Donald Trump returns to the White House in January.
“Last month the territory held its sixth successful election since reclaiming independence from Somalia in 1991, bringing opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to office as president. Republicans and other supporters have been encouraged by Somaliland’s democratic strides with a one-person, one-vote system even as conflict-ridden Somalia struggles to organize any elections.
“Peter Pham, a former Africa envoy in Trump’s first term, said Somaliland’s democratic process had “demonstrated its attractiveness as a partner for the United States and other countries.”
“Somalilanders who spoke with Semafor Africa from the capital Hargeisa soon after the Nov.13 election said they were confident Trump’s return to the White House will boost their aspirations for independence. “We have a golden opportunity to be closer if not for full recognition but much closer engagement with the US,” said Bashir Goth, who heads the Somaliland mission in Washington DC.”
This possibility is intriguing for global politics but also because of the possibility of opening up the region to freedom of religion. It remains to be seen if this area of the world, one of the least reached from a Christian perspective, would grant freedom of religion and allow churches to operate freely within the new country.
In 2007, I was privileged to travel with some brothers from South Africa to Somaliland. We traveled through the country from Hargasia to the Gulf of Aden. It was an eye-opening trip. While in the country, we had the opportunity to meet the Vice-President of the self-declared country and be present when the President returned from an international trip. There is much need, and I look forward to a growing opportunity for Christian participation in a free Somaliland.
We should pray for wisdom and God’s will to be done in the issue of Somaliland. I, for one, pray that this region is accepted as the world’s newest country.
MP Gavin Williamson, a stalwart British politician and member of the UK Parliament who has held several cabinet positions in the past has once again called for the prompt international recognition for the nation of Somaliland.
Mr. Williamson who has been at the forefront of lobbying for rightful international recognition for quite a while, has just paid a courtesy call to Somaliland’s Head of State following a peaceful democratic change of guard which has just seen WADDANI presidential candidate in a historical landslide of two to one.
The perfection of democratic implementation in the country has this time round been hailed widely throughout the world as most fair and just, a feat unseen in the Horn of Africa region and most of the developing world.
The friend and supporter of Somaliland has lamented that it has taken the UK and world too long to take action hence it is now time to follow the USA lead as far as Somaliland’s recognition is concerned.
He described Somaliland as a nation that deserves to be recognized and has become the most democratic country in the region and in Africa as a whole.
He noted that the time has come to recognize Somaliland as a country that has achieved success and has indeed borne fruit of its aspirations.
MP Gavin Williamson expressed his sentiments in his Facebook page on Friday after meeting the President of Somaliland H.E. Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro and the Minister of the Presidency of Somaliland.
He pointed out that, “It was a great honour to meet the new President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi, the Minister of the Presidency of Somaliland and the commander of the Presidential Guards.
“After the free and fair elections and a peaceful transfer of power, unlike most of its neighbours, it is now time for the UK to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation. This has been going on for a long time but now is the time for them to act in line with other nations such as the US.”
MP Gavin Williamson is a prominent campaigner for Somaliland’s recognition and has frequently debated the issue in the UK Parliament.
The Minister of Justice of Somaliland, Hon. Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis, held a meeting with officials from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) focusing on prison reforms and inmates welfare.
The meeting, which saw the attendance of the Director General of the Ministry of Justice, Isma’il Suleiman Bowkah, and the departmental heads, was both orientative and exchanging of information about the projects the agency is working on with the ministry, especially the reform and development of prisons.
The DG reported on the projects implemented by the UNODC agency in the Ministry and their progress, indicating that good work is being done.
On his part the minister thanked the UNODC officials and informed them that prison reform and the care of prisoners is the ministry’s top priority and welcomed their cooperation, adding that there was a need to strengthen the work and cooperation between the ministry and the Agency for the Prevention of Crime and Combating Drugs.
He underscored the fact that the Prison Reform and Prisoner Welfare is of great importance to the ministry hence there is a need to focus on how to implement it.
For their part, officials from the UNODC welcomed the minister’s sentiments, pledging to work closely with the ministry, as well as implement projects that are important to the ministry and the country.
The President H.E. Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi Irro has instructed the members of his cabinet to submit ongoing projects in their ministries related to development issues, the implementers and their impact on the nation as far as positivity is concerned hence has to be synchronized with the WADDANI policy plans.
“We have urged ministers to submit ongoing projects within fifteen days to align them with the pledges of the Waddani party policies made during the electioneering processes”, stated the Head of State.
The directive was made at the fourth cabinet meeting the government had, chaired by the President himself while flanked by his deputy H.E. Mohamed Ali Abdi.
A press release issued by the Somaliland Presidential Palace on Thursday evening detailed reports from ministers and the President’s order.
We present in its entirety the press release issued by the Presidency as follows:-
“The 004th session of the cabinet meeting of the Unity and Action government administration chaired by the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi Irro who was flanked by the Vice President of Somaliland, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi discussed important issues for the interests of the Somaliland nation.
“The President listened to various reports from the cabinet ministers that were important for the interests of the Somaliland nation, which were related to security, economy, social issues and the export of livestock, which is the backbone of our economy.
“Firstly, the Minister of Internal Security, Hon. Abdalle Mohamed Arab, briefed the council on the general situation in the country saying that the country’s security is stable.
“Similarly, the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Abdillahi Hassan Adan, briefed the council on the general situation of the country’s economy and how to accelerate taxes and revenue collection. The minister said that as a government, we need to consult and step up our efforts.
“Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance said that a joint committee consisting of members of his ministry and that of the Bank of the Republic of Somaliland is being formed to consult on the general situation of the country’s economy and how to control inflation and exchange rate fluctuations.
“In turn, the Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Dr. Omar Shuayb Mohamed, briefed the council on livestock export activities and the challenges that need to be addressed, underlining that livestock is the backbone of the country’s economy.
“The Minister also shared with the council that last year, the number of livestock exported from the country was 3,718,966 including sheep, cattle and camels.
“On his part the Minister of Health, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, briefed the council on the general health situation in the country, noting that his ministry, in line with its national obligations, is engaged in providing health services and responding to emergencies, whether in terms of medicine, transportation and personnel.
“The Minister of the Presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi, also briefed the council on the 100 days plan.
“The minister briefed the council on the Unity Government and planned actions that have to be in line with the national development plan and the six pillars of the party’s political program, and has got to be achieved. He reminded his colleagues that the populaces are expecting tangible implementations of the pledges made as far as developmental progress is realized for the good of the people.
“Finally, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi Irro, instructed the cabinet to align the government’s commitments with the party’s political program, so that each minister has to prepare within 15 days a general report related to his ministry on any ongoing or planned projects, who is funding them, and the benefits of these projects to the needs of our society”.
The question of Somaliland’s recognition as an independent state remains one of the most critical and debated issues in the Horn of Africa. However, reframing this debate around mutual benefits and security arrangements could present a pathway to resolving longstanding tensions between Somaliland and Somalia. Recognizing Somaliland’s independence offers significant opportunities not only for Somaliland but also for the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) if approached strategically.
The Mutual Benefits of Recognition
Recognizing Somaliland as an independent state can unlock a future of shared prosperity for both Somaliland and Somalia. For Somalia, formalizing Somaliland’s independence would allow the FGS to redirect its resources and governance efforts to areas under its jurisdiction, fostering stability and progress without the complexity of addressing Somaliland’s distinct governance framework. Somaliland, in turn, would gain international legitimacy and the ability to pursue direct international partnerships, which could also bolster regional development.
Moreover, recognition would provide a basis for enhanced international support for both states. International donors and institutions are likely to increase their engagement once this longstanding dispute is resolved, offering economic and development benefits that neither nation can fully access under the current impasse.
Finally, mutual recognition can replace decades of mistrust with frameworks for collaboration. Trade, security, and regional integration would benefit immensely from a peaceful resolution, fostering goodwill that transcends political boundaries and enriches both nations.
Proposal for a Shared Security Framework
Security concerns remain a critical issue for Somalia in the context of Somaliland’s recognition. To address these concerns, Somaliland and Somalia could adopt a joint security framework modeled on Article 5 of NATO’s collective defense principle. This would ensure that an attack on either nation is treated as an attack on both, fostering mutual protection and a shared commitment to stability in the region.
Key components of this security framework include:
Mutual assurance: Both Somaliland and Somalia commit to defending each other against external threats.
Sovereignty respect: Somaliland’s independence would be recognized without undermining Somalia’s broader security architecture.
Regional stability: The agreement sends a strong message to neighboring states, including Ethiopia, that Somaliland and Somalia are united in preserving peace and security in the Horn of Africa.
Such a framework would benefit from international oversight through organizations like the African Union or the United Nations, ensuring credibility and effective implementation. Regional allies like Djibouti and Kenya could also play a pivotal role in reinforcing this agreement.
Freedom of Movement and Economic Integration
To maintain the historical, cultural, and familial ties between Somaliland and Somalia, any recognition agreement should prioritize freedom of movement. A shared framework for unrestricted travel would allow citizens of both nations to move freely for trade, employment, and personal connections. Additionally, granting dual citizenship could strengthen these ties, ensuring that individuals are not forced to choose between their affiliations.
On the economic front, Somaliland and Somalia could agree to maintain separate currencies , while exploring the potential for a common regional currency involving Somaliland, Somalia, and Djibouti, Similar to EU Currenty. Such a currency would:
Facilitate trade and investment: Reducing transaction costs and minimizing currency exchange risks.
Promote regional integration: Building economic interdependence that supports peace and development.
Create a unified economic bloc: Enhancing the region’s appeal to international investors and markets.
A Vision for Shared Growth
Resolving the question of Somaliland’s recognition is not a zero-sum game; it is an opportunity for both nations to chart a new course towards shared growth and stability. Through robust security agreements, freedom of movement, and economic integration, Somaliland and Somalia can achieve a peaceful and mutually beneficial separation that serves as a model for conflict resolution in Africa.
The international community’s role in this process cannot be overstated. With adequate support and oversight, Somaliland and Somalia can transition into a new era of cooperation, ensuring that their people reap the rewards of peace and partnership. Together, they can lay the foundation for a prosperous Horn of Africa that thrives on unity in diversity.
In a shocking turn of events, the massacre in Da’awalley, Somali Region State, Ethiopia, has unleashed a storm of fury and indignation in Somaliland. The brutal killing of ethnic Isaaq civilians by Ethiopia’s Liyuu Police has shattered the fragile trust between the two nations, forcing Somaliland to reconsider its historic alliance with its neighbor.
For decades, Somaliland and Ethiopia maintained a pragmatic relationship—bound by mutual strategic interests and cemented by Somaliland’s provision of access to the coveted port of Berbera. But that partnership now hangs by a thread, tarnished by Ethiopia’s apparent indifference to the suffering of Somaliland’s ethnic kinsmen and its unabashed pursuit of self-serving regional ambitions.
A Legacy of Blood and Betrayal
The Da’awalley massacre is not an isolated incident. It follows years of unchecked violence and systemic oppression targeting the Isaaq communities in Ethiopia. Somalilanders still bear the scars of the 2016 Gaashamo massacre, a grim reminder of Ethiopia’s repeated failure to protect ethnic minorities within its borders.
Ethiopia’s federal government has turned a blind eye, allowing its paramilitary Liyuu Police to act with impunity. The killings, displacement, and terror inflicted on the Isaaq people reveal a glaring disregard for basic human rights, laying bare Ethiopia’s inability—or unwillingness—to uphold justice.
The Strain of Strategic Overreach
Adding insult to injury, Ethiopia’s recent maneuvers on the geopolitical chessboard have raised eyebrows in Hargeisa. Its overtures to Turkiya and Somalia under the Ankara Agreement, coupled with its historical claims over Red Sea access, have stoked fears that Ethiopia is prioritizing its own interests at Somaliland’s expense.
In a move that many Somalilanders view as a betrayal, Ethiopia’s flirtation with Somali interests threatens to undermine Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international recognition. Despite signing a memorandum of understanding earlier this year, which granted Ethiopia critical access to Somaliland’s coastline, Ethiopia’s actions suggest it remains unwilling to treat Somaliland as an equal partner.
A Reckoning for Somaliland
The massacre at Da’awalley has sparked an urgent call for action in Somaliland. Leaders and citizens alike are demanding a recalibration of relations with Ethiopia—one that prioritizes respect, accountability, and equality.
“The days of unchecked violence and impunity are over,” declared a government spokesperson in Hargeisa. “Ethiopia must choose: Will it honor its commitments and respect our sovereignty, or will it risk losing a vital ally in the region?”
To that end, Somaliland is currently considering several decisive measures:
Withholding Strategic Access: Ethiopia’s access to Berbera and other facilities will be suspended until it demonstrates concrete efforts to address the ethnic Isaaq human rights crisis and support Somaliland’s sovereign aspirations.
Community Defense Initiatives: Somaliland will back the formation of community-led defense forces in Ethiopia’s Somali Region to protect vulnerable populations from further aggression.
Advocacy for Accountability: Somaliland is calling on Ethiopia to dismantle the tribal militias masquerading as Liyuu Police, bring the perpetrators of violence to justice, and implement meaningful security reforms.
A New Chapter for Somaliland
The events of Da’awalley have set Somaliland on a bold new path. No longer content to be seen as a junior partner in its relationship with Ethiopia, Somaliland is leveraging its strategic importance to demand respect and recognition.
For the international community, the message is clear: Somaliland’s patience has limits. Its commitment to peace and stability remains unshaken, but it will not hesitate to assert its strength when its sovereignty and people are under threat.
As Somaliland recalibrates its relations with Ethiopia, the world watches with bated breath. Will Ethiopia rise to the occasion and address the grievances of its ethnic minorities? Or will its strategic overreach drive a permanent wedge between these two historical allies?
For Somaliland, the stakes could not be higher. The massacre at Da’awalley has ignited a flame of resolve that will not be extinguished until justice, dignity, and equality are secured for its people.
