The Selel region and the Zeyla district officials and top officials of the Amoud Foundation have jointly inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for the development of various projects, that will be implemented in the area.
These projects include borehole wells that have been completed and those that are in the process of being implemented in the Asha-addo and Kala-Bayd areas.
Ahmed Abdi Ismail, the Horn of Africa representative of the Amoud Foundation, said that the organization plans to add three different wells to the Asha-Ado area, explaining that two of the wells would cater to the pastoralist herdsmen and their livestock. At the same time, the third would be a larger comprehensive one to boost Asha-addo water needs of the residents.
Other locations to get the water wells in the area are Kala-bayd and Hussein
The adminitrator of Asha-Addo prefecture thanked the national organization Amoud Foundation for initiating of the water wells projects.
The locals thanked profoundly the foundation saying that they were greatly indebted to them for the various constant humanitarian needs that they have supported them with.
The pointed out that the relief foods that they are always at hand with and the stocking of the area MCHs with the medicinal drugs highly needed were just a part of the support they have been honoured to be bestowed upon by the foundation.
The governor of Selel region, Mr. Mawlid Mohamed Noor, on his part elaborated on the works done so fa, and yet to be embarked on, as far as the water resources are concerned.
Geed Beer, Rejo Beer Initiative has been Empowering grassroots communities for Locally Led Climate Action and supporting Young people over the past few weeks.
On Wednesday, the hashtag#GeedBeer, in collaboration with Oxfam Somali, organized a two-day Training on “Locally Led Climate Action for Community” at hashtag#Abaarso Village. This training program was part of the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) Program.
The training program was designed to equip local communities with the knowledge, skills, and capacity to take direct action against climate change. The focus was on helping community members identify climate risks, develop and implement localized solutions, and drive sustainable change from the ground up.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Attorney General of Somaliland has called for the impeachment of Member of Parliament (MP) Mohamed Abib, citing allegations that he met with officials from the Somali Embassy in Djibouti and discussed issues pertaining to the Somaliland forces. This request has sparked significant controversy and debate within Somaliland’s political sphere.
The second deputy chairman of Somaliland’s House of Representatives, Ali Hamud Jibril, while speaking to the BBC said that the letter from the Attorney General had indeed been received by the House. MP Abib, who traveled to Djibouti in late May, reportedly met with Djibouti’s Finance Minister Ilyas Dawaleh. In a Facebook post, Abib shared a photo with the minister and discussed the progress of a project intended to connect Somaliland and Djibouti.
In an interview with MMTV, a television station based in Hargeisa, Abib mentioned that he sought a passport for Djibouti. However, he refrained from providing detailed information about the accusations against him when contacted by the BBC.
Legal experts have weighed in on the situation, expressing concerns over the validity of the charges. Lawyer Mohamed Abdi Afyare argued that meeting with members of the Somali Embassy in Djibouti and discussing military issues do not constitute sufficient grounds for removing an MP’s immunity. Afyare emphasized that MPs have the right to discuss national policies and military matters.
“These issues alone are not enough to accuse a member of parliament in order to remove his immunity,” Afyare stated. “The details of what was discussed with the embassy, whether it was anti-national, need to be clarified.”
Afyare further noted that the dismissal of a member of the House of Representatives requires the consent of the House, indicating that the process involves multiple layers of approval.
The House of Representatives is currently on vacation, and opinions on the matter are divided. Ali Hamud Jibril acknowledged that the council does not have a unanimous stance on the issue. He indicated that the council will address the matter when it reconvenes after the vacation.
This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Somaliland and Djibouti. Recently, Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi accused Djibouti of harboring a rebellion threatening Somaliland, an accusation Djibouti’s leaders have vehemently denied. Djibouti maintains that it supports peace in the Horn of Africa.
At least five people were killed when militiamen ambushed a convoy in central Somalia and seized heavy weapons, the local government and residents said on Tuesday, seven months after a decades-long arms embargo was lifted.
The convoy was traveling on Monday with a security escort near the town of Abudwaq when militiamen from a local clan attacked and overpowered security forces, four residents told Reuters.
They said the arms, which included machine guns, anti-aircraft weapons and rocket-propelled grenades, originated in neighbouring Ethiopia.
“It is unfortunate that five people died from both sides yesterday over weapons,” said Ahmed Shire, a security adviser to the president of Galmudug State, where Abudwaq is located. “We understand the weapons fell into the hands of civilians.”
Rashid Abdi, an analyst with the Sahan Research think-tank, called the incident “the single most serious incident of arms proliferation in central Somalia” and said some of the weapons would likely be bought by al Shabaab, an al Qaeda affiliate.
Writing on X, Abdi said it was a “clear case of why lifting of arms embargo on Somalia was big strategic mistake”.
The last restrictions under an arms embargo that had been in place, in some form, for more than 30 years were fully lifted by the U.N. Security Council in December.
Somalia’s government said the move would allow it to confront security threats and build up its national forces.
The country has been confronting an insurgency by al Shabaab for nearly two decades. African Union peacekeepers are drawing down their presence to hand over great responsibility to Somali forces, but the AU and Mogadishu government have warned of a possible security vacuum if that happens too quickly.
Clan-based militias have fought alongside government forces in a military campaign against al Shabaab in central Somalia. They have also turned their weapons on one another in disputes over land and resources.
While engagement with international partners is crucial for Somaliland’s development and pursuit of recognition, it is essential to strike a balance that respects the country’s sovereignty and democratic processes
Somaliland faced significant challenges in its quest for international recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991. While Somaliland has established a relatively stable democratic system and functioning government, it continues to face pressure from international partners seeking to influence its policies and decisions.
It is becoming increasingly burdensome to the general public. People tend to go along with external pressure forcing a government to correct excesses or withdraw harmful bills and policies. Influencing the government and political parties to abide by the rules and not deviate from the democratic path is also palatable to most. But when such pressure impacts the lives, security, and living standards of the ordinary man on the street in more ways than one, that is when resentment sets in and people sway towards government lines even if it is still wrong in more ways than one.
This external pressure, often exerted by more powerful nations and organizations, is proving to have multi-faceted adverse effects on Somaliland’s development and sovereignty, and people are beginning to take notice.
One of the most concerning impacts of undue international pressure is its potential to undermine Somaliland’s democratic processes. When external actors attempt to force their will on Somaliland’s government, it can lead to decisions that may not align with the wishes of the Somaliland people. This interference can erode public trust in democratic institutions and weaken the legitimacy of elected officials.
Somaliland’s unrecognized status makes it particularly vulnerable to economic pressure from international partners. Threats to withhold aid or impose sanctions can force Somaliland’s government to make concessions that may not be in the best interest of its citizens. This economic leverage can lead to policies that prioritize external demands over local needs and long-term development goals.
External pressure on Somaliland threatens its de facto sovereignty and ability to make independent decisions. By yielding to the demands of more powerful international actors, Somaliland risks losing control over key aspects of its governance and foreign policy. This can hinder the country’s efforts to assert its independence and gain international recognition.
When international partners push Somaliland to take certain positions or actions, it can affect decisions that are the best for the country both in the short term and in the long term but not in the interests of external actors. The geostrategic location of Somaliland and its command of both inland Africa and its outlet to the Red Sea makes it specifically of avid interest to all the forces and opposing blocs of today’s world as they vy for privileged positions in the Horn of Africa. It can also make it more difficult for Somaliland to navigate its complex relationships with other nations in the Horn of Africa.
Constant pressure from international partners can divert Somaliland’s government resources and attention away from crucial state-building efforts. Instead of focusing on strengthening institutions and addressing domestic challenges, officials may be preoccupied with managing external demands and expectations. This can slow the development of effective governance structures and hinder progress towards Somaliland’s long-term goals.
External pressure often comes with attempts to impose foreign values or practices that may not align with Somaliland’s cultural norms and social fabric. This can lead to tensions within society and resistance to reforms that are perceived as externally driven rather than locally initiated.
Security
International partners forced Somaliland to abandon parts of its country to a host of militias among which were reported extremists donning the tribal garb.
To highlight but one consequence of undue meddling in a country’s intricate, internal affairs, the situation in Las Anod – past and present – must be of greater concern to the international community than holding elections today, tomorrow, or the day after in Somaliland as much it is of importance to us all.
The withdrawal from Las Anod, perceived as a result of international pressure, cnegatively impacts Somaliland’s claims to statehood in several ways:
It js seen as a sign of weakness or inability to maintain control over its claimed territory.
It undermines Somaliland’s narrative of being a stable and effective de facto state.
It emboldens other regions within Somaliland to challenge the central government’s authority.
Creates a power vacuum in the Las Anod area, potentially leading to increased instability or conflict.
Possible increase in clan-based tensions or violence in the disputed regions.
Potential for increased activity by extremist groups like Al-Shabaab in areas of reduced government control.
Lends heart to undisciplined militias and their leaders most of whose lie in vengeance and looting, to push their advantage to start armed engagements elsewhere in the area such as Erigavo, especially at a time the Khatumo leaders are patted on the back by the likes of Djibouti, Somalia, and China.
Increases support for opposition groups or dissenting clans within Somaliland.
Intensified diplomatic efforts to isolate Somaliland internationally.
Exploits internal divisions or grievances to weaken Somaliland’s cohesion.
Increases attempts to disrupt Somaliland’s economic development projects or foreign investments.
What is perhaps more perplexing to many observers is the apparent silence or muted response of international partners regarding several critical issues in the Sool region including, but not limited to, the growing threat that had been developing in the area for some time, the invasion into Somaliland by Somalia troops, led by Somalia generals, the involvement of troops trained by these international partners and Turkey fighting alongside the rebels they had incited, and the presence of various jihadist elements and units that have been identified in the area.
These groups appear to have integrated themselves into the local population, potentially with the intention of transforming the region into a breeding ground for terrorism. There are concerns that this area could become a safe haven for extremists, from which they could plan and launch operations throughout the Horn of Africa and East Africa.
The lack of significant international response to these developments is particularly troubling given the potential regional security implications. This situation raises questions about the consistency and effectiveness of international engagement in the region, especially concerning counter-terrorism efforts and regional stability.
Somalia and Djibouti
Perceived weakening of Somaliland’s position indeed encouraged Somalia and Djibouti to take more assertive stances. Somalia, for instance, intensified efforts to reclaim control over Somaliland, viewing the Las Anod situation as an opportunity; increased diplomatic pressure against Somaliland’s recognition efforts; and is focusing on the disruption of other areas and regions sowing dissension and anarchy.
Djibouti, on the other hand, has already started training armed rebels to be infiltrated back into the Awdal region in an attempt to replicate Somalia’s successful exploitation of the unrest it initiated, fueled, and militarily supported in the Sool region.
Djibouti sees this open aggression against Somaliland as an opportunity to strengthen its position as the primary port and economic hub in the region. The World Bank CPP Index of 2023 placed Berbera port far above both Djibouti and Mogadishu ports. Djibouti was visibly scared by the rating and has a vested interest in preventing Berbera from taking away a substantial volume of the Ethiopian import/Export portfolio.
Somalia and Djibouti are determined not to see the January MOU between Somaliland and Federal Ethiopia go through. The agreement granted landlocked Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland in return for diplomatic recognition to revive the internationally recognized statehood of Somaliland in 1960. Somaliland, at the time, chose, to be the first of the five Somali-inhabited territories that the 5-pointed star on the blue flag represented to join the second, Somalia, for NFD (Kenya), Ogadenia & Reserve Area (Ethiopia), and Djibouti (France), to join them later.
Developing Strategies
Somaliland’s government and civil society must work together to resist undue external pressure and prioritize the needs and aspirations of its citizens. International actors, in turn, should seek to support Somaliland’s stability and progress through constructive dialogue and partnership, rather than coercive measures that undermine the country’s autonomy and democratic foundations.
Somaliland needs to develop strategies fast to effectively communicate its position and garner more international support on its terms. These may include – but not confined to the insights below.
Develop a cohesive public diplomacy campaign
Create a clear, consistent narrative highlighting Somaliland’s democratic achievements, stability, and strategic importance.
Utilize social media, international press, and cultural exchanges to share Somaliland’s story.
Engage diaspora communities to act as informal ambassadors in their host countries.
Enhance economic diplomacy
Showcase Somaliland’s potential for foreign investment, particularly in sectors like energy and ports.
Pursue bilateral trade agreements with sympathetic nations.
Highlight Somaliland’s strategic location and potential role in regional economic development.
Leverage regional partnerships
Strengthen ties with neighboring countries and regional bodies like the African Union.
Emphasize Somaliland’s role in promoting regional stability and combating terrorism.
Seek observer status in regional organizations where possible.
Engage with international civil society
Build relationships with think tanks, NGOs, and academic institutions.
Invite international observers to elections to demonstrate democratic credentials.
Encourage research and publications on Somaliland’s unique situation.
Focus on specific policy areas
Highlight Somaliland’s efforts in areas like counterterrorism, anti-piracy, and migration management.
Demonstrate commitment to international norms on human rights and good governance.
Showcase successful development projects and potential for further growth with international support.
Pursue targeted diplomatic initiatives
Establish representative offices in key countries, even without formal diplomatic recognition.
Engage in track II diplomacy with influential non-state actors.
Seek opportunities for participation in international forums and conferences.
Develop legal and historical arguments
Articulate clear legal justifications for independence based on international law.
Commission and promote historical research supporting Somaliland’s distinct identity.
Engage international legal experts to bolster the case for recognition.
Improve domestic governance
Continue strengthening democratic institutions and processes.
Address internal challenges transparently to demonstrate good governance.
Invest in education and infrastructure to showcase development potential.
Cultivate media relationships
Develop relationships with international journalists and media outlets.
Provide regular briefings and facilitate press visits to Somaliland.
Respond promptly and transparently to media inquiries.
Explore innovative recognition strategies
Pursue membership in international organizations that don’t require full statehood.
Investigate the possibility of associated statehood or free association models with supportive countries.
The key is to maintain a consistent, multi-faceted approach that emphasizes Somaliland’s strengths and to address the concerns of the international community in ways that do not undermine the independence or integrity of its people.
International partners must note that.
As Somaliland continues its journey towards international recognition and sustainable development, fostering relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests will be key to navigating the complex dynamics of global politics while preserving its hard-won independence and unique identity.
The Somaliland Energy Commission (SEC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, held a consultation meeting to discuss the first draft of electricity licenses and tariff regulations.
The event is part of the deliverables that the SEC will contribute to the Somaliland Energy Sector Recovery Project (SESRP), which the World Bank funds.
Hargeisa, Somaliland –The Government of the Republic of Somaliland expresses grave concern over the alarming escalation of arms proliferation in Somalia, as evidenced by recent events. In the past three months, Al Shabab has successfully seized substantial quantities of weaponry from government forces in central Somalia. Moreover, the recent incident in Aabud Waq, where civilians and clan militias captured a large cache of weapons and ammunition from the Mogadishu government, further highlights the critical security situation.
These developments serve as a serious reminder of the Somaliland government’s and other frontline states’ longstanding concerns regarding the lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia. Despite our fervent warnings, the embargo was lifted in December 2023. The subsequent proliferation of these captured arms, now widely documented on social media, raises serious questions about the wisdom and timing of this decision.
Given the Mogadishu government’s apparent inability to secure its arms stockpiles, and the potential catastrophic consequences of this situation, the Somaliland government calls upon the United Nations and the International Community to urgently re-evaluate their decision to lift the arms embargo.
We urge the international community to take immediate steps to address this crisis and prevent further destabilization of the region.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR) has unveiled a comprehensive strategy plan aimed at revolutionizing the country’s agricultural sector and enhancing food security. The plan outlines ambitious goals, strategies, and action steps to address the pressing challenges faced by Somaliland’s farmers.
At the heart of SIAR’s strategy is a commitment to boosting agricultural productivity, improving livelihoods, and building resilience to climate change. The institute aims to achieve this through cutting-edge research, technology transfer, and capacity building.
Key objectives of the strategy plan include:
Increasing crop yields through drought-resistant, short-duration, and high-yielding varieties, as well as improved agronomic practices.
Import and evaluate new high-value crop varieties suitable for Somaliland’s diverse agro-ecological conditions.
Reducing post-harvest losses to minimize food wastage.
Strengthening SIAR’s research capacity through human capital development and infrastructure upgrades.
Improving farmers’ incomes by promoting value-added agricultural products and facilitating access to credit.
Building resilience to climate change through the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices.
To achieve these goals, SIAR will collaborate with farmers, government agencies, research institutions, and development partners. The institute will also prioritize knowledge sharing, capacity building, and technology transfer to empower farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The strategy plan outlines a clear roadmap for the next three years (2025-2027), with specific activities, timelines, and responsible departments. It also emphasizes the importance of monitoring and evaluation to track progress and make necessary adjustments.
SIAR’s leadership expressed optimism about the plan’s potential to transform Somaliland’s agricultural sector and improve the lives of rural communities. They emphasized the institute’s commitment to working closely with farmers and other stakeholders to ensure the plan’s success.
As Somaliland strives to achieve food security and economic growth, the implementation of this strategic plan is expected to play a pivotal role in realizing the country’s agricultural potential.
Abdirahman Abdilahi
Head of field Crops and Researcher for Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research
The Interior Minister Hon. Mohamed Kahin Ahmed, chaired a meeting to discuss solidifying border security. Senior officials from the police, immigration headquarters, and Maroodijeex governor attended the meeting.
Minister of Interior , Hon. Mohamed Kahin urged the various arms of the security forces to enhance their vigilance at the country’s borders and jointly coordinate their tasks to combat any threat to the nation peace and security.
B4N8DR A giant hand holding a map of Somaliland, Hargeisa, Somaliland, Somalia. Image shot 2007. Exact date unknown.
Abstract
The unity and solidarity of Somaliland have long been foundational to its stability and
progress. However, the current administration under President Muse Bihi has fostered
division and unrest, leading to civil strife and fragmentation. This paper explores the need for
reunification among the Somaliland people, analyzing the government’s role in exacerbating
divisions and proposing steps toward restoring unity and effective governance.
Introduction
The primary priority for Somaliland is the restoration of unity and solidarity among its people.
Under the leadership of President Bihi, the Kulmiye government initially presented itself as
an inclusive administration. However, its tenure has been marked by significant challenges,
including territorial losses, military setbacks, economic mismanagement, and a decline in
public services.
The Current State Over the course of his term and illegal expansions in office, President Muse Bihi and his
Kulmiye Party have demonstrated a disastrous failure of leadership that threatens to
undermine Somaliland’s hard-won stability. For seven years, Bihi’s regime has neglected its
fundamental responsibilities of ensuring unity, security, good governance, and public welfare.
Under Bihi’s tenure, Somaliland’s reputation and standing on the international stage have
declined precipitously. Its territorial integrity has faced unprecedented challenges, with the
loss of key border regions like Sool and Sanaag raising grave security concerns.
Domestically, Bihi has stoked divisions by favoring select clans over others in state
resources and government appointments. Communal trust and cooperation have severely
eroded as a result.
Bihi has repeatedly and blatantly violated the constitution through measures such as
postponing national elections, consolidating power around his family’s interests, and
silencing political dissent. His administration has become synonymous with cronyism,
nepotism and corruption. Valuable state assets have been brazenly looted and embezzled
with impunity.
The dire public health situation exemplifies policy failures, as once exemplary healthcare
services collapse from chronic underfunding and mismanagement. Access to clean water
and electricity – basic rights – have severely declined nationwide under Bihi’s watch. Rising
inflation and economic instability have plunged many citizens into destitution while a few of
his family capture state resources for personal gain.
After seven disastrous years defined by broken promises, diminished autonomy, rampant
graft and humanitarian neglect, it is clear President Bihi is incapable of governing Somaliland
out of its current crises. Urgent change in leadership is required to rescue the nation.
Government’s Initial Promise and Subsequent Failures When President Behi assumed office, there was hope for comprehensive governance across
all regions and districts of Somaliland where the former administrations extended its reach
fully functioning, with the national army advancing to Tukaraq. However, the situation has
drastically deteriorated, particularly in the most parts of the Sool region and Eastern Sanaag,
where government control has completely eroded and the Somaliland national army
retreated to Oog, over 170 kilometers from the border.
Military and Territorial Setbacks The collapse of government authority in LasAnod is emblematic of broader military failures.
Over 300 soldiers, including high-ranking officers, have been taken as prisoners of war,
underscoring the severe operational and strategic deficiencies of the current government .
Social and Economic Disintegration The Kulmiye government’s tenure has also been marred by social and economic
disintegration. Communities that once coexisted peacefully are now embroiled in conflicts,
exacerbated by governmental mismanagement. A community army was created when the
public lost confidence in the government to protect them.
The administration’s misappropriation of national wealth, including the sale of communal
assets such as playgrounds, military camps, and health centers, has further eroded public
trust .
Economic instability has compounded the nation’s woes, with rampant inflation and a volatile
exchange rate diminishing the quality of life. Essential public services, including healthcare,
water, and electricity, have deteriorated, leaving the population in dire straits. The
government’s failure to address these issues has only deepened public discontent .
Call for Political Change The upcoming election on November 13, 2024, represents a critical juncture for Somaliland.
It is an opportunity for the people to reclaim their power and elect a leader committed to
reunification and effective governance. Dr Abdirahman Cirro emerges as a promising
candidate, with a vision to heal divisions, restore public trust, and tackle the myriad
challenges facing the nation.
Conclusion The need for reunification in Somaliland has never been more urgent for a long time. Over
the past six years, the divisive policies and ineffective governance of the Kulmiye
administration have seriously fractured the social, economic, and political fabric holding the
nation together. Somaliland’s progress has been undermined by deteriorating security, rising
tensions between communities, and the lack of public services and economic opportunities
plaguing its citizens.
As the people of Somaliland prepare to go to the polls in the upcoming November elections,
it is absolutely imperative that they exercise their democratic right by choosing a leader truly
committed to unifying the country once more. A leader with a vision to restore solidarity,
representation, and equal development across Somaliland’s diverse regions.
Abdirahman Cirro stands out as the candidate best positioned to meet this pressing need.
Through his campaign platform emphasizing national healing, consensus-building, and good
governance, Cirro offers a realistic path towards revitalizing Somaliland’s founding principles
of unity, stability, and shared prosperity. With his reputation as a skilled diplomat and
experienced administrator, Cirro can be trusted to repair frayed social bonds, reintegrate
border areas, strengthen the military, and deliver essential services to citizens.
By electing Abdirahman Cirro as our next president, the people of Somaliland will empower
leadership dedicated to addressing the root causes of current divisions and moving the
nation confidently into a brighter future. Cirro’s vision gives hope that Somaliland’s
communities and clans can reunite in the spirit of solidarity that has sustained them for
decades. It is a vision that will safeguard Somaliland’s sovereignty, autonomy and hard-won
independence for generations to come. The choice before voters is clear.
Abdi Halim M. Musa E-mail: halimusa4@gmail.com
Hargeisa, Rep. Of Somaliland
July 14, 2024
