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Qatar and Somaliland: Strategic Engagement or Subtle Encirclement?

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Introduction

In June 2025, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro made a landmark visit to Doha at the invitation of the Qatari government. The visit marked the first official diplomatic engagement between the Republic of Somaliland and the State of Qatar, a move that has stirred both intrigue and alarm. While some hailed it as a diplomatic breakthrough, others saw it as a calculated maneuver by Qatar to reassert its influence in the Horn of Africa and subtly undermine Somaliland’s sovereignty.

The stakes are high. In a region shaped by Gulf rivalries, proxy politics, and contested sovereignties, the question is not just what Qatar wants from Somaliland but what Somaliland stands to lose.

 

Qatar’s Statement: A Diplomatic Sleight of Hand

Following the meeting, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a carefully worded statement. While it acknowledged the meeting with President Irro, it referred to him as the leader of a “member state of the Federal Republic of Somalia” and reaffirmed Qatar’s “full commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity”.

This language was not accidental. It signaled that Qatar does not recognize Somaliland as an independent state and continues to align itself with Mogadishu’s position. More importantly, it framed the engagement not as a bilateral diplomatic breakthrough, but as part of Qatar’s broader efforts to promote Somali unity.

For Somaliland, this was a diplomatic trap: a high-profile meeting that appeared to elevate its status, but in fact reinforced the very narrative it has spent decades trying to dismantle.

 

Strategic Threats: What’s at Stake for Somaliland?

While diplomatic engagement with Qatar may offer short-term visibility and economic promises, it also carries significant risks:

  1. Reintegration Pressure via Mediation

Qatar has a long history of brokering deals in the Horn of Africa, often under the guise of reconciliation. There is growing concern that Doha’s ultimate aim is to revive Somaliland–Somalia talks not as equals, but under the framework of Somali unity. This could undermine Somaliland’s decades-long quest for sovereign recognition and reframe its status as a “breakaway region” rather than a self-governing republic.

  1. Undermining Existing Alliances

Somaliland’s most significant foreign investment comes from the UAE, particularly through DP World’s development of Berbera Port. Qatar’s rivalry with the UAE is well-documented, and its entry into Somaliland’s diplomatic orbit could strain Hargeisa’s relationship with Abu Dhabi. If Qatar’s influence grows, it may attempt to counterbalance or even displace Emirati interests jeopardizing critical infrastructure and trade projects.

  1. Intelligence and Political Influence Operations

Qatar has been accused in other contexts of using soft power and financial networks to shape political outcomes. In Somaliland, where institutions are still consolidating, there is a risk that Qatari engagement could fuel elite co-optation, fund proxy actors, or deepen internal divisions—particularly if Doha seeks to empower factions more amenable to its regional agenda.

  1. Diplomatic Ambiguity and the Recognition Trap

By engaging Somaliland without recognizing it, Qatar may be attempting to neutralize Somaliland’s diplomatic momentum. The optics of high-level meetings can be used to placate Hargeisa while avoiding any formal shift in policy. This creates a “recognition trap,” where Somaliland is seen as engaging globally but gains no legal or political ground.

The Regional Chessboard: Gulf Rivalries and Great Power Games

Qatar’s move must also be understood within the broader context of Red Sea geopolitics. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is now a contested corridor, with the U.S., China, Turkey, and Gulf states all vying for influence. Somaliland’s location makes it a strategic prize.

  • The UAE has invested heavily in Berbera and sees Somaliland as a logistics and security partner.
  • Turkey, aligned with Qatar, has deepened its military and economic presence in Mogadishu.
  • The U.S., increasingly interested in countering China, has begun engaging Somaliland more directly—viewing it as a stable, pro-Western foothold.

Qatar’s engagement may be an attempt to preempt U.S. recognition of Somaliland, or at least ensure that if it happens, Doha has a seat at the table.

 

Somaliland’s Dilemma: Engage or Resist?

President Irro’s visit to Doha was diplomatically bold but it must now be followed by strategic clarity. Somaliland cannot afford to be drawn into Gulf rivalries without a clear understanding of the costs. Engagement with Qatar should be conditional, transparent, and aligned with Somaliland’s long-term recognition strategy.

Key safeguards should include:

  • Reaffirming that Somaliland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable.
  • Ensuring that Qatari investments do not undermine existing partnerships.
  • Demanding reciprocity in diplomatic engagement, not just symbolic gestures.
  • Establishing parliamentary oversight over any agreements signed with Doha.

 

Conclusion: Between Opportunity and Orchestration

Qatar’s outreach to Somaliland is not a diplomatic accident, it is a calculated move in a high-stakes regional game. For Somaliland, the challenge is to engage without being absorbed, to negotiate without being neutralized, and to assert its sovereignty without becoming a pawn.

The road to recognition is long and fraught with detours. But if Somaliland is to reach its destination, it must navigate with eyes wide open and never mistake attention for acceptance.

Harir Yasin – Freelance Journalist and Writer

Hariryasin2@gmail.com

Somaliland Minister Promotes Energy and Mining Investment Opportunities During High-Level UAE Tour

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hon. Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, Somaliland’s Minister for Energy and Minerals, led a senior delegation on a strategic investment mission across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The tour positioned Somaliland as a prime destination for investment in Energy, Mining & Minerals, and Hydrocarbons.

During high-level discussions with global industry leaders—including Mubadala, Skyline, Masdar, Tech City, and BB Energy—Minister Barre showcased Somaliland’s unique investment advantages, emphasizing:no

  • 34 Years of Stability Sustained peace and security since reclaiming independence in 1991.
  • Democratic Governance: A proven track record of regular free, fair, and transparent elections with peaceful transitions of power.
  • Investor-Friendly Economy: A liberal, market-driven framework featuring attractive fiscal policies and robust governance.
  • Abundant Resources: Significant mineral deposits, substantial hydrocarbons potential, and untapped energy sector opportunities.
  • Strategic Gateway: Proximity to GCC markets, enhanced by the Berbera Port and Berbera Corridor Road, positioning Somaliland as a vital link between Africa and global markets.

Minister Barre presented diverse investment opportunities, including:
* Onshore and offshore oil block concessions
* Mineral rights tenements
* Partnerships with Somaliland’s forthcoming National Energy Company and National Mining Corporation

These state-owned entities will spearhead government-led investments in their respective sectors.

Investors demonstrated strong interest in Somaliland’s offerings, particularly in:
* Energy Development: Power generation projects, off-take agreements, and joint ventures for transmission infrastructure via Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs).
* Hydrocarbons: Acquisition of oil blocks operated by UAE-based oil and gas companies.

The tour underscored Somaliland’s emergence as a stable, resource-rich investment hub with significant potential for partnerships that drive economic growth and enhance regional connectivity. Minister Barre’s engagements signal Somaliland’s readiness to welcome global investors into its dynamic energy and minerals sectors.

Somaliland Ministry of Planning and MedAcross Forge Partnership to Enhance Healthcare Services

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a significant advancement for Somaliland’s healthcare infrastructure, the Minister of Planning and National Development, Ms. Kaltun Sheikh Hassan Abdi, today hosted a high-level delegation from the international humanitarian organization MedAcross. Led by MedAcross President Dr. Daniele Regge, the delegation included Jessica Genove (Regional Manager for Africa), Somaliland’s Ambassador to Italy Mohamed Mohamud, and Abdifatah Abdissalam (Head of MedAcross’s Hargeisa Office).

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to implement healthcare projects aligned with Somaliland’s National Development Plan (NDP III), prioritizing the enhancement of social services—particularly healthcare delivery. Discussions centered on opportunities for enhancing medical services and supporting vulnerable communities across Somaliland’s regions.

Minister Kaltun commended MedAcross for its impactful work across Africa and dedication to supporting Somaliland’s healthcare goals. “This partnership is a vital step toward achieving our vision of accessible and quality healthcare for all Somalilanders,” she stated. Dr. Regge expressed optimism about the collaboration, underscoring MedAcross’s commitment to delivering urgent medical services to underserved populations.

Both parties agreed to expedite final consultations, with the formal MoU signing expected in the weeks ahead. This partnership reflects Somaliland’s broader strategy to deepen ties with international organizations, emphasizing citizen health, well-being, and sustainable development.

Founded in Italy in 2016, MedAcross specializes in rapid medical interventions for communities lacking access to basic healthcare, positioning it as a key ally in Somaliland’s development

Somaliland Calls for Urgent External Aid to Contain Daalo Mountain Wildfire

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

A catastrophic wildfire is consuming the ecologically vital Daalo Mountain range near Erigavo, Sanaag Region, posing an unprecedented threat to Somaliland’s unique biodiversity and local communities. Declared the largest fire in the region’s history by Minister of State for Internal Affairs and Security, Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed, the blaze has triggered a massive response. Military units, police forces, and local volunteers are working tirelessly, yet struggling, to contain the inferno.

Director General Mukhtar Abdi Jama of the Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs described the situation as a “major disaster,” emphasizing the critical need for immediate community mobilization and urgent international assistance to protect the mountain’s pristine ecosystem.

Minister of Environment Abdullahi Jama Osman confirmed that fire brigades and volunteers are battling flames that have already spread from Daallo to Dowga Tabca. However, efforts are severely hampered by the extremely rugged terrain and a dangerous lack of firefighting equipment.

The Daalo Mountains, a cherished national treasure and ecological hotspot, face devastating losses of irreplaceable flora and fauna. The Somaliland government is issuing an urgent appeal to international organizations, NGOs, private businesses, and the youth for essential technical support and financial aid.

An emergency hotline is now active for real-time updates and to coordinate volunteer efforts.

How to Help: Contact the Somaliland Ministry of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs or local authorities in Erigavo to contribute support. Stand with Somaliland to protect its irreplaceable natural heritage!

Somaliland–UAE Business Summit 2025: A Milestone for Economic Partnership

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Somaliland–UAE Business Summit, held at the prestigious Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, marked a significant step in fostering economic ties between Somaliland and the United Arab Emirates. Under the theme “Somaliland: Gateway to Trade and Investment in the Horn of Africa,” the summit convened senior Somaliland government officials, global investors, and UAE business leaders to explore transformative trade and investment opportunities.

Meticulously organized, the event was inaugurated by Somaliland’s Ambassador to the UAE, Hon. Masoud Abdi Ali, who emphasized the growing confidence of international investors in Somaliland’s political stability and economic potential. “This summit is a testament to Somaliland’s readiness to engage with the global market and its strategic position in the Horn of Africa,” he stated.

Somaliland’s Minister of Commerce and Tourism, Hon. Abdirahman Hassan Noor, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the country’s diverse investment opportunities. These include logistics and port development, natural resources, agriculture, green energy, fisheries, and tourism. The Minister outlined Somaliland’s investor-friendly policies, streamlined investment regulations, and a new government strategy to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) anchored in economic stability, security, and a balanced ecosystem.

Directors representing Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman Hassan, and Ministry of Investment, Mr. Abdifatah Ismail Dualeh, presented detailed insights into the country’s investment framework, addressing opportunities and regulatory support for investors. Attendees, including UAE-based investors and Somaliland business representatives, engaged in interactive sessions, posing questions to officials and discussing collaboration prospects with local companies.

The summit concluded with a networking dinner designed to foster connections between UAE investors and Somaliland entrepreneurs. Discussions centered on future partnerships in key sectors, reinforcing Somaliland’s status as a stable and promising investment destination in the Horn of Africa.

This event builds on Somaliland’s growing international engagement, following its participation in the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, which facilitated high-level talks with UAE officials. Analysts view the Somaliland–UAE Business Summit as a pivotal moment, strengthening economic and cultural ties and positioning Somaliland as a key player in regional trade.

Somaliland Police Force Joins Commonwealth Police Sports Union as 41st Member

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a historic milestone, the Somaliland Police Force has officially become the 41st member of the Commonwealth Police Sports Union (CPSU), marking a significant advancement in fostering international cooperation and promoting police sports. The agreement was formally signed today in Hargeisa during a ceremony between Major General Abdirahman Abdilahi Hasan, Commander of the Somaliland Police Force, and Mr. Sunil Kumar, Secretary of the CPSU.

The CPSU, a globally recognized organization, promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sports development among police forces in its member countries. Somaliland’s inclusion as the 41st member underscores its growing international presence and commitment to enhancing professional and athletic opportunities for its police personnel.

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Ambassador Hasan Da’ud and senior Somaliland Police Force officers, alongside a high-level CPSU delegation.

Major General Abdirahman Abdilahi Hasan hailed the membership as a gateway to new opportunities, stating, “Joining the CPSU opens doors for our police force to engage in sports, specialized training, and international partnerships. This will strengthen our capabilities and global connections.”

Mr. Sunil Kumar echoed this sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Somaliland as the 41st member of the CPSU. This is a pivotal moment for fostering stronger ties and collaboration among police forces worldwide.”

This development is expected to enhance the Somaliland Police Force’s participation in international police sports events, training programs, and collaborative initiatives, further solidifying its integration into global law enforcement networks.

Dahabshiil Group and Save the Children Announce Strategic Partnership to Support Children in the Horn of Africa

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Dahabshiil Group, a leading African financial services provider, and Save the Children, a global humanitarian organization, have launched a groundbreaking partnership aimed at improving the lives of children across the Horn of Africa. The collaboration, announced at a high-profile ceremony, seeks to combine Dahabshiil’s financial expertise and remittance network with Save the Children’s humanitarian efforts to address pressing challenges in health, education, and child welfare.

The launch event was attended by prominent figures, including Dahabshiil Group CEO Abdirashid Duale, Kenya’s Health Minister Hon. Aden Duale, Save the Children UK CEO Moazzam Malik, and other regional leaders and dignitaries. The partnership is set to leverage Dahabshiil’s robust remittance platform to facilitate the flow of funds, ensuring critical support reaches vulnerable communities efficiently.

A Commitment to Social Impact, Speaking at the event, Hon. Aden Duale praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to drive meaningful change. “This partnership between Dahabshiil and Save the Children is a powerful example of how humanitarian goals and innovative business solutions can come together to serve our children. It’s a testament to the impact of collaboration in tackling today’s health and developmental challenges,” he said.

He also highlighted Save the Children’s impactful work in Wajir, Kenya, noting, “You’re partnering with an organization that’s making a real difference.”

Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil Group, underscored the company’s longstanding commitment to social responsibility. “Dahabshiil has always been dedicated to addressing societal challenges, from health to humanitarian crises. Our partnership with Save the Children and Mr. Moazzam Malik reflects how businesses can play a pivotal role in community development,” he said. “By facilitating remittances from the diaspora, we aim to empower vulnerable populations and support transformative initiatives.”

Moazzam Malik, CEO of Save the Children UK, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to transform lives. “This collaboration with Dahabshiil opens new doors for supporting children in the Horn of Africa. Our discussions began in 2023, and while we’ve worked together on remittance services, this partnership allows us to do much more,” Malik said. “The region faces significant challenges, and by combining the strengths of private enterprise and humanitarian organizations, we can create lasting solutions for children.”

The partnership builds on Dahabshiil’s history of supporting communities during crises, such as droughts, floods, and fires, as inspired by the company’s founder, Haji Mohamed Said. “Dahabshiil has always played a vital role in community progress, and we are ready to continue this legacy,” added Abdirashid Duale.

A Model for Public-Private Collaboration, MP Mohamed Adow, who also spoke at the event, lauded Dahabshiil’s leadership in the private sector, describing the partnership as a model for how businesses and humanitarian organizations can work together to address regional challenges. The event, attended by parliamentarians, humanitarian officials, and other stakeholders, concluded with a shared commitment to driving impactful change for children and families. This partnership marks a significant step toward addressing the unique challenges faced by children in the Horn of Africa, with both organizations pledging to expand their efforts in the years ahead.

Somaliland: President Embarks on Working Visit to Qatar

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Cirro, today departed on a working visit to the State of Qatar, following an official invitation received from the Government of Qatar. The President’s visit is expected to last several days, God willing.

This marks the first time a President from the Republic of Somaliland undertakes an official visit to Qatar. The President and his delegation traveled aboard a special flight.

Accompanying the President are the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Minister of Interior and National Security, the Minister of the Presidency, the Minister of Religion and Endowments, the Economic Advisor, and the Chief of Staff of the Presidency.

During their stay in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, the President and his delegation will hold meetings with senior officials and authorities of the Qatari State. Discussions will focus on matters of mutual interest between the two sides, particularly concerning the security and stability of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Horn of Africa, as well as cooperation and partnership, investment, economic resource development, and social affairs.

The Somaliland President’s visit to Qatar signifies his commitment to enhancing and refining Somaliland’s Foreign Policy and strengthening its active relations with the International Community. It underscores the importance Somaliland attaches to its national interests and its pursuit of these interests through all viable channels.

Somaliland: President set to embark on an official visit to Qatar

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), is set to visit Qatar tomorrow for an official trip. He will meet with top officials to discuss cooperation between the two countries.

The President will be accompanied by cabinet members. This visit aims to strengthen ties and enhance development collaboration.

Somalia: Joint Communique of the Government’s of Puntland and Jubbaland

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JUNE 26, 2025

The Presidents of the Puntland and Jubbaland States of Somalia, H.E. President Said Abdullahi Deni and H.E. President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe), held a consultative meeting in Garowe, the Capital of the Puntland State, from June 23–25, 2025.

The meeting focused on the overall situation in Somalia, particularly security affairs and the fight against the terrorist groups Al-Shabaab and Daesh (ISIS), the recent political stalemate affecting Somalia’s state-building process, and specifically the Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) unilateral actions violating the Provisional Constitution.

Accordingly, the meeting concluded the following:

  1. The meeting commends the efforts of Puntland, Jubbaland, and their people in the fight against Al-Shabaab and Daesh. This success demonstrates that Somalia can liberate itself from internal and external terrorist threats if it achieves unity, sincere commitment, and honest leadership. The meeting also welcomes the counter-terrorism efforts against Al-Shabaab by the Somali National Army and local forces in other regions of the country.

  2. Puntland and Jubbaland steadfast in their commitment to the unity and solidarity of the Somali people and nation, agreed to unite and jointly advocate for Somalia to achieve a complete federal statehood based on a federal, democratic, and peaceful system. They reject the unconstitutional amendments to the 2012 Provisional Constitution and call on the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to respect the agreed-upon constitution.

  3. Puntland and Jubbaland concur that the purported amendments to the Provisional Federal Constitution of Somalia are null and void. Federal institutions lack the authority to amend core constitutional provisions that form the foundation of the statehood agreement established under the 2012 Constitution, which is based on consensus. Such provisions can only be altered through a popular referendum. Puntland and Jubbaland do not recognize any outcome of these unconstitutional amendments.

  4. Puntland and Jubbaland strongly urge compliance with and protection of the constitutions at both the federal and state levels for all members of the Federal Republic of Somalia. As stated in Article 142, Clause 1, in the absence of harmonization between the two levels of constitutions, Federal Member States shall exercise the powers granted by their own constitutions.

  5. The meeting calls on other Federal Member States to hold elections for their Legislative Assemblies and Presidents and to appoint their respective independent electoral commissions in accordance with their electoral laws.

  6. To strengthen governance and implement a democratic system as outlined in the Provisional Constitution and the constitutions of the FMS, the meeting urges states that have not yet held local elections to conduct direct district council elections and appoint independent, one-person-one-vote electoral commissions, as Puntland has done. Puntland is ready to support other administrations in implementing this electoral model, especially in technical expertise and electoral legislation.

  7. Puntland and Jubbaland call on the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia to respect the 2012 agreed-upon Constitution, safeguard the unity and solidarity of the Somali nation, and heed the appeals of Somali stakeholders and intellectuals to save Somali statehood.

  8. The meeting welcomes the efforts of the National Consultative Council (NCC) and other leaders working to transition the country from political and security instability and to hold inclusive and timely elections.

  9. The meeting welcomes the efforts of Somalia’s international partners in supporting Somalia’s state-building process. Puntland and Jubbaland affirm that the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) cannot make decisions affecting Puntland and Jubbaland without their participation.

  10. Puntland and Jubbaland condemn the FGS for politicizing and misusing international aid, where the FGS occasionally weaponizes support to create division and instability against FMS. They call on the international community to review the delivery mechanisms of aid to Somalia and urge donors to engage directly with Federal Member States until a comprehensive agreement is reached on resource- and power-sharing.

  11. Puntland and Jubbaland assert that the FGS has grossly abused the four powers granted by the Provisional Federal Constitution of Somalia, particularly in the management of Somali airspace. They accuse the FGS of using it as a political tool to target communities in Federal Member States that hold differing political views. They condemn these actions and submit a formal complaint to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

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