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Somaliland Applauds Germany’s Recognition of Sovereign Visa-on-Arrival Policy and Reaffirms Role of the Diaspora

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Exclusive By Abdul Rafay Afzal

📌 Official Visa Requirements

The Diaspora Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of the Somaliland

has officially welcomed the Federal Republic of Germany’s recent update recognizing Somaliland’s visa-on-arrival policy for international travelers. The acknowledgment, published on Germany’s official travel advisory portal, is seen as a significant affirmation of Somaliland’s sovereign immigration framework and its dedication to secure, dignified, and accessible mobility for all.

The Government of Somaliland expressed its sincere appreciation to German authorities for their constructive engagement and for offering practical guidance to travelers, marking a meaningful step in global diplomatic recognition of Somaliland’s governance capabilities. While Mogadishu has not yet issued an official response, online reaction from within Somalia has been mixed—ranging from concern over Germany’s position to broader reflections on Somaliland’s growing international profile.

Speaking with The Advocate Post on the development, Ougbad Omar, Director of the Diaspora Department MOFAIC, stated:

“This recognition by Germany is not merely administrative—it is symbolic of Somaliland’s progress, stability, and growing international credibility. It also ensures that our diaspora in Europe, particularly in Germany, can return home with greater ease, dignity, and confidence. We see this as a step toward deepening global respect for Somaliland’s institutions.”

Implemented across all major entry points, including international airports and land borders, the visa-on-arrival framework reflects Somaliland’s broader strategy to foster tourism, business, and humanitarian cooperation. The move is also a major development for the Somaliland diaspora in Europe, particularly in Germany, where it simplifies travel and strengthens civic and cultural links with the homeland.

In reiterating its commitment to global engagement, the Ministry emphasized that all travelers—especially returning Somalilanders—will be welcomed with clarity, professionalism, and respect. Somaliland continues to project itself as a peaceful, self-governing democracy committed to responsible diplomacy, international partnerships, and the welfare of its global diaspora.

📝 For full visa requirements, visit: Somaliland Visa Info

Source: The Advocate

Somaliland and Taiwan Forge Historic Partnership to Strengthen Financial Sector Connections

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Press Release

Taipei, September 13, 2025 – Today, I had the privilege of holding high-level meetings with two of Taiwan’s leading financial institutions: the Central Bank of Taiwan and the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC). These discussions focused on building closer cooperation to strengthen Somaliland’s financial sector and enhance the institutional capacity of the Central Bank of Somaliland.

I was honored to be joined by the Somaliland Ambassador to Taiwan, H.E. Mohamoud Adam Jama Galal, and Mr. Mohamoud Ahmed Mohamed, Senior Advisor to the Central Bank of Somaliland, who both contributed meaningfully to these engagements.

Meeting with the Central Bank of Taiwan

At my meeting with Deputy Governor Tzung Ta Yen, Ph.D., and senior colleagues of the Central Bank of Taiwan, we explored areas of collaboration that will help Somaliland strengthen its financial stability. The Central Bank of Taiwan kindly expressed readiness to support us in the following areas:

1. Capacity Building and Technical Support:
Training programs, staff secondments, and knowledge exchange to build institutional capacity.

2. Financial Technology Infrastructure:
Development of IT systems, cybersecurity frameworks, servers, core banking platforms, switching, and payment systems.

3. Policy and Regulatory Framework Development:
Guidance in designing and implementing sound policies, supervisory practices, and regulatory standards.

4. International Payments and SWIFT Integration: Assistance in accessing modern settlement systems, SWIFT integration, and secure cross-border payment platforms.

I commended Taiwan’s success in building a resilient, technologically advanced financial sector despite diplomatic challenges, noting how much Somaliland can learn from this experience.

Meeting with the Financial Supervisory Commission

I also met with Vice Chairperson Sherri H. Y. Chuang and colleagues of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), where we focused on strengthening Somaliland’s supervisory frameworks and regulatory capacity. The FSC kindly expressed willingness to support us in the following areas:

1. Supervisory and Regulatory Development:
Assistance in developing prudential policies and regulatory frameworks aligned with international best practices.

2. Capacity Building:
Technical training, knowledge exchange, and staff development initiatives for the Central Bank of Somaliland’s Supervision Department.

I emphasized that a strong supervisory framework is essential for financial stability, credibility, and the long-term growth of Somaliland’s financial system.

Shared Aspirations

Both the Central Bank of Taiwan and the Financial Supervisory Commission expressed their strong desire to support my efforts in modernizing the Central Bank of Somaliland. I firmly believe that these partnerships represent a major step forward in strengthening our financial infrastructure, promoting financial inclusion, and achieving sustainable economic growth.

“By working together with our partners in Taiwan, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient, modern, and inclusive financial system that will safeguard depositors, enable cross-border trade, and contribute to the prosperity of our people.”

Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi
Governor
Bank of Somaliland

Somaliland’s National Parties Convene to Discuss 2026 Elections and Voter Registration

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA – The leadership of Somaliland’s three national political parties—Waddani, Kaah, and Kulmiye—held a significant meeting today in Hargeisa to address critical issues concerning the upcoming parliamentary, local council elections, and voter registration processes.

The meeting, led by the respective chairpersons of the three parties, concluded with a key decision: the formation of a nine-member committee. This committee will comprise three representatives from each party, ensuring equal representation.

Its primary mandate is to address all matters pertaining to the electoral and voter registration processes. The committee is expected to submit a detailed report to the national party leadership within the next four days.

This development follows recent reaffirmations by Somaliland’s President, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro, of his administration’s commitment to holding the elections on their scheduled date in May 2026. This pledge has been met with widespread public approval, as previous delays have posed considerable challenges.

The establishment of this collaborative committee is widely seen as a proactive and positive step toward facilitating a smooth, transparent, and timely electoral process, underscoring a collective dedication to upholding democratic principles in Somaliland.

President Irro Oversees Swearing-In of New National Officials in Hargeisa

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a ceremony underscoring constitutional governance, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) presided today over the official swearing-in of newly appointed holders of key National Offices.

The event, held at the Presidency, saw the senior officials take a solemn oath of office administered by the President of the Supreme Court and Chairman of the Constitutional Court, Mr. Adan Haji Ali Ahmed. The procedure was conducted in strict adherence to Article 129 of the Somaliland Constitution, which mandates the Supreme Court President to administer the oath before the Head of State.

In his address following the ceremony, President Irro emphasized the gravity of the oath, describing it as a binding commitment that is both religious and constitutional in nature.

“The oath for the National Offices is a solemn pledge,” the President stated. “It should serve as a constant reminder and motivation for you to faithfully bear the weight of the public trust you have been given.”

The President urged the new officials to execute their duties with the highest standards of equality, justice, impartiality, and integrity. He advised them to strive for a legacy of exemplary service that would be positively remembered in the nation’s history.

Concluding his remarks, President Irro offered a prayer for the new appointees, asking for divine guidance and ease in the fulfillment of their critical national responsibilities.

The swearing-in ceremony marks a key step in the administration of the Somaliland government, installing leadership across its independent national institutions.

Somaliland Immigration Eases Entry with Visa-on-Arrival at Key Airports

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – September 14, 2025 – In a move to streamline travel and boost connectivity, the Somaliland Immigration and Border Control (SIBC) has officially announced the availability of Visa-on-Arrival services for all eligible travelers entering the country through its international airports.

The new facility, detailed in a public notice released today, is available exclusively at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport (HGA) and Berbera International Airport (BBO). The SIBC stated this initiative reaffirms its commitment to facilitating “lawful, orderly, and efficient travel” to the Republic of Somaliland, echoing a recent statement from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Development.

To obtain a visa upon landing, travelers must meet several key requirements:

· A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
· A confirmed return or onward journey ticket.
· Proof of sufficient financial means for their stay (e.g., ATM card, cash).
· A local contact address or confirmed hotel booking.
· Payment of the applicable visa fee at the port of entry.

The notice highlights a special provision for the Somali diaspora, noting that travelers of Somali origin are exempt from the return ticket and financial means requirements.

The SIBC emphasized that this facility is strictly for air passengers arriving at the two designated airports. All travelers intending to enter Somaliland by land or sea must obtain a visa in advance from a Somaliland diplomatic mission or through an online application portal before their journey begins.

The policy is enacted under the authority of the Somaliland Immigration Law and the Law on the Delineation of the Administrative System.

For further information, travelers are advised to contact the SIBC directly or visit their official website at  www.slimmigration.com.

Somaliland President and Sheffield Lord Mayor Vow to Strengthen Historic Ties

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a significant diplomatic engagement, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), held a high-level meeting today with the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, United Kingdom, Ms. Safiya Saeed.

The discussions centered on reinforcing the historic relationship between Somaliland and the city of Sheffield, with a strong emphasis on expanding development cooperation and bilateral partnerships across key sectors.

President Cirro extended a warm welcome to Lord Mayor Saeed, expressing his gratitude for her visit. He highlighted the pivotal role played by the vibrant Somaliland diaspora community in Sheffield, praising them as a driving force behind the nation’s development and as a crucial bridge linking the two peoples.

“The Somaliland community in Sheffield has consistently been at the forefront, championing the rights and the cause of Somaliland on the international stage,” the President stated.

He further underscored Sheffield’s landmark 2014 declaration recognizing Somaliland, calling it a “courageous and pioneering step.” This move, he noted, not only solidified the bond with Sheffield but also served as an inspiration for other major UK cities to consider similar recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty and democratic progress.

In her remarks, Lord Mayor Safiya Saeed thanked the President and the people of Somaliland for their hospitality. The discussions focused on practical collaboration in areas of development, education, and community initiatives.

The Lord Mayor placed a special emphasis on the role of women in nation-building, stating, “The contribution of women is fundamental to the continued development of Somaliland. It is essential that their participation in political life and public administration is not only strengthened but also actively promoted.”

Concluding the meeting, Lord Mayor Saeed gave a firm commitment that the Sheffield City Council would continue its steadfast support for Somaliland. She pledged to deepen the city’s collaborative efforts, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, investment opportunities, and ongoing community partnerships.

This meeting marks a continued strengthening of the unique and enduring relationship between Somaliland and the city of Sheffield.

President Irro Inaugurates Major Development Drive in Salaxlay District

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

SALAXLAY, Somaliland – In a significant move to bolster regional development, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), laid the foundation stones for multiple key infrastructure projects during an official visit to the Salaxlay district on [Insert Date].

The visit underscores the government’s commitment to decentralizing development and ensuring equitable growth across all regions. The inaugurated projects are central to the Wadajir Government’s broader national development strategy, focusing on economic stimulation, social services, and public safety.

The comprehensive package of projects for Salaxlay includes:

· A New Bank Branch: The establishment of a Somaliland Bank branch is designed to enhance financial inclusion, provide vital credit services, and stimulate local economic activity by integrating the district into the formal financial system.
· Healthcare Facility Upgrade: To address critical healthcare needs, the President inaugurated the construction of a new operating theatre and a dedicated dental unit at the Salaxlay District Hospital. This expansion is expected to significantly improve the quality and range of medical care available to residents.
· Sports Infrastructure Development: Recognizing the importance of youth engagement, a new football pitch will be developed. The facility aims to provide a safe and structured environment for sports, fostering talent and promoting healthy lifestyles among the youth.
· Enhanced Emergency Services: A new fire station was launched to bolster public safety. This facility will provide a crucial rapid-response capability to protect lives and property from fire hazards and other emergencies.
· Water Security Initiative: New water wells are set to be drilled to tackle water scarcity, a pressing issue for both the local population and their livestock, thereby supporting the primary livelihoods of the community.

During the ceremony, President Cirro called upon the local community to take ownership of the new projects, emphasizing that their protection and active participation are essential for sustainable progress.

“These projects are a clear testament to our administration’s dedication to holistic national development,” stated the President. “Our focus remains on delivering tangible improvements in infrastructure and services, not only in urban centers but in every district across Somaliland, ensuring that every citizen benefits from our nation’s growth.”

The event was attended by local elders, government officials, and enthusiastic residents, who welcomed the initiatives as a transformative step for the future of Salaxlay.

U.S. and Somaliland Deepen Cooperation as Foreign Affairs Committee Proposes Historic Travel and Investment Shift

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In a potential turning point for U.S. policy in the Horn of Africa, a new legislative proposal, SEC. 305 of H.R. 5300—the Department of State Policy Provisions Act—is gaining momentum in the 119th Congress (2025-2026). Introduced under the leadership of House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian J. Mast (R-FL), this section signals a move away from the long-standing “One Somalia” policy by enhancing travel and investment ties with Somaliland.

The bill, referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, aims to foster deeper U.S. engagement with Somaliland. Recent discussions in congressional committees have highlighted Somaliland’s strategic role in countering China’s expanding influence in the region, adding geopolitical urgency to the proposal.

Key Provisions of SEC. 305 The proposal directs the U.S. Secretary of State to consider two significant steps, as outlined in the bill text: –

Establishing a Representative Office in Hargeisa:

This would mark the first formal U.S. presence in Somaliland’s capital, facilitating diplomatic engagement, support for American citizens, and assistance for U.S. businesses operating in Somaliland. Such an office could streamline visa processes, provide consular services, and promote trade.

-Bifurcating Travel Advisories:

Separating travel warnings for Somaliland from those for federal Somalia, acknowledging Somaliland’s relative stability amid Somalia’s ongoing security challenges, including terrorism and civil unrest.

A dedicated advisory for Somaliland could reflect its lower risk profile, encouraging tourism, investment, and humanitarian efforts. These measures build on prior bipartisan efforts, such as the 2022 letter from House Foreign Affairs Committee members urging increased engagement with Somaliland for its democratic stability and counter-terrorism cooperation.

If advanced in the 2025 legislative session, SEC. 305 could pass as part of broader State Department authorization, though it stops short of the full independence recognition proposed in separate bills like H.R. 3992 (Republic of Somaliland Independence Act).

A Shift from “One Somalia”

The “One Somalia” policy, which supports Somalia’s territorial integrity, has been a cornerstone of U.S. diplomacy since the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991. However, critics argue it overlooks Somaliland’s distinct trajectory as a de facto independent entity that has held democratic elections and maintained relative peace for over three decades. Somaliland reclaimed its independence in 1991, operates its own government, currency, and security forces, and has conducted peaceful elections, including the 2024 presidential vote won by opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, marking a smooth power transfer that bolstered its democratic credentials.

The Heritage Foundation, in analyses including a 2025 report tied to Project 2025, has advocated for U.S. recognition, citing Somaliland’s democratic governance, free-market orientation, and strategic position as a counterweight to China’s influence in the Horn of Africa—particularly in nearby Djibouti, where Beijing maintains a military base.

Chairman Mast’s backing, as the committee’s new leader since January 2025, indicates strong Republican momentum, aligning with broader conservative pushes for rewarding stable partners in volatile regions. SEC. 305 represents a pragmatic “twin-track” approach, treating Somaliland separately in practice.

Economic and Geopolitical Implications

Somaliland’s economy, heavily reliant on $2 billion in annual diaspora remittances stands to benefit from increased U.S. investment in sectors like ports (e.g., the Berbera port, key for regional trade), telecommunications, and agriculture. Urbanization and a growing middle class, including returning diaspora, are driving demand for U.S. products like ready-made foods and equipment. Geopolitically, the move could strengthen U.S. ties with a stable partner in a volatile region, where China has expanded via Belt and Road initiatives. The UK’s upgrade of relations and the UAE’s consulate in Hargeisa already demonstrate international acknowledgment of Somaliland’s stability.

A 2025 analysis in The Conversation highlights how Somaliland’s democratic credentials—peaceful elections and inclusive governance—could pressure other nations to deepen ties, positioning it as a model in Africa amid rising illiberal trends. Recent congressional letters, including one from the Select Committee on the CCP in September 2025, urge bifurcating advisories to reflect Somaliland’s success in preventing terrorism and piracy, further incentivizing U.S. commerce.

Bifurcation in Diplomacy: Manifestations and Strategies Bifurcation manifests in diplomacy through economic, political, and institutional divisions, often as a deliberate tactic (e.g., “twin-track” diplomacy) or an emergent outcome of rivalries. In the U.S.-Somaliland context, it allows parallel engagement: treating Somaliland as distinct for practical purposes like trade and security cooperation. This approach rearranges traditional alliances by rewarding de facto autonomy, as seen in Ethiopia’s 2024 memorandum granting Somaliland sea access in exchange for recognition support. If SEC. 305 advances, it could set a precedent for similar “twin-track” policies elsewhere, rearranging power dynamics in the Horn of Africa by isolating stable actors from unstable ones.

Somaliland Granted Associate Membership in IADI; Enhances Relations with Taiwan in Banking, Finance, and Trade

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In a landmark development for Somaliland’s financial sector, the Central Bank of Somaliland has been granted associate membership in the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI). The approval came during an Executive Council meeting in Taipei, Taiwan, on September 11, 2025, coinciding with the IADI Core Principles International Conference and the 40th anniversary celebrations of Taiwan’s Central Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC).

Governor Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi of the Central Bank of Somaliland announced the news in a detailed statement released from Taipei, describing it as a “historic decision” that underscores Somaliland’s dedication to international financial standards. “This recognition marks a significant milestone for Somaliland,” Hersi stated. “It validates our country’s unwavering commitment to building a sound, transparent, and resilient financial sector, one that upholds international standards of governance and inspires confidence both at home and abroad.”

The IADI, a Basel-based global body representing over 100 deposit insurers, provides technical support in policy development, regulatory practices, and deposit insurance. Hersi expressed gratitude to the IADI Executive Council, noting that the membership will enhance the Bank’s capacity to integrate into international financial systems. This move is particularly vital for Somaliland, as it seeks to bolster its economy amid challenges like limited access to global payment networks.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Taiwan

Governor Hersi, who is currently in Taipei, outlined upcoming high-level meetings with key Taiwanese institutions, including the Central Bank of Taiwan, the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), the CDIC, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These engagements aim to expand economic and trade cooperation, focusing on modernizing Somaliland’s financial infrastructure. Key areas of collaboration highlighted in the announcement include: –

Capacity Building and Technical Support:

-Joint training programs, expertise exchanges, and staff secondments to build institutional strength at the Central Bank of Somaliland.

-Financial Technology Infrastructure:

Aid in establishing IT systems, cybersecurity, servers, core banking platforms, national switching, and payment systems.

-Policy and Regulatory Framework Development:

Advice on creating robust policies, supervisory practices, and regulations for a stable and inclusive financial sector.

– International Payment Systems and SWIFT Integration:

Assistance to overcome barriers in cross-border payments, including settlement systems and secure channels.

Hersi, who played a pioneering role in initiating Somaliland-Taiwan relations in 2019, reaffirmed his commitment to the partnership. “Our partnership is not just bilateral—it is a statement to the world that two democracies, though unrecognized in some international forums, can chart their own course of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared progress,” he said.

This builds on a history of growing ties, including a July 2025 coast guard cooperation agreement and earlier pacts on IT, agriculture, health, and education. Taiwan and Somaliland, both facing diplomatic isolation—Taiwan due to China’s influence and Somaliland due to its unresolved status with Somalia—have fostered a unique alliance since establishing representative offices in 2020.

Recent collaborations, such as Taiwan’s support for health information systems in Berbera and wildlife conservation, underscore the mutual benefits.

Somaliland’s Strategic Vision and Geoeconomic Role

The announcement ties the IADI membership to Somaliland’s broader economic ambitions. Hersi emphasized that a strengthened financial system will drive sustainable growth, attract investment, promote trade, and improve financial inclusion.

Somaliland’s location on the Gulf of Aden, adjacent to the Bab al-Mandab Strait—a vital chokepoint for 21% of global trade and 12% of energy supplies—positions it as an emerging hub in the Horn of Africa. Ongoing projects like the Berbera Port expansion, the Berbera Economic Free Zone, and the Berbera-Ethiopia Corridor are expected to amplify this role.

“A modern, well-regulated financial system will further consolidate Somaliland’s role as a reliable partner for global trade and financial stability,” Hersi noted.

In closing, Hersi congratulated the CDIC on its anniversary, drawing inspiration from Taiwan’s achievements in deposit protection and financial resilience. He acknowledged upcoming challenges but expressed optimism: “With determination and the support of our partners in Taiwan and beyond, I am confident we will build a stronger, more inclusive, and globally connected financial system for Somaliland.”

This development has garnered positive reactions on social media, with Somaliland officials and supporters hailing it as a step toward global financial integration. The news aligns with IADI’s recent growth, having surpassed 100 members earlier in 2025, and diplomacy despite its unrecognized state.

Somaliland Ictisaam Scholars Asserts Sovereignty is a Political Cause, Condemns External Interfence

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA – The Ictisaam Scholars Council of Somaliland has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what it describes as unwarranted interference by certain religious figures in the political affairs of the nation.

The council specifically rebuked attempts by other clerics, both local and international, to mediate or discuss Somaliland’s status, labeling such efforts as a source of division. The statement singled out prominent cleric Ali Wajiis, accusing him of making statements aimed at “creating discord and doubt among the Ictisaam scholars and the people of Somaliland.”

The council firmly stated that its position on Somaliland’s national cause is independent and not influenced by any external parties. “The Ictisaam scholars of Somaliland are not followers of anyone in the position they take on this issue,” the statement read. “They are scholars fully capable of speaking on these affairs, grounded in both knowledge and understanding.”

In a definitive theological and political stance, the council sought to clarify the nature of Somaliland’s quest for international recognition. It declared the matter a purely political issue, not a subject for religious debate.

“The cause of Somaliland is not a religious issue open for debate; rather, it is a political cause,” the statement asserted. “Therefore, there is no reason to create conferences and pulpits in Mosques for discussions concerning it, other than to trade on the public’s sentiment.”

The statement concluded with a blanket condemnation of any opposition to Somaliland’s nationhood, reinforcing the council’s unwavering support for the territory’s three-decade-long pursuit of sovereignty. The move is seen as an effort to consolidate domestic religious support and shut down internal debates that could be perceived as challenging the foundational political goals of the state.

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