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.

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.

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.

Press Release;

The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) strongly condemns the recent article published by Al Jazeera on September 8, 2025, titled “Somaliland recognition for forced transfer of Palestinians? ‘Not worth it’”. This article, authored by Mohamed Gabobe, is a dangerous piece of propaganda that spreads disinformation and seeks to undermine Somaliland’s sovereignty, stability, and international standing.

The author fails to provide any credible evidence, verifiable sources, or official statements to support his reckless claim that Somaliland would participate in the forced relocation of Palestinians from Gaza. Instead, the article relies on hearsay, speculation, and inflammatory commentary designed to mislead the international community and incite hostility toward Somaliland.

SL-SAG makes the following points clear:

1. Somaliland categorically rejects any notion of forced relocation of Palestinians. Our people and government stand in solidarity with the Palestinian cause and will never take part in the dispossession of Palestinians from their homeland.
2. The article is a direct attempt to weaponize Al Jazeera’s platform against Somaliland. By amplifying baseless rumors without verification, Al Jazeera risks becoming a propaganda outlet rather than a credible news organization.
3. The timing and framing of this article are deliberate. As Somaliland advances its case for international recognition, including growing bipartisan support in the United States, opponents of Somaliland’s sovereignty are intensifying disinformation campaigns to derail our progress.

We call on Al Jazeera to:

• Retract or correct this misleading article,
• Ensure that its platform is not used to wage an information war against Somaliland, and
• Uphold the principles of journalism by demanding verifiable evidence before publishing politically motivated allegations.

Somaliland remains steadfast in its pursuit of recognition, democracy, peace, and partnership with the international community. No amount of smear campaigns will alter that path.

  Abdirasaaq Cadami Spokesperson, Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG)

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Borama – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), has concluded a three-day working visit to the city of Borama, the capital of the Awdal region, where he inaugurated various development projects spanning the health, education, water, roads, and sports sectors.

The President’s Activities in Borama:

· A New Oxygen Plant: The President cut the ribbon for a modern new plant that will produce Oxygen to support the services of Boorama’s main General Hospital. He also laid the foundation stone for a new Psychiatric (Mental Health) Ward building.

· Higher Education: The President attended the 15th graduation ceremony of EELO University, where 265 students graduated this year. In his speech, he encouraged the graduates to use their knowledge for the development of their society and country.

· Economic Infrastructure and Community Connectivity: The President inaugurated new asphalt roads implemented by the Boorama Local Government and laid the foundation stone for other forward-looking road projects.

· Water Supply: The President officially inaugurated the Boorama City Water Expansion Project, which is funded by the Somaliland Development Fund (SDF). He had previously announced a reduction in the price of water for the city’s residents.

· Sports and Youth: The President laid the foundation stone for the modernization of the Haji Dahir Football Stadium, which will feature a new artificial turf, modern bleachers, and a lighting system for night games.

· Community Engagement: The President held a crucial meeting with traditional leaders, elders, and dignitaries of the Awdal region. It is noteworthy that the meeting was attended by the President and the Supreme Ugaas of the Samaroon community, Ugaas Abdirashid Ugaas Rooble Ugaas Doodi. The Ugaas, who had been in opposition for a long time and opposed the existence of Somaliland, expressed a clear sentiment during this meeting that Somaliland has no alternative, marking a significant show of new support and national confidence.

Conclusion

The numerous projects inaugurated by President Cirro in Boorama during his three-day visit demonstrate the Government’s plan for the development of public services. The Water Expansion Project is funded by the Somaliland Development Fund (SDF), while the Government is funding the others, despite the general economic circumstances in the country which have affected the public. Nevertheless, the President’s regional tours have become ones that lay the foundation for many development projects that directly impact the lives of the citizens.