In a bold move to bolster U.S. interests in the Horn of Africa, Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, has called on President Trump to formally recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent state.
In a letter sent 14th August, 2025 today, Cruz highlighted Somaliland’s strategic importance and steadfast partnership with the United States, urging the administration to take decisive action to cement this critical alliance.
“Somaliland has emerged as a vital security and diplomatic partner for the United States,” Cruz wrote, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing American national security interests. Strategically positioned along the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland sits near one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
The nation boasts capable armed forces, actively contributing to regional counterterrorism and anti-piracy operations. Somaliland has also strengthened ties with U.S. allies, hosting a Taiwanese Representative Office in its capital, Hargeisa, expressing support for the Abraham Accords.
Despite its contributions, Somaliland faces growing threats, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which Cruz notes is using economic and diplomatic coercion to punish Somaliland for its pro-Taiwan stance and alignment with U.S. interests. Undeterred, Somaliland remains committed to deepening military cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and economic partnerships with the United States.
“Recognizing Somaliland as an independent state would unlock its full potential as a partner, delivering significant benefits to American national security,” Cruz urged in the letter. Formal recognition would empower Somaliland to expand its contributions to regional stability and counter adversarial influence in a geopolitically critical region.
The call for recognition marks a significant moment in U.S.-Somaliland relations, spotlighting the nation’s aspirations for sovereignty and its role as a democratic beacon in the Horn of Africa. As the Trump administration considers this historic opportunity, all eyes are on Washington to see whether it will take this bold step to strengthen ties with a key ally.
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Irro” is preparing for a high-stakes diplomatic visit to the United States, a move that could reshape Somaliland’s international standing and accelerate its decades-long pursuit of formal recognition. With scheduled engagements in Washington, D.C., the visit is expected to focus on security cooperation, economic partnerships, and democratic governance positioning Somaliland as a stable and strategic ally in the Horn of Africa.
But as Somaliland steps forward, the trip is also stirring regional anxieties. Somalia, China, and Turkey each with vested interests in the region are watching closely, and in some cases, maneuvering to counter Somaliland’s rising profile.
Strategic Objectives of the Visit
President Irro’s agenda includes:
Diplomatic Recognition: Advocating for Somaliland’s sovereign status, democratic record, and peaceful governance since 1991.
Security Cooperation: Offering strategic access to Berbera Port and Airport for U.S. military and logistical use.
Economic Engagement: Seeking American investment in infrastructure, energy, and digital transformation.
Democratic Governance: Showcasing Somaliland’s electoral integrity and institutional resilience.
Regional and Global Implications
Somalia’s Reaction: Sabotage and Symbolism
Somalia’s federal government has historically opposed any bilateral engagement with Somaliland that hints at recognition. Earlier this year, Mogadishu attempted to sabotage the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia, an act widely seen as an effort to block Somaliland’s access to international platforms.
Despite this, President Irro has signaled that Somaliland remains committed to regional peace and cooperation, and will continue to support Somalia’s development where possible. The message is clear: Somaliland seeks recognition, not confrontation.
However, the anticipated U.S. visit is likely to provoke:
Diplomatic protests from Mogadishu to the African Union and United Nations.
Renewed lobbying to preserve the “One Somalia” narrative.
Escalation of rhetoric portraying Somaliland’s outreach as illegitimate.
Turkey’s Uneasy Balancing Act
Turkey, a close ally of Somalia and a major investor in Mogadishu’s infrastructure, finds itself in a delicate position. Ankara has:
Built military and civilian infrastructure in Somalia.
Maintained informal commercial ties with Somaliland.
Yet recent developments have raised eyebrows. A Somaliland Chronicle investigation revealed that Favori Airports, a Turkish company notorious for its controversial management of Mogadishu’s Aden Adde Airport, has been courting Somaliland officials for potential contracts.
The report describes Favori as a firm with a “toxic reputation,” citing:
UN-documented financial manipulation
Labor exploitation and sexual harassment scandals
Political interference and lack of aviation credentials
Critics argue that welcoming Favori into Somaliland’s aviation sector would be a dagger to the heart of sovereignty especially given the company’s deep ties to Turkey’s ruling AKP party and its role in Somalia’s airport operations.
Turkey’s dual posture defending Somalia diplomatically while its companies seek influence in Somaliland underscores the geopolitical complexity surrounding Irro’s visit.
China’s Strategic Calculus
China, which adheres to a strict “One Somalia” policy, views Somaliland’s engagement with the U.S. as a geopolitical threat. Potential responses include:
Strengthening ties with Mogadishu to counterbalance U.S. influence.
Offering infrastructure deals to Somaliland to discourage Western alignment.
Lobbying African Union members to block recognition efforts.
With Berbera emerging as a strategic port, China’s interest in the Red Sea corridor is intensifying—and Somaliland’s diplomatic choices are being closely monitored.
Meetings and Engagements
President Irro’s itinerary is expected to include:
Consultations with U.S. State Department and Pentagon officials
Briefings with Congressional committees on foreign affairs and African policy
Roundtables with think tanks and diaspora leaders
Strategic discussions on critical minerals, maritime security, and trade
Potential Benefits for Somaliland
If successful, the visit could yield:
Elevated international profile
Expanded development aid and investment
Enhanced security cooperation
Momentum toward formal recognition
Conclusion: Diplomacy with Eyes Wide Open
President Irro’s visit to Washington is not just a diplomatic milestone, it’s a calculated move in a region where symbolism and sovereignty are tightly contested. As Somalia attempts to block Somaliland’s progress, and Turkey’s corporate interests blur diplomatic lines, Somaliland must tread carefully.
The message from Hargeisa is one of confidence and clarity: Somaliland seeks recognition, but not at the expense of regional peace. It will continue to engage constructively, even with those who oppose its independence because true sovereignty is not just declared, it is demonstrated.
As the world watches, Somaliland steps forward—not in defiance, but in determination.
Mr. Harir Yasin – Freelance Journalist and Political Analyst.
In a landmark achievement for Somaliland’s economic growth, Berbera Port has received its largest-ever fuel vessel, carrying approximately 50,000 cubic meters of fuel. The shipment, delivered by Horn Petroleum Company and stored at the East Africa Storage Terminal—both part of the Dahabshiil Group—marks a significant step in strengthening Somaliland’s role as a strategic trade hub in the Horn of Africa.
The arrival of the vessel was celebrated as a triumph for the nation’s development. Horn Petroleum’s manager, Mahad, emphasized the importance of such advancements, stating, “This is a proud moment for Somaliland, as it brings tangible benefits to our people and economy.”
Dahabshiil CEO Abdirashid Duale hailed the achievement as a testament to the vision of Dahabshiil Chairman Haji Mohamed Said, whose leadership has driven the project’s success. “This milestone at Berbera Port opens new opportunities for Somaliland and the Horn of Africa, ensuring a steady fuel supply to power progress,” Duale said.
“Berbera Port’s Historic Fuel Vessel Arrival Signals Bright Future for Somaliland,” adds Dahabshiil CEO Abdirashid Duale
The fuel shipment is expected to meet the energy needs of Somaliland and neighboring countries, bolstering energy security and supporting economic growth.
Local and regional officials from the Sahil region, alongside other dignitaries, praised Dahabshiil’s contribution and urged other businesses to invest in Somaliland’s development.
This historic event underscores Berbera Port’s growing prominence as a key maritime and trade hub, positioning Somaliland as a vital player in the region’s energy and commerce sectors.
The Kulmiye Party crushing defeat in the 2024 presidential election was a clear verdict from the voters—particularly in the Northeast regions, including Burao–where Chairman Mohamed Kahin’s stronghold was. After 14 years in power marked by corruption, lawlessness, bad governance, and economic stagnation, the voters have spoken. Yet instead of reform, Kulmiye’s leadership is locked in a petty power struggle. In Hargeisa, two rival factions are engaged in brinkmanship over who will take control and attempt to rebuild the party.
Kahin, 72, is a veteran politician and former Interior Minister who has served Somaliland for many years. Under the party’s rules, his position as chairman automatically makes him the presidential nominee—without competition. This process is undemocratic, resembling a Soviet-style system, and gives Kahin and his loyalists near-complete control over party operations.
However, the election data tells a different story. The Kulmiye party received fewer votes than expected from Northeast regions—Kahin’s own political home turf—garnering fewer than 9,700 votes there. By contrast, most of the party’s votes came from the Northwest regions, over 180,000, including the most populous region, Maroodi-Jeex. Despite his prominent role as Interior Minister, the majority of his constituents rejected Kulmiye in 2024, instead voted for Presidential candidate Cirro and the Ictisaam infected Kaah party. In fact, his political base has eroded, the coalition that once backed Kulmiye has collapsed, and the party risks irrelevance unless it changes course.
Critics of Kahin argue that the party must hold a convention to elect new leaders and an executive committee. They insist that delegate selection should reflect the results of the 2024 election rather than rely on the outdated sub-clan identity quotas reminiscent of Somalia’s discredited 4.5 system. Without reform, Kahin’s Northeastern faction risks losing influence—unless his strategy is simply to play the role of spoiler.
If Kulmiye hopes to challenge the Pro-Somalia incumbent party successfully, it must follow the will of the people. Those tied to the 2024 election defeat and the military debacle in the insurrection of East Sool—including former President Bihi, Kahin, Samaale, and other entrenched figures—should step aside. The party urgently needs new leadership with a bold agenda because Somaliland faces coordinated efforts by Pro-Somalia forces seeking to undermine its independence through Cirro’s presidency ; defending the nation requires fresh leadership with a bold, unifying agenda.
For over a decade, Kulmiye presided over growing lawlessness and entrenched corruption. Powerful business interests—such as Dahabshiil Group (aka Dhigshill ) and Telesom, a subsidiary of Hormuud Telecommunications, and others act as “States within The State,” much like Russian oligarchs. The political system has become rigged, dominated by oligarchs who manipulate corrupt politicians and media, radical Ictisaam clerics, and clan identity politics to advance their narrow interests. They are steadily eroding Somaliland’s freedom, economy, and democratic process.The people deserve a party that fights for them, not one that serves merchants of corruption..
The only way to break this stranglehold is for principled legislators—committed to ordinary Somalilanders—to take control of the legislature. An opposition rooted in principle is what Somaliland desperately needs. Prolonging internal disputes, obstructing party functions, or dragging conflicts into court will only damage Kulmiye’s standing and benefit Pro-Somalia Waddani and the Ictisaam Kaah party, both of whom would like to see Kulmiye disappear like the Udub party. But that will not happen, as Kulmiye still has patriots with grassroots support willing to protect it as a viable, pro-Somaliland alternative.
Chairman Kahin must remember that Kulmiye is a national institution—not the proprietary of any sub-clan, faction, or business elite. He must not become a tool for Kaah or their radical Ictisaam allies from East Burao. Instead, he should ensure the party convention is held on time and participate in genuine reform.
I would even further suggest changing the name of the party to Somaliland Party, and its Symbol too.
Kahin issued a letter last week postponing the party convention till June 2027. However, Osman Badmah, a member of the interim executive committee said, “The party convention will take place on schedule; it is illegal for Kahin to unilaterally postpone it. “
Rather than hiding behind few loyalists and party apparatchiks, Kahin should tour the country—especially the Northwest regions, including Sheikh, Berbera, Hargeisa, Arabsiyo, Gabiley, Geed Ballaadh, Tog Wajaale, and Borama—to meet local party officials, prospective candidates, community leaders, and grassroots activists. Listening to their perspectives will help guide the party’s direction. Denying citizens meaningful participation in the political process is not only odious—it is illegal.
Chairman Kahin should put the country before personal ambition.Gubanmedia calls on Kahin and his supporters to heed voters’ demands: hold the Kulmiye party convention in October, 2025, as the party agreed, including Kahin. However, before the convention, there must be an open and transparent forum where both factions can debate and agree on how delegates will be chosen.
We acknowledge Kahin’s past contributions to Somaliland’s independence and governance. He served and fought well for our country. We want to thank him for his service and dedication.
However, the nation now stands at a crossroads. Somaliland needs leaders with vision—leaders who can fight the entrenched corruption, Clan identity politics, radical Ictisaam clerics, and bad governance that have fueled poverty and lawlessness.
It is time for Kahin to step aside for a new generation committed to saving Somaliland from decline—before the al-Shabaab/Ictisaam syndicates tighten their grip. If we fail to act now, we risk losing our hard-fought freedom!
Mogadishu - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has formally registered to vote, urging citizens to participate in the country’s upcoming direct elections. The President registered at a center in Mogadishu’s Warta-Nabadda district, calling it a critical opportunity for Somalis to exercise their constitutional right to choose their leaders.
President Mohamud described the shift to a “one-person, one-vote” system as a major milestone, fulfilling a long-standing national goal embedded in the constitution. He stated this system empowers citizens to elect leaders at federal, state, and district levels.
The President commended the National Electoral Commission’s preparations and praised security forces, district authorities, and local communities for facilitating the registration process.
Voter registration is currently active in Mogadishu, Southwest State, Galmudug, and the Hirshabelle region. However, the process faces significant boycotts: Jubbaland and Puntland regional states, along with several opposition groups, are refusing to participate. Their objections center on recent constitutional amendments and electoral changes.
Efforts to resolve the impasse continue. Federal leaders and opposition representatives held multiple meetings last week, but have not yet announced any agreement to break the deadlock.
Hargeisa, August 13, 2025 – In a major security directive, Somaliland’s Ministry of Interior and Security today announced an immediate nationwide ban on all vehicles without license plates or with obscured plates (“Gabaalka”).
The Internal Affairs issued directive (Ref: WAG&AM/XW/3J5/10/2025), signed by Interior Minister Abdalle Mohamed Carab, takes immediate effect and mandates strict enforcement by security forces. Vehicles violating the ban will be impounded indefinitely pending further notice.
Key Directives:
– Total suspension of all unplated vehicles and those with covered plates (Gabaalka).
– Immediate enforcement** by police, finance, and transport authorities.
– Zero exemptions permitted without written ministry approval.
Security Rationale
The decree cites “safeguarding national stability and preventing covert criminal operations” as critical priorities. Minister Carab emphasized:
“All institutions must fully implement this directive without deviation. Non-compliance will face legal consequences.”
Coordinated Enforcement
The order was formally issued to:
– Ministry of Finance
– Ministry of Transport & Road Development
– Somaliland Police Force
– National Intelligence Agency
– Director General of Interior & Security
– Office of the President
The Minister warned against “any actions contradicting these directives,” underscoring the measure’s role in combating organized crime and terrorism threats.
Sanaag – Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, Somaliland’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, officially inaugurated the Horn of Africa’s largest gold mining plant during a working visit to the Sanaag region. The facility, developed by the Xididmadow Company, is located in the Cirshiida area.
Minister Barre led a delegation that inspected regional mining operations and held meetings with company executives and local community leaders.
Concurrently, the Minister oversaw the distribution of vital food aid to communities impacted by severe drought. The relief supplies were formally handed over by Minister Barre and the Chairman of Xididmadow. Somaliland’s Minister of Livestock Development received the aid on behalf of the government and transferred it to the Governor of Sanaag for community distribution.
Hargeisa – Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed-Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayanle, met today with International Organization for Migration (IOM) representatives to enhance cooperation against irregular migration and human trafficking.
The high-level talks at the Ministry’s Hargeisa office – attended by senior officials and led by IOM Hargeisa Head Ayaan Hassan – focused on joint awareness campaigns to protect youth and counter migrant exploitation. Both parties emphasized urgent community education about migration dangers and combating misinformation with accurate legal information.
“Our youth represent Somaliland’s future,” stated Minister Ayanle. “We’re deploying robust awareness campaigns and stronger policies to shield them from migration risks.”
IOM’s Ayaan Hassan affirmed: “We’ll amplify these efforts through joint initiatives and technical expertise to promote safe migration pathways.”
The meeting culminated in an agreement to deepen coordination against trafficking networks, marking a pivotal advancement in Somaliland’s strategy to protect vulnerable citizens.
Hargeisa – The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, and Family has concluded week-long consultations in Hargeisa to finalize the draft Law on the Rights and Care of Persons with Disabilities in Somaliland.
Led by Director General Abdishakur Ismail Hussein, the session brought together disability rights organizations, civil society representatives, legal experts, and community stakeholders to review and refine the legislation.
Participants provided critical insights to ensure the law addresses the unique needs of persons with disabilities. Director General Hussein confirmed these recommendations will strengthen the draft before its submission to the Council of Ministers for approval.
“This law marks a historic step toward upholding the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities,” stated Hussein. “We are committed to legislation that reflects their needs and aspirations.”
The draft law represents a milestone in Somaliland’s drive for inclusivity and comprehensive disability support. Stakeholders expressed confidence that, once enacted, it will set a national precedent for equitable care and opportunity
Communique / Declarations from the Somaliland Diaspora Week 2025
Theme “Redefining the Role of Diaspora from Benefactor to Strategic Partner” August 2nd-3rd, 2025, Guleid Hotel, Hargeisa, Republic of Somaliland
The Diaspora Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation is honoured to communicate the official outcomes and declarations following the successful conclusion of Somaliland Diaspora Week 2025, held from August 2nd to 5th at Guleid Hotel, Hargeisa, under the theme “Redefining the Role of Diaspora from Benefactor to Strategic Partner.”
This landmark event brought together over 700 participants, comprising diaspora leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, government representatives, youth and women’s organizations, investors, civil society actors, and local government officials. The Week provided a valuable platform to enhance engagement with Somaliland’s global diaspora and to explore avenues for strategic partnership and collaboration.
Key resolutions and declarations from Diaspora Week 2025 include:
1.Endorsement of Continued Diaspora Engagement: Participants expressed gratitude to the government for establishing Diaspora Week and called for its continued expansion as a forum to promote cooperation with the diaspora.
2.Condemnation of External Aggression: The diaspora firmly condemned Somalia’s aggression in Eastern Sool, fully supporting the decisions of the Somaliland Cabinet of Ministers’ session held on August 2nd, 2025.
3.Acknowledgment of Economic Contributions: Recognition was given to the diaspora’s vital socio-economic role, notably their remittances exceeding one billion dollars annually, and recommendations were made to establish an investment mechanism fostering broad diaspora partnership through well-regulated investment schemes.
4.Call for Diaspora Unity: The diaspora communities were urged to strengthen solidarity and unite in advancing Somaliland’s development and safeguarding national interests.
5.Strengthening Community Networks: Emphasis was placed on organizing diaspora professional groups and enhancing coordination to support Somaliland’s efforts toward international recognition.
6.Improvement of Investment Environment: Calls were made to improve the investment climate, including streamlined service delivery and strengthened legal frameworks on land management, intellectual property, and incentives.
7.Mobilization of Diaspora Expertise: The creation of a centralized database and utilization of modern technology were proposed to effectively harness diaspora skills for national development.
8.Focus on Diaspora Youth: Special initiatives to preserve the language, culture, and identity of younger generations born abroad were highlighted as critical.
9.Enhanced Government Coordination: Strengthening inter-institutional collaboration to maximize diaspora participation was recognized as essential.
10.Establishment of Diaspora Trust Fund: A dedicated trust fund to channel diaspora investments and resources was proposed.
11.Formation of National Diaspora Advisory Council: The creation of a formal advisory council to bridge diaspora communities and the government, facilitating policy implementation, was endorsed.
12.Strengthening Diplomatic Missions: The improvement of Somaliland’s diplomatic offices abroad was deemed vital to better serve diaspora communities.
The Diaspora Department remains committed to advancing these strategic goals and fostering a robust partnership with Somaliland’s diaspora worldwide.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all participants and stakeholders whose contributions ensured the success of Diaspora Week 2025 and look forward to continued collaboration in future initiatives.
Ougbad Nassir Omar
Director, Diaspora Department
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation
Republic of Somaliland
