By Jama Ayaanle Feyte
Hargeisa – In a press statement released today by the Chairman of ruling WADDANI Party’s
Hon. Hersi Haji Ali Hassan read as follow-
” I have appointed Comrade Mawliid Cali Aaden (Dhure) as the Director of the Media Department of the WADDANI Party. He is an experienced political figure with extensive expertise in media and communications, having long been a member of the Party’s Media Department and held various roles within it.
I have full confidence in Director Mawliid’s professionalism, integrity, and dedication. I expect him to effectively accelerate the extensive work required of the party’s media department. I pray to Almighty God to grant him strength in shouldering this heavy responsibility and fulfilling his duties.
Chairman Hersi Appoints a New Director for the WADDANI Party’s Media Department
Somaliland Electoral Commission Submits Recommendations on Term Extension for Parliament and Local Councils
By Goth Mohamed Goth
HARGEISA – The National Electoral Commission of the Republic of Somaliland held a key meeting today with the special committee appointed by the House of Elders (Guurti) to advise on extending the terms of the House of Representatives and local councils.
Over the past several days, the Term Extension Committee, alongside Guurti leadership, has conducted intensive consultations at the Guurti headquarters, engaging various political stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives.
Led by its Chairman, the Electoral Commission formally presented its expert recommendations during the discussions. The Commission also outlined its specific responsibilities in organizing and overseeing the upcoming elections.
Sen. Ted Cruz says he expects President Trump to recognize Somaliland before his term ends
By Jama Ayaanle Feyte
Washington – Senator Ted Cruz voiced strong confidence that President Donald Trump will formally recognize Somaliland as an independent nation before the end of his current term, praising the Horn of Africa republic as a vital strategic partner in the fight against terrorism and Chinese influence.
Speaking at a Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee hearing on U.S. counterterrorism policy in Africa and maritime security, Cruz highlighted Somaliland’s stable democratic governance, its active role in counter-piracy and counterterrorism missions along the strategic Gulf of Aden shipping corridor, and its alignment with key U.S. allies, including Taiwan and Israel.
“Somaliland is a geostrategic U.S. maritime security partner in Africa,” Cruz declared. “It sits along one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors, and its forces actively contribute to counterterrorism and anti-piracy missions. Somaliland stands with our allies… and aligns with U.S. interests in a region where China is aggressively expanding.”
Cruz pointed to Israel’s historic decision to formally recognize Somaliland in December 2025 as underscoring the nation’s rising strategic importance. He also noted that U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) Commander General Dagvin Andersen visited Somaliland late last year, meeting with local leaders and assessing the operational capacity of the strategically located Berbera Port.
The Texas senator recalled sending a letter to President Trump last summer urging formal U.S. recognition. The Chinese Communist Party’s swift and strong condemnation of that letter, he argued, only highlights Somaliland’s value to American national security.
“Any time President Xi is hysterically upset at something, that tells you we may be on the right track,” Cruz said, quoting Shakespeare: “Methinks she doth protest too much.”
Addressing concerns that recognition could complicate U.S. relations with Mogadishu or create new counterterrorism risks, Cruz pushed back firmly: “Working with a capable, willing partner like Somaliland strengthens our counterterrorism posture, particularly when Somalia itself continues to struggle with instability and persistent terrorist threats.”
During the hearing, Nick Checker, the Senior Bureau Official leading the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, acknowledged Somaliland as “a very good partner” in counterterrorism and other areas but reaffirmed the current U.S. policy of respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity. The official noted ongoing efforts to deepen practical cooperation with Somaliland within that framework.
Cruz pressed further on potential avenues for closer ties — including basing rights, intelligence sharing, and enhanced maritime domain awareness — before concluding that formal recognition would deliver powerful strategic clarity.
“I think the implications would be that we would be strengthening an ally,” he said. “Clarity is powerfully effective in foreign policy and national security. And I think that is an approach that President Trump has embodied.”
Cruz ended on an optimistic note: “So I have a high level of optimism that by the end of this term, President Trump will recognize Somaliland. And I think that would enhance U.S. national security.”
The remarks come amid growing bipartisan interest in reevaluating U.S. policy toward Somaliland, a self-governing democracy since 1991 that has maintained relative stability and security contributions despite lacking widespread international recognition.
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐢 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐭𝐞’𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐝𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚’𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐢 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐭𝐞’𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐝𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚’𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧
We strongly condemn China for coercing several countries to abruptly revoke overflight clearances ahead of the visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini. These actions not only impact aviation safety and violate relevant international norms and conventions but also constitute a blatant interference in the internal affairs of other countries. This interference further exposes the risks authoritarian regimes poses to the international order.
Taiwan (R.O.C.) is a sovereign nation. Taiwan is Taiwan of the world. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟑 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐮𝐬.
Taiwan expresses gratitude to the like-minded countries that have assisted in related matters. 𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚. 𝐍𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲, as evidently shown in Taiwan’s cooperation model in the Republic of Somaliland.
A New Chapter: How the Appointment of Israel’s First Ambassador Can Catalyze Somaliland’s Development and Strategic Future
By Jama Ayaanle Feyte
The appointment of Michael Lotem as Israel’s first ambassador to the Republic of Somaliland marks far more than a routine diplomatic exchange; it signals the transition of a relationship from quiet backchannel engagement to an open, strategic partnership.
For Hargeisa, this represents the most consequential form of diplomatic validation in over three decades. For the new ambassador, the mandate is clear: convert political recognition into tangible, on-the-ground gains that reinforce Somaliland’s sovereignty and resilience. Several key areas stand out as pillars for this emerging partnership.
1. Deepening the Water-Energy Nexus
The most immediate opportunity lies in water security. Somaliland’s recurring droughts continue to threaten both pastoralist livelihoods and urban expansion. Encouragingly, groundwork has already been laid. In February 2026, 25 specialists from Somaliland’s National Water Authority underwent advanced training in national water planning and management through MASHAV.
With an ambassador now in place, such engagements can evolve into a structured, long-term water strategy. Israel’s global leadership in desalination, drip irrigation, and wastewater recycling offers Somaliland a viable pathway toward drought resilience and food security. Ambassador Lotem’s prior experience as a non-resident economic envoy to Africa uniquely positions him to accelerate both investment flows and technology transfer in this critical sector.
2. Unlocking the Strategic Corridor of Berbera
Somaliland’s location along the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden underpins its geopolitical importance. With formal diplomatic representation established, discussions around the Port of Berbera can now move beyond speculative security concerns to concrete economic and logistics partnerships.
For Israel, securing reliable maritime routes through the Red Sea corridor is a strategic priority. For Somaliland, Israeli investment in port infrastructure, logistics systems, and maritime security could elevate Berbera into a premier regional gateway. Strengthening the port’s capacity would not only boost revenue for Hargeisa but also deepen Somaliland’s integration into global trade networks—reinforcing its long-standing quest for broader international recognition.
3. Agricultural Innovation and Food Security
Revitalizing agriculture remains central to reducing Somaliland’s dependence on imports. The ambassadorial channel opens the door for formal government-to-government agreements on agricultural technology. Israel’s expertise in arid-land farming—cultivating crops in harsh, water-scarce environments—aligns closely with Somaliland’s ecological realities.
This partnership could fast-track the rollout of demonstration farms, climate-resilient seeds, and greenhouse technologies. Such initiatives are not merely technical; they carry strong symbolic value, signaling to citizens that this relationship delivers practical improvements to livelihoods and food availability.
4. Navigating Regional Realities and Diplomatic Risks
Despite its promise, this diplomatic breakthrough unfolds within a sensitive and contested regional landscape. The move has drawn strong opposition from Somalia, which views it as a violation of its territorial integrity, as well as criticism from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League.
Compounding these tensions are security concerns, including threats from the Houthi movement, particularly amid speculation about potential Israeli strategic presence in the region. Ambassador Lotem’s role is therefore inherently delicate: advancing economic and development cooperation in public while quietly calibrating security engagements to avoid escalation in the Red Sea theater.
5. Institutional Capacity Building and Governance
Somaliland’s strongest case for international legitimacy lies in its relative stability and democratic governance within a volatile region. Strengthening this institutional foundation will be critical.
With diplomatic ties formalized, the embassy framework enables structured collaboration in areas such as cybersecurity, public health systems, and emergency response. These forms of knowledge transfer represent a powerful soft-power approach—enhancing state capacity while reinforcing Somaliland’s credibility as a functioning, resilient polity.
Conclusion
The arrival of an ambassador marks the bridge between symbolic diplomacy and the practical demands of nation-building. The true measure of this partnership will not be found in official statements, but in outcomes: cubic meters of desalinated water, increased cargo throughput at Berbera, and stronger, more resilient public institutions.
By prioritizing these pragmatic pillars, Israel and Somaliland have an opportunity to transform diplomatic recognition into a model of strategic cooperation—one that delivers both security and shared prosperity.
*Mr. Jama Ayaanle Feyte, Somaliland-born politician, Journalist, and Horn of Africa political and Security analyst. The views expressed are his
Source: Pan African Visions
MATCO Motors Launches the All-New Suzuki Across 2026 in Hargeisa
HARGEISA – Today, MATCO Motors proudly unveiled the all-new Suzuki Across 2026 at a landmark event in the city, marking a significant advancement in modern automotive innovation. The launch showcases Suzuki’s latest Mild Hybrid technology, engineered to meet the evolving demands of today’s drivers.
Designed for those who seek a seamless balance of comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency, the Suzuki Across 2026 combines thoughtful engineering with everyday practicality.
Performance and Efficiency
Powered by a 1.5L engine paired with a Mild Hybrid system, the vehicle delivers outstanding fuel economy, achieving an estimated 19–20 km per liter.
Interior and Connectivity
Inside, drivers and passengers will find a modern infotainment display, seamless smartphone integration, premium seating, and a refined cabin environment.
Technology and Driving Features
Key features include Parking Sensors, a 360° Camera, Cruise Control, a Sunroof, and the ALLGRIP All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system—enhancing stability and performance across a range of driving conditions.
Safety and Peace of Mind
The Suzuki Across 2026 is equipped with comprehensive safety systems designed to protect both driver and passengers.
Ownership Benefits
MATCO Motors backs the vehicle with a 3-year warranty, flexible financing plans of up to 5 years in partnership with Darasalam Bank, and professional after-sales service using genuine parts.
Availability
The Suzuki Across 2026 is now on display and available for test drives. Customers are warmly invited to experience it firsthand at the MATCO Motors showroom.
Minister of Planning and National Development Receives Director of the UK Government’s Development Office
By Goth Mohamed Goth
HARGEISA – 21-APRIL-2026 – The Minister of Planning and National Development, Mrs. Kaltuun Sheikh Hassan Abdi, accompanied by the Director General of the Ministry, Mohamed Siciid Maxamuud, today received in her office Mr. Christopher Pycroft, Director of the Development Office of the British Government, accompanied by FCDO Development Advisor at the Hargeisa office, Ms. Tatiana Fernandes, and other officials from that office.
During the meeting, the two sides exchanged information on development projects supported by the British Government in Somaliland, with particular discussion focused on the Somaliland Development Fund (SDF) projects and other important initiatives.
Furthermore, discussions were held on strengthening the cooperative relationship between the Government of Somaliland and the British Government in order to accelerate the implementation of the country’s development plans.
The Minister of Planning and National Development expressed gratitude to the British Government for its continued support to Somaliland, especially in the areas of development, planning, and institutional strengthening. She shared updates on the progress of the country’s development projects, the National Development Plan (NDPIII), and the government’s priority on sustainable development.
For his part, Mr. Christopher Pycroft, Director of the British Government’s Development Office, thanked the Minister and the Ministry for their excellent cooperation with the FCDO. He pledged to further strengthen the collaborative and developmental partnership between the two countries.
Somaliland Emerges as a Geopolitical Prize: Israel’s Historic Recognition Sparks Global Interest
Somaliland Deepens Diplomatic Outreach as U.S. Strategists Engage Regional Leadership in Berbera
In a calculated move to expand its international footprint, the Republic of Somaliland has hosted a prominent U.S.-linked delegation for high-level talks spanning its political capital, Hargeisa, and its key port city, Berbera. The visit signals growing interest from Western policy circles in Somaliland’s democratic model and strategic location.
On Sunday, Sahil Governor Abdiqani Mohamoud Aateye received representatives from the Washington Strategy Group—a U.S.-based advisory firm—at his Berbera office. The delegation was led by Joel Rubin, a former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, and Michael Freund, previously Deputy Director of Communications for former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Governor Aateye confirmed the meeting on his official X account, framing it as part of Somaliland’s ongoing engagement with influential international actors.
Prior to the Berbera meeting, the delegation had spent time in Hargeisa, where they met with Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdirahman Dahir Aden, and his political advisor, Dr. Mohamed Hamud Ahmed. Those discussions reportedly covered:
· Strengthening U.S.–Somaliland relations
· Exploring potential ties with Israel
· Shared democratic values and regional stability
· Public diplomacy, education, and cultural exchange
· Raising global awareness of Somaliland’s distinct history and quest for recognition
While no official agenda was released for the Berbera talks, the choice of Sahil Governor as a host—rather than only national officials—highlights Somaliland’s strategy of involving regional leaders in foreign engagement, especially from Berbera, a linchpin of its trade and development ambitions.
The visit underscores a quiet but persistent diplomatic push by Somaliland to build relationships with key U.S. policymakers and allied nations, even without formal international recognition. By hosting figures with ties to both the Obama administration and Israeli leadership, Somaliland continues to position itself as a stable, democracy-oriented partner in the Horn of Afric
Somaliland Rejects Joint IOC Foreign Ministers’ Statement, Insists Recognition is a “Grounded Legal Reality”
HARGEISA, Somaliland | April 19, 2026 – The Government of the Republic of Somaliland issued a sharp and formal rebuke on Sunday in response to a recent joint statement by a group of foreign ministers, firmly reiterating its claim to sovereignty and calling for an end to the “indefinite deferral” of its international recognition.
In a statement released from the capital, Hargeisa, the Somaliland government emphasized its distinct legal and historical position, citing state continuity from its brief independence on June 26, 1960, and the subsequent dissolution of its union with Somalia in 1991.
While the statement did not name the specific nations involved in the joint communique—which reportedly cautioned against external engagements that undermine Somali territorial integrity—the response from Hargeisa was unequivocal. The government asserted that its diplomatic engagements are not a violation of any state’s sovereignty, but rather a reflection of “evolving diplomatic practice” rooted in three decades of effective self-governance.
“Somaliland has demonstrated, over three decades, a consistent record of peace, democratic governance, and responsible partnership,” the statement read. “Continued denial neither alters the facts nor supports regional stability.”
The government further anchored its argument in international law, citing both the principle of self-determination and what it described as “effective governance.” The statement also pointedly referenced the African Union’s own findings regarding the unique nature of Somaliland’s case—an apparent allusion to a 2005 AU fact-finding mission that concluded Somaliland’s quest for recognition was historically and politically distinct from standard secessionist claims.
The latest declaration from Hargeisa signals a hardening stance as the unrecognized state deepens its ties with various international partners, including recent strategic port agreements.
“Recognition of the Republic of Somaliland is a grounded legal reality, not a matter of political convenience, and cannot be indefinitely deferred,” the government stated. “It is essential to advancing durable peace, cooperation, and long-term stability in the Horn of Africa.”
This latest exchange underscores the widening diplomatic gulf between Mogadishu and Hargeisa. While Somalia continues to rely on the international consensus of preserving pre-1991 borders, Somaliland is increasingly framing its status not as a negotiation point but as an established legal fact that the rest of the world has yet to formally acknowledge.