Statement by the African Union Commission on Israel’s Reported Decision Regarding “Somaliland”.
The African Union Commission expresses deep concern and strongly condemns reports of Israel’s decision to appoint a diplomatic envoy to the so-called “Somaliland.”
The Commission reaffirms the African Union’s unwavering respect for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Somalia, in accordance with the Constitutive Act of the African Union and international law. The Union does not recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
Recalling the communiqué of the 1324th meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council of 6 January 2026, the Commission underscores that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland is null and void and warns that such actions risk undermining regional stability.
The African Union remains committed to supporting Somalia’s peace, governance, and national cohesion.
Representatives symbolically mark an early-stage agricultural partnership linking Israeli expertise with Somaliland development ambitions, as Vision 2048 says it facilitated its first platform-generated commercial connection. (Image: TheJ.Ca.)
Economic network says first commercial connection links Israeli agri-tech expertise with Somaliland development ambitions through a cross-border venture platform.
NEW YORK — Vision 2048, a business network focused on connecting ventures, investors, professionals, and strategic partners across Israel and the global Jewish community, said it has facilitated its first commercial partnership through its platform, linking The Gennisi Group with Israeli agricultural company TAHAN Smart for an early-stage Somaliland farming initiative.
The organization said both companies participated in Vision 2048’s pilot program and were independently seeking different objectives when the connection was made.
According to the company, The Gennisi Group was pursuing agricultural expansion opportunities in Somaliland and sought an Israeli operating partner with execution capabilities. TAHAN Smart, an Israeli agricultural technology and operations firm, joined the network to increase access to relevant international opportunities beyond its existing business relationships.
Vision 2048 said the introduction led to direct engagement between the two sides and the creation of a joint venture framework now in preliminary development.
First Public Example of Platform Activity
The announcement marks the first disclosed commercial outcome from Vision 2048, which describes itself as a verified economic marketplace designed to reduce friction between talent, capital, founders, and operators across borders.
The company said the platform is currently in beta and expected to open later this summer.
Vision 2048 says it aims to shorten the path from initial discovery to completed transactions by improving visibility between qualified counterparties and helping users identify relevant opportunities more efficiently.
The network positions itself around what it calls “Economic Zionism,” encouraging business cooperation, investment, hiring, and venture creation among Jewish communities worldwide and within Israel.
Somaliland Project in Early Development
The proposed Somaliland agricultural initiative remains in an early assessment phase, according to the announcement.
Vision 2048 said the project is expected to begin with feasibility analysis and site validation. If early conditions are favorable, it would proceed to a pilot farm stage followed by technical and commercial review.
The longer-term concept, according to the company, is to evaluate whether a scalable agricultural model could supply Gulf markets where demand for fresh produce remains strong and domestic production capacity is more limited.
No investment figures, acreage commitments, or production timelines were disclosed.
The companies said they are following a structured review process before making expansion decisions.
Why Somaliland Matters
Somaliland, a self-governing territory in the Horn of Africa that declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has sought increased international commercial recognition and foreign investment.
Its strategic location near Red Sea shipping lanes and Gulf trade routes has made it an area of growing geopolitical and commercial interest.
Agriculture development in the region faces challenges, including water access, infrastructure constraints, climate pressures, and export logistics. Supporters of technology-based farming models argue these obstacles can sometimes be mitigated through irrigation systems, controlled growing environments, operational planning, and modern supply chains.
Israeli agricultural expertise has long been internationally recognized in areas such as desert farming, water management, greenhouse production, and crop efficiency.
CEO Says Platform Reduces Friction
“This is exactly the kind of outcome Vision 2048 was designed to enable,” said Vision 2048 Co-Founder and CEO David Judah.
“Valuable cross-border opportunities are often limited by fragmented networks and poor visibility. Our role is to reduce that friction and help ventures find relevant partners faster.”
The company said the Somaliland initiative is still in an early stage but represents a foundational example of how its platform is intended to operate.
Broader Israel-Diaspora Economic Strategy
Vision 2048 said it is building long-term infrastructure linking Jewish talent, ventures, and capital across Israel and the Diaspora through a trusted digital environment.
The company says members can use the platform to discover opportunities, form strategic partnerships, and coordinate cross-border economic activity.
For pro-Israel business audiences, the concept reflects a growing interest in strengthening economic ties between Israel and Jewish communities abroad through private-sector cooperation rather than relying solely on traditional philanthropic or political frameworks.
Supporters argue that such models can unlock new sources of innovation, talent mobility, and venture growth while deepening practical bonds with Israel.
Looking Ahead
While the Somaliland project remains preliminary, the announcement signals that Israeli know-how may continue to find opportunities in emerging markets where food production, water efficiency, and export access are growing priorities.
For Vision 2048, the partnership serves as an early proof point that curated high-trust business networks may generate tangible commercial outcomes across borders.
The Ministry of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland has organized a crucial meeting to analyze the Better Life project, focusing on evaluating the performance and progress achieved during the project’s implementation period.
The meeting brought together partner agencies working with the Ministry, including the FCDO, UNICEF, HHELMIS, and the organizations implementing this program. They jointly discussed the outcomes achieved and the important lessons learned from the project’s execution.
During the proceedings, key sessions were held focusing on:
· Program Design and Coordination: Analyzing how the project aligned with government development plans and the methods of implementation.
· Health Service Delivery: Assessing performance, achievements, and existing challenges.
· Equity and Community Participation: Ensuring that services reached all segments of society fairly.
Additionally, in-depth discussions were held regarding the sustainability of the program, with particular emphasis placed on the importance of local ownership, increasing funding, and improving the coordination of health services.
Finally, the meeting concluded with actionable conclusions and recommendations jointly proposed by the Ministry of Health Development, FCDO, UNICEF, and the implementing agencies, focusing on the future improvement of health services in Somaliland.
According to Article 60 of the 2012 Constitution, under which constitutional bodies were elected and sworn in, April 14, 2026, marked the swearing-in date of the 11th Parliament of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The four-year term of the 11th Parliament has now officially ended. Therefore, as of April 15, 2026, the 11th Parliament no longer holds any legislative authority, except to serve in a caretaker capacity until the 12th Parliament is elected.
The reason for this situation is that President Hassan Sheikh has failed and defaulted on holding an agreed-upon election to elect new members who would replace the 11th Parliament. Given that the 11th Parliament’s term ends on May 15, 2026, and it will no longer possess constitutional legitimacy after that date, the President himself will likewise revert to the status of a former president.
We further clarify that as of April 15, 2026, a constitutional vacuum and political uncertainty exist. This cripples Somali state-building, undermines the progress achieved through all agreements previously reached by the Somali people, and lays the foundation for a state collapse from which recovery will be extremely difficult.
Additionally, we warn the caretaker leadership, whose term has expired, that any step they take, any meeting they convene, or any law they propose will have no legal standing.
We call upon the international community not to allow the funds they have long provided to support the Somali people to be used to destroy Somalia’s legal framework and political stability. Any financial support they provide must be conditional on consensus, an agreed-upon election, and the protection of the rights of Somali citizens, given that the term of constitutional bodies has expired.
Finally, we call upon the Somali people to resist any attempt to break the Constitution and the agreed-upon legal framework. Reject unilateralism, abuse of power, and illegitimate term extensions.
HARGEISA, Somaliland — The government of the Republic of Somaliland has issued a forceful rebuke to Somalia’s federal government, dismissing objections to its foreign policy as legally baseless and affirming its right to conduct independent diplomatic relations, including recent engagement with Israel.
In an official press release obtained by [News Outlet Name], Hargeisa characterized Mogadishu’s statements as “unfounded in law” and “inaccurate in history.” The response marks a significant escalation in rhetoric regarding Somaliland’s autonomous status and its pursuit of international legitimacy.
Historical Precedent and Legal Argument
The core of Somaliland’s rebuttal rests on the claim of a distinct, pre-existing sovereignty established on June 26, 1960. The statement emphasizes that this independence was recognized internationally prior to the five-day-old state’s voluntary union with Italian Somaliland on July 1, 1960.
“The continued invocation by the Somalian Government of ‘territorial integrity’ in this context is both misplaced and misleading,” the press release stated. “Somaliland’s independence predates the union of 1960, which lacked a binding legal foundation capable of extinguishing Somaliland’s statehood.”
Citing the principle of state continuity under international law, Somaliland asserts that its reassertion of sovereignty in 1991 was a restoration of an existing state, not a secession from a unified one.
Contrasting Governance and Security
The statement draws a sharp contrast between the two administrations’ records. While Somalia grapples with a protracted insurgency and relies on the African Union Transition Mission (ATMIS) for security, Somaliland highlighted over three decades of self-governance within its colonial-era borders.
Somaliland officials pointed to the maintenance of democratic institutions, peaceful transitions of power, and the safeguarding of the Gulf of Aden maritime corridor as evidence of its capacity as a “responsible and self-reliant partner” in counter-terrorism and anti-piracy operations.
International Relations
The press release did not specify the nature of the recent engagement with Israel, but it framed all bilateral partnerships as an exercise of “sovereign prerogatives” not subject to approval from Mogadishu. The statement asserts that such engagements are conducted in full accordance with international norms.
“Somaliland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, and its foreign relations are determined solely by its sovereign will,” the government concluded.
The renewed diplomatic friction comes amid heightened regional focus on the Horn of Africa’s maritime access and security architecture, though Somaliland remains without widespread international recognition as a separate state.
The Chairman of the WADDANI party, Hon. Hersi Ali Haji Hassan, has warmly commended the Somaliland government’s “Unity and Action” administration for translating its promises to the public and the nation’s youth into tangible results.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Somaliland Youth Investment Fund Committee, Hon. Hersi Ali Haji Hassan remarked that the government’s performance has instilled renewed hope and optimism across the country.
“I congratulate the government for turning yesterday’s promises into today’s actions,” he said.
He also lauded the Youth Investment Fund Committee for fostering fresh hope and motivation among Somaliland’s young people. At the same time, he urged the committee to ensure that available opportunities are extended to the youth with transparency, justice, and fairness.
“What is required of us is to act with justice and to ensure that we reach the youth with the resources we have,” he emphasized
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar appoints Michael Lotem as Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland.
The Foreign Ministry’s Appointments Committee for Appointing Representatives Abrod, chaired by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, on Wednesday approved two new diplomatic appointments.
Yahel Vilan has been appointed Israel’s ambassador to Singapore and East Timor. He previously served as ambassador to Kenya and Serbia.
Michael Lotem, currently serving as a non-resident economic ambassador to Africa, has been appointed Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland.
Israel recognized Somaliland in December 2025, becoming the first and, to date, the only country to officially recognize the self-declared republic, which Somalia considers part of its territory.
Less than two weeks later, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Somaliland.
In January, Israeli President Isaac Herzog met on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos with the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.
In a post on social media following the meeting, Herzog wrote, ‘I welcome the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two nations and look forward to deepening our bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both our peoples.”
Abdirahman, in a post of his own, wrote, “Our discussions focused on strengthening and advancing bilateral relations between the Republic of Somaliland and the State of Israel.”
Somalia’s foreign minister meets with his Chinese counterpart in Beijing in 2024. Zhai Jianlan/Xinhua via Getty Images
China recently pledged to expand military support to Somalia in its fight against al-Shabaab militants. Beijing has promised equipment, training and closer security cooperation with Mogadishu. This marks a shift from China’s traditionally cautious and small presence in the country. Brendon J. Cannon has researched how external powers – including China – engage with sub-Saharan Africa. He explains how these dynamics are converging in Somalia.
What form does China’s support in Somalia take?
China’s interests in Somalia take two paths.
The first is broadly geopolitical. It relates to China’s long-standing interests in the Horn of Africa as a strategic crossroads. The region links the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and the Mediterranean. The Horn of Africa includes Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea and Somaliland. Sudan and Kenya are important actors in the region’s affairs.
Beijing’s priorities here are about expanding political influence and embedding itself in regional security architectures. This explains its existing military presence in Djibouti and infrastructure investments across Ethiopia, as well as neighbouring states like Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan.
The second path is specific to Somalia. It is mainly shaped by China’s domestic politics and stance on Taiwan. Beijing considers Taiwan a breakaway province, and is concerned that Somaliland’s ties with Taipei could lend legitimacy to separatist movements. Somaliland is a de facto independent state that left its voluntary union with Somalia in 1991, and diplomatically recognised Taiwan in 2020.
To understand this Somalia-specific dynamic, it is necessary to look at what China’s support to Somalia entails. Beijing provides diplomatic backing, development assistance and, more recently, security cooperation framed around counterterrorism and support for Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab militants.
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Even so, China’s economic footprint remains modest. Unlike neighbouring Ethiopia, where Beijing has financed railways, ports and airports, Somalia has not received large-scale Belt and Road infrastructure.
Chinese engagement is, therefore, better understood as selective and strategic rather than transformative.
What are the strategic interests driving this engagement?
Since 1949, Taiwan has been an independent, self-governing state, though the People’s Republic of China lays claim to the island.
Beijing has worked over the past three decades to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. It’s offered development, technology and infrastructure assistance in exchange for states severing diplomatic relations with Taipei.
From Beijing’s perspective, the fact that a small, de facto independent state in the Horn of Africa had the temerity to exchange diplomats with Taiwan was bad enough. When Israel became the first state to formally recognise Somaliland’s independence in December 2025, Beijing reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. US policymakers are also pushing to recognise Somaliland.
China and Somalia’s leaders in Mogadishu frequently affirm their support for “One Somalia” and “One China”, respectively. In their view, Somaliland must submit to Mogadishu’s rule. Ditto for Taiwan: it must join the People’s Republic of China.
Neither Somaliland nor Taiwan wish to be part of what they view as broken political experiments.
Their larger, angry neighbours don’t care. They resort to bullying and threaten violence – in different ways.
China has wealth, economic power and a global profile. It also has a huge military and growing navy, much of it tailormade to invade Taiwan. Despite this, Taiwan still prefers to go it alone, with support from the United States, Japan, Australia and others.
Mogadishu, on the other hand, is unable to exercise legitimate control over much of its own territory. Despite decades of external security assistance and military training, Somalia still has no capable military. The national army continues to underperform against al-Shabaab and remains entangled in clan-based politics.
Failure to shift the status quo in either Taiwan or Somaliland unites China and Somalia against smaller, weaker entities.
How does China’s approach in the Horn of Africa differ from that of western actors?
In my view, Beijing’s growing interest in Somalia is less about development corridors and more about political alignment, diplomatic positioning and security cooperation.
Western states have tended to emphasise counterterrorism operations, governance reforms and security sector training. Other actors like Turkey and the United Arab Emirates have combined military engagement with infrastructure investment and commercial interests, sometimes becoming deeply embedded in Somalia’s internal politics.
China, by contrast, has focused on regime support to reinforce Somalia’s territorial integrity. This assistance has been less overtly military, and is closely tied to diplomatic objectives.
China prefers building technological and institutional dependencies – in telecommunications, technology and surveillance, for example – across much of Africa.
In both the short and long term, greater Chinese involvement risks adding another layer of geopolitical competition in an already fragile region. Rather than acting as a stabilising force, Beijing may find itself drawn into the same local dynamics that have frustrated other external actors.
Somaliland, in comparison, has developed a relatively functional security sector and a high degree of domestic political legitimacy.
What could greater Chinese involvement mean for Somalia’s security?
There is little reason to expect China’s military assistance to succeed where others have failed. Its broader impact will likely be political rather than operational.
Increased Chinese backing for Mogadishu could deepen internal divisions within Somalia. It may intensify competition over territory, authority and external patronage.
Nowhere is this dynamic more visible than in Las Anod, a contested city in eastern Somaliland.
It has recently become the focal point of a new political entity – SSC Khatumo, armed by external state actors, including China, according to reports. It is backed by Mogadishu and viewed by Somaliland as illegitimate.
Political developments in Las Anod have taken on geopolitical overtones. Abdikhadir Firdhiye was inaugurated in January 2026 as the first president of what Mogadishu has recognised as its Northeast State. The SSC Khatumo administration considers Las Anod its capital.
Among those attending Firdhiye’s inauguration were ambassadors from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, China, Djibouti and Sudan. Their interests extend well beyond local governance.
For Somaliland, the message was clear: its bid for independence is now entangled in a much wider geopolitical contest.
The Somaliland Coast Guard’s escort services represent a model of regional self-reliance that deserves the support of all stakeholders—including international insurers, shipping lines, and foreign governments.
As global energy markets reel from the partial shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz and war insurance premiums skyrocket by nearly 4,000%, an unlikely maritime security provider is emerging as a critical stabiliser in one of the world’s most vital shipping corridors. The Somaliland Coast Guard, operating from the port city of Berbera, has quietly begun providing maritime escort services, seeking to reduce shipping insurance costs—and consequently, the price of commodities and energy for consumers across the Horn of Africa and beyond. With Iran’s ongoing conflict disrupting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—through which approximately 20% of global oil consumption transits—the ripple effects have reached every corner of the global economy. Yet Somaliland’s proactive maritime security posture is demonstrating that regional actors can play a decisive role in mitigating these shocks.
To understand the significance of the Coast Guard’s escort services, one must first understand the mechanics of maritime war risk insurance. This specialised coverage protects ships and cargo against losses from war, terrorism, piracy, and other geopolitical threats. Maritime insurance operates on a classification system maintained by the Joint War Committee (JWC), a body of underwriters from the Lloyd’s Market Association and the International Underwriting Association. The JWC designates ‘Listed Areas’—high-risk zones where insurers require advance notification and additional premiums for vessels to enter. These designations directly determine the cost of shipping.
On March 3, 2026, the JWC issued its latest update, JWLA-033, which dramatically expanded the war risk “excluded areas” to include Bahrain, Djibouti, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Significantly, it redefined the boundaries of the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Aden, and the Southern Red Sea to encompass a vast maritime zone. There are three primary types of maritime insurance that affect commodity prices. The first is Hull and Machinery Insurance, which covers the physical vessel itself, and standard policies typically exclude war risks, requiring separate coverage. The second is War Risk Insurance, through which specialised coverage is activated when vessels enter designated ‘Listed Areas.’ Premiums are calculated as a percentage of the vessel’s value, with rates fluctuating based on threat levels. The third is Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Insurance, which covers third-party liabilities, including environmental damage, cargo loss, and crew injuries. P&I clubs issue “war risk withdrawal notices” when vessels enter high-risk zones, requiring owners to secure additional coverage. The cost implications have been staggering. Before the current Iran conflict, war risk premiums for the Persian Gulf stood at approximately 0.1 to 0.25% of a vessel’s value. By March 6, 2026, rates had surged to approximately 3%, and some markets placed them between 4 and 10% for higher-risk profiles. For a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) valued at USD 100 million, a 2% war risk premium translates to USD 2 million per passage—approximately USD 1 per barrel of oil. With rates ranging from 3 to 5%, insurance costs alone can exceed USD 1.50 to 2.50 per barrel. In extreme cases, premiums have approached 10%, pushing purely insurance costs beyond USD 5 per barrel. These costs are passed directly to consumers. When shipping lines face an additional USD 2–3 million in insurance costs per voyage, those expenses appear in the price of fuel at the pump and the cost of imported goods on store shelves. Somaliland’s coastline stretches along the Gulf of Aden, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Gulf connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean via the Bab el Mandeb Strait, through which approximately 10% of global trade and up to 12% of global oil transported by sea passes annually. The Port of Berbera, located just 250 kilometres east of the Bab el Mandeb, is strategically positioned to serve as a buffer against regional disruptions.Somaliland’s Coast Guard is uniquely positioned to address future maritime crises. Consider the impact of a full shutdown of the Bab el Mandeb—a scenario that remains plausible given the ongoing conflict in Yemen and tensions in the Red Sea. If that chokepoint were closed, shipping would be forced to divert around the Cape of Good Hope, adding thousands of miles to voyages and upending global supply chains. In such a scenario, Somaliland’s ports and maritime security infrastructure would become even more critical. The Coast Guard could serve as the first responder for vessels seeking safe harbour, the coordinator of emergency shipping lanes, and the security guarantor enabling continued trade. The Somaliland Coast Guard’s escort services directly address the two factors that insurers use to calculate premiums: risk assessment and risk mitigation. When a vessel transits through a JWC-designated ‘Listed Area’ without security arrangements, insurers assume the worst-case risk profile. However, when a national coast guard provides active escort—demonstrating a commitment to maritime domain awareness, surveillance, and rapid response—the risk profile changes. Insurers can factor this security presence into their underwriting models.
The mechanism works as follows. First, through the transfer of risk, when the Coast Guard escorts vessels through Somaliland’s territorial waters and adjacent shipping lanes, it effectively transfers risk from the vessel owner to a state security provider. Second, insurance rates are heavily influenced by loss history. Somaliland’s territorial waters have recorded no successful pirate attacks in over a decade—a fact that insurers must acknowledge despite outdated regional classifications. The Coast Guard’s 24-hour emergency hotline and rapid response capabilities provide insurers with verifiable security protocols that justify reduced premiums. For ships bound to Berbera Port—which handles a growing share of Ethiopia’s maritime trade and serves as a critical alternative to congested Djibouti—the Coast Guard’s escort services mean lower total shipping costs.
These savings translate directly to reduced prices for commodities, fuel, and consumer goods imported through Somaliland. Despite Somaliland’s strong maritime security record, its territorial waters remain lumped into a high-risk insurance classification—a direct consequence of the Republic’s lack of international recognition. The JWC’s ‘Listed Areas’ designation currently extends from the Somalia border at 1°40’S, 41°34’E outward into the Indian Ocean, encompassing waters that Somaliland has successfully secured for years. No piracy incidents have occurred in Somaliland’s territorial waters, yet the Republic’s lack of diplomatic recognition means it cannot negotiate independently with international insurers or advocate for reclassification. This bureaucratic reality imposes a hidden tax on every ship that calls at Berbera and every consumer who depends on the goods that flow through it.Admiral Ahmed Hurre Haariye, Commander of the Somaliland Coast Guard, has affirmed his service’s readiness to assume a larger role in maritime security. In a recent statement, he emphasised that the Coast Guard holds exclusive legal authority over Somaliland’s maritime security—a mandate that extends to escort operations. The Admiral noted that the Coast Guard has been consistently combating piracy and transnational maritime crime for decades, developing professional personnel capable of delivering the security outcomes insurers and shipping lines require.
With approximately 1,000 active personnel and a fleet that includes Defender-class vessels, the Coast Guard has steadily built the operational capacity to conduct escort missions. Recent international training programs have further enhanced these capabilities. In March 2026, Coast Guard officers completed an advanced training program supported by IORIS (Indian Ocean Region Information Sharing), an international maritime coordination platform that promotes cooperation among Indian Ocean security agencies. The training focused on maritime surveillance, information sharing, operational coordination, and responding to maritime threats, including illegal fishing, smuggling, and piracy.
To tackle the rising global prices of commodities and energy, the Somaliland coast guard commander stated that the Berbera Secure Approach Protocol (BSAP), which will provide maritime escort to ships sailing to Berbera Port, will soon be introduced to lower the high insurance premiums paid by ships. This will, in turn, have a positive impact on the prices of goods and energy in the local market, as well as on goods bound for Ethiopia. This will also improve the performance of the Berbera Port, which is expected to serve more ships. The distance between the maritime border with Djibouti and Berbera Port will be designated as a Secure Maritime Zone, where the Somaliland Coast Guard will provide a maritime escort to ships that follow the Secure Approach Protocol and are sailing to or from Berbera Port. Once the BSAP is communicated to insurers and shipping lines, a BSAP Compliance Certificate will be issued to the ship for use in negotiating reduced insurance premiums with war risk and P&I insurers. The BSAP is designed to complement, not replace, existing international security frameworks, including BMP5, ISPS Code, and IMO guidelines. Vessels should continue to follow all mandatory international requirements.
The Somaliland Coast Guard’s escort services represent a model of regional self-reliance that deserves the support of all stakeholders—including international insurers, shipping lines, and foreign governments.
For international insurers, recognising Somaliland’s security record and engaging with Coast Guard leadership to establish verified security protocols would enable more accurate risk pricing. The current classification that lumps Somaliland into a generic high-risk zone is both inaccurate and economically damaging. For shipping lines, utilising the Coast Guard’s escort services and communicating their effectiveness to insurers would help build the loss history needed to justify reduced premiums. For foreign governments and international organisations, supporting the Coast Guard’s capacity-building efforts—through training, equipment, and diplomatic recognition—represents an investment in global maritime security. And for regional consumers, understanding that maritime security directly affects the price of goods creates political support for the investments and policies that sustain Coast Guard operations. The partial shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz has reminded the world of a fundamental economic truth: maritime security is price stability. When shipping insurance costs spike by a factor of 40, so do the costs of food, fuel, and medicine. Somaliland’s Coast Guard is demonstrating that regional actors can play a decisive role in stabilising these costs. By providing escorts to ships bound for Berbera and vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, the Coast Guard reduces risk, lowers insurance premiums, and ultimately reduces the price of commodities for consumers. The classification of Somaliland’s territorial waters as a high-risk area may artificially inflate these costs. But Somaliland’s Coast Guard offers an alternative, and stands ready to serve as the maritime security provider that one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes so urgently needs.
In a landmark joint session of the two houses of the Republic of Somaliland Parliament, President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro presented a detailed report on the nation’s progress, highlighting significant strides in security, peace-building, governance, economic development, infrastructure, social services, and international diplomacy while acknowledging persistent challenges.
The President began by addressing the honorable Speaker of the House of Elders, the Acting Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the presiding committees and honorable Members of Parliament from both houses, the Honorable Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of the national political parties, members of the Council of Ministers, commanders of the various national armed forces, the Chairman of the Peace Committee, the Governor of Maroodi Jeh Region, the Mayor of the Capital Hargeisa, leaders from all sectors of society, women, youth, and all citizens of the Republic of Somaliland both at home and abroad.
Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you, and His mercy and blessings.
He stated: “It is a great honour for me, while fulfilling a constitutional duty, to appear before this joint session of the two houses of the Parliament of the Republic of Somaliland to brief you on the progress of the nation’s affairs and the direction in which we are moving forward.
The Republic of Somaliland is the beacon of stability, security, democracy, and good neighborliness in the Horn of Africa region. Despite facing many challenges and various attempts to undermine it, by the grace of Allah, it has succeeded in maintaining its security, building its statehood, and managing its aspirations and development with determination and planning. This has drawn the attention of the world and is the reason why, today, its friends and partners in the international community continue to increase steadily.
CHALLENGES
The President noted that whenever evaluating progress and achievable successes, it is essential to know where the nation came from, the real challenges before it, and where it is heading.
He recalled that the Unity and Performance Government he leads began work on 12 December 2024 amid difficult conditions, including prolonged economic pressures; the security situation in the eastern regions returning to the control of civilian armed groups; livestock — the backbone of the economy — suffering greatly from droughts and climate change problems; and recurring security issues from inter-clan conflicts that consume significant time and resources.
Nevertheless, he said the Government succeeded in addressing these problems through close collaboration with national institutions and the public, enabling the overcoming of many challenges.
THE GOVERNMENT’S PERFORMANCE:
Security and Defence
Every success the nation has achieved, after Allah, is due to the security and stability that have come through the state system we have built, and the selfless defence provided by our heroic armed forces, who deserve constant appreciation.
In 2025, the Government took steps to strengthen the structure and modernization of the various national armed forces.
Six thousand (6,000) soldiers who had completed their training officially joined the forces. The plan for registering disabled veterans and orphans of the armed forces is progressing well.
A comprehensive reform was carried out in the financial management system of the armed forces, and a mobile phone payment system was introduced that allows every soldier to receive his salary directly on his phone wherever he is.
For the first time in 35 years, the institution for pensions and rights of the various national armed forces was established. It will work to ensure that the heroes who sacrifice their lives for their nation receive comfort and their rights.
Special focus was placed on improving and building military skills. The training system and curricula of the military training schools were reformed and modernized, and the knowledge of instructors was enhanced. Similarly, the forces were strengthened with new equipment, supplies, and vehicles.
The National Army’s Cyber Security Unit was established, and the construction of the armed forces’ data storage center was completed.
The national army now has its own standard uniform. A factory for sewing their uniforms and another for producing some of their food was established.
The trade in military uniforms and other equipment was banned, and all businesses involved in it were closed. The uniforms and equipment they held were taken over by the government, and appropriate compensation was provided.
Cooperation in security and defense with our existing international friends was strengthened, and new countries were added.
For the first time, the National Security Strategy was developed. It clearly defines the plans for defending and protecting the country, its citizens, and national interests.
1.2 Peace
Peace is in everyone’s interest, while conflict brings loss to people, livestock, and the environment. Civil conflict especially diminishes and destroys both sides. Neighbors whom Allah has placed together in one place are obliged to live together in peace and harmony.
Injustice and the unjust shedding of Muslim blood anger Allah and contribute to droughts and hardship in our lives.
To the brotherly people among whom conflict has occurred in the west, we call upon them to embrace and strengthen peace. The Government has made great efforts to stop those conflicts and held national consultations with the presiding committees of both houses on the matter.
The Vice President and the delegation he led have made significant progress on that peace, and we will continue until full peace is achieved.
We will not allow anyone to ignite conflicts. Whoever is proven to do so will face legal action. As is our custom and as Islam teaches us, everything that is disputed can be resolved through dialogue.
I call upon everyone who can contribute a word, an idea, or resources to this peace to lend a hand and to further support the delegation led by the Vice President.
In the eastern regions, the Government has made great efforts. Heavy weapons have been returned exclusively to the control of the Government.
Fortunately, peace has been achieved in Sanaag. Any future disputes will be addressed collectively and unitedly.
Regarding Sool, since the Government took office, various peace contacts have been made with our brothers in Las Anod. We are very hopeful that this issue will be resolved in the same way as Sanaag.
The people of eastern Sool are people without whom the rest of Somaliland cannot do without. They share blood and culture. If mistakes have occurred or harm has been exchanged, it is something we can resolve together with a lasting solution.
I thank the traditional leaders’ committee led by Garaad Kulmiye, who travelled several times to Buuhodle and Las Anod as a peace delegation.
In early 2025, we informed the delegation that the Republic of Somaliland is forming a Peace Committee, is ready for peace, for the exchange of prisoners without preconditions, and for opening trade and people’s movement. Those points have not yet received a response from Las Anod.
2.1 Good Governance
The Government has focused on strengthening good governance and reforming the justice system, while decentralizing government services.
Community courts in the districts have been increased and reformed. They adjudicate for the public and play an important role in reconciliation and dispute resolution before cases reach the formal courts.
The Government’s agenda for reforming and implementing good governance centers on fighting all forms of corruption, including financial and public asset corruption, poor administration, and the misuse of power and law.
The Government plans to establish systems and procedures in line with the laws to strengthen the capacity and professional competence of national institutions responsible for upholding good governance, justice, and the fight against corruption.”
2.2 Crimes Committed in the Country
The types of crimes that occurred in the country in 2025 show that the level of drug-related offences, petty theft, rape, and killings remains high, especially in major cities. The majority of victims or perpetrators are young people between the ages of 15 and 25.
This alerts us to the need for parents, teachers, religious scholars, national institutions, and the Government to work together to improve the upbringing of our children.
I thank the Somaliland Police Force for their great efforts in preventing and combating crime.
In 2025, traffic accidents decreased by 18%, and killings decreased by 7% compared to 2024.
2.3 Elections
Delays in elections pose a danger to democracy, political stability, and the international reputation of the Republic of Somaliland. Today, as the world is watching our existence, the damage is even greater.
My view as President, and the policy of my Government, is based on this.
We have made great efforts to ensure that the elections for the House of Representatives and local councils are held on time. However, we have often been hindered by the political situations we live with and recurring droughts.
After many consultations and discussions with stakeholders, it was agreed that the decision on this matter should be left to the National Electoral Commission, as the law technically assigns it to them.
I will soon submit to you the proposal from the National Electoral Commission (NEC) so that you can fulfil your duty. I request that the technical timeline proposed by the Commission be respected.
The Republic of Somaliland, even before it had firmly stood on its feet, built a democratic system and, despite all circumstances, refused to let the train of democracy stop even once.
It is my firm commitment to exert all my efforts to implement the second step: strengthening democracy and ensuring that elections are held on time.
2.4 The Constitution
Justice and good governance begin with improving and developing laws and applying them correctly. The highest of laws is the Constitution, from which all other legislation derives.
Our Constitution is one of the most valuable achievements of our nation. It has been the foundation of the statehood we are proud of. However, any human document requires amendments and updates to address any gaps that arise and to keep pace with changing times and circumstances.
There is a need to clearly separate the powers of government branches and to define the powers and working mechanisms of constitutional institutions.
To achieve shared ownership and inclusivity in national decision-making, the representation quota of regions in elected bodies, and the national development plan, it is important to create a transparent system based on proper data. Therefore, the Government plans, during this first term, to conduct a National Census.
Similarly, fulfilling the promise I made during the presidential election campaign, I will appoint a technical committee to study the need for constitutional amendments and the procedure for doing so.
3.1 Production
Development begins with stabilizing and growing the economy and benefiting from the various natural resources.
It is important to have an economy built on a strong foundation that can withstand challenges from both inside and outside.
In 2025, the Government made great efforts to develop the economy and the country’s financial system.
The system whereby all government revenue is collected in a single treasury account (Treasury Single Account – TSA) was implemented. This simplifies the management and protection of the nation’s money and assets.
Despite tensions in the Red Sea, the economy grew in 2025. Commercial activity at the Port of Berbera increased, with cargo volumes 27% higher than the previous year.
Livestock exports to Gulf countries reached three million six hundred thousand (3.6 million) head, including camels, cattle, and sheep/goats, along with 16 tonnes of meat. Exports of fish, various gums, and minerals also increased.
The national budget increased by 20% compared to the previous year, while government expenditure was reduced by 9%.
However, the Government incurred debts to fund the nationalization of civilian armed groups, the takeover of their equipment and vehicles, salary increases for national forces, and peace and security operations — expenses that were not included in the 2025 national budget.
Livestock:
Livestock is the backbone of the Republic of Somaliland’s economy. Therefore, the Government gives special priority to strengthening veterinary care and livestock trade.
In 2025, veterinary care and treatment were provided to three million (3 million) head of livestock of various types.
More than sixty-three (63) veterinary centers were reopened, and a modern veterinary center was established in Hargeisa.
The livestock research and development centers in Aroori, Wajaale, and Gar’adag were further modernized and improved. The Qool-Aday plains was successfully established, which will provide great benefit to our livestock.
Agriculture
Agriculture is an untapped resource that plays an important role in strengthening the economy and ensuring food security. The Wajaale agricultural development project was implemented.
One thousand two hundred and four (1,204) farmers were trained in combating crop diseases and pests.
Farmers were provided with equipment to increase production, such as water pumps, drip irrigation systems, and greenhouses.
Ponds for agricultural irrigation in some areas were dug or rehabilitated and equipped with solar-powered systems.
Various farmers received financial incentives, and some were provided with shared tractors for their communities.
Fisheries
The Government has made efforts to promote and develop the fish trade.
Two hundred (200) fishermen received training in modern fishing and fish preservation. Six hundred (600) fishermen were provided with modern storage containers and fishing equipment.
3.2 Infrastructure
In 2025, the Government carried out good work on basic infrastructure that directly affects the daily lives of citizens, including the development of water and electricity services and making them more accessible.
Roads
Roads are vital for economic growth, social unity, security, public service delivery, and overall national development.
Despite economic challenges, the Government, recognizing the great importance of roads, is committed to developing them. Upon taking office, it immediately began work on the Hargeisa–Balli Gubadle and Borama–Baki roads.
Various circumstances caused some delays, but fortunately, construction of these roads has never stopped. Today, 60% of the work has been completed, and the plan is for them to be finished in 2026.
Preparation for the largest road project ever undertaken in Somaliland is now in its final stages — the Lawya-Addo–Fardaha–Borama road, with support from the African Development Bank.
The groundbreaking ceremony for this road will be held soon.
Water
A detailed survey of the country’s water resources was conducted to obtain reliable data to guide the management and development of water infrastructure.
The knowledge and skills of water sector workers were enhanced, including sending water experts to Israel, which has advanced greatly in water management.
In Borama town, the price of piped water per cubic metre was reduced by 24%. The pricing of water in US dollars was also stopped so that prices do not fluctuate with exchange rates.
To make clean water more accessible to people and livestock, 72 boreholes were dug or rehabilitated in various regions. Sixteen ponds for rainwater harvesting were also dug.
Citizens were encouraged to invest in water, and public-private partnership (PPP) systems were implemented in several towns.
The Government’s plan is to provide clean, easily accessible, and affordably priced water.
Electricity
Electricity is essential for economic development. It is part of natural resource production, industrialization, modern commerce, health, and education.
We are pleased that last year we succeeded in reducing electricity prices in the country. In Berbera, which had the highest need, the price was brought down to twenty cents (0.20) per kilowatt (kW). In other towns, prices were reduced by 19%.
The long-term goal of the Government is to bring the price per kilowatt down to twenty cents (0.20) across the entire country, Insha Allah.
Solar power generation capacity was increased by 24% with support from the World Bank. This increase will reduce dependence on expensive diesel-generated electricity.
A plan is underway to provide free solar electricity to health centers and schools in remote areas.
The first phase, covering 46 health facilities and 57 educational institutions, is nearing completion. These will be equipped with powerful solar systems.
Communications and Technology
The Government has taken steps to expand technological infrastructure and strengthen Somaliland’s ability to benefit from it.
The plan to extend high-speed fiber-optic internet cables across the entire country has been completed. This project, implemented by the Government, is supported by the World Bank.
The activation of the National Data Centre is nearing completion. It will serve as the foundation for national data security and the implementation of the Government’s electronic management system (e-Government), which will make government services easier for citizens to access.
To encourage youth creativity and develop the country’s digital economy, an annual competition has been introduced in which young people showcase their technological innovations. The winner of first place each year receives a national award presented by the President.
3.3 Investment
Relying on an economy based on a single resource makes a country vulnerable to damage if problems affect that resource or its market is closed.
For our economic growth to be stable and sustainable, we need to develop our abundant natural resources, find diverse markets, and establish industries. This cannot be achieved without attracting both foreign and domestic investment.
It is essential to showcase our untapped resources to the world, build confidence for foreign investment, and actively seek opportunities rather than wait for them. Therefore, we participated in important international economic forums.
We participated twice in the World Governments Summit in Dubai, which brings together more than 6,000 guests from about 150 countries, including presidents, political leaders, and thousands of investors and economic experts.
We also had the opportunity to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland — the most influential gathering that sets the global economic agenda.
We participated in the Africa Economic Forum, which focuses on developing Africa’s economies and investment opportunities, held in the United Arab Emirates.
At these forums, we conducted campaigns presenting Somaliland’s strategic resources and untapped investment opportunities to international companies, investors, and global capitalists.
Our participation greatly increased our visibility on the world stage, raised awareness among international investors about our resources, and opened new doors for investment opportunities in the country. We returned from these forums with very high hopes that the Republic of Somaliland will attract investment in the near future, Insha Allah.
I take this opportunity to encourage citizen businessmen to invest in small industries and agriculture. The Government will provide significant facilitation for them.
3.4 Economic Challenges
The Impact of the Middle East Conflict
The impact of the Middle East conflict on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, and on oil shipping routes, has caused economic problems affecting the entire world.
Fuel prices, shipping costs, and maritime insurance have risen. This has led to severe inflation and uncertainty in markets for essential goods, especially in Somaliland, which imports food, fuel, and basic commodities. Government revenue declined by an average of 23% in the first three months of 2026 compared to projections.
The Government has taken steps to strengthen preparedness against fuel and food shortages and to monitor market prices. It is also working, in cooperation with traders, to find alternative sources of fuel and food.
The most important lesson this situation has taught us is the need to increase domestic production, especially of food. As I have repeated many times, the Government is encouraging and working on investment in this sector both domestically and internationally.
The Environment and Climate Change
Problems caused by climate change include recurring droughts, water scarcity, deforestation, and soil erosion that threaten livestock, food security, and economic stability.
Environmental protection is a national responsibility to which the Government gives high priority. Therefore, programs have been implemented to strengthen environmental protection, tree planting, and resilience to climate change. Last year, more than six hundred thousand (600,000) trees were planted, and the same number will be planted this year.
High-level training was also provided to environmental workers and community members on climate change adaptation.
The President emphasized that a nation’s development begins with investment in its people, requiring an educated, healthy society with skills and work capacity.
Education Development
Education is the most impactful investment we can make in our youth. Education improves the workforce, strengthens national institutions, and guides us on the right path for developing our country. With this vision, the Government has given special priority to education development.
Thirty-six (36) schools were built, including primary, secondary, upper secondary, and early childhood education. One hundred and twenty (120) new classrooms were added to various schools that were overcrowded.
In terms of quality, the curricula for primary and secondary schools, teacher training, Quranic education, and technical/vocational schools were reformed and modernized. Some have been completed and implemented, while others are nearing completion.
More than two thousand (2,000) people — including existing and newly prepared teachers, supervisors, and school administrators at various levels — received higher education, professional development, and training. Six hundred (600) of them are women. One hundred and six (106) female teachers were employed.
The Government is committed to building an education system capable of preparing our young people for the future.
Health Development
In 2025, the Government implemented a national health data storage system to improve planning, coordination, and management of healthcare across the country.
Medical equipment and medicines were delivered to 142 facilities, including health centers and hospitals, to enhance the services provided to the public.
Various training programs were provided to two thousand five hundred and forty-six (2,546) health workers, including doctors, nurses, and other professionals.
Construction has begun on the national specialized hospital with support from the Government of Taiwan. We are very hopeful that it will greatly contribute to meeting the healthcare needs of the capital and its surroundings.
The Government of the United Arab Emirates, with whom we are friends, will begin construction this year (2026) of a modern hospital in Burao offering various specialized medical services.
Youth Development
Since the majority of our society is young, investing in their future is a priority for the Government, just like education, job creation, sports, and participation in national social activities.
To encourage youth interaction and keep them away from drugs and immorality, seven (7) fully modern sports fields have been completed.
Various young people were sent to participate in international sports events. This gave them the opportunity to gain playing experience that elevates national sports, while also carrying Somaliland’s cause and flag to world arenas.
To build on this, the Government will continue job creation for youth and promote technical and vocational education, which is crucial for employment and economic development.”
Care for Vulnerable People
The Government’s policy is to prevent citizens from being too widely separated in living standards. It takes special responsibility for caring for vulnerable groups.
With this in mind, houses were built for 101 families among these citizens, while 200 displaced families were given land. Four hundred (400) families received cash grants intended for investment in small businesses.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
5.1 Recognition and Diplomacy
The goal of our foreign policy is for the Republic of Somaliland to obtain the recognition it rightfully deserves, and to seek strategic partnerships with countries based on mutual interests.
Our foreign policy is guided by the principles of peace, cooperation, and responsible, equal relations with the world.
In 2025, our diplomacy focused on increasing our international engagement, building strategic friendships, and accelerating the pursuit of recognition.
Recognition is not only about diplomatic relations; it is a path to many opportunities that our country and people urgently need today.
International recognition attracts investors, facilitates foreign trade, opens access to international financial institutions, strengthens security cooperation with many countries, and enables us to gain membership in regional and international organizations.
It is an opportunity that will enable the Republic of Somaliland to play a role in regional stability, security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, and cooperation in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
Recognizing the importance of recognition and the many challenges our people have faced without it for a long time, we have devoted considerable time and effort to the pursuit of recognition.
The Government of Israel is the first country to take a bold decision by recognizing the Republic of Somaliland. We believe it will be a reliable friend. It will not be the only one; other countries will recognize us in the near future.
There are also countries that wish to establish diplomatic relations and cooperation equivalent to recognition.
These achievements that Somaliland has attained have angered many enemies. Plots against our nation and our recognition have been organized in many places.
I call upon both houses of Parliament, the various national institutions, civil society, and all citizens of the country to welcome this success and those that will follow with unity, solidarity, and confidence. Let us all work together to defend our nation.
The historic re-recognition we have received, and the diplomatic relations we have established, reflect that the world has understood the case of the Republic of Somaliland, which has been misrepresented for more than 60 years.
Since the recognition, the Republic of Somaliland has hosted a large number of delegations consisting mainly of diplomats, heads of international and regional organizations, and international investors.
This demonstrates the growing interest the world has in relations with Somaliland, its stability, its democratic system, and its strategic role in the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea.
To build the capacity of our diplomatic staff, the Somaliland Institute of Diplomacy was established. It has provided high-level training to the first batch of diplomats to prepare a new generation with strong diplomatic skills who can represent us in the world.
5.2 Relations with Neighboring Countries
The Republic of Somaliland gives special priority to maintaining good relations with neighboring countries. It believes in the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence, since the stability and development of the region are interconnected.
It is ready to further strengthen relations with these countries while respecting their sovereignty, borders, and internal affairs, and expects the same in return.
We thank Ethiopia, with which we have long enjoyed healthy, mutually respectful relations. We expect even more from our brotherly countries in the region.
The Republic of Somaliland is ready for relations that do not undermine its sovereignty and for cooperation on shared interests, including peace, security, facilitating movement, strengthening economic and cross-border trade cooperation, infrastructure development, maritime security, environmental protection, and overall regional stability.
To the Government in Mogadishu (Somalia), I call upon them to recognize that the sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland has reached a point of no return.
Today, the only open path for Somalia is for us to become two brotherly countries with good unneighborly relations. We are ready for that. We are telling them to accept the reality that Somaliland has become an independent and recognized country.
Although many tasks were accomplished in 2025, there is still more work ahead. There are recurring security challenges in different places, and the complex situation in the Middle East and the Red Sea. These are challenges that sometimes prevent us from progressing as we would like.
In 2026, we will focus on strengthening the foundations of our economy — first by increasing efforts to benefit from our untapped resources such as minerals, expanding crop production, increasing investment in livestock and fisheries, boosting exports, building economic infrastructure, and investing in social services including health, education, water, and electricity.
Ultimately, to achieve our aspirations, we need strong cooperation among our national institutions and to strengthen the unity of our people and their confidence in statehood.
I thank you for the laws you have previously drafted or approved and which previous governments have submitted to you.
The Unity and Performance Government of the Republic of Somaliland has prepared policies and strategies that will guide the various sectors of national work.
It has also drafted, amended, or supplemented laws that serve as the framework for that work. Some of these are before you, while others will be submitted to you soon.
The Government is committed to completing the legislation and implementing the laws that come from you, as well as the policies and strategies it develops.
I especially thank you for fulfilling your duties and for the cooperation and joint work for the national interest that exists between us.
May Allah bless the Republic of Somaliland.
Long live Somaliland. May Somaliland endure. Allah will.
The address was received with attention by parliamentarians and is seen as a comprehensive roadmap for Somaliland’s continued nation-building efforts in the face of both domestic and regional challenges.
