Grand Celebrations Mark Somaliland’s 65th Independence Anniversary at the Presidential Palace

Somaliland

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June 26, 2025

By Goth Mohamed Goth

A grand ceremony commemorating the 65th anniversary of Somaliland’s independence from British colonial rule was held this evening at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.

The event, honoring Independence Day on June 26, was graced by the presence of His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Cabdi, the Chairman of the House of Elders (Guurti), members of parliament, former vice presidents, the Attorney General, the Chairman of the WADDANI political party, lawmakers, government ministers, diplomats, politicians, and other distinguished guests. The celebration featured vibrant theatrical performances and cultural displays, underscoring the significance of this historic milestone.

In their speeches, key figures—including the Minister of the Presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi; politician Ahmed Ismail Samatar; and the Chairmen of the House of Elders and MPs, Suleiman Mahmoud Aden and Prof. Yasin Haji Mohamed Hir (Faratoon)—highlighted the profound importance of the day for Somaliland’s people and the necessity of commemorating it with pride.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) delivered a poignant address, reflecting on Somaliland’s historic legacy, its developmental progress, and the challenges overcome. He reaffirmed the nation’s resilience and unity in pursuing a prosperous future.

As the clock struck midnight (East Africa time), the Somaliland flag was ceremoniously raised, with military units offering a solemn salute—a powerful symbol of national pride and sovereignty.

First National Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Concludes

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Goth Mohamed

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June 26, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, June 26, 2025 – The Central Bank of the Republic of Somaliland (JSL) has concluded the inaugural National Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing. The conference was held in Hargeisa over two days, from June 24 to June 25, 2025.

The event brought together 150 participants, including government officials, financial institutions, anti-money laundering (AML) stakeholders, civil society organizations, local agencies, and international partners. The conference was co-hosted by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) and the United States Government.

The primary objectives of the conference were to:
– Enhance the government’s commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing;
– Present the National Money Laundering Risk Assessment Report for financial institutions;
– Launch the 2025–2030 Medium-Term National Anti-Money Laundering Strategy, to be implemented by the Central Bank and its Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

The Central Bank of Somaliland extends its gratitude to all stakeholders and experts who contributed significantly to the conference’s success.

KEY RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED:

Full implementation of the Anti-Money Laundering Law (No. 87/2019) to safeguard national financial stability.
Strengthened coordination between law enforcement agencies, judicial bodies, the FIU, and financial institutions.
Accelerated establishment of a unified Customer Due Diligence (KYC) system for all financial institutions.
Enhanced technical capacity for FIU staff, AML practitioners, and compliance officers in financial institutions.
Increased public awareness on combating money laundering.
Development of tailored frameworks for monitoring small businesses and the informal/street economy sectors.
Deployment of technology to streamline data collection and mandatory AML reporting.
Operationalization of the National Anti-Money Laundering Advisory Board.

This conference represents a major milestone in Somaliland’s fight against financial crimes, reinforcing partnerships between national and international stakeholders.

65 Years Later – Honoring Independence and Advancing Recognition a conversation to commemorate the Republic of Somaliland

Somaliland

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

This week on June 26, Somaliland is commemorating its 65th anniversary of Independence which marked the end of the British protectorate making it the 13th African nation to gain independence.

The Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation hosted a one day symposium under the theme “ 65 Years Later – Honoring Independence and Advancing Recognition”, with two engaging panels designed to honor our independence and discuss the way forward for Somaliland.

The event which was held at the Ali Jirde Hotel brought together participants from a diverse spectrum of the community including Academicians, political, religious leaders , University students, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and activists.

Among the notable speakers at the two panels discussions were:

Prof. Mohamoud Hussein Farah, Dean , Faculty of Law.
Dr. Hussein Abdillahi Bulhan, Founder Franz Fatun University in Hargeisa, Psychologist
Mr. Samatar Abdi Hersi , Horn of Africa Historian
Abdinasser Ahmed Adam – Economist
Dr. Maxamed Jaamac Madar – Phd
Fahima Abdi Ali- Somaliland Activist

Among the guests in attendance there was the four living members of Somaliland Scouts who were present on 26 June 1960 when the flag was raised in the freedom park in Hargeisa.

Dr. Hussein Abdillahi Bulhan speaking on the first panel “Legal and Historical Path to Independence – Pre 1960” gave a brief introduction of the importance of the 26th June Independence day, in which he began by saying , “ This week on June 26, Somaliland is commemorating its 65th anniversary of Independence which marked the end of the British protectorate making it the 13th African nation to gain independence.The reason why I raised this question many times is because I have heard people debating this issue. The celebration of 18th May (regaining sovereignty day) and the celebration of 26 June (Independence Day) are both national days. Both days have been commemorating by the people of Somaliland and they are days that give us the opportunity to come together to reflect on the history and struggle that we have gone through as a nation. The commemoration of the two events has historical links that shaped what Somaliland stands for today: justice, peace, democracy and freedom.

He added, “ Somalia is a classic example of a failed state. It effectively has had no reasonably working state structures since 1991, but its cosmetic existence has from 1992 been practically subject to the Security Council’s 1992 Resolution of 733, adopted again in 2019 as 2472. With billions of dollars wasted in establishing governance, the international community has nothing to show for that all those resources other than securing a few miles around Mogadishu. Somalia still struggles to stand on its feet and the chances it will do so in the foreseeable future Is dim. It is dim because instead of coming to terms with the factuality that Somaliland has left the 1960 dubious union, Somalia continues to put ratifying its draft constitution and completing its state institution building on the back burner”

Prof. Mohamoud Hussein Farah, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Hargeisa, on his part elaborated on the legal case for Somaliland’s independence in which he said, “ There was no significant formal, ratified agreement between then newly independent states of Somaliland and Somalia because:

-There was no official Parliamentary approval

-There was no Supreme Court approving the fledgling union

-There was no UN Resolution reconizing and approving the unification process.

Somaliland reasserted its independence after 30 years of injustice as a result of the devastating Union and restored its political institutions of independence that was attained on 26 June 1960 from Great Britain. Somaliland currently exercises lawful sovereignty of its independence of June 26, 1960 based on the following valid, legal points:

Poltical: The Conference from 4th to 12th May 1960, decision appointed that the date of independence of Somaliland.
Independence of Somaliland was discussed and agreed during London meeting and the constitution shall be on 26 June 1960. Decision was submitted to UK Parliament.
Regarding, Somaliland territory, Somaliland’s independence restores the colonial borders of the former British Protectorate of Somaliland and therefore does not violate the principle of uti possidetis – that former colonial borders should be maintained upon independence – which is enshrined in the Consultative Act of the African Union (Session in Cairo, UAR, from 17 to 21 July 1964).”

He further stated in regard to Somaliland statehood, “Somaliland fulfills all the criteria for statehood as those set by the 1933 Montevideo Convention, the State as a person of international law should possess the following qualifications”:

A permanent population;
A defined territory;
Government; and Capacity to enter into relations with the other states.”

It is noteworthy that the Diaspora Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation invited members of the Somaliland Scouts who are among the few surviving members of that era, now scattered across the regions of the country, with many being elderly and some unable to walk.

The corps, Aden Ahmed Mohamed, Ahmed Elmi Ducaale, Ibrahim Isman Aden, and Jama Ahmed Hirsi, are among the few surviving members of that era. The members of the Somaliland Scouts Corps gave the participants in-depth information of the day Somaliland gained independence from Great Britain.These individuals were part of the Somaliland Scouts during the British Protectorate period and have witnessed various historic events. On 26 June 2023, they commemorated this day with seven of them, but today, only five remain with us. During the modest event held today by the Ministry at the Ali Jirde Hall to mark the observance of 26 June 2025, the corps delivered historic speeches.

“The country is better off today than the day we gained independence, but the people today are worse off—divided by tribalism and favoritism, which did not exist back then,”said Aden Ahmed Mohamed Deputy Chairman of the Somaliland Scouts Committee.

“I am saddened by where people stand today in terms of knowledge and the opportunities we had back then,”said Ibrahim Isman Aden.

Somaliland’s 65th Sapphire Jubilee: A Beacon of Resilience and Rising Global Support

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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As Somaliland gears up to celebrate its 65th anniversary of independence from Britain on June 26, 2025 tonight, the nation is riding a wave of optimism, fueled by growing international momentum for recognition and its enduring stability. The Sapphire Jubilee marks a historic milestone since June 26, 1960, with Somaliland showcasing its resilience, democratic progress, and strategic importance on the global stage.

A Historic Milestone Infused with Pride

Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched the “Honouring Our Past, Reclaiming Our Future” campaign, featuring vivid imagery from the 1960 independence signing. Hargeisa’s streets are alive with green, white, and red flags, and community events aim to spotlight Somaliland’s unique journey. The Ministry hosted a symposium on June 25, 2025, at Ali Jirde Hotel to reflect on this milestone and strategize for recognition, welcoming diplomats and thinkers to share ideas. On X, locals are buzzing, describing the celebrations as a “rebirth of our nation’s story,” with #SomalilandRising trending globally.

UK and US Lawmakers Champion Recognition

Momentum for Somaliland’s international recognition is surging. In the UK, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Somaliland is set to release a “Roadmap to Recognition” report on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the jubilee. Former MP Alun Michael, who led a 2007 delegation to Somaliland, has urged Britain to be ready to recognize the nation, citing its democratic success and historical contributions, including Somalilanders’ roles in World War II.

In the US, Congressman Scott Perry introduced the “Republic of Somaliland Independence Act” on June 12, 2025, aiming to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state. Congressman Tom Tiffany emphasized, “It is a simple fact that Somaliland is a sovereign and self-governing nation separate from Somalia, and U.S. policy should reflect that.” Senate support is also growing, with Senator Ted Cruz, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa, praising Somaliland’s “unique democratic character.” A high-level US delegation, led by Ambassador Richard Riley and AFRICOM Commander General Michael Langley, visited Hargeisa from June 18-20, 2025, to discuss security and defense cooperation, including the strategic port of Berbera. Insiders suggest President Trump’s administration, influenced by Project 2025’s call for Somaliland as a strategic ally, may be nearing a historic recognition decision.

Economic Resilience and Strategic Importance

Despite its unrecognized status, Somaliland boasts a stable democracy and a growing economy. The port of Berbera, a critical trade hub on the Gulf of Aden, has seen a significant increase in trade volume over the past five years, driven by infrastructure investments from partners like Ethiopia and the UAE. Local entrepreneurs are leveraging social media to promote Somaliland-made goods, amplifying the #SomalilandRising hashtag. Somaliland’s offer of Red Sea access, counterterrorism support, and democratic stability positions it as a vital ally in a geopolitically competitive region.

Cultural Unity and Regional Stability

Somaliland’s commitment to democratic governance, underscored by nine elections since 1991 and a peaceful power transition in 2010, has earned praise from African Union observers. Community leaders are organizing cultural events to celebrate the jubilee, highlighting Somaliland’s rich heritage and peaceful coexistence. These values, coupled with regional alliances, reinforce Somaliland’s role as a beacon of stability in the Horn of Africa.

A Pivotal Moment for Somaliland

As Somaliland marks its 65th Sapphire Jubilee, the nation stands at a crossroads. With the UK’s APPG and US lawmakers, including Congress and Senate members, pushing for recognition, and President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi signaling optimism after talks with US leaders, the dream of international legitimacy feels closer than ever. Somaliland’s story of resilience, democracy, and hope continues to captivate the world, making 2025 a year of promise for this unrecognized nation.

The Time Is Now: With bipartisan support in the US and UK parliamentary efforts aligning, Somaliland’s quest for recognition is gaining unprecedented traction, heralding a potential turning point for its future on the global stage.

Commemoration of the Somaliland’s 65th Anniversary of independence- Abdirahman Awliyo

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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Not so long ago on the 18^th May 2025, we celebrated the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s reassertion of its sovereignty. This Thursday, on June 26^th 2025, we will joyfully commemorate the 65th anniversary of the end of the British rule of Somaliland, which governed our land for 76 years.

It is important that our youth understand the distinction between these two historic occasions. Both mark pivotal moments in our nation’s journey, each representing a different chapter in our story.

26^th June 1960 remains etched in our collective memory—a day that shaped generations of Somalilanders in profound and personal ways. For our elders, it is a reminiscent of the sacrifices and struggles that led to independence. For all of us, it evokes the pride and hope that filled the hearts of Somalilanders on that momentous day.

26 June is a day of celebration that has been misappropriated by politicians in our neighbouring country, Somalia, who mark the occasion with political motives—aiming to distort Somaliland’s history and mislead their unsuspecting younger generation.

To clarify the true significance of this day for Somaliland’s nationhood, I would like to mention the following points:

Somaliland’s identity as a nation traces back to the British Protectorate system, which lasted nearly for a century. Somaliland officially became a British Protectorate in 1884. For the Somaliland protectorate system to be effective, the British entered into agreements with traditional elders from various Somaliland regions where different clans lived. This kind of agreement between the British and Somaliland traditional elders is proof and evidence that Somaliland did not experience anything related to colonialism. Somaliland has a distinct history compared to other countries in Africa most of who experienced a brutal system of colonial oppression.
This day symbolises Somaliland’s unique historical identity as a British Protectorate. It also commemorates our administrative and social distinction from other Somali-inhabited regions in the Horn of Africa, the Northern Frontier District (NFD), Djibouti, and the Eastern part of Ethiopia.
Most importantly, this day represents the very foundation of Somaliland’s nationhood. It serves as a unifying moment for all Somalilanders – a reminder that our nation belongs equally to every citizen, regardless of regional origins.
During its time as a British Protectorate (1884-1960), Somaliland developed a distinct geopolitical identity under British administration. The territory maintained organized military forces, including the Somaliland Camel Corps and Somaliland Scouts, some of which served alongside British troops in both World Wars.
This day also commemorates Somaliland’s well-established governance structures during the protectorate era, which included:

A Somaliland passport system
An official currency
Local security forces maintaining law and order
Other essential administrative institutions

Notably, Somaliland achieved independence with fully functional state institutions, including:

A parliament operating under its constitution
A functioning government led by Prime Minister Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal
A multi-party political system, evidenced by the February 1960 parliamentary elections contested by three parties: SNL (Somali National League), NUF (National United Front) and USP (United Somali Party)

On this day, the people of Somaliland honour the warriors and heroes who sacrificed their time and lives to ensure that Somaliland achieved full independence from the British Government on 26th June 1960. The heroes who fought for freedom include Sayid Mohamed Abdulla Hassan who led Dervish Movement, whose led the struggle for 20 years, Sheikh Bashir, Farah Omar and others who fought alongside them.
June 26th also serves to commemorate the political movements that challenged 76 years of British protectorate rule. These political groups included: SNS, SNL, NUF and USP. The people of Somaliland equally honour the collective effort of Somaliland’s civil society—traditional elders, religious leaders, poets, and artists—whose wisdom and cultural leadership were instrumental in achieving independence.
It is also a day to remember the delegation that travelled to London to negotiate with the British Empire on the day Somaliland would gain its independence from the UK. This delegation consisted of the first cabinet that Somaliland had before the ill-fated attempt of merging with Somalia, namely: Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal, Ali Garad Jama, Haji Ibrahim Nur, and Ahmed Haji Duale.
During the five days that Somaliland enjoyed the atmosphere of independence from the UK on June 26th, we also remember the congratulatory messages that Somaliland received from world leaders such as Queen Elizabeth, Christian A. Herter: Secretary of State (USA) and the 35 countries that formally recognized Somaliland, including: China, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Israel, Libya and the Soviet Union.
The commemoration of this day also underscores a critical historical fact that the union between Somaliland and Somalia was never officially ratified and there was no act of union at all, a reality recognised by the international community. Somaliland’s merger with Somalia just five days after independence occurred without any binding constitutional framework, making it essentially an unlawful arrangement that persisted for 30 years.

Despite the many hopes and optimism that the people of Somaliland had in the pursuit of the Somaliweyn (Greater Somalia) dream and the attempted merger with Somalia on 1st of July 1960, it is now a fact that the people of Somaliland remember on this day 26 June in particular the suffering and problems they suffered during the 30 years they were illegally part of a merger with Somalia.

This day also reminds us of the position Somaliland is in today and the state of the country’s lack of formal recognition.

Although we reasserted our sovereignty again in 1991, Somaliland has yet to achieve official recognition from the international community. While the challenges we face are significant, they are matched by untapped opportunities that demand our attention.

Before I conclude, I would like to express my appreciation to all Somaliland friends from the international community for their continuous efforts in achieving Somaliland’s aspiration. With this 65 anniversary, I would like to express my special appreciation to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for their launch of a landmark report titled (Roadmap to recognition”, scheduled for June 26, 2025 at the House of Commons.

Conclusion

With a population of 6 million, at the same time celebrating the 65th anniversary, Somaliland people hope the international community will recognise and respect their right to self-determination. For a long time, Somaliland has been waiting for justice from the global community. Make no mistake when Somalilanders express their feelings towards this issue they emphasize with their voices that the struggle will continue even if it takes another 100 years to get justice.

The world is in a dangerous situation today, with the war in Ukraine, escalations between Iran and Israel, also the region where Somaliland is located is also not stable. The conflicts and instability in our neighbouring countries such as Somalia, Yemen, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Sudan are also making the situation in the Horn of Africa and Middle East unstable. Taking into account of the uncertainty in the world, the Somaliland government led by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi needs to prioritize:

Encouraging and maximising opportunities for economic growth in Somaliland.
Continue to build on the case for recognition of Somaliland as an independent country with partners and allies globally.
Maintain security and safety for Somalilanders against external threats
Strengthening unity and cohesion among the Somaliland people.

I wish to conclude, strengthening the unity of the people of Somaliland including the diaspora is key to working together with collective responsibility to ensure that Somaliland achieves official recognition.

Abdirahman Abdillahi Jibril (Awliyo)

Jabdi35@yahoo.com

Reference:

Gerard Prunier: The country that doesn’t exist: A History of Somaliland 2021

Marleen Renders: 2005, Consider Somaliland: State Building with traditional leaders and institutions.

Building Bridges: Adam Yusuf Discusses ISRAAC’s Impact on Sheffield’s Somali Community

Somaliland

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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Written By African Voices Platform

In an insightful interview with AVP’s Enoch Karimba, Adam Yusuf, the chairman of ISRAAC, a Sheffield-based Somali charity, shared the profound impact the organization has on local residents. Founded to address specific needs within the Somali community, ISRAAC’s mission centers on cultural representation, community support, and integration.

Yusuf highlighted that ISRAAC serves as a vital resource for many families, offering programs that promote education, employment, and mental health services. “Our presence has fostered a sense of belonging among Somali individuals, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate their heritage,” he explained. Success stories abound, with many beneficiaries sharing how ISRAAC has transformed their lives. The organization not only supports the current generation but also plays a crucial role in connecting younger Somali-heritage individuals to their roots, ensuring that culture and identity thrive in Sheffield.

Somaliland Cabinet Approves Key Laws on Energy, Industry & Diplomacy

Somaliland

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, Somaliland– The 24th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland was held today at the Presidential Palace, chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and attended by the Vice President H.E.Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi.

The meeting’s agenda, aside from reviewing national security and economic reports, centered on debating and approving three critical law vital for the nation’s governance and development.

Key Reports Presented:
1. National Security and Stability Report
– Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Arab, reported that the country remains stable and secure, with no significant security threats or unrest.

2. Finance and Economic Development Report
– Finance Minister Mr. Ismail Mawlid Abdullahi, provided updates on public expenditure, revenue collection, preparations for the 2026 national budget, and a review of World Bank-funded projects.

Approval of Three Key Laws:
Following discussions, the Council of Ministers deliberated on and unanimously approved the following legislation:
1. The Somaliland Electricity Management Law
2. The Somaliland Industrial Law
3. The Somaliland Diplomatic Missions Law

President Cirro instructed the ministers to debate, amend (if necessary), and vote on each law. After detailed discussions—with the Attorney General and relevant ministers providing clarifications—the Council approved all three laws by unanimous consent, with no objections or abstentions.

Next Steps:
The President confirmed that the approved laws will now be submitted to the House of Representatives (Parliament) for final legislative ratification.

Cabinet Approves Somaliland Electricity Regulatory Authority Bill

Somaliland

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Goth Mohamed

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June 25, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Today, during its 24th session, the Cabinet of the Republic of Somaliland focused extensively on debating and approving three crucial bills, including the Electricity Regulatory Authority Bill, presented by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals of the Republic of Somaliland.

The Cabinet conducted an in-depth discussion and analysis of these bills, with the Minister of Energy and Minerals, Hon. Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, providing a detailed explanation of the bill’s significance in advancing, regulating, and streamlining the administration of the country’s electricity sector.

He emphasized the critical role this bill will play in improving electricity services and strengthening the central government’s oversight of electricity management.

Similarly, the former Director-General of the Government highlighted the stages the bill underwent and how it addresses the legal needs related to electricity regulation.

Following the discussion, the Cabinet unanimously approved the bill—with all 34 members present voting in favor, without any objections or abstentions.

This demonstrates the bill’s national importance and the dedicated efforts of the Ministry of Energy in finalizing it.

Finally, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, confirmed that the next step is to submit the bill to the House of Representatives to fulfill their legislative duties

Somaliland Central Bank Hosts High-Level National Conference to Combat Money Laundering

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Goth Mohamed

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June 24, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, Somaliland–The Central Bank of Somaliland convened a landmark National Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Financial Crimes at the Damal Hotel in Hargeisa, uniting government officials, financial regulators, banking leaders, and legal experts to strengthen the nation’s financial integrity and security framework.

Strengthening Somaliland’s Financial System

In his opening address, Central Bank Governor Hon. Abdinaasir Ahmed Hersi emphasized the conference’s strategic importance in advancing Somaliland’s financial governance:

“Aligned with President Irro’s vision, we are committed to building stable, transparent, and globally credible financial markets. Money laundering and terrorist financing not only threaten our economic security but also undermine trust in our financial institutions.”

Reviewing Progress, Accelerating Action

Mr. Yasin Jama Ahmed , Director General of the Central Bank, outlined key objectives:
–Assessing implementation of Somaliland’s 5-year-old anti-money laundering (AML) law
– Identifying gaps in enforcement across financial institutions
– Developing actionable measures to enhance compliance

“This conference must translate into accelerated progress. All financial institutions must fulfill their obligations under the AML framework,” he stated.

Private Sector’s Pivotal Role

Mr. Khalif Omar Noor, Chairman of Private Banks, highlighted the sector’s economic impact:
*”Somaliland’s private banks channel over $400 million annually into the economy. We recognize our responsibility in maintaining clean financial flows that fuel sustainable growth.”

Legal Perspective on Financial Crimes

Attorney General Jama Hayaan provided critical legal clarity:
“Money laundering transforms illicit wealth into legitimate assets, while terrorist financing bankrolls destabilization. Somaliland’s economic future depends on preventing both.”

Expected Outcomes
The conference is projected to deliver:
– Enhanced regulatory coordination between the Central Bank and financial institutions
– Revised compliance protocols for AML enforcement
– A roadmap to align Somaliland’s financial system with international best practices

This gathering marks a significant step in Somaliland’s journey toward a secure, transparent, and investment-friendly financial ecosystem.

Somaliland President launches National Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Illicit Financial Flows

By

Goth Mohamed

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June 24, 2025

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa–The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro, today inaugurated the National Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Illicit Financial Flows in Hargeisa.

The President, in line with his administration’s national agenda to strengthen financial transparency, combat corruption, and establish open and integrated financial markets, delivered a comprehensive address highlighting key priorities.

President Irro emphasized his government’s commitment to maintaining and advancing a financial governance system aligned with international standards while adopting modern global frameworks. He stated:

“The Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland mandates the protection of national security, the establishment of a free market, domestic and foreign investment, accountability, and transparency. Therefore, combating money laundering and preventing terrorist financing is a legal obligation.”

The President underscored his administration’s focus on:
– Enhancing the quality and transparency of financial management
– Strengthening asset recovery mechanisms
– Producing regular reports on Somaliland’s fiscal status and compliance with financial laws and policies.

President Irro stressed that fighting illicit financial flows and countering terrorist financing is a collective responsibility binding upon every citizen, institution, and business in Somaliland. He declared:

“We must all adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability while ensuring our financial system is built on trustworthy and sound governance.”

The President described this national conference as a critical milestone in Somaliland’s united efforts to safeguard its financial system from criminal activities and harmful practices. He added:

“We expect this conference to yield strong outcomes that will contribute to building a robust financial system aligned with modern international standards of fiscal governance—ultimately strengthening our nation’s economic growth and stability.”