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Somaliland Police Force Joins Commonwealth Police Sports Union as 41st Member

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a historic milestone, the Somaliland Police Force has officially become the 41st member of the Commonwealth Police Sports Union (CPSU), marking a significant advancement in fostering international cooperation and promoting police sports. The agreement was formally signed today in Hargeisa during a ceremony between Major General Abdirahman Abdilahi Hasan, Commander of the Somaliland Police Force, and Mr. Sunil Kumar, Secretary of the CPSU.

The CPSU, a globally recognized organization, promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sports development among police forces in its member countries. Somaliland’s inclusion as the 41st member underscores its growing international presence and commitment to enhancing professional and athletic opportunities for its police personnel.

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Ambassador Hasan Da’ud and senior Somaliland Police Force officers, alongside a high-level CPSU delegation.

Major General Abdirahman Abdilahi Hasan hailed the membership as a gateway to new opportunities, stating, “Joining the CPSU opens doors for our police force to engage in sports, specialized training, and international partnerships. This will strengthen our capabilities and global connections.”

Mr. Sunil Kumar echoed this sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Somaliland as the 41st member of the CPSU. This is a pivotal moment for fostering stronger ties and collaboration among police forces worldwide.”

This development is expected to enhance the Somaliland Police Force’s participation in international police sports events, training programs, and collaborative initiatives, further solidifying its integration into global law enforcement networks.

Dahabshiil Group and Save the Children Announce Strategic Partnership to Support Children in the Horn of Africa

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Dahabshiil Group, a leading African financial services provider, and Save the Children, a global humanitarian organization, have launched a groundbreaking partnership aimed at improving the lives of children across the Horn of Africa. The collaboration, announced at a high-profile ceremony, seeks to combine Dahabshiil’s financial expertise and remittance network with Save the Children’s humanitarian efforts to address pressing challenges in health, education, and child welfare.

The launch event was attended by prominent figures, including Dahabshiil Group CEO Abdirashid Duale, Kenya’s Health Minister Hon. Aden Duale, Save the Children UK CEO Moazzam Malik, and other regional leaders and dignitaries. The partnership is set to leverage Dahabshiil’s robust remittance platform to facilitate the flow of funds, ensuring critical support reaches vulnerable communities efficiently.

A Commitment to Social Impact, Speaking at the event, Hon. Aden Duale praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to drive meaningful change. “This partnership between Dahabshiil and Save the Children is a powerful example of how humanitarian goals and innovative business solutions can come together to serve our children. It’s a testament to the impact of collaboration in tackling today’s health and developmental challenges,” he said.

He also highlighted Save the Children’s impactful work in Wajir, Kenya, noting, “You’re partnering with an organization that’s making a real difference.”

Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil Group, underscored the company’s longstanding commitment to social responsibility. “Dahabshiil has always been dedicated to addressing societal challenges, from health to humanitarian crises. Our partnership with Save the Children and Mr. Moazzam Malik reflects how businesses can play a pivotal role in community development,” he said. “By facilitating remittances from the diaspora, we aim to empower vulnerable populations and support transformative initiatives.”

Moazzam Malik, CEO of Save the Children UK, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to transform lives. “This collaboration with Dahabshiil opens new doors for supporting children in the Horn of Africa. Our discussions began in 2023, and while we’ve worked together on remittance services, this partnership allows us to do much more,” Malik said. “The region faces significant challenges, and by combining the strengths of private enterprise and humanitarian organizations, we can create lasting solutions for children.”

The partnership builds on Dahabshiil’s history of supporting communities during crises, such as droughts, floods, and fires, as inspired by the company’s founder, Haji Mohamed Said. “Dahabshiil has always played a vital role in community progress, and we are ready to continue this legacy,” added Abdirashid Duale.

A Model for Public-Private Collaboration, MP Mohamed Adow, who also spoke at the event, lauded Dahabshiil’s leadership in the private sector, describing the partnership as a model for how businesses and humanitarian organizations can work together to address regional challenges. The event, attended by parliamentarians, humanitarian officials, and other stakeholders, concluded with a shared commitment to driving impactful change for children and families. This partnership marks a significant step toward addressing the unique challenges faced by children in the Horn of Africa, with both organizations pledging to expand their efforts in the years ahead.

Somaliland: President Embarks on Working Visit to Qatar

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Cirro, today departed on a working visit to the State of Qatar, following an official invitation received from the Government of Qatar. The President’s visit is expected to last several days, God willing.

This marks the first time a President from the Republic of Somaliland undertakes an official visit to Qatar. The President and his delegation traveled aboard a special flight.

Accompanying the President are the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Minister of Interior and National Security, the Minister of the Presidency, the Minister of Religion and Endowments, the Economic Advisor, and the Chief of Staff of the Presidency.

During their stay in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, the President and his delegation will hold meetings with senior officials and authorities of the Qatari State. Discussions will focus on matters of mutual interest between the two sides, particularly concerning the security and stability of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Horn of Africa, as well as cooperation and partnership, investment, economic resource development, and social affairs.

The Somaliland President’s visit to Qatar signifies his commitment to enhancing and refining Somaliland’s Foreign Policy and strengthening its active relations with the International Community. It underscores the importance Somaliland attaches to its national interests and its pursuit of these interests through all viable channels.

Somaliland: President set to embark on an official visit to Qatar

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), is set to visit Qatar tomorrow for an official trip. He will meet with top officials to discuss cooperation between the two countries.

The President will be accompanied by cabinet members. This visit aims to strengthen ties and enhance development collaboration.

Somalia: Joint Communique of the Government’s of Puntland and Jubbaland

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

JUNE 26, 2025

The Presidents of the Puntland and Jubbaland States of Somalia, H.E. President Said Abdullahi Deni and H.E. President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe), held a consultative meeting in Garowe, the Capital of the Puntland State, from June 23–25, 2025.

The meeting focused on the overall situation in Somalia, particularly security affairs and the fight against the terrorist groups Al-Shabaab and Daesh (ISIS), the recent political stalemate affecting Somalia’s state-building process, and specifically the Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) unilateral actions violating the Provisional Constitution.

Accordingly, the meeting concluded the following:

  1. The meeting commends the efforts of Puntland, Jubbaland, and their people in the fight against Al-Shabaab and Daesh. This success demonstrates that Somalia can liberate itself from internal and external terrorist threats if it achieves unity, sincere commitment, and honest leadership. The meeting also welcomes the counter-terrorism efforts against Al-Shabaab by the Somali National Army and local forces in other regions of the country.

  2. Puntland and Jubbaland steadfast in their commitment to the unity and solidarity of the Somali people and nation, agreed to unite and jointly advocate for Somalia to achieve a complete federal statehood based on a federal, democratic, and peaceful system. They reject the unconstitutional amendments to the 2012 Provisional Constitution and call on the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to respect the agreed-upon constitution.

  3. Puntland and Jubbaland concur that the purported amendments to the Provisional Federal Constitution of Somalia are null and void. Federal institutions lack the authority to amend core constitutional provisions that form the foundation of the statehood agreement established under the 2012 Constitution, which is based on consensus. Such provisions can only be altered through a popular referendum. Puntland and Jubbaland do not recognize any outcome of these unconstitutional amendments.

  4. Puntland and Jubbaland strongly urge compliance with and protection of the constitutions at both the federal and state levels for all members of the Federal Republic of Somalia. As stated in Article 142, Clause 1, in the absence of harmonization between the two levels of constitutions, Federal Member States shall exercise the powers granted by their own constitutions.

  5. The meeting calls on other Federal Member States to hold elections for their Legislative Assemblies and Presidents and to appoint their respective independent electoral commissions in accordance with their electoral laws.

  6. To strengthen governance and implement a democratic system as outlined in the Provisional Constitution and the constitutions of the FMS, the meeting urges states that have not yet held local elections to conduct direct district council elections and appoint independent, one-person-one-vote electoral commissions, as Puntland has done. Puntland is ready to support other administrations in implementing this electoral model, especially in technical expertise and electoral legislation.

  7. Puntland and Jubbaland call on the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia to respect the 2012 agreed-upon Constitution, safeguard the unity and solidarity of the Somali nation, and heed the appeals of Somali stakeholders and intellectuals to save Somali statehood.

  8. The meeting welcomes the efforts of the National Consultative Council (NCC) and other leaders working to transition the country from political and security instability and to hold inclusive and timely elections.

  9. The meeting welcomes the efforts of Somalia’s international partners in supporting Somalia’s state-building process. Puntland and Jubbaland affirm that the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) cannot make decisions affecting Puntland and Jubbaland without their participation.

  10. Puntland and Jubbaland condemn the FGS for politicizing and misusing international aid, where the FGS occasionally weaponizes support to create division and instability against FMS. They call on the international community to review the delivery mechanisms of aid to Somalia and urge donors to engage directly with Federal Member States until a comprehensive agreement is reached on resource- and power-sharing.

  11. Puntland and Jubbaland assert that the FGS has grossly abused the four powers granted by the Provisional Federal Constitution of Somalia, particularly in the management of Somali airspace. They accuse the FGS of using it as a political tool to target communities in Federal Member States that hold differing political views. They condemn these actions and submit a formal complaint to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

END

@P1statehouse @J1statehouse

 

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

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

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

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

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:

  1. Full implementation of the Anti-Money Laundering Law (No. 87/2019) to safeguard national financial stability.
  2. Strengthened coordination between law enforcement agencies, judicial bodies, the FIU, and financial institutions.
  3. Accelerated establishment of a unified Customer Due Diligence (KYC) system for all financial institutions.
  4. Enhanced technical capacity for FIU staff, AML practitioners, and compliance officers in financial institutions.
  5. Increased public awareness on combating money laundering.
  6. Development of tailored frameworks for monitoring small businesses and the informal/street economy sectors.
  7. Deployment of technology to streamline data collection and mandatory AML reporting.
  8. 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

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

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:

  1. Prof. Mohamoud Hussein Farah, Dean , Faculty of Law.

  2. Dr. Hussein Abdillahi Bulhan, Founder Franz Fatun University in Hargeisa, Psychologist

  3. Mr. Samatar Abdi Hersi , Horn of Africa Historian

  4. Abdinasser Ahmed Adam – Economist

  5. Dr. Maxamed Jaamac Madar – Phd

  6. 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:

  1. Poltical: The Conference from 4th to 12th May 1960, decision appointed that the date of independence of Somaliland.

  2. 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.

  3. 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”:

  1. A permanent population;

  2. A defined territory;

  3. 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

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Not so long ago on the 18th May 2025, we celebrated the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s reassertion of its sovereignty. This Thursday, on June 26th 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.

26th 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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)
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

  1. 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.

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