The Government has expressed profound gratitude to U.S. Congressman Scott Perry for introducing the “Republic of Somaliland Independence Act” (H.R. 10402), a groundbreaking legislative proposal aimed at formally recognizing Somaliland as an independent nation. The bill, introduced on June 12, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s 34-year quest for international recognition, highlighting its stability, democratic governance, and strategic importance in the Horn of Africa.

According to a statement from the Somaliland National News Agency (SOLNA), Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Abdirahman Dahir Adan, praised Congressman Perry for his bold and visionary leadership. “This legislative initiative is a historic step forward,” the minister stated, commending Perry’s courage in championing Somaliland’s cause. “We deeply appreciate his efforts to advance a bill that acknowledges Somaliland’s sovereignty and its role as a beacon of peace and democracy in a volatile region.”

The minister recently met with Congressman Perry in the United States to discuss accelerating support for Somaliland’s recognition. These discussions underscored the potential for strengthened U.S.-Somaliland ties, particularly in counterterrorism, trade, and regional stability, given Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden. The bill proposes a shift in U.S. foreign policy to foster cooperation with Somaliland.

As the “Somaliland Independence Act” moves through Congress, it could redefine U.S. foreign policy in the Horn of Africa, potentially making Somaliland the first nation to gain formal U.S. recognition as an independent state. The Somaliland government remains hopeful that this legislation will inspire other nations to follow suit, cementing its place as the 55th African state.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Cape Town, South Africa –The Republic of Somaliland participated officially in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from June 12-13. Somaliland’s presence garnered significant recognition from the South African government, signaling its growing importance in continental green energy initiatives and international cooperation.

High-Level Participation:
The Somaliland delegation was led by:
* Dr. Mohamed Aw Dahir Ibrahim Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change
* Ambassador Ayan Mohamoud Mohamed, Senior Envoy, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

Presidential Welcome:
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa personally welcomed the Somaliland delegation during the summit’s opening ceremony. President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of Somaliland’s attendance, describing it as a “visible example of Somaliland’s engagement on global platforms.”

Strategic Bilateral Meetings:
During the summit, the Somaliland delegation engaged in high-level discussions with key South African and international officials, including:
* Samantha Graham, Deputy Minister of Electricity
* Dr. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI)
* Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, Senior Official, Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) & African Union Liaison
* Alan Winde,** Premier of the Western Cape Province

Discussions centered on:
1. Enhancing cooperation in green hydrogen and renewable energy.
2. Somaliland’s potential role in Africa’s future energy transition.
3. Fostering research, innovation, and development opportunities across the region and continent.

Diplomatic Recognition & Reinforced Ties:
In a notable gesture of diplomatic recognition, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Parks Tau, hosted a special honor dinner for the Somaliland delegation. This event further strengthened bilateral relations, explicitly acknowledging Somaliland as a key stakeholder capable of contributing significantly to Africa’s regional development and energy future.

Commitment Affirmed:
Somaliland’s active participation in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025 underscores its commitment to playing a leading role in global discussions on clean energy, climate action, and the advancement of regional and international partnerships.

By M.A. Egge

The latest session of the weekly Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, saw the discussions of various issues that ranged from the national security situation, general economy of the country, the education sector, to planning etc.

The meeting culminated with the distribution of the Energy Act and the Somaliland Diplomatic Missions Act for their perusal.

The session was chaired as usual by the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, who was flanked by the Vice President His Excellency Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, on Wednesday.

According to a press release by the spokesman of the Presidency Mr. Hussein Adam Igeh, the agenda of the week was as follows: –

𝟏. Report on Security and Stability in the Country: Brief given by the Minister of Interior and Security, Hon.  Abdallah Mohamed Arab.

𝟐. Report on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs: Briefing by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Abdillahi Hassan Aden.

𝟑. Livestock Export Report and the difference in Livestock Export Processes and how to improve it: Reports by the Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Hon. Dr. Omar Shucayb Mohamed

4. Report on the DALJIR Program prepared by the Ministry of Constitution and Parliamentary Relations: Reported by the Minister of Constitution and Parliamentary Relations, Hon. Ahmed Aw Daahir Haaji Hassan.
5. Preventing and mitigating schools’ transportation accidents: briefs given by the Ministers of Education, Training and Science and also Transport and Road Development, the honourables Professor Ismail Duale Yusuf, and Osman Ibrahim Nur (Af-gaab) respectively.
6. Report on the situation in El-Afweyn and the Peace Process, including the government delegation that participated in the Celebration of Eid al-Adha with the community: Reported by the Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Daahir Jama.
7. Policy Making of Ministries and Harmonization of the National Master Plan of Somaliland: This was reported by the Minister of the Ministry of Planning and National Development, Miss. Kaltuun Sh. Hassan Abdi.

𝟖. Distribution of the Draft Energy Law and the Diplomatic Missions Law of the Somaliland (𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐜𝐭): This briefing was made by the Attorney General Mr. Abdisamad Omar Maal.

Louise Hancock, the UK Representative in Somaliland, held a key meeting today with MP Barkhad Batuun to discuss the political empowerment of the Gabooye minority community ahead of the 2026 Parliamentary and Local Council Elections. The discussions focused on increasing the representation of the Gabooye, a historically marginalized group known for their limited access to education, economic resources, and political power, as highlighted by the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA).

The meeting comes at a critical juncture as Somaliland prepares for its upcoming elections, aligning with broader regional shifts toward democratic reforms. Hancock emphasized the importance of ensuring the Gabooye community’s voice in the political process, stating on X, “We discussed a range of issues concerning the minority community he represents, including increasing their political representation.”

Batuun, a vocal advocate for the Gabooye, shared images of the meeting, noting discussions on development projects, security, and the community’s participation in the elections. This engagement marks a potential turning point for the Gabooye, who have long faced side-lined under Somaliland’s clan-based political system.

As Somaliland navigates this transitional period, the international community, including the UK, appears poised to support inclusive governance. Stakeholders will watch closely to see if the 2026 elections mark a new era for the Gabooye and other marginalized groups—or if entrenched interests will prevail.

In the arid yet resilient landscapes of Somaliland, a quiet revolution in agriculture is beginning to unfold.

African Food Security (AFS), a New York-based agribusiness firm, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at cultivating sustainable, community-led farming across the region.

More than a farming venture, the project seeks to foster food sovereignty, climate resilience, and long-term regional partnerships.

Established in 2024, AFS belongs to a new generation of agricultural investors committed to unlocking the potential of Africa’s vast but underutilized farmland. With a focus on sustainability, the company is targeting regions heavily reliant on food imports and exposed to the growing threats of climate change.

Somaliland offers fertile ground for such innovation. While much of its population depends on livestock and smallholder farming, infrastructure and support remain limited. AFS’s arrival signals renewed potential to bridge that gap.

“Our work starts with people, not just land,” said Alan Kessler, CEO of African Food Security.

“We begin by listening—through community consultations and environmental assessments—because meaningful agriculture is rooted in shared vision and mutual progress,” he added.

In recent months, AFS has commenced feasibility studies and soil assessments, working hand-in-hand with local agronomists and experts.

The initiative embraces climate-smart agricultural techniques, including drought-resistant crop varieties, water conservation systems, and inclusive outgrower programmes designed to empower smallholder farmers through cooperative networks.

Local authorities have applauded AFS’s holistic and community-first approach. The company’s emphasis on sustainability, local employment, and environmental care is being hailed as a blueprint for responsible agribusiness development across the region.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has identified agricultural infrastructure as key to Somaliland’s long-term food security. AFS’s strategy aligns with this imperative, integrating indigenous knowledge with modern, eco-friendly solutions to build a self-sustaining agricultural economy.

Experts in agroecology agree. “Lasting food security is built on models that respect both ecosystems and communities,” said Dr. Fola Ajibade, a prominent West African agroecologist. “AFS’s approach signals a promising shift toward inclusive, resilient agribusiness.”

Kessler reaffirmed the company’s long-haul vision: “This isn’t a short-term investment. We’re here to build trust, nurture partnerships, and contribute to a regenerative future—hand in hand with the people of Somaliland.”

With groundwork already underway and strong local engagement, African Food Security is positioning itself at the forefront of a new chapter in regional agriculture—one where the soil is honoured, the people are central, and growth serves the greater good.

https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2025/06/11/farming-the-future-african-food-security-ignites-hope-in-somalilands-drylands/

A high-level delegation from Somaliland, led by Minister of Justice Hon. Yonis Ahmed Yonis and Minister of Sports Hon. Ahmed Yassin Mohamed Farah, held a significant meeting today with Andreas Norlén, Speaker of the Swedish Parliament (Riksdag), and several parliament members in Stockholm. The delegation was warmly received at the parliament, marking a key moment in strengthening bilateral ties between Somaliland and Sweden.

During the discussions, Minister Yonis highlighted Somaliland’s progress in justice and governance under the current administration, with a particular focus on critical issues affecting the Horn of Africa. The talks underscored Somaliland’s commitment to regional stability and development.

The delegation, on an official visit at the invitation of Swedish parliamentary authorities, is expected to remain in Stockholm for several days. Further meetings with Swedish government leaders are scheduled to explore avenues for cooperation in governance, justice, and other mutual interests.

Hon. Sakariye Hassan Wa’ays, the Somaliland representative in Sweden, who participated in the delegation’s meeting with the parliament, welcomed the delegation in Stockholm.

This visit signals Somaliland’s growing diplomatic engagement on the global stage, as the nation continues to seek broader international recognition and collaboration.

In a landmark step toward modernizing its infrastructure, the Republic of Somaliland officially launched the tender process for the construction of the first phase of the Loyada-Zeila road, a critical segment of the Lawyacaddo-Saylac-Fardaha-Borama-Zeila highway. The bid opening ceremony, held at the Maansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, drew local officials, international partners, and representatives from bidding companies, signaling strong regional and global interest in Somaliland’s development agenda.

The Minister of Transport and Road Development, Hon. Osman Ibrahim Nur addressing attendees, underscored the government’s commitment to transparency in the bidding process. “We are a neutral court, ensuring every company’s bid is evaluated fairly without bias or favoritism,” the Minister declared. The project, which aims to connect Borama to Loyada on the Somaliland-Djibouti border, is a cornerstone of Somaliland’s vision to bolster its national highway network.

Mohamed Farah Abdi, Director of the Somaliland Road Development Agency (RDA), described the project as a game-changer for the region. “This road will drive economic growth, enhance connectivity with Djibouti and Ethiopia, and uplift communities in the Awdal and Salal regions by improving access to markets and services,” Abdi said. He added that President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Ciro has prioritized the project, issuing directives to fast-track its construction and ensure rigorous oversight of contracted firms.

The initiative is poised to receive funding from international partners, including the African Development Bank, reflecting growing foreign investment in African infrastructure. Once completed, the road is expected to slash travel times, streamline trade routes, and improve quality of life for residents, particularly in the Awdal region.

The RDA, which hosted the event, is positioning itself as a hub of excellence in highway engineering, aligning with global standards. With bids now under evaluation, construction is slated to begin soon, marking a pivotal chapter in Somaliland’s journey toward sustainable development and regional integration.

“This is more than a road—it’s a lifeline for our economy and our people,” Abdi concluded, as stakeholders expressed optimism about the project’s transformative impact.