Taipei – The Somaliland Representative Office in Taiwan warmly received a delegation from the Somaliland Ministry of Health Development. The delegation was led by the Director General of the Ministry of Health Development, Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Jamaac, and included the Director of Hargeisa General Hospital, Dr. Ahmed Wali Dahir Xaddi, and the Head of Emergency Response at the WHO Office in Hargeisa, Dr. Deeq Said Jama.
The delegation arrived in Taiwan on a working visit aimed at strengthening health cooperation between the Republic of Somaliland and Taiwan, enhancing knowledge exchange, advancing healthcare services, and expanding collaborative opportunities between the two side
Hargeisa – In a significant move to bolster environmental conservation efforts, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, alongside the Director General, the Director of the Wildlife Department, the Minister’s Advisor, and other high-ranking officials, convened a high-level meeting to renew a longstanding cooperation agreement with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF).
The renewed pact represents a shared commitment to deepening joint efforts across multiple fronts. Key areas of focus include the protection and sustainable management of wildlife, the continued development and oversight of National Parks, and the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity across the country. In addition, the agreement places a strong emphasis on expanding scientific research, delivering specialized professional training programs, and rolling out community outreach initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of safeguarding natural habitats—with particular attention to the conservation of cheetahs and other endangered species.
During the meeting, both parties underscored their unwavering dedication to fostering a results-oriented partnership. They reiterated that their collaborative work is not only vital for addressing current environmental challenges—such as habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict—but also essential for securing the long-term viability of the nation’s natural resources. Leaders from both sides affirmed that their shared vision is to leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship that benefits both present and future generations.
This renewed agreement marks another milestone in the ongoing efforts to integrate conservation into national development priorities, ensuring that Somalia’s unique ecosystems and iconic wildlife, including the cheetah population, remain protected and resilient in the face of climate change and other emerging threats. The partnership further reflects a mutual understanding that conservation success depends on sustained cooperation, knowledge exchange, and active engagement with local communities who share the landscape with these remarkable animals.
For years, Turkey has systematically obstructed Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition while portraying itself as an impartial mediator in the Horn of Africa. This policy exposes a glaring double standard. Ankara fiercely defends and militarily protects the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, yet condemns Somaliland’s quest to restore the sovereignty it voluntarily surrendered in 1960. Turkey cannot credibly champion self-determination in Cyprus while denying Somalilanders the same right.
The comparison overwhelmingly favors Somaliland. The people of Somaliland are indigenous to their homeland. British Somaliland gained internationally recognized independence on 26 June 1960 before voluntarily entering a union with the former Italian Somalia five days later to form the Somali Republic. Following the collapse of that failed union in 1991 and after suffering the internationally documented genocide committed by Siad Barre’s regime, Somaliland reasserted the sovereignty it had previously possessed. Many Somalilanders therefore view their case not as secession but as the dissolution of a failed political union and, morally and legally, as one strengthened by the principle of remedial self-determination.
Northern Cyprus presents a very different case. It emerged following Turkey’s 1974 military intervention and survives through Ankara’s political, military, and economic support. Unlike Somalilanders, who are indigenous to their homeland, the Turkish community in Northern Cyprus traces its presence to settlement during the Ottoman Empire’s rule over the island.. Yet Turkey insists the world should recognize Northern Cyprus while simultaneously campaigning against Somaliland. Such a position is not based on principle; it is based on strategic convenience.
Turkey’s opposition has been deliberate. Former Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu publicly acknowledged challenging then British Foreign Secretary William Hague over discussions concerning Somaliland’s recognition, arguing that recognition of Somaliland would require recognition of Northern Cyprus. Davutoğlu further stated that he contacted the late Somaliland President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud (Silanyo) and encouraged negotiations with Somalia. From Somaliland’s perspective, these talks served one overriding purpose: delaying recognition by creating the illusion that Somaliland’s political future remained negotiable.
Turkey has also repeatedly argued that Somaliland and Somalia belong together because they share the same language, religion, ethnicity, and culture. This argument collapses under even minimal scrutiny. More than twenty Arab states share Arabic language, Islam, and similar cultural traditions, yet each is an independent sovereign state. Conversely, countries such as Kenya, India, Switzerland, and Canada are multilingual and multiethnic yet remain stable sovereign states. Shared identity neither guarantees successful statehood nor obliges separate peoples to remain in a political union against their will.
The decisive issue is not ethnicity but political consent. Most Somalilanders reject reunification because their historical experience convinced them that their security, liberty, and political future are best protected through separate statehood. Respecting that democratic choice—not romantic notions of pan-Somali nationalism—is the foundation of lasting peace.
Turkey repeated the same strategic mistake when it mediated between Ethiopia and Somalia following the Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding. Instead of acknowledging Somaliland as a direct stakeholder, Ankara once again sought to preserve Mogadishu’s position and undermine an agreement that could have advanced Somaliland’s international standing. Rather than acting as an honest broker, Turkey appeared determined to prevent any diplomatic breakthrough benefiting Somaliland.
Ankara fundamentally misread the strategic landscape. Had Turkey maintained neutrality, it could have preserved influence in both Hargeisa and Mogadishu. Instead, it openly aligned itself with Somalia’s position and transformed Somaliland from a potential partner into a strategic adversary.
The consequences are now becoming evident. Having repeatedly found the door to recognition blocked by Turkey, Somaliland has increasingly sought partnerships beyond Ankara’s sphere of influence. Among those partners is Israel—Turkey’s principal strategic competitor in the Eastern Mediterranean and an increasingly influential actor in the Red Sea region. Supporters of Somaliland’s diplomatic strategy argue that Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state marks a turning point that Turkey’s own policies helped bring about. Whether viewed through diplomacy or geopolitics, Ankara’s obstruction has accelerated the very realignment it sought to prevent.
A Somali proverb perfectly captures Turkey’s miscalculation:
“Libaax laba raq lagama wada kiciyo.” “ A lion cannot be driven away from two carcasses one after the other.”
Turkey relied on the same strategy repeatedly—blocking recognition through mediation and preserving the status quo. Somaliland adapted. Instead of abandoning its aspirations, it diversified its alliances and sought partners beyond Turkey’s reach. This shows that Turkey has naively underestimated Somaliland’s resolve.
In the end, Turkey’s Somaliland policy has become a textbook case of strategic failure. By placing Somalia’s interests above its own long-term geopolitical interests, Ankara surrendered the opportunity to maintain influence across both sides of the Somali Peninsula. It has instead created space for Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Greece, and Cyprus to deepen their engagement with Somaliland.
History often punishes states that mistake obstruction for strategy. In attempting to deny Somaliland international recognition, Turkey has weakened its own strategic position in the Horn of Africa while pushing Somaliland toward Turkey’s regional rivals. That is not a diplomatic success—it is a self-inflicted geopolitical defeat.
The author is a PhD candidate in Peace and Development Studies. He also teaches Public Policy and Ethics in Government at the Civil Service Institute in Hargeisa, Somaliland, and is an active political commentator on local, regional, and international affairs. He can be reached at abhussein1988@gmail.com
The Somaliland Coast Guard (SLCG) Mobile Training Unit (MTU) successfully delivered a five-day Safety at Sea and Man Overboard (MOB) course in Berbera, with mentoring and monitoring support from EUCAP field office Somaliland. The training equipped 15 officers from Berbera, Maydh, Zaylac, and Hargeisa with essential maritime safety and life-saving skills.
The Somaliland Coast Guard (SLCG) Mobile Training Unit (MTU) successfully delivered a five-day Safety at Sea and Man Overboard (MOB) course in Berbera, with mentoring and monitoring support from EUCAP field office Somaliland. The training equipped 15 officers from Berbera, Maydh, Zaylac, and Hargeisa with essential maritime safety and life-saving skills.
“Maritime Safety at Sea training is important for the SLCG because it enables us to save lives at sea. I work for the Coast Guard, and my job is to rescue people and save lives. This training has improved my work,” said Lt. Ali from Zaylac.
Commenting on how the training helped him, Sergeant Mustafe from Mayd said, “This training has equipped me with the skills and confidence to save lives at sea by applying the right rescue procedures and maritime safety protocols.”
Through continued support to the Mobile Training Unit, EUCAP is strengthening the Somaliland Coast Guard’s capacity to deliver high-quality training and enhance maritime safety capabilities.
Hargeisa – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro met with United Kingdom Ambassador Charles King on Tuesday at the presidential palace in Hargeisa, during the envoy’s official visit to the region.
According to the Somaliland presidency, the talks centered on strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation between Somaliland and the UK, with discussions covering development, security, democracy, economic infrastructure, and government institution-building.
President Irro expressed gratitude for British support and noted that the two sides could expand collaboration in areas including water resources, climate change adaptation, energy, education, health, trade, and investment.
The presidency added that Irro reaffirmed his government’s commitment to pursuing international recognition and called on the United Kingdom to support that effort.
In response, Ambassador King commended Somaliland’s peace, stability, and democratic progress, and affirmed that the UK would continue its cooperation and support.
“The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding and commitment from both parties to further strengthen cooperation and partnership between Somaliland and the United Kingdom,” the presidency stated.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has yet to gain broad international recognition. Somalia’s federal government continues to assert that Somaliland remains part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
The Supreme Court of the Republic of Somaliland has categorically denied false reports that have been circulating on social media over the past few hours. The reports claimed that the Court’s Chairman, Mr. Adam Haji Ali Ahmed, had submitted a letter of resignation to the President of the Republic.
In an official statement, the Supreme Court firmly clarified that these claims are entirely unfounded and have no basis in truth whatsoever. The Court described the reports as wholly fabricated and devoid of any credibility.
Additionally, the Supreme Court has urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from sharing unverified information. Citizens are strongly advised to verify the authenticity of news before disseminating it, in order to prevent the spread of misinformation.
HARGEISA, Somaliland – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), held a meeting today at his office with the newly elected Speaker of the House of Elders (Guurti), Hon. Muuse Haaji Abdi Ducaale, alongside his predecessor, Hon. Saleebaan Maxamuud Aadan, who formally stepped down from the position earlier in the day.
During the meeting, President Irro extended his warm congratulations to Speaker Ducaale on the overwhelming confidence reposed in him by the Guurti membership. He prayed for divine guidance and strength as the new Speaker assumes the weighty responsibilities of the office, and expressed his firm hope that the new leadership will further bolster the Guurti’s constitutional role in safeguarding national cohesion, stability, and the democratic fabric of the nation.
In a separate gesture, the President paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Speaker, Hon. Saleebaan Maxamuud Aadan, commending his long and distinguished tenure of public service. President Irro lauded Hon. Aadan’s steadfast leadership, political acumen, and the wisdom with which he navigated the affairs of the House throughout his tenure. Describing him as a statesman and a venerable national elder, the President affirmed that Hon. Aadan’s contributions to Somaliland’s peace and development remain deeply valued and deserving of national recognition.
HARGEISA — The Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, together with cabinet ministers, senior military commanders, and other high-ranking officials, attended a state funeral prayer (Aas Qaran) in Hargeisa on Saturday in honor of the late Colonel Faysal Hiis Ilmi, former Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) within the Somaliland Police Force. He was laid to rest at the Halleeya Cemetery.
Speaking during the solemn ceremony, Vice President Aw Abdi offered heartfelt prayers for the departed, beseeching Almighty Allah to grant him eternal peace in Jannatul Firdaws (the highest paradise). He also prayed that the colonel’s family, loved ones, and his colleagues in the Somaliland Police Force be endowed with fortitude and unwavering faith during this difficult time.
Paying tribute to the late officer, the Vice President described him as a distinguished and dedicated public servant who carried out his duties with remarkable professionalism and unwavering commitment to the nation. He underscored that Colonel Faysal Hiis Ilmi’s legacy of integrity and service would be long remembered within the country’s security institutions.
HARGEISA | 12/07/2026 – The House of Elders (Guurti) of the Republic of Somaliland convened an extraordinary session today at its headquarters in Hargeysa to deliberate on and formally ratify the resignation of its long-serving Speaker, Hon. Saleban Mahmoud Aden, and to elect his successor.
The session was opened by Speaker Saleban Mahmoud Aden, who addressed the assembly citing persistent health challenges and fatigue as the primary reasons behind his decision to step down. He noted that he had first been elected to the Speakership on 18 August 2004 and formally submitted his resignation letter, effective today, 12 July 2026, urging the House to accept his departure.
Following the unanimous endorsement of the Speaker’s resignation, the House officially announced the three candidates contending for the leadership position:
· Representative Muse Haji Abdi Ducaale
· Representative Sahal Idle Dirir
· Sultan Ismail Sultan Abdirahman
After each candidate was given the floor to address the House, Representative Sahal Idle Dirir formally withdrew from the race. Sultan Ismail Sultan Abdirahman, in his address, initially suggested postponing the election to allow for further consultations, but subsequently announced his own withdrawal from candidacy as well.
With both contenders stepping aside, Representative Muse Haji Abdi Ducaale remained the sole candidate. The House proceeded to elect him by acclamation, with no objections registered. Representative Muse Haji Abdi Ducaale was thus officially installed as the new Speaker of the House of Elders of the Republic of Somaliland, receiving the full confidence and unanimous support of all members present at the session.
The Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean are vital waterways for the world. With the opening of the Suez Canal, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait became a substantial hub of trade connecting Asia and Europe through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is the third busiest strait in the world. Due to Iran-backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen, unresolved shipping safety issues remain.
Strange-sounding names of the Middle East are faraway but significant places. It is critical that the United States have defensive military bases there. President Donald Trump and War Secretary Pete Hegseth must decide where to locate new military bases.
President Jimmy Carter knew that security of the Gulf was vital to the United States. During his administration, Central Command (CENTCOM) established headquarters in Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, which remain today.
Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, Qatar is the largest U.S. Military Base in the Middle East. It headquarters U.S. Central Command, USAF Central Command, No. 83 Expeditionary Air Group RAF, and the 379th Air Force Expeditionary Wing. Qatar Emiri Air Force, United States Air Force, United Kingdom Royal Air Force, and other foreign forces host around 10,000 military personnel.
American military bases in the Middle East have been attacked during the Iran War. Iranian drones wounded Pentagon employees in Bahrain. Americans were wounded in the Iranian missile attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
The Jewish State of Israel is on the list for consideration as host to an American Military Base. There are no official U.S. military bases in Israel. However, a wide range of cooperative exercises, partnerships, and collaborations exist between the countries.
Former Israeli ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, recently wrote about the plausibility of American Bases in Israel. He asserts that it would be in America’s fundamental interests, but raises concerns about whether it is right for Israel.
Somaliland is not Somalia. Think North Korea (Somalia) and South Korea (Somaliland). Somaliland has military interest from Israel, China, Turkey, Taiwan, and possibly the United States. In 2026, Somaliland Special Forces trained in Israel. A U.S. delegation from AFRICOM has visited Somaliland monthly for the past year.
Somaliland sits on the Horn of Africa with a line of sight across to the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden, toward Yemen and the Houthi terrorists. The maritime corridor links the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean. Houthi terrorists attack ships and sometimes threaten to close the shipping corridor.
Israel recognized Somaliland as an independent nation last year. The U.S. Republican Party, Taiwan, and AIPAC welcomed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. Somaliland accepted adherence to the Abraham Accords and maintains an embassy in Jerusalem.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) mediated discussions between Israel and Somaliland regarding the establishment of an Israeli military base. The UAE has offered to fund the construction. The Republic of Turkey, the People’s Republic of China, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the African Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Arab League each oppose an Israeli Military base in Somaliland.
Somaliland has existing Infrastructure on the Gulf of Aden. Under Russian control in the 1990s, a 2.6-mile runway was built at the Berbera Airport. It is able to receive heavy transport aircraft, fighter jets, and drone platforms, and new construction is underway. A deepwater commercial port was established in 2017. A naval base is run by the United Arab Emirates. A highway connecting the port and the airport goes to Ethiopia. Speculation that the Berbera Airport is being reconstructed to establish a military base that will accommodate UAE, Israel, and United States strategic forces.
Britain, France, Italy, and Egypt established stations in the Horn of Africa along their routes to India, starting in the mid-1800s. Muslim Arabs, Kenyans, and Persians were mostly pastoral nomads living in the area. Traders dealt in aromatic incense, precious gems, feathers, animal products, and slaves from Ethiopia. Somali Clans, Europeans, and Turks controlled port cities.
Richard Burton (not the famous actor) joined explorers surveying the Horn of Africa. Many surveyors were killed by Somalis. Surveys prevailed. Anglo/French/Italian Treaties were drawn up. Muslim solidarity against infidel protectorates caused uprisings, rebellions, and assassinations.
The United Nations established independence for Eritrea, Ethiopia, Zanzibar, Somalia, and Somaliland in 1960. Civil war between Somalia and Somaliland has been waged since the 1960s, when each country was granted independence from Britain.
Corruption, persecutions, jailings, and torture caused the Somali government to collapse in 1991. Somaliland re-declared independence in 1991. Somali refugees fled to Europe and to the United States. They did not assimilate. 84,000 Somalis live in Minnesota and thousands upon thousands more live in many other states. A U.S. travel ban on Somali “refugees” is in effect. Somali refugee fraud is under investigation with lawsuits and frozen assets. It is believed that stolen fraudulent funds went to Somali-based jihadi terror groups.
Exotic-sounding places like Somaliland, Yemen, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, Bab-el-Mandeb, and the Indian Ocean must not be ignored. Iran’s Houthi terrorists in Yemen have a global effect. Whether or not you can find these places on a world map, vulnerable international maritime waterways are consequential to your life.
Darlene Casella is an internationally published writer, a former English teacher, stockbroker, and owner/president of a small corporation. She is active with Republican Women, the Lincoln Club, the California Republican Party, and can be reached at darlenecasella@msn.com
