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Taiwan Celebrates the Launch of Somaliland’s Gender Advisory Office and Advocates for ICAO Inclusion at UNGA80

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

On September 17, 2025, Taiwan’s Representative Office in Somaliland celebrated the launch of the Gender Advisory Office (GAO) at the Damal Hotel in Hargeisa, marking a significant milestone in the decade-long partnership between the two nations. Supported by the European Union and Somaliland’s parliament, the GAO underscores Taiwan’s commitment to advancing gender equality in Somaliland, a nation that is celebrating 35 years of independence while facing ongoing challenges to global recognition.

In a keynote address, senior Taiwanese diplomat Ambassador Allen Leu used the metaphor, “Even the Burj Khalifa starts from one grain of sand,” to highlight the GAO’s role as a foundational step toward greater progress. The launch coincides with the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), where global leaders are addressing gender equality and collaborative governance. Taiwan, ranked sixth globally on the OECD Social Institutions and Gender Index under CEDAW, emphasized its progressive gender policies, including strong female representation in government and robust anti-discrimination measures.

The GAO’s establishment strengthens Taiwan’s soft power in Somaliland, where it has maintained a de facto embassy since 2009 despite limited formal diplomatic ties globally. The ceremony, attended by local and international leaders, featured a Somali-language banner promoting women’s issues, symbolizing shared goals. Taiwan’s prior investments in Somaliland’s health and education sectors reflect a mutual resilience against diplomatic isolation—Taiwan from China, and Somaliland from the African Union and the global community. Somaliland’s strategic position along the Red Sea, recently underscored by Ethiopia’s 2024 recognition agreement, amplifies the partnership’s significance.

As UNGA80 focuses on gender disparities, Taiwan’s efforts in Somaliland could enhance its international visibility. Concurrently, Taiwan’s Somaliland Mission amplified a message from Foreign Minister @chia_lung, thanking U.S. Senator @SenTedCruz for advocating Taiwan’s full membership in @icao. In a letter to @SecRubio, @SecDuffy, and @JCS_ICAO, Cruz emphasized that Taiwan’s inclusion is essential for ICAO’s vision of “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future.”

Somaliland and Taiwan Discuss Strengthening Media and Cultural Ties

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed-Yasin Sh. Ali Ayanle, hosted a high-level meeting with Hon. Allen Leu, Taiwan’s Representative to Somaliland, and accompanying officials at his office in Hargeisa today.

The engagement underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on mutual cooperation amid recent advancements in the financial, technological, and maritime sectors. The meeting aimed to promote mutual understanding, offer a formal welcome, and establish a framework for collaborative efforts between Somaliland’s Ministry of Information and the Taiwanese Representative Office.

Attendees from the Somaliland side included the Deputy Minister, Director General, Director of Planning, Director of Administration, Deputy Director of Radio, and Head of Monitoring and Evaluation.

Key discussion points highlighted strategic priorities:

  1. Countering Misinformation: Both parties agreed to intensify joint efforts in combating propaganda and false narratives directed against Taiwan and the Republic of Somaliland, utilizing their shared experiences in digital resilience.

  2. Media and Cultural Exchange: Emphasis was placed on collaborative initiatives in modern media, information sharing, and promoting the cultural heritage of both Somaliland and Taiwan to foster public awareness and strengthen people-to-people ties.

  3. Showcasing Achievements: The Ministry presented an overview of its foundational milestones and notable successes, receiving positive feedback from the Taiwanese delegation on Somaliland’s progress in information management and public outreach.

  4. Awareness Programs: Plans were outlined for co-developing reports, campaigns, and programs to highlight the value of bilateral cooperation and the fraternal bonds between Somaliland and Taiwan, targeting both domestic and international audiences.

  5. Capacity Building: Opportunities for ministry staff to access Taiwanese training programs, scholarships, and educational grants were explored, with a call for active participation to enhance professional skills in information and cultural sectors.

This meeting follows several recent developments that have strengthened Somaliland-Taiwan relations.

Somaliland Signs $70 Million Deal to Transform Hargeisa Airport into a Regional Hub

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a significant boost to its aviation and economic infrastructure, the Republic of Somaliland has signed a landmark $70 million agreement to modernize Egal International Airport in its capital, Hargeisa. The deal, announced by Presidential Spokesperson Eng. Hussein Adan Cige (Deyr), represents the largest single investment in the country’s civil aviation history and highlights Somaliland’s increasing engagement with global business partners.

The agreement was finalized at the Dubai International Financial Center between Somaliland’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Hon. Fu’ad Ahmed Nuh, and representatives from the International Maharat Investment Company, a Dubai-based firm specializing in infrastructure development.

The ambitious project aims to comprehensively upgrade the airport’s facilities. Planned improvements include extending runways, constructing new passenger terminals, and installing enhanced security and modern navigational systems. These upgrades are designed to accommodate larger aircraft, significantly increase passenger capacity, and position Hargeisa as a key gateway for regional trade and tourism in the Horn of Africa.

“This investment is a game-changer for Somaliland’s economy,” said Eng. Deyr in a statement. “It reflects our unwavering commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and forging deeper ties with the international community. Somaliland is open for business, ready for investment, and eager for meaningful global cooperation.”

The partnership with Maharat, a company with a portfolio of projects across the Middle East and Africa, is seen as a vote of confidence in Somaliland’s stable governance and business-friendly environment. Minister Nuh stated during the signing ceremony that the project would “not only modernize our skies but also elevate Somaliland’s profile on the global stage.”

Industry experts predict the modernized airport could handle up to one million passengers annually by 2030, a substantial increase from the current annual traffic of approximately 200,000. The enhancements are also expected to pave the way for direct flights to major international hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, and Addis Ababa, further integrating Somaliland into global economic and supply chains.

With construction scheduled to begin in early 2026, this development marks a new chapter in Somaliland’s pursuit of economic self-sufficiency and broader international recognition.

Somaliland Government Reinforces Livestock Export Ban and Moves to Approve Fisheries Law

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Hargeisa, Somaliland – The 35th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland convened today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting was chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) and co-chaired by H.E. Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi.

The council deliberated on several key national issues, with ministers providing comprehensive briefings on their respective sectors. The following is a summary of the proceedings:

  1. Security Situation Briefing

The Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Carab, reported that the overall security situation across all six regions of the country remains stable. He confirmed the absence of any significant disturbances or instability and further noted that the nation continues to enjoy complete political stability.

  1. Economic and Revenue Update

The Minister of State for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Ismail Mawlid Abdullahi, provided an update on the nation’s fiscal health. He reported that the National Revenue Collection for September 2025 is on track to meet its targets and expressed optimism for continued improvement in the nation’s revenue and economic performance throughout the remainder of the year.

The Minister also informed the council that strategic studies and plans to strengthen the national economy and boost domestic production are advancing systematically. These initiatives are being overseen by the Council’s High-Level Economic Committee, which has recently submitted comprehensive proposals.

  1. Drought Relief Efforts

A member of the National Drought Relief Committee and Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Dahir Jama, delivered a briefing on the drought response. He stated that relief efforts are progressing effectively, highlighting the rehabilitation of water wells and the successful distribution of food aid to the regions with the most critical needs.

  1. Livestock Export and Quality Standards

The Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Dr. Omar Shucayb Mohamed, provided a positive update on the livestock sector. He reported that the Ministry is enhancing the export system and enforcing stringent quality control measures for livestock.

A key policy highlighted was the complete ban on the export of underage livestock, a measure designed to protect the national breeding stock and uphold quality standards. The Minister emphasized that this step is crucial for strengthening Somaliland’s reputation in international markets and securing the sector’s long-term economic future. He also noted an increase in health inspections and monitoring of livestock.

  1. National Health Situation

The Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, presented a report on the public health situation. He outlined the ongoing provision of health services across the regions while also acknowledging significant national challenges that require addressed.

The Minister detailed the severe impact of recent global funding cuts from the United States government on critical health programs administered by the Ministry. These cuts have created a substantial financial shortfall and posed a major challenge to public health services. Despite this, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to securing and strengthening public health services through international cooperation to ensure the people of Somaliland receive sustainable, high-quality healthcare.

  1. Deliberation on the National Fisheries Law

The Council of Ministers concluded a rigorous two-week deliberation on the Somaliland National Fisheries Law (Act No. 84/2025). Following extensive discussions, proposals, and a detailed review of the law’s articles, H.E. President Cirro issued a directive. Noting the critical importance of the fisheries sector, the President instructed the Council to integrate its recommendations into the draft and ensure it is harmonized with other existing national laws. The technical drafting committee was tasked with finalizing the document, with a view to its approval scheduled for next week.

Traditional and Religious Leaders in Eastern Regions Demand Answers from Puntland Over Airstrike Killing of Elder

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

BADHAN, SANAG – Traditional elders, intellectuals, and religious leaders from the Sanaag, Haylan, and the western parts of the Bari region have issued a formal and urgent demand to the Puntland government, seeking a transparent explanation for the deadly airstrike that killed a respected elder and the ongoing use of airstrikes that have terrorized local communities.

The demand, outlined in a strongly-worded statement, comes in the wake of the killing of Caqil (Chief) Cumar C/laahi Cabdi Ibraahim on September 13, 2025. According to the statement, the elder was traveling alone from the city of Ceelbuh to Badhan in the Sanaag region when his vehicle was struck by three missiles near the village of Jicanyo.

The leaders condemned the attack, describing the slain chief as “a stabilizing traditional elder” who was widely known for his work in promoting “security, peace, and reconciliation throughout the country and its people.” They emphasized that he was a key figure in peacebuilding and was not a legitimate target.

The statement poses four critical questions to the Puntland administration:

  1. Identification of Perpetrators: They demand to know who authorized and carried out the airstrike using an aircraft and missiles, and who was complicit in the killing.
  2. Motivation for the Attack: They question why a peace-promoting elder was specifically targeted in what they imply was an assassination.
  3. Official Silence: They challenge the Puntland government’s continued silence on this “brutal killing” and the “large-scale attacks” that have been launched against the people and territories of Sanaag and Haylan.
  4. Inaction on Previous Complaints: They ask why the government has ignored their weeks-long pleas and complaints about the aircraft that have been sowing “fear and panic” among the populace, which culminated in the elder’s death. They note that these aircraft are still active.

The leaders, representing the voices of their communities, have declared that they await a prompt and satisfactory response from the Puntland leadership. They warned that based on the government’s reply, they will formulate a “comprehensive and significant general position” regarding the security and stability of their people and regions.

The ball is now in the court of the Puntland government, as pressure mounts from its eastern regions for accountability and a immediate halt to military operations threatening civilian lives.

Somaliland Applauds Germany’s Recognition of Sovereign Visa-on-Arrival Policy and Reaffirms Role of the Diaspora

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Exclusive By Abdul Rafay Afzal

📌 Official Visa Requirements

The Diaspora Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of the Somaliland

has officially welcomed the Federal Republic of Germany’s recent update recognizing Somaliland’s visa-on-arrival policy for international travelers. The acknowledgment, published on Germany’s official travel advisory portal, is seen as a significant affirmation of Somaliland’s sovereign immigration framework and its dedication to secure, dignified, and accessible mobility for all.

The Government of Somaliland expressed its sincere appreciation to German authorities for their constructive engagement and for offering practical guidance to travelers, marking a meaningful step in global diplomatic recognition of Somaliland’s governance capabilities. While Mogadishu has not yet issued an official response, online reaction from within Somalia has been mixed—ranging from concern over Germany’s position to broader reflections on Somaliland’s growing international profile.

Speaking with The Advocate Post on the development, Ougbad Omar, Director of the Diaspora Department MOFAIC, stated:

“This recognition by Germany is not merely administrative—it is symbolic of Somaliland’s progress, stability, and growing international credibility. It also ensures that our diaspora in Europe, particularly in Germany, can return home with greater ease, dignity, and confidence. We see this as a step toward deepening global respect for Somaliland’s institutions.”

Implemented across all major entry points, including international airports and land borders, the visa-on-arrival framework reflects Somaliland’s broader strategy to foster tourism, business, and humanitarian cooperation. The move is also a major development for the Somaliland diaspora in Europe, particularly in Germany, where it simplifies travel and strengthens civic and cultural links with the homeland.

In reiterating its commitment to global engagement, the Ministry emphasized that all travelers—especially returning Somalilanders—will be welcomed with clarity, professionalism, and respect. Somaliland continues to project itself as a peaceful, self-governing democracy committed to responsible diplomacy, international partnerships, and the welfare of its global diaspora.

📝 For full visa requirements, visit: Somaliland Visa Info

Source: The Advocate

Somaliland and Taiwan Forge Historic Partnership to Strengthen Financial Sector Connections

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Press Release

Taipei, September 13, 2025 – Today, I had the privilege of holding high-level meetings with two of Taiwan’s leading financial institutions: the Central Bank of Taiwan and the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC). These discussions focused on building closer cooperation to strengthen Somaliland’s financial sector and enhance the institutional capacity of the Central Bank of Somaliland.

I was honored to be joined by the Somaliland Ambassador to Taiwan, H.E. Mohamoud Adam Jama Galal, and Mr. Mohamoud Ahmed Mohamed, Senior Advisor to the Central Bank of Somaliland, who both contributed meaningfully to these engagements.

Meeting with the Central Bank of Taiwan

At my meeting with Deputy Governor Tzung Ta Yen, Ph.D., and senior colleagues of the Central Bank of Taiwan, we explored areas of collaboration that will help Somaliland strengthen its financial stability. The Central Bank of Taiwan kindly expressed readiness to support us in the following areas:

1. Capacity Building and Technical Support:
Training programs, staff secondments, and knowledge exchange to build institutional capacity.

2. Financial Technology Infrastructure:
Development of IT systems, cybersecurity frameworks, servers, core banking platforms, switching, and payment systems.

3. Policy and Regulatory Framework Development:
Guidance in designing and implementing sound policies, supervisory practices, and regulatory standards.

4. International Payments and SWIFT Integration: Assistance in accessing modern settlement systems, SWIFT integration, and secure cross-border payment platforms.

I commended Taiwan’s success in building a resilient, technologically advanced financial sector despite diplomatic challenges, noting how much Somaliland can learn from this experience.

Meeting with the Financial Supervisory Commission

I also met with Vice Chairperson Sherri H. Y. Chuang and colleagues of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), where we focused on strengthening Somaliland’s supervisory frameworks and regulatory capacity. The FSC kindly expressed willingness to support us in the following areas:

1. Supervisory and Regulatory Development:
Assistance in developing prudential policies and regulatory frameworks aligned with international best practices.

2. Capacity Building:
Technical training, knowledge exchange, and staff development initiatives for the Central Bank of Somaliland’s Supervision Department.

I emphasized that a strong supervisory framework is essential for financial stability, credibility, and the long-term growth of Somaliland’s financial system.

Shared Aspirations

Both the Central Bank of Taiwan and the Financial Supervisory Commission expressed their strong desire to support my efforts in modernizing the Central Bank of Somaliland. I firmly believe that these partnerships represent a major step forward in strengthening our financial infrastructure, promoting financial inclusion, and achieving sustainable economic growth.

“By working together with our partners in Taiwan, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient, modern, and inclusive financial system that will safeguard depositors, enable cross-border trade, and contribute to the prosperity of our people.”

Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi
Governor
Bank of Somaliland

Somaliland’s National Parties Convene to Discuss 2026 Elections and Voter Registration

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA – The leadership of Somaliland’s three national political parties—Waddani, Kaah, and Kulmiye—held a significant meeting today in Hargeisa to address critical issues concerning the upcoming parliamentary, local council elections, and voter registration processes.

The meeting, led by the respective chairpersons of the three parties, concluded with a key decision: the formation of a nine-member committee. This committee will comprise three representatives from each party, ensuring equal representation.

Its primary mandate is to address all matters pertaining to the electoral and voter registration processes. The committee is expected to submit a detailed report to the national party leadership within the next four days.

This development follows recent reaffirmations by Somaliland’s President, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro, of his administration’s commitment to holding the elections on their scheduled date in May 2026. This pledge has been met with widespread public approval, as previous delays have posed considerable challenges.

The establishment of this collaborative committee is widely seen as a proactive and positive step toward facilitating a smooth, transparent, and timely electoral process, underscoring a collective dedication to upholding democratic principles in Somaliland.

President Irro Oversees Swearing-In of New National Officials in Hargeisa

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a ceremony underscoring constitutional governance, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) presided today over the official swearing-in of newly appointed holders of key National Offices.

The event, held at the Presidency, saw the senior officials take a solemn oath of office administered by the President of the Supreme Court and Chairman of the Constitutional Court, Mr. Adan Haji Ali Ahmed. The procedure was conducted in strict adherence to Article 129 of the Somaliland Constitution, which mandates the Supreme Court President to administer the oath before the Head of State.

In his address following the ceremony, President Irro emphasized the gravity of the oath, describing it as a binding commitment that is both religious and constitutional in nature.

“The oath for the National Offices is a solemn pledge,” the President stated. “It should serve as a constant reminder and motivation for you to faithfully bear the weight of the public trust you have been given.”

The President urged the new officials to execute their duties with the highest standards of equality, justice, impartiality, and integrity. He advised them to strive for a legacy of exemplary service that would be positively remembered in the nation’s history.

Concluding his remarks, President Irro offered a prayer for the new appointees, asking for divine guidance and ease in the fulfillment of their critical national responsibilities.

The swearing-in ceremony marks a key step in the administration of the Somaliland government, installing leadership across its independent national institutions.

Somaliland Immigration Eases Entry with Visa-on-Arrival at Key Airports

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – September 14, 2025 – In a move to streamline travel and boost connectivity, the Somaliland Immigration and Border Control (SIBC) has officially announced the availability of Visa-on-Arrival services for all eligible travelers entering the country through its international airports.

The new facility, detailed in a public notice released today, is available exclusively at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport (HGA) and Berbera International Airport (BBO). The SIBC stated this initiative reaffirms its commitment to facilitating “lawful, orderly, and efficient travel” to the Republic of Somaliland, echoing a recent statement from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Development.

To obtain a visa upon landing, travelers must meet several key requirements:

· A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
· A confirmed return or onward journey ticket.
· Proof of sufficient financial means for their stay (e.g., ATM card, cash).
· A local contact address or confirmed hotel booking.
· Payment of the applicable visa fee at the port of entry.

The notice highlights a special provision for the Somali diaspora, noting that travelers of Somali origin are exempt from the return ticket and financial means requirements.

The SIBC emphasized that this facility is strictly for air passengers arriving at the two designated airports. All travelers intending to enter Somaliland by land or sea must obtain a visa in advance from a Somaliland diplomatic mission or through an online application portal before their journey begins.

The policy is enacted under the authority of the Somaliland Immigration Law and the Law on the Delineation of the Administrative System.

For further information, travelers are advised to contact the SIBC directly or visit their official website at  www.slimmigration.com.

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