HARGEISA — A clash erupted at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport on Monday between airport security and civilians escorting former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi as he departed for the United Arab Emirates, authorities have confirmed.
Officials stated that airport personnel were not notified in advance of the former president’s travel plans, contributing to the incident.
Somaliland’s Minister of Aviation and Airports Development, Fu’aad Ahmed Nuux, explained that Bihi arrived with an unscheduled and sizable convoy of vehicles, breaching established protocol. The minister said he later held a private discussion with Bihi to improve coordination for future trips.
“We expressed our respect and welcome for him but clarified that the airport and ministry must be informed of his travel plans in advance,” Minister Fu’aad told reporters. “We will ensure the former president is afforded the proper protocol entitled to him for future departures and returns.”
Police spokesperson Colonel Abdiasis Sheikh Ismail said the confrontation began when civilians in the former president’s escort attempted to force their way into the airport, leading security forces to intervene. He confirmed that the police chief has ordered the arrest of the soldiers who discharged their weapons during the altercation.
“Former President His Excellency Muse Bihi Abdi deserves respect and dignity. Today’s incident was a clash between airport security and the civilians accompanying him,” Colonel Ismail stated.
He added that the police chief has referred the matter to a high-level committee for a comprehensive investigation.
Hargeisa – In a significant step towards enhancing maritime security, Admiral Ahmed Hure Haariye, the Commander of the Coast Guard of Somaliland, and his Deputy, Colonel Khadar Mohamed Aw Esse, along with senior officers, extended a warm welcome to a delegation from Taiwan’s Ocean Affairs Administration upon their arrival in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland.
The delegation’s visit aims to foster cooperation in global maritime security and address maritime affairs that impact both Somaliland and Taiwan.
Among Key objectives for the Taiwanese officials during their visit will include assessing the military’s needs and initiating comprehensive training programs to bolster capabilities of Somaliland Coast Guards..
Somaliland is recognized as having the most well-trained and equipped coast guard in the Somali region. This new partnership with Taiwan is anticipated to enhance Somaliland’s efforts in securing its waters, combating human trafficking, curbing illegal fishing, and ensuring the safety of vital maritime routes in the region.
Hargeisa – A New film titled “UNRECOGNIZED” was premiered last night in Hargeisa, produced by journalist Abdirisaq Terra and directed by filmmaker Mr. Hussein Boon. The screening was an exclusive event, with tickets priced between $150 and $250, making it accessible only to the city’s upper echelons.
Speaking to Astaan Cable about the documentary’s content, Terra explained that it covers Somaliland’s ancient and modern history, geography, archaeological sites, culture, and its position 34 years after the collapse of the Somali Republic.
“I believe this New Film can play an important role in the campaign for Somaliland’s recognition. It also implies how far we have come without recognition, and how much further we could have reached if we were recognized,” stated Terra.
Following its debut in Hargeisa, the film, whose trailer has already generated significant public interest, is scheduled to be shown in Berbera, Borama, Jigjiga city in Ethiopia, several Gulf countries, Nairobi, Kenya, and across various European countries—with plans for screenings in up to 33 cities globally.
Since the announcement of the screening date, the high ticket price has sparked public debate. Mr. Abdirisaq Terra defended the cost, stating that only the upper class could afford it and that the intent was to make the community understand the value of art. He added that the goal is to establish a quality film production company that sells its products, aiming to challenge the Somali community and the films produced by Somalis.
The premiere was attended by many prominent community figures but was also met with strong opposition from some quarters who object to the producer’s background. Critics pointed out that Mr. Terra was previously a long-time advocate for the “Greater Somalia” cause and has only recently changed his position.
They argued that it is inappropriate for him to now speak on the progress and pursuit of Somaliland’s recognition, citing his past statements which were widely circulated on social media in recent days. This includes a remark from years ago where he claimed Somaliland was “a project pushed by Ethiopia” that would not gain popular support.
Now, having renounced his previous views, Terra stated during a promotion for his new film: “There is no doubt, Somaliland came about through the will of its people. Those words I said, I take them back; it was the people’s will.”
Similarly, during a speech at the Serene Sarovar Hotel where the film was premiered, he asked the people of Somaliland for forgiveness, noting that a person’s ideas can sometimes change and that he has moved on from his previous stance and now works towards Somaliland’s recognition.
On the other hand, the Minister of the Presidency, Mr. Khadar Hussen Abdi (Khadar Looge), who attended the screening, stated that Terra had requested a pardon from President Irro, which was granted, allowing him to return to Somaliland.
“When the new government came in, Adirisaaq Terra was among the first to ask for forgiveness,” said Minister Khadar Looge, adding that a person can be pardoned if they genuinely recant their previous views.
The film’s director, Mr. Hussein Boon, stated that their film focuses on the culture, people’s livelihoods, and all interesting aspects filmed between Lawyacaddo and Laasqoray. He noted that they prioritized presenting fascinating elements that the broader community is largely unaware of.
Nairobi, Kenya – At the esteemed Moneyaura Awards Africa 2025 gala on November 28, Dahabshiil Bank International was distinguished with two top accolades: Excellence in Mobile Banking and Excellence in Customer-Centric Banking.
These awards celebrate the bank’s pioneering digital solutions and its deep-seated commitment to customer-focused services throughout the Horn of Africa and beyond. The event convened senior leaders from the continent’s leading financial and fintech institutions.
The Vice Chairman Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Said Duale, who accepted the awards, stated, “These honors reinforce our mission to bridge the financial divide by delivering world-class, accessible digital banking to our communities.”
This double recognition solidifies Dahabshiil Bank International’s position as a rapidly growing and innovative force in Africa’s financial sector.
By, Yousef Timacade, a Lawyer, Legal analyst and Human Rights Defender.
The recent case in Burao involving a Quranic teacher accused of raping two children has exposed a painful truth about our society: we are too quick to protect reputation, and too slow to protect the vulnerable. The tragedy is not only in the crimes reported, but in the community’s reaction, especially from some Quranic teachers who rushed to defend the accused long before understanding the depth of the evidence or the suffering of the victims.
The Office of the Attorney General of Somaliland has released a detailed clarification regarding a rape case that occurred in Burco, Togdheer Region an incident that recently drew significant public attention following widespread media coverage. The case involves a man described as a schoolteacher, who is accused of committing two separate sexual assaults against minors: a nine-year-old boy and an eleven-year-old girl.
According to official record, the first incident took place on 10 April 2025. On that day, the accused allegedly picked up a nine-year-old boy near the central bus station in Burco while driving a white Seinta Toyota car. He reportedly offered the child 20,000 Somaliland shillings in exchange for accompanying him. The suspect then took the child to a shop where he bought him a soft drink. Afterwards, he drove the child to an isolated area on the northern outskirts of the city, where he sexually assaulted him between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
The second assault allegedly occurred on 21 April 2025. The accused reportedly encountered an eleven-year-old girl returning from school in the late afternoon. He is said to have lured her into his car, driven her to another remote location, and then raped her. Following the assault, he reportedly returned to a neighbourhood shop where he bought her a drink and refueled his car. CCTV footage from the fuel station later confirmed the presence of the vehicle and the suspect during the time of the incident.
Investigators from the Office of the Attorney General indicate that both children separately identified the same suspect during police line-ups carried out on three different occasions. Medical reports from Burco Hospital further confirm that both children showed physical signs consistent with sexual assault. Additionally, investigators traced a private phone number linked to the accused from the shop where he allegedly purchased refreshments for the children.
Despite this evidence, the Togdheer Regional Court initially released the suspect, stating that although confirmed rape had occurred, there was insufficient evidence proving he was the perpetrator. However, the Togdheer Regional Appeal Court later overturned this decision, finding him guilty on both counts and sentencing him to seven years in prison for each offence. The court also awarded compensation to the victims as part of its ruling. The case remains open for further appeal within 30 days.
In its public statement, the Office of the Attorney General emphasized that the judiciary and prosecutorial institutions operate impartially and do not target any individual or group. The office stressed that all actions taken are based on evidence, legal procedure, and the commitment to uphold the rights of victims and ensure equal application of the law across Somaliland.
Let us make one thing clear: a Quranic teacher is not the Qur’an. He is a human being, fallible, capable of error, and fully accountable for his actions. Yet many responded as if questioning the teacher meant questioning the Qur’an itself. This confusion, this merging of a man with the divine scripture, is not only dangerous, it is profoundly un-Islamic.
Silence has long been the first refuge of communities confronted with abuse especially when it involves respected figures like religious teachers. In places like Burao, the instinct is to protect institutions rather than the children who depend on them. This pattern is old, predictable, and devastating: allegations are dismissed, victims are doubted, and the accused is sheltered behind reputation. Yet beneath the surface lies a painful truth, each act of denial deepens the wounds of those already harmed, teaching them that their suffering is less important than an adult’s honor.
What makes this case even more painful is not only what the children went through, but how some people reacted afterward. Instead of waiting to understand what happened, many leaders quickly defended the teacher. They did not stop to consider that children might have been harmed. This kind of response sends a dangerous message in Somaliland: even if a child brings evidence, even if their story is consistent, and even if doctors confirm injuries, their voice can still be dismissed. In a society that claims to value justice and Islamic fairness, ignoring children is a second wound one that can last far longer than the crime itself.
Real justice means more than protecting the reputation of respected adults. It means listening to those who have the least power. Yes, the accused has the right to a fair trial, but children also have the right to be heard, supported, and protected. In this case, evidence was presented, experts spoke, and both children told consistent stories, yet many people still refused to accept their suffering. The strength of any community is shown by how it treats its most vulnerable, not how quickly it shields authority figures. For Burao and Somaliland as a whole the real question is whether we will continue denying the truth or finally accept that justice must apply to everyone, or it is not justice at all.
In recent years, some religious groups in Somaliland have promoted a troubling interpretation of the Sexual Offences Bill, a doctrine they frame as protecting the dignity of “decent men,” but which in practice has been used to argue that certain respected individuals should not be arrested even when accused of sexual violence. These same groups were among the most vocal opponents of the progressive Sexual Offenses Bill, a law specifically designed to protect women and children from rape, assault, and exploitation. Their resistance helped stall reforms that would have strengthened investigations, improved survivor support, and ensured accountability for perpetrators. The result is a system where cultural prestige can overshadow justice, leaving victims especially women and children unprotected. Until these attitudes change, Somaliland remains an extremely unsafe place for those most vulnerable to sexual violence
Hargeisa, Somaliland – A significant conference was held at the Guuleed Hotel in Hargeisa on November 16-17, 2025, to analyze the progress of the Somaliland National Disability Act Draft 2021. The event, organized by the Alkownin Women Voluntary Organization (AWVO) with support from the East African SIHA Network, brought together government ministries, civil society organizations, and the Somaliland National Disability Forum (SNDF).
The conference aimed to review the draft law, which was initially submitted to the House of Representatives for adoption, and assess its adequacy in protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly women.
However, the meeting took an unexpected turn when participants discovered that the Somaliland Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MESAF) had completely repealed the 2021 Disability Act. Attendees were presented with a new, entirely different draft law, which was developed without the consultation or input of disability rights advocates.
Key Concerns and Reasons for Repeal
After extensive analysis, conference participants identified several key reasons behind the Ministry’s controversial decision to repeal the original act:
New Leadership, Lack of Institutional Memory: The current Minister, Deputy Minister, and Director General of MESAF are new to their roles and appear to be unaware of the extensive, multi-stakeholder process that led to the creation of the 2021 draft, which was developed at the direct request of Somaliland’s disability community.
Marginalization of Disability Officials: The Disability Affairs Department within MESAF, which was intended to be led by persons with disabilities, is now controlled by non-disabled officials who have failed to defend the original welfare law.
Abolishment of Presidential Advisory Role: The position of Presidential Advisor on Disability Affairs, a crucial liaison between the community and the government established by former President Muse Bihi Abdi in 2017, has been completely abolished by the current administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi (Cirro).
A Unified Response
The 50 participants expressed profound concern over the Ministry’s actions, describing them as an outrageous reversal of progress. In response, the conference unanimously decided to take immediate action to pressure the Ministry to reverse its decision.
A dedicated committee was appointed to lead a campaign advocating for the restoration and swift implementation of the original, inclusive Somaliland National Disability Act. The goal is to convince the Ministry and all relevant stakeholders that the law protecting the rights of persons with disabilities must be reinstated without delay.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Central Bank of Somaliland (BoS) has engaged the AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (AlHuda CIBE) in a major strategic consultancy to develop a comprehensive Islamic banking and capital market ecosystem in the country.
The partnership was formalized during an inaugural meeting at the Central Bank of Somaliland headquarters, attended by senior officials including Mr. Abdinasir Ahmed Hirsi, Governor of the Central Bank, and Mr. Muhammad Zubair, CEO of AlHuda CIBE FZ LLE UAE.
Governor Hirsi underscored the central bank’s strategic vision for this initiative, stating, “Somaliland has a strategic vision to develop a 100% Shariah-compliant banking and financial system.” This commitment was echoed by the Director General of the Central Bank, Mr. Yasin Jama Axmed, who affirmed his dedication to fostering a conducive environment for Islamic banking products and creating a sustainable financial landscape aligned with Islamic principles.
The wide-ranging consultancy assignment entrusted to AlHuda CIBE will cover several critical areas:
· Research and Framework Development: Conducting in-depth research, environmental assessments, and formulating operational frameworks, including Shariah governance.
· Product Development: Designing a comprehensive suite of modern and competitive Islamic banking products for retail, corporate, and SME sectors.
· Capacity Building: Implementing training programs for banking professionals, including pilot testing and recommendations.
· Islamic Capital Market & Sukuk: A key focus will be developing Somaliland’s Islamic capital market, with a particular emphasis on structuring Sukuk (Islamic bonds) as a sovereign and commercial investment instrument. This is expected to enhance the country’s ability to finance infrastructure, strengthen fiscal resilience, and attract investment.
Mr. Muhammad Zubair, CEO of AlHuda CIBE, expressed his commitment to supporting Somaliland in this transformative journey. He emphasized, “A well-structured Islamic financial system is pivotal for sustainable economic growth. The development of an Islamic capital market and Sukuk is indispensable for the smooth growth of the Islamic finance industry in any country.”
This strategic initiative positions Somaliland to harness the strengths of Islamic finance—a globally recognized model known for its stability, asset-backed nature, and social responsibility. AlHuda CIBE’s technical expertise will be instrumental in building a modern, resilient, and inclusive Islamic financial ecosystem for the nation.
About AlHuda CIBE:
AlHuda Center of Islamic Banking and Economics(CIBE) is a globally recognized advisory and consultancy firm in the Islamic banking and finance industry. Its services include Shariah advisory, Islamic financial product development, capacity-building workshops, and consultancy in Islamic microfinance and Takaful (Islamic insurance).
Berbera, Somaliland – In a significant demonstration of growing bilateral engagement, a high-level United States delegation conducted an official visit to the strategic Port of Berbera. The delegation was led by General Dagvin Anderson, Deputy Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), and accompanied by U.S. Deputy Ambassador Justin Davis.
The delegation was formally received by Mr. Ali Dirir Malintacab, Manager of the Somaliland Ports Authority. During their meeting, Mr. Malintacab detailed the port’s critical importance to the regional economy, emphasizing its evolution into a modern trade nexus strategically located on the Gulf of Aden. He outlined the port’s role as a key node in global shipping lanes that connect Asia, Europe, and Africa and acknowledged the United States’ ongoing support for its infrastructure development.
Following the discussions, the Manager escorted the U.S. officials on an extensive tour of the port’s facilities. The tour provided firsthand insight into ongoing expansion projects, modernized services, and enhanced security and operational protocols designed to boost trade capacity.
The U.S. delegates expressed strong appreciation for the Somaliland government’s commitment to maintaining stability, advancing economic infrastructure, and ensuring effective port management. They specifically highlighted Somaliland’s constructive role in fostering regional security in the Horn of Africa, promoting economic growth, and upholding democratic governance.
The visit marks a notable step in strengthening the multifaceted partnership between Somaliland and the United States, with a shared focus on security cooperation, trade enhancement, and strategic dialogue.
The U.S. delegation also held separate discussions with the President of the Republic of Somaliland during their visit
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The 43rd session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro), was held today at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
Following a comprehensive briefing on the national security situation by the Minister of State for Interior and National Security, Mr. Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed (Magaalo), the 43rd session of the Council dedicated its agenda to a thorough review of the 2026 National Budget of the Republic of Somaliland.
Presentation of the 2026 National Budget:
The Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdilahi Hassan Aden, presented a detailed breakdown of the budget to the Council of Ministers. The session was also attended by the Auditor General, the Director General of Finance, and the Director and Deputy Director of the Budget Department.
The Minister stated that the 2026 General Government Budget, which is the 35th budget of the Republic of Somaliland, is also the largest budget the nation has ever prepared. He emphasized that this budget prioritizes the strengthening of social services, defense, security, the construction of economic infrastructure, and the safeguarding of the country’s financial and economic stability.
The Minister highlighted that the previous budgets for 2022, 2023, and 2024 had an average deficit financing of 11%, whereas the 2026 budget represents an 11% revenue increase compared to the 2024 budget. This indicates that the Ministry of Finance has covered the 11% deficit from the 2024 budget, while achieving an 11% revenue growth linked to the 2026 budget projections.
The Minister detailed the total amount of the 2026 Central Government Budget as: SLL 2,866,183,568,109.
This compares to the 2025 budget of: SLL 2,593,431,251,887.
The difference is an increase ofSLL 272,752,316,222. In percentage terms, the 2026 budget is 11% larger than the 2025 budget.
Furthermore, the Minister outlined the composition of the 2026 National Budget, which consists of:
Central Government Budget (63%);
Local Government Budgets (12%);
World Bank and African Development Bank Projects (17%);
Donor Agency Budgets (8%).
TOTAL ESTIMATED NATIONAL BUDGET FOR 2026: SLL 4,584,959,018,356
In conclusion, the Minister of Finance formally requested the honorable members of the Council of Ministers to approve the 2026 National Budget so that it can be submitted in a timely manner to the House of Representatives (Parliament) of the Republic of Somaliland.
Subsequently, the President of the Republic of Somaliland requested the members of the Council of Ministers to approve the 2026 National Budget with a show of hands.
The 43rd session was attended by 41 ministers. The budget was approved with 40 votes in favor and 1 abstention.
HARGEISA – In a landmark response to a road safety crisis declared a “national disaster,” Somaliland has unanimously adopted a sweeping 17-point action plan. The resolution was passed at the conclusion of the National Conference on Finding Solutions to Road Traffic Accidents, held at the Serene Sarovor Hotel in Hargeisa.
The two-day summit convened a broad coalition of stakeholders, including government ministries, transport cooperatives, freight and passenger companies, public transport operators, vehicle repair shops, universities, academics, and representatives from local and international organizations and friendly nations.
After in-depth analysis of the nation’s road safety challenges, conference participants issued the following key recommendations:
· Governance & Enforcement: The immediate establishment of a National Road Safety Committee with broad stakeholder representation. A substantial increase in the number, training, and equipment of Traffic Police to ensure effective law enforcement.
· Legal Framework: An urgent call for the House of Representatives to fast-track amendments to Traffic Law No. 56/2013 to mandate seat-belt use, ban handheld mobile phones while driving, and require every vehicle to carry a first-aid kit. This includes strict enforcement of all existing traffic laws and a nationwide rollout of compulsory vehicle insurance.
· Infrastructure & Technology: The completion of essential road safety infrastructure—including signage, pedestrian crossings, and road markings—by local authorities and the Road Development Authority. An accelerated rollout of speed governors, mandatory vehicle inspections (MOT centers), and modern technology like cameras on highways and at checkpoints.
· Public Awareness & Health: The launch of major nationwide awareness campaigns on accident risks and prevention. A directive for all public and private hospitals to establish easily accessible emergency services, including 24-hour hotlines, ambulance services, and trauma centers.
· Vehicle Regulation & Modernization: An urgent decision to align vehicle types with the actual capacity and condition of Somaliland’s roads. The creation of specific policies for student transport vehicles, including compulsory roadworthiness checks. To encourage fleet modernization, the plan proposes incentives for importing new, zero-mileage vehicles through reduced customs duties, alongside increased taxes on older used vehicles.
· Coordination & Funding: Strengthened coordination between all relevant ministries and agencies, and the creation of a dedicated Road Safety Fund to finance essential programs. The overall National Road Safety Policy will be fully aligned with Somaliland National Vision 2030, the National Development Plan III, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
In a move to ensure long-term accountability, the conference also decided to institutionalize itself as a permanent biennial event.
Closing the proceedings, organizers hailed the 17-point plan as a historic turning point in Somaliland’s fight against road traffic carnage. The Ministry of Transport is expected to present the plan to the Cabinet shortly and convene the first implementation task force in early 2026.
