Eswatini – The Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Somaliland, Mr. Hamse Abdirahman Khayre, and the delegation he led, have concluded their participation in the SIIPS 2025 international conference held in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The Deputy Governor extended Somaliland’s gratitude to the hosts for the successful organization of the event.
In a statement issued from the conference, Mr. Khayre expressed his appreciation:
“On behalf of the Central Bank of Somaliland delegation, I extend our profound gratitude for the exceptionally warm reception and high-level hospitality extended to us in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The flawless and dignified organization, which seamlessly incorporated rich local culture for delegates from over twenty African nations, has firmly established SIIPS 2025 as a landmark event in Africa’s history, particularly for the digital transformation of its financial sector.”
The Deputy Governor also extended thanks to key African financial leaders for their collaborative efforts, including:
· Mr. Henry F. Saamoi, Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia.
· Dr. Rogério Lucas Zandamela, Governor of the Bank of Mozambique.
· The Deputy Governors of the Central Banks of Sierra Leone and Botswana.
· The Directors General of leading payment system institutions: EthioSwitch (Ethiopia), GhIPPS (Ghana), and NIBSS (Nigeria).
“The insight, leadership, and expertise of the Central Bank of Eswatini were instrumental in enriching the critical discussions of SIIPS 2025,” he added.
A special note of thanks was reserved for the partners at AfricaNenda for their high-level presentation and the preparation of a vital report that will guide the future of inclusive instant payment systems across the continent.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Somaliland’s commitment: “The Republic of Somaliland reiterates its steadfast dedication to the development of digital finance in Africa. We are actively and comprehensively engaged in the implementation of Inclusive Instant Payment Systems (SIIPS) and are fully committed to supporting the continent’s 2030 goal for inclusive instant payments, which aims to simplify economic processes and improve the lives of ordinary Africans.”
Hargeisa, November 16, 2025 – The University of Hargeisa (UoH) and the Somaliland Quality Control Agency (QCA) have signed a landmark cooperation agreement to strengthen collaboration in higher education and quality standards.
The agreement was formalized today during an official visit by a high-level delegation from the QCA, led by its Chairman, Mr. Mohamed Keyse, and Vice-Chairman, Dr. Mahmoud Jama. The delegation was warmly received by the University President, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, and the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Partnerships.
The visit included a tour of the University’s modern teaching and research laboratories, showcasing facilities dedicated to academic instruction, scientific research, and community engagement. This was followed by a strategic meeting at the University’s School of Graduate Studies, where both parties explored concrete avenues for partnership.
During the meeting, Mr. Ali I. Mire, Director of University Relations and Marketing, provided an overview of UoH’s history, academic services, diverse departments, and its local and international research partnerships. Mr. Mohamed Farid, Director of Planning at the QCA, elaborated on the Agency’s structure and strategic mandates.
Senior officials from both institutions, including UoH’s Vice Presidents Dr. Khaled Abdi (Research) and Dr. Abdirashid Ismail (University Development), Dr. Mahmoud Jama (QCA Vice-Chairman), Dr. Suheyr Hassan (Director of the Graduate School), and Ms. Sacad Haddi (Advisor to the QCA), delivered remarks. They unanimously highlighted the significant mutual benefits of the pact and outlined a framework for effective collaboration.
In his closing address, QCA Chairman Mr. Mohamed Keyse reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to a strong, action-oriented partnership with the University of Hargeisa. He commended UoH’s vital role in national development and stressed that the agreement would be swiftly translated into tangible collaborative projects.
University President Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub concluded the ceremony by reiterating UoH’s core mission to deliver quality education, produce solution-oriented research, and serve the community. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to engaging with national institutions to address societal challenges,” Dr. Sulub stated.
The University of Hargeisa expresses great optimism for this new agreement, which is poised to significantly contribute to enhancing quality standards in higher education and advancing public awareness
Mogadishu, Somalia – The Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency (SICA) announced today that it identified and has successfully contained an unauthorized security breach targeting its Electronic Travel Authorization System (e-TAS). The Agency acted immediately to investigate the incident and minimize any potential impact.
In response, the Federal Government of Somalia has constituted a high-level national investigation committee. This committee brings together national security agencies, international digital forensics experts, and relevant government data protection authorities. Its mandate is to conduct a full investigation into the breach’s scope, origins, and potential effects.
Upon the investigation’s conclusion, a detailed report will be made public, outlining the findings and the corrective actions taken.
The Agency assures that any individuals potentially affected by this incident will be contacted directly through the official channels of the Federal Government of Somalia. SICA strongly advises the public and international partners to rely solely on its official communications for accurate information.
“SICA holds the trust of the Somali people as our highest responsibility. We deeply regret this incident and are unequivocally committed to protecting the data of our citizens and the integrity of our services,” a senior agency official stated. “We are already implementing enhanced security measures, including advanced data encryption and multi-factor authentication, to fortify our systems.”
SICA remains dedicated to transparently resolving this matter and upholding the highest standards of data security.
Mogadishu – The Somali Federal Government has announced that illegally extracted minerals from various locations across the country are being used to finance terrorist groups. In response, the government has pledged to take decisive action against all illicit activities profiting from the nation’s natural resources.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources reiterated its commitment to closely monitoring unauthorized mining operations, which it alleges involve a network of both Somali and foreign individuals and companies.
In a firm statement, the Ministry underscored that, under the Somali Federal Constitution and international law, the exclusive authority to manage and oversee the country’s natural resources rests solely with the Federal Government. It declared that all unauthorized mining activities are therefore illegal and lack any legal standing.
The Ministry further asserted that these illegal operations constitute a dual threat: they are not only a violation of national sovereignty and public property but also a critical source of funding for terrorism, thereby endangering national and regional security in the Horn of Africa.
All groups and individuals involved in these activities were urged to cease operations and abandon their unlawful plans immediately. The Ministry warned that failure to comply would result in comprehensive legal measures from the Federal Government.
The statement did not, however, name any specific groups or individuals. This warning comes amid heightened attention on mining activities in the Sanaag region, which is administered by the Puntland state.
The position of the Federal Government appears to contrast with that of Puntland. The President of Puntland, Said Deni, has previously expressed openness to investment aimed at developing the mineral resources within its territory.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The University of Hargeisa proudly hosted a landmark book launch last night for two new works by the distinguished poet and Somaliland’s Ambassador to the United States, Bashir Sh. Omar Good. The event featured his latest publications, “Afrikaay Warlaay” and “The Eton College of Somaliland.”
The ceremony attracted a diverse audience of prominent intellectuals, literary enthusiasts, and senior officials from across Somaliland’s society. Officially opening the event, the Chairman of the University, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Good and thanked the guests for their presence.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Sulub expressed his gratitude to the Ambassador for choosing the University of Hargeisa as the inaugural venue for his two new books. He also commended Ambassador Good for his significant contributions to national development, particularly in tirelessly advocating for Somaliland’s international recognition.
The launch featured an engaging dialogue between the author and Eng. Abdifatah Omer Abdillahi, who provided insightful commentary on the Ambassador’s literary career. Ambassador Good first presented “The Eton College of Somaliland,” a reflective work on the profound history and legacy of the historic Sheikh School, explaining its deep personal impact on him and his motivations for writing it.
The discussion then turned to “Afrikaay Hurudooy,” a comprehensive collection of the poet’s works from various periods of his life. Ambassador Good and Eng. Abdifatah offered a masterful analysis of the extensive poetry, exploring its themes related to social consciousness, politics, the rejection of tribalism, love, and the human experience.
The event was further graced by remarks from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Abdirahman Bakaal, Mr. Abdiwahab Maax from Telesom Group, and the Vice Chairman of the Kaah Party, Mr. Abdikarim Mohamed H. Ali. The dignitaries unanimously praised Ambassador Good’s intellectual depth and the wisdom evident in his poetry, highlighting the creativity and artistry of his verse.
The successful evening concluded with a lively question-and-answer session. In a significant gesture, the University of Hargeisa acquired 100 copies of the two books for its library, ensuring they will become a valuable resource for the university community.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), convened a significant consultative meeting today with the senior leadership of the nation’s three political parties: WADDANI, KAAH, and KULMIYE. Each party was represented by three senior members.
The President was accompanied by the Minister of the Presidency, the Minister of National Planning and Development, and the Minister of Communication and Technology.
In his opening remarks, President Cirro expressed his appreciation to the party leaders for their attendance, highlighting that this meeting is part of an ongoing series of national dialogue forums he has initiated to foster consensus on key national issues.
During the meeting, the President provided the party leadership with a comprehensive briefing on several critical matters. These included the overall security situation in the country and the government’s successful efforts to restore stability in the Ceerigaabo region. He also updated them on the progress of Somaliland’s campaign for international recognition, the strategic direction of its foreign policy, and the effective measures taken to address challenges related to the e-Visa system and the management of Somaliland’s airspace.
A central focus of the discussions was the imperative of holding free, fair, and transparent national elections within their constitutionally mandated timeframe. The President unequivocally reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duty by covering all costs associated with the upcoming voter registration and electoral processes.
The senior leaders of the national parties thanked the President for the consultative engagement. They actively contributed their perspectives and engaged in a thorough discussion on the national priority of conducting timely parliamentary elections. The leadership concurred that all technical aspects of the elections should be entrusted to the National Electoral Commission and the political parties, in accordance with established procedures.
The ongoing drought that has mostly afflicted the eastern parts of the has so far been overtly detrimental to the education sector.
The government has confirmed that 14000 thousand pupils in 410 schools have been severely affected directly such that attendance in the institutions have dropped drastically.
This effect is stark in the rural areas where pastoral families have been forced to move in search of water and pastures.
The reports were made during the latest weekly meeting of the council of cabinet ministers.
The 41st Session was chaired by the President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, was convened as usual at the Presidential Palace.
The ministers discussed several key agenda items, that includes: –
1) Briefing on Economic Affairs, Finance, and National Revenue
The briefing was presented by the State Minister of Finance and Economic Development Hon. Ismail Mowlid Abdillahi.
He provided the Cabinet with an overview of the progress in national tax collection and its crucial role in the country’s economic growth. He stated that the 2025 National Revenue Forecast is on track as planned.
He added that the continued growth of domestic revenue reflects economic progress and strengthens confidence in Somaliland’s financial capacity. This growth will also significantly contribute to improving public services and investing in key economic infrastructure.
He further informed the Cabinet that the preparation of the 2026 National Budget is progressing well, with the Ministry having held consultations with all government ministries and institutions.
2) The Drought Situation and Its Impact on National Education
The Minister of Education, Training and Science, Hon. Professor Ismail Ducaale Yusuf, noted that the severe drought conditions affecting many regions of Somaliland, posing serious risks to both human and livestock survival. The most affected regions include Sanaag, Togdeer, Saraar, and Saahil, where widespread water and food shortages, high livestock mortality, and mass displacement have been reported.
The Minister explained that the prolonged drought has significantly disrupted the education system, with many children unable to attend school due to displacement, hunger, and water shortages at learning centers.
Major impacts on education include:
-Water shortages in schools and learning sites
-A sharp increase in student absenteeism
-Widespread school closures
-A significant reduction in teaching hours
He noted that 410 schools and approximately 14,000 students have been directly affected by the drought.
3) Report of the National Committee on the Reconstruction of the Idaa’ada Central Market
The Minister of Public Works, Lands, and Housing, Hon. Hussein Ahmed Aydeed updated the Cabinet on the stages of reconstruction of Hargeisa’s Idaa’ada market, which was destroyed by fire in February 2025. He outlined the challenges the task committee faced, how those challenges were resolved, and the current status of the reconstruction project.
The Minister explained in detail that the new market will be a modern commercial center, equipped with complete amenities for services, improved security systems, water supply, and sanitation facilities aligned with the urban plan of Hargeisa.
He added that the reconstruction will boost commercial activity in Hargeisa and create employment and economic opportunities for small and medium-sized traders.
4) Government Vehicle License Plate Policy
The Minister of Transport and Road Development, Hon. Osman Ibrahim Nur (Afgaab), informed the Cabinet that the Ministry has developed an official policy and procedure framework for the registration, regulation, verification, and retirement of government vehicle license plates—including those in service and those decommissioned.
The goal of this framework is to ensure all government vehicles are legally registered, responsibly used, and that decommisioned plates are fully removed from the national system.
He emphasized that this policy is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen transparency, accountability, and protection of public assets, ensuring proper and responsible management of government vehicles.
5) Draft Legislation on Seed Production and Distribution (Part 1)
A joint briefing was presented by the Minister of Agricultural Development, Hon. Mahmoud Ige Yusuf, and the Attorney General, Hon. Ali Baashe Mohamed Farah.
The Minister outlined the key benefits the Seed Production Law will bring to Somaliland. He highlighted that the law would:
-Ensure the regulation and long-term development of seeds and plant varieties
-Establish a systematic program for the collection and protection of local seeds and genetic resources
-Regulate imported seeds entering the country
-Ensure quality control and traceability of all imported seeds
He concluded by stating that the Ministry possesses all necessary inputs and responsibilities to implement, manage, and supervise all matters related to the development, production, storage, protection, and distribution of seeds and plant varieties in Somaliland.
Zeila – A high-level government delegation—including ministers, MPs, and military officials—joined local residents for Friday prayers at the main mosque in the coastal city of Zeila, the capital of the Salal region, during a recent visit. Following the prayers, they held extensive discussions on the critical importance of peace, development, and social cohesion.
The Minister of Interior and Security, Hon. Abdalle Mohamed Arab, delivered a keynote address focused on peace and development, affirming that the Salal Region is one of the most stable in Somaliland. He reminded the public that the region is blessed with abundant resources, a benefit that can only be sustained through unity and stability.
“This region is one of the most peaceful in Somaliland. The Ministry of Interior receives regular reports from all regions, and Salal has never been recorded as a source of unrest, conflict, or insecurity,” the Minister stated.
He described the people of Zeila and the wider region as “civilized, understanding, and historically rich,” noting the city’s well-known, deep cultural heritage. Minister Abdalle emphasized Zeila’s centuries-old history as a seat of ancient kingdoms and its coastal position, which has hosted civilizations for generations.
The Minister explained that the delegation was dispatched by the President of Somaliland to assess the region’s security, development, and essential community needs. Each delegation member, he added, was tasked with evaluating specific social services relevant to their respective ministries.
He pledged that some needs identified during the visit would be addressed immediately, while other concerns would be taken to Hargeisa for national-level consultations to determine long-term solutions.
“We laid the foundation stone for a new police station yesterday—a facility central to our security. We expect it to be completed within two months. We also laid the foundation for the new regional headquarters. One major concern raised by the community was the decline of local fishing operations, and we will not overlook that issue,” he said.
Minister Abdalle also highlighted that the government, led by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, is implementing one of the largest development projects in Somaliland within the region: a major road connecting Boorama to Lawyo’ado on the Somaliland-Djibouti border. This long-awaited project is expected to eliminate a chronic transportation bottleneck that has long hindered the movement of people, livestock, and goods.
In his speech, which focused on peace and development, the Minister urged residents to avoid anything that could cause division or destabilize security, warning that such disruptions hinder regional progress.
The delegation’s visit was prompted by recent tensions in Zeila linked to plans for a book launch on Issa jurisprudence, titled “Xeer Ciise,” which had sparked disagreements within the community.
In response, on Thursday, the Somaliland Government officially announced the cancellation of the planned book launch following a rise in tensions.
Government Directive to Safeguard Peace and Stability
After consulting with local elders, community members, and youth, and following further assessment, the government has cancelled the book-launch event planned for Zeila.
Officials stated that the decision was not made to favour or discredit any clan, but was based solely on the need to safeguard peace, stability, and the national interest of Somaliland.
A stern warning was issued to anyone attempting to fuel division among the peaceful and brotherly communities of the region.
Premier Bank’s Verified Role in Fee Collection
Documentary and digital evidence shows that Premier Bank acted as the main financial collection agent for the Hassan Sheikh Mohamud administration’s E-Visa system. Bank transaction records, payment API data, and website payment redirects confirm that Premier Bank received the visa fees directly on behalf of the administration.
In addition, the administration used an unlicensed third-party retail web store to process and redirect the payments. Both the retail processor and Premier Bank were found to be interlinked through a shared payment gateway, allowing personal and card data to flow between them without encryption or compliance with PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards).
This evidence establishes that the E-Visa system illegally shared applicants’ personal and financial data with private commercial entities not authorised to process or store such information.
Violations of International Financial and Data-Protection Law and unlawful Financial Operations:
The use of a private commercial bank to collect government visa payments directly breaches international banking and anti-money-laundering standards.
Under United Nations Security Council Resolutions 733 (1992) and 1844 (2008), and the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations (31 CFR Part 551), all financial institutions are prohibited from facilitating or transferring funds on behalf of sanctioned or high-risk political administrations linked to instability, corruption, or terrorism.
The UK’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) also enforces financial prohibitions against unverified Somali governmental activities. The current E-Visa payment structure falls squarely within these definitions, as the money collection was done without authorisation from any recognised international financial authority and in breach of AML (Anti-Money-Laundering) obligations.
Hargeisa – In a significant move, three major aviation entities—the International Air Transport Association (IATA), FlyDubai, and Ethiopian Airlines—have formally updated their policies to recognize Somaliland’s independent visa-on-arrival system. This collective action highlights a stark contrast with Somalia, whose e-Visa platform was recently compromised in a massive data breach confirmed by the United States.
IATA led the shift, updating its global database to specify that visas are available upon arrival at Somaliland’s airports, explicitly naming Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA). This clearly distinguishes its procedures from those of Somalia.
FlyDubai and Ethiopian Airlines promptly followed, revising their travel advisories to confirm that passengers destined for Hargeisa (HGA) or Berbera (BBO) can obtain visas on arrival. Ethiopian Airlines’ bulletin explicitly stated that Somalia’s e-Visa requirements “do not apply” to these airports, underscoring Somaliland’s operational sovereignty over its borders.
The timing of these updates is critical. They coincided with a U.S. Embassy security alert disclosing a major breach of Somalia’s e-Visa system. The hack potentially exposed the sensitive personal data of at least 35,000 applicants, including U.S. citizens, compromising passport photos, birth details, and addresses. The incident has severely damaged confidence in Mogadishu’s digital infrastructure.
Analysis: De Facto Recognition and a Sharpening Contrast
The coordinated updates from IATA and the airlines do more than simplify travel logistics; they constitute a tacit endorsement of a long-standing reality on the ground. Somaliland functions as a separate political and administrative entity, managing its own security, borders, and immigration with a level of stability uncommon in the region.
The security failure of Somalia’s e-Visa system has inadvertently accelerated this recognition. While Mogadishu struggles with a crisis that exposes applicants to risk, Somaliland offers a straightforward and secure alternative: a physical visa issued at a controlled port of entry.
The implication is clear. Within the practical realm of international travel and aviation, Somaliland is already being treated as a distinct jurisdiction. By directing passengers to follow Hargeisa’s rules, not Mogadishu’s, global aviation is formally acknowledging what has been true for years: Somaliland’s border controls are independent, functional, and reliable. This represents a powerful, if unstated, form of recognition, aligning official policy with de facto realities.
