.By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin,

Hargeisa, Somaliland.

In a world increasingly defined by the ruthless scramble for power and influence, the United States faces a historic decision that could shape the future of the Horn of Africa and beyond. As China tightens its grip on Djibouti, a mere stone’s throw from one of the world’s most vital maritime arteries, America has a rare chance to strike back in the great geopolitical chess game. The key to this bold maneuver? Somaliland—a democratic, stable, and strategically located de facto state that has waited over 30 years for the recognition it rightly deserves.

Sound familiar? It should. This is Kosovo all over again.

In 2008, against a storm of opposition from Russia, Serbia, and even some European allies, the United States stood tall and recognized Kosovo as an independent state. Critics warned of chaos, retaliation, and diplomatic fallout. But Washington knew better. It saw Kosovo not just as a moral obligation but as a strategic linchpin—a beacon of stability in a volatile Balkans and a crucial counterweight to Russian influence. History has vindicated that decision. Now, the U.S. has the chance to repeat that triumph by recognizing Somaliland, a move that would send shockwaves through the Horn of Africa and alter the balance of power in the Red Sea.

A Tale of Two States

The parallels between Kosovo and Somaliland are striking. Both emerged from failed unions with larger, dysfunctional states. Both built their case for independence on the back of historical grievances, persecution, and sustained self-governance. Kosovo broke away from Serbia after decades of brutal repression, while Somaliland declared independence from Somalia following years of civil war, marginalization, and tyranny under Siad Barre’s dictatorship.

Like Kosovo, Somaliland has met the Montevideo Convention’s criteria for statehood: a defined territory, a permanent population, a functioning government, and the capacity to engage in international relations. Unlike Somalia, which has struggled with instability, terrorism, and corruption, Somaliland has fostered democratic elections, maintained peace, and governed effectively.

Yet, Somaliland, like Kosovo once was, remains in diplomatic limbo—a vibrant, functional state with no seat at the United Nations.

A Strategic Imperative

The stakes for Somaliland’s recognition go far beyond symbolism. The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden are among the most strategically significant waterways in the world, funneling energy supplies and goods to and from Europe, Asia, and beyond. Djibouti, currently home to a sprawling Chinese military base, dominates this region. Beijing’s growing influence here threatens to upend the delicate balance of power, giving China a chokehold over global trade and American security interests.

Enter Somaliland. Its port city of Berbera, just across from Yemen, offers a golden opportunity for the U.S. to diversify its military presence and reduce its reliance on an increasingly China-aligned Djibouti. A U.S. base in Berbera would serve as a bulwark against Chinese expansion, safeguard vital trade routes, and ensure a lasting American presence in the region.

Recognizing Somaliland also sends a powerful message to China, Turkey, and other regional players like Egypt: the United States is not retreating from the Red Sea. Instead, it is doubling down, securing alliances, and charting a course for long-term dominance.

The Moral High Ground

Let’s not forget the moral dimension. Somaliland’s peaceful, democratic governance is a rarity in a region marred by chaos and autocracy. Recognition would reward Somaliland for its perseverance and commitment to democracy, setting an example for other aspiring states. It’s a move that aligns with America’s values and its role as a champion of freedom and self-determination.

And for those wringing their hands about African Union (AU) objections or Somalia’s inevitable outrage, history offers a clear rebuttal. In 2008, Russia howled about Kosovo. Serbia fumed. Some EU members refused to play along. None of it mattered. American might and moral clarity prevailed. It can—and must—prevail again.

The Risks of Hesitation

To delay Somaliland’s recognition is to squander a golden opportunity. It allows China to entrench itself further in Djibouti, expands Turkey’s foothold in Somalia, and emboldens autocratic regimes eager to challenge U.S. influence. Worse still, it signals that America lacks the vision and resolve to act decisively in its strategic interests.

Critics will argue that recognition could destabilize the region, but the truth is the opposite. Somaliland’s recognition would bring clarity to a murky geopolitical landscape, stabilizing one of Africa’s most turbulent corners.

A Bold Gamble Worth Taking

The time for cautious diplomacy is over. America must act boldly, as it did with Kosovo, to recognize Somaliland and secure its position as the dominant power in the Red Sea. Yes, there will be objections—from China, from Somalia, from regional players like Egypt and Djibouti. But the U.S. has faced down such opposition before. It has defied Russian vetoes, Serbian protests, and countless diplomatic roadblocks in the past.

Somaliland is America’s next Kosovo, a chance to make history and reshape the world in its favor. The stakes could not be higher, and the choice could not be clearer.

it is high time for America to boldly recognize Somaliland. Will Washington seize this moment, or will it let the tides of history sweep it aside?

By Engineer: Ahmed Abdi Abdillahi

Somaliland’s case for international recognition is compelling and deserves serious consideration from the global community. Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has established a functioning government, held democratic elections, maintained relative peace and stability, and developed its institutions. In contrast to the turbulence in Somalia, Somaliland’s progress highlights its commitment to good governance, peacebuilding, and regional security.

The argument for recognition is bolstered by the principle of self-determination. Somaliland’s pursuit of statehood reflects the will of its people, as demonstrated by the overwhelming support for independence in a 2001 referendum. Historically, Somaliland was a separate British protectorate before uniting with Somalia in 1960 to form the Somali Republic. The union, however, proved contentious and ultimately dysfunctional, culminating in the violent suppression of Somaliland by Somalia’s central government during the 1980s. This historical context underpins Somaliland’s decision to reclaim its sovereignty.

Recognition would not only validate Somaliland’s achievements but also incentivize stability and democracy in a volatile region. It would encourage other nations in the Horn of Africa to pursue peaceful state-building, demonstrating that international legitimacy can follow adherence to democratic norms and stability. Furthermore, recognition could facilitate access to international financial systems, development assistance, and foreign investment, enabling Somaliland to tackle poverty, improve infrastructure, and bolster regional trade.

Opponents of recognition often cite concerns over precedent, fearing it could encourage separatist movements worldwide. However, Somaliland’s case is unique due to its historical boundaries, distinct colonial history, and decades of effective self-governance. Recognizing Somaliland would not undermine global stability but instead affirm the international community’s commitment to rewarding peace, democracy, and responsible governance.

The recent introduction of H.R. 10402 in the U.S. Congress marks a significant development in Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition. Introduced by Representative Scott Perry on December 12, 2024, this bill proposes that the United States formally recognize Somaliland as a separate, independent country.

Somaliland officials have welcomed this legislative move, viewing it as a pivotal moment in their quest for sovereignty. They highlight Somaliland’s decades-long stability, commitment to democracy, and strategic importance in the Horn of Africa as key reasons for U.S. recognition

In conclusion, Somaliland has demonstrated the attributes of a viable, sovereign state. Recognition would not only acknowledge its progress but also provide a framework for lasting peace and development in the region. It is time for the world to move beyond hesitancy and engage Somaliland as an equal member of the international community

Engineer: Ahmed Abdi Abdillahi is (Chief)
Waddani Party Chairman of USA,

By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin

The Horn of Africa is no stranger to power struggles, but one territory has quietly emerged as a linchpin for Western influence: Somaliland.

Recognizing this self-declared republic, which has defied regional instability to maintain peace and democratic governance, could be the game-changing move Washington and London need to counter rising threats from China, Russia, and regional powerhouses like Turkey.

But is it worth the risk? Critics warn that recognition could alienate key allies such as Egypt, Djibouti, and Somalia, and spark opposition from global heavyweights like China and Türkiye. Yet, the rewards of embracing Somaliland far outweigh the dangers, offering the West not only a strategic military foothold but also a chance to rewrite the region’s script.

For three decades, Somaliland has operated as an unrecognized state, fostering stability and democratic practices while Somalia grappled with terrorism and civil strife. Anchored by the Berbera Port—a critical gateway to the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea—Somaliland is poised to become a logistical powerhouse.

The West’s investment in expanding Berbera’s capacity would not only loosen Djibouti’s grip on regional trade but also provide Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous country, with an alternative route to the sea. This move would strengthen Somaliland’s economy, integrate it into global markets, and deepen its ties with pro-Western states like the UAE, which already manages the port.

Coupled with renewable energy investments and special economic zones, Somaliland could evolve into a critical trade and energy corridor, rivalling China’s Belt and Road ambitions. This would cement Western influence in a region otherwise dominated by Beijing’s check-book .

As China expands its military base in Djibouti and establishes maritime routes in the Gulf of Aden, the U.S. and its allies face a pressing need for a counterweight. Somaliland’s Berbera Port offers the perfect answer. Hosting a naval base in Berbera would not only secure Western interests in the Horn of Africa but also safeguard critical shipping lanes connecting Europe to Asia.

This strategic hub would enable rapid response capabilities against piracy, terrorism, and regional conflicts, while reinforcing maritime security in one of the world’s most volatile waterways. For the UAE, already operating in the region, Somaliland’s recognition would create a reliable ally capable of bolstering their interests near Yemen and the Red Sea.

Detractors argue that recognition would alienate Egypt and Turkey, staunch allies in the fight against terrorism and key trade partners. But these concerns overlook the potential for diplomatic finesse. Egypt’s fears over Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam, for instance, could be mitigated by positioning Somaliland as a neutral buffer state, facilitating regional cooperation rather than division.

Turkey’s investments in Somalia, while significant, are unlikely to deter Western recognition if Somaliland proves its value as a stabilizing force. Moreover, Ankara’s ambitions in the region could be balanced by aligning Somaliland with Gulf states like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, offering Ankara limited but mutually beneficial engagements.

China, meanwhile, has tied itself to Somalia and Djibouti, leaving little room to maneuver should Somaliland gain international recognition. Beijing’s investments in the region are already being met with growing skepticism, particularly as African nations seek to reduce dependency on Chinese loans.

In an era where democracy faces mounting global challenges, Somaliland stands as a beacon of hope. Its free elections, peaceful power transitions, and emphasis on governance set it apart in a region marred by autocracy and conflict. Recognizing Somaliland would signal the West’s commitment to democratic values and provide a counterargument to critics who claim Western actions are solely driven by self-interest.

By legitimizing Somaliland’s achievements, the U.S. and UK could strengthen their moral authority and galvanize international support from other democracies. As the West struggles to rebuild its global reputation, this move could underscore its commitment to rewarding stability and governance over chaos and corruption.

Ultimately, the question isn’t whether Somaliland deserves recognition—it’s whether the West can afford not to recognize it. With its strategic location, untapped economic potential, and democratic credentials, Somaliland offers a rare opportunity to counter rivals, stabilize a volatile region, and secure critical trade and military pathways.

For Washington and London, the pathway is clear: embrace Somaliland not as a gamble, but as a calculated move to rewrite the geopolitical script. Opponents will object, but history rewards those who see beyond the immediate risks to seize the long-term rewards.

Will America rise to the occasion? The clock is ticking.