LONDON, UK – In a significant diplomatic recognition, Ambassador Abdi A. Hersi, the Former Somaliland Ambassador to the United Kingdom, has been formally invited to receive the “LPSA Outstanding Diplomat Of The Year Award 2025” at the prestigious 10th Anniversary London Political Summit & Awards (LPSA).
The invitation, extended by the LPSA Secretariat, also names Ambassador Hersi as a Special Guest of Honour for the three-day summit, scheduled for October 15-17, 2025.
The award celebrates Ambassador Hersi’s “remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment” during his tenure, highlighting his role in amplifying “the voice of the Somaliland people on the global stage.” The citation praises his visionary leadership, calm diplomacy, and steadfast pursuit of peaceful engagement.
The LPSA Secretariat outlined several key achievements that form the basis for this honour:
· Strengthening UK-Somaliland Ties: Organizing and leading multiple delegations of UK Members of Parliament and Lords on fact-finding missions to Somaliland.
· Facilitating Trade and Goodwill: Acting as a central figure in enhancing trade and bilateral relations between the two nations.
· Diaspora Engagement and Awareness: Keeping the British-Somalilander community informed while raising the profile of Somaliland’s ongoing challenges internationally.
· High-Level Diplomatic Advocacy: Successfully participating in the UK Conservative Party Conference to bring the issue of Somaliland’s independence to the attention of senior UK leaders and lawmakers.
· Securing Local Recognition: Leading the Somaliland Diaspora Agency to secure diplomatic victories at the municipal level, including a recognition motion passed by Birmingham City Council.
· Promoting Education: Fostering educational opportunities for Somalilanders through engagement with UK-based scholarship programmes like Chevening, and mentoring future leaders.
Summit Agenda
The London Political Summit will feature a series of high-level events:
· Day 1 (Oct. 15): A Parliamentary Opening Session in the House of Commons, hosted by Rt. Hon. Oliver Ryan, MP.
· Day 2 (Oct. 16): A Mayoral Session and Diplomatic Roundtable at Islington Town Hall, hosted by The Worshipful Mayor of Islington, Cllr. Jason Jackson.
· Day 3 (Oct. 17): The flagship LPSA 10th Anniversary Awards Dinner Gala Night at the Copthorne Tara Hotel in Kensington, under the theme “Honouring Legacy, Celebrating Leadership, Inspiring the Future.”
The LPSA awards are noted for celebrating excellence in political and diplomatic service. Ambassador Hersi’s recognition underscores the significant, albeit unofficial, diplomatic inroads Somaliland has made in the United Kingdom and celebrates his personal legacy as a “respected advocate, community champion, and tireless ambassador for dialogue, recognition, and hope.”
The summit organizers have expressed their warm anticipation to celebrate this honour with Ambassador Hersi this October in London.
Addis Abeba – Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) has concluded what his office described as a “successful official visit” to Ethiopia, during which he met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other senior Ethiopian officials. The visit, his first since assuming office in November 2024, took place between 14 and 16 October in Addis Abeba.
According to a statement from the Somaliland Presidency, the trip aimed to “further strengthen the longstanding bonds of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect” between Somaliland and Ethiopia. It added that the visit “reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to advancing peace, stability, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.”
Neither Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs nor the Office of the Prime Minister has released any official readout, statement or pictures on the visit, the meetings, or their outcomes.
However, in a short video accompanied with a statement, President Irro’s office said during his stay in Addis Abeba, he held “high-level and fruitful meetings” with Prime Minister Abiy and other Ethiopian officials. Discussions reportedly focused on “consolidating bilateral relations, enhancing security cooperation, promoting economic and trade partnerships, facilitating cross-border connectivity, and expanding collaboration in key areas of shared strategic interest.”
In a separate statement, Niman Yusuf, Chief of Staff of the Somaliland National Army, said he was “honored to be welcomed by the Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Force, Marshal Birhanu Jula.” He added that the two “discussed bilateral defense cooperation and strengthening the historic ties between our two defense forces.”
Earlier reports from Somaliland local media said that President Irro’s visit followed an “official invitation” from Addis Abeba. Images showed him being received at Bole International Airport by Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Gedion Timotheos.
Hargeisa – The government of President Abdirahman Cirro is facing allegations of interfering with the independence of the Somaliland Judiciary. The accusation comes after a forceful statement from Chief Justice Aadan Haji Ali, who defended the judiciary’s autonomy, asserting that it is an independent institution not administered by the President.
Chief Justice Aadan Haji Ali’s strong remarks suggest that the Cirro administration has overstepped its bounds, violating the principle of judicial independence. If these claims of interference are verified, it would precipitate a constitutional crisis. Such a crisis would not only challenge the rule of law but also severely damage public trust in the nation’s institutions.
The two-day official visit by Somaliland’s President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro to Addis Ababa wrapped up on a constructive and optimistic tone, as reflected in the succinct statements from the presidential entourage and Ethiopian counterparts.
Initial assessments indicate the engagement wrapped in an encouraging environment, with conversations revolving around vital mutual priorities in socioeconomic development, security, political alignment, and collaborative initiatives.
More than just the formal topics, the evident camaraderie at the summit’s opening and the measured yet upbeat phrasing of its wrap-up highlight its broader importance. This encounter achieved several groundbreaking milestones and unfolded against a backdrop of volatile regional geopolitics:
Key Contextual Highlights:
Historic In-Person Dialogue This represented the debut formal, head-of-state encounter between Somaliland President Abdirahman M. Abdillahi Cirro and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. It marked President Cirro’s first meeting with the Ethiopian leader in his capacity as Somaliland’s head of state, joined by a high-ranking governmental team, in response to a direct invitation from the Prime Minister.
Navigating Regional Turbulence The talks occurred amid profound geopolitical and diplomatic upheavals in the Horn of Africa and beyond. Ethiopia grapples with domestic political intricacies, while the region witnesses fluid alliances—some forging partnerships, others entangled in heated rhetoric or outright hostilities. Notable examples include the recent easing of the acrimonious two-year divide between Ethiopia and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS); enduring frictions with Egypt; fraught ties with Eritrea; and a simmering, though subdued, diplomatic discord with Djibouti under President Ismail Omar Guelleh.
The Stalled MoU in the Spotlight Timing was everything, as the summit addressed the practical impasse—or contentious legacy—of the Somaliland-Ethiopia Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The pact has encountered widespread regional and global pushback from influential players, encompassing most Horn of Africa states, the African Union (AU), the European Union (EU), IGAD, the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the fiercest critics: Turkey, Egypt, Djibouti, and the FGS. Observers view this visit as a potential turning point to revive or renegotiate the deal’s stalled elements, like port access and infrastructure pledges.
Shadows of Global Rivalries The discussions played out against intense, simmering contests among major powers—the United States, United Kingdom, China, Russia, and the EU. These actors lack a cohesive playbook for interacting with or capitalizing on the Horn of Africa’s geostrategic weight, particularly the Red Sea corridor and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, both profoundly affected by any enduring Somaliland-Ethiopia pact.
Charting the Path Ahead: The Need for Measured Resolve
The dialogue’s real impact will crystallize over the ensuing months. Both parties acknowledge their indispensable interdependence, with joint efforts anchoring broader regional equilibrium. Yet, forging a definitive, equitable pact on enduring collaboration and reciprocal benefits demands meticulous deliberation.
It is imperative that leaders stay sharply attuned to the intrinsic leverage each side brings to the table. Their partnership ought to be steered by core national imperatives, unshackled from the whims of allies or foes.
Striking harmony between immediate political pressures and visionary long-term objectives is non-negotiable. Impetuous moves, flawed strategies, or shortsightedness could erode the budding trust between these administrations. Vigilance against existential risks to their harmony and neighborly bonds remains essential. In this age of slippery diplomacy, exploitation, and outright duplicity, unwavering integrity is non-negotiable.
Recent events illustrate this starkly:
the FGS leadership has oscillated wildly in allegiances—cozying up to Ethiopia’s rivals (Eritrea and Egypt) one moment, then abruptly courting Addis Ababa the next. This pattern exposes a troubling deficit in prudence, authenticity, and foresight, favoring erratic impulses over principled, interest-driven governance.
A Vital Advisory for Addis Ababa
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali must heed hard-won wisdom from recent missteps: the peril and expense of letting transient figures, such as FGS principals, sabotage Ethiopia’s vital strategic bonds—especially with Somaliland.
FGS’s ex-leader Farmajo, alongside Eritrea’s Afwerki, once derailed Abiy’s focus on his dependable ally, Somaliland. Swiftly, Farmajo exited power, and his replacement shattered the Ethiopian pact, swerving toward Egypt and the Arab League. Meanwhile, Afwerki deserted Abiy, aligning with anti-government Tigray elements.
As history shows, Ethiopia and Abiy rediscovered solace solely in their loyal partner, Somaliland. Abiy is earnestly advised against revisiting such pitfalls. He should steadfastly prioritize Somaliland’s role and avoid any endorsement—overt or veiled—that imperils the Republic’s domestic stability or its pursuit of international legitimacy.
Overlooking this, or extending indirect backing that endangers Somaliland’s cohesion or sovereignty, would provoke an inevitable, self-preserving response from Hargeisa. Somaliland’s latent strengths are formidable, and past challengers have reaped only backlash, repercussions, and remorse.
A delegation from the House of Representatives of the Republic of Somaliland, accompanied by the Chairman of the National Commission for Good Governance and Public Accounts, held a productive meeting today with Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, the Clerk of the Parliament of Ghana, at the Parliament premises in Accra.
The Somaliland delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Djietror, who extended Ghana’s hospitality and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering parliamentary cooperation.
The delegation expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception and the opportunity to participate in specialized training at the prestigious Parliamentary Training Institute of Ghana.
The meeting highlighted the growing ties between Somaliland and Ghana, with both sides emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in parliamentary practices.
In a gesture of appreciation, the Somaliland delegation presented a certificate of honor to the Parliament of Ghana and its Training Institute, recognizing their pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing parliamentary expertise.
This visit marks a significant step in deepening diplomatic and institutional connections between the two nations, paving the way for future collaboration in governance and parliamentary development.
In a significant step toward global financial integration, the Central Bank of Somaliland, led by Governor Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi, has achieved associate membership in the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI).
The approval was announced on September 13, 2025, following the IADI Executive Council’s decision on September 11, 2025, during a meeting in Taipei, Taiwan, held alongside the IADI Core Principles International Conference and the 40th anniversary of Taiwan’s Central Deposit Insurance Corporation.
This landmark achievement places Somaliland among over 100 central banks and financial institutions worldwide within the IADI, an organization founded in 2002 and based in Basel, Switzerland, dedicated to promoting effective deposit insurance systems globally.
Governor Hersi, as the head of the Central Bank, spearheaded the membership application and signed the necessary agreements, reinforcing Somaliland’s commitment to establishing its first deposit insurance system and aligning with international financial standards.
Membership in IADI grants Somaliland access to global expertise, best practices, and technical support, enabling the modernization of its banking infrastructure. This development strengthens depositor protection, ensuring greater security for citizens’ savings, fostering trust in the financial system, and signaling to international investors that Somaliland is a stable and attractive destination for responsible growth.
Beyond its economic impact, this milestone enhances Somaliland’s international credibility, positioning it as a serious player in the global financial community. Despite its unrecognized status, this achievement underscores Somaliland’s determination to advance its financial sector and supports its broader journey toward stability and international recognition.
DP World has launched a new strategic shipping route connecting Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somaliland. The new service, operating every nine days, enhances DP World’s global network and reinforces Berbera’s position as a key maritime gateway and logistics hub in East Africa.
The Jebel Ali – Berbera service strengthens trade links between the Gulf and East Africa, offering a faster maritime route into Somaliland. With scheduled stops at Aden and Djibouti, the service provides additional connectivity to key port cities, supporting greater access to markets across the Horn of Africa.
From Berbera, cargo can connect onwards to inland destinations such as Ethiopia, providing an alternative to traditional logistics chains that rely on Djibouti Port and long-haul overland trucking. The new route also supports more predictable transit times and reduces exposure to regional bottlenecks.
The Berbera port’s 1,050-metre quay enhanced infrastructure includes a 400-metre quay capable of handling Triple E vessels, extensive bulk and breakbulk handling facilities, and an annual livestock handling capacity of around 4 million heads.
Berbera is also home to the Horn of Africa region’s most modern container terminal and the Berbera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ), designed to attract foreign investment and support long-term industrial growth. Ganesh Raj, Group Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services at DP World, said: “The Jebel Ali to Berbera service further complements DP World’s investment drive into Africa.
Building on the significant infrastructure we have developed across the continent, the service enhances connectivity for our customers as we continue to boost trade links between the Middle East and East Africa. In doing so, we are supporting the growth of resilient, sustainable corridors that unlock prosperity for our partners, customers and the communities we serve.” DP World’s commitment in the Horn of Africa goes far beyond Berbera Port.
The company holds a 58.5% stake in the container and general cargo terminal, providing deep-water access to major East–West shipping lanes, and has developed the nearby Berbera Economic Zone to accelerate local industrialisation.
Already, more than 4.1 million heads of livestock are moved annually through Berbera to global markets, a trade worth over US $1 billion. Community initiatives, such as training the region’s first “Solar Mamas” as solar-energy technicians, underline how trade infrastructure can deliver both economic and social impact.
Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO, DP World Horn of Africa, added: “The launch of this new corridor is a milestone in our ambition to build faster, safer, and more reliable trade routes. It reflects our commitment to creating meaningful economic benefits for businesses and communities in the Horn of Africa region.
Our work in Somaliland’s Berbera is already stimulating trade and industry, while supporting wider community development. Looking ahead, this service will strengthen Berbera’s role as a gateway for East Africa’s future growth and prosperity.”
DP World’s growing presence in East Africa is helping reshape regional trade dynamics by offering alternatives to traditional routes through Djibouti and improving market access for landlocked and underserved areas.
The company’s strategy aligns with regional goals for economic diversification, infrastructure resilience and trade independence. Berbera’s growing importance is reinforced by investments in inland connectivity, most notably the corridor linking to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia.
Backed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the UK’s Department for International Development, recent upgrades such as a 250 km road and the 22.5 km Hargeisa Bypass are improving transit capacity and expanding the port’s reach into regional markets.
The commitment to African infrastructure extends across the continent, with close to $3 billion invested to date and another $3 billion committed to be invested in ports and logistics infrastructure on the continent in the next three to five years. Investments range from Rwanda’s Kigali Logistics Platform to the Maputo Corridor in Mozambique, all aimed at building efficient, future-ready trade networks and reinforcing the Horn of Africa’s role in global commerce.
Since DP World began operations in Berbera in 2017, the port has undergone a significant transformation. Vessel productivity increased by 450%, with container volumes rising by 30% and general cargo throughput growing by 90%. Today, Berbera handles over 14 container vessels per month and has an annual container capacity of 500,000 TEUs, with expansion plans to quadruple this capacity to 2 million TEUs.
DP World continues to invest in its global network through new routes, advanced vessel technologies and sustainable operations. The launch of the Jebel Ali-Berbera service represents a significant step in the company’s mission to deliver seamless and resilient maritime logistics solutions worldwide.
HARGEISA – In an official statement released today, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), expressed his profound condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
President Cirro conveyed his sympathies to the Odinga family, the people, and the government of Kenya, describing the late statesman as a “precious friend” to Somaliland.
In his eulogy, President Cirro praised Odinga as a “brave, resilient, and tenacious hero” and a standard-bearer for justice, democratic voice, and African unity. He highlighted Odinga’s significant role not just in Kenya, but across the Horn of Africa and the entire continent.
“Raila Odinga was a statesman of profound vision and a deep understanding of international politics,” President Cirro stated. “He was a steadfast defender of African democracy and possessed a genuine understanding of the cause, aspirations, and national interests of the people of Somaliland.”
The President extended his national condolences to the nation of Kenya and the broader African community, noting that Odinga’s passing is a significant loss to the entire continent.
Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi landed in Addis Abeba-FM-Gedion-welcomed-him
Addis Abeba – Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi landed in Addis Abeba today for his first official visit to Ethiopia since he was elected in November 2024. Somaliland National TV said the visit comes following an “official invitation” from Addis Abeba.
The visit is expected to include talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on bilateral relations, regional cooperation, and deeper Ethiopia-Somaliland ties.
President Abdirahman’s visit comes against the backdrop of the fading into the news cycle oblivion of the January 2024 Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU, which to date has delivered little beyond headlines.
The MoU was heralded at the time as a transformative agreement – granting Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s coast in exchange for Ethiopia’s (implicit or eventual) recognition of Somaliland’s de facto statehood.
In practice, however, the MoU has remained largely dormant: no substantive changes on the ground, no formal recognition, and no clear mechanisms to operationalize the port or naval access. Addis Standard’s continuous coverage has documented how the deal has become emblematic: more a diplomatic signal than a binding transformation.
Why has delivery stalled? First, the MoU lacked clarity on legal ratification and enforceability. Legal experts were quick to point out that it was signed as a memorandum of understanding, not a treaty, and the text has never been made fully public, leaving interpretation and implementation contingent on political will.
Second, regional and domestic pushback has constrained momentum. Somalia immediately rejected the deal as a violation of its sovereignty, invoking the principle of uti possidetis juris and arguing that Somaliland is an integral part of Somali territory.
Egypt and the Arab League also publicly criticized the agreement, warning of Red Sea destabilization if a landlocked state attempts to establish naval presence. In Somaliland itself, dissent emerged: the region’s then defense minister resigned in protest, declaring “Ethiopia remains our number one enemy” over the MoU’s terms.
In an interview in December this year, former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi admitted that mounting pressure from the African Union (AU), Arab League, and “major international partners” led to the collapse of the MoU.
Speaking in an interview with the Somaliland Chronicle, Bihi claimed both sides had been “poised to transform the MoU into a full-fledged agreement” before the process was halted by coordinated regional and international opposition. “The African Union and the Arab League opposed the deal, and even major powers such as the United States were alarmed,” he said. “Ethiopia was stopped by Africa’s collective voice. At one point, there was even discussion of relocating the AU headquarters if Addis Abeba refused to withdraw.”
Third, shifting regional dynamics and diplomatic realignments, especially Ethiopia’s reconciliation with Somalia via the Ankara Declaration, and its indecisive push back against a barrage of global diplomatic backlash against the MoU, have diluted incentives to press forward unilaterally.
Several experts have also warned the rift threatened to unravel security cooperation against al-Shabaab. Soon, both Addis Abeba and Mogadishu agreed to restore diplomatic channels and renegotiate contentious issues. This was a confirmation that the MoU has been overshadowed by the necessity to mend ties with Somalia.
Given this history, what can be reasonably expected from President Abdillahi’s visit? There is a widespread expectation that at minimum, the visit offers an opportunity to reenergize stalled momentum.
In an op-ed piece for Addis Standard, Gulaid Yusuf Idaanrecently cautioned that without clear legal instruments and binding mechanisms, rhetoric alone will not suffice. He stressed that Ethiopia must convert the MoU’s symbolism into actionable treaties or implementing protocols, else the agreement risks remaining a diplomatic relic.
Nonetheless, the visit must navigate serious constraints. Mogadishu remains wary, and any overt steps toward naval basing or recognition risk reigniting tensions. In a recent interview with Al Arabiya, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called on Red Sea-bordering nations to pursue dialogue and cooperation while upholding sovereignty and avoiding actions that could fuel regional conflict. But the President also asserted the importance of “peaceful engagement and respect for territorial integrity” in managing tensions around the Red Sea. “No nation should infringe on another’s sovereignty,” he said.
Ethiopia, already juggling a multipolar foreign policy and internal crises, will still have to manage pressure from Egypt, the Arab League, and Somalia. Moreover, Somaliland’s own internal politics, including opposition from voices that see the MoU as sacrificing sovereign integrity, pose hurdles to smooth implementation.
Strategic inflection
In the midst of this, President Abdirahman’s visit may offer a crucial window: not a guarantee, but a strategic inflection point.
“If Addis and Hargeisa can agree on tangible road maps, such as a binding agreement, port infrastructure commitments, security guarantees, and legal frameworks, the MoU might finally shift from dormant pact to functioning alliance”, said a closer observer of the Horn of Africa in a comment to Addis Standard. Otherwise, the visit may relegate the MoU to another chapter in symbolic diplomacy. “The onus lies on both sides to turn this moment into operational reality, lest the aspirations of 2024 fade into the annals of unmet promise.”
Horn of Africa analyst Rashid Abdi, Research Director at Sahan Research, told Addis Standard that President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro’s visit to Ethiopia marks “a significant diplomatic moment” after months of speculation about strained ties between Hargeisa and Addis Abeba.
“It comes over 10 months since he was elected, and the delay fed unhelpful speculations of frictions between Hargeisa and Addis,” Rashid noted. “Now that Irro has made his much-anticipated trip, both sides have an opportunity to dispel anxieties of poor relations, resume strategic dialogue, enhance cooperation, and address whatever differences or misunderstandings that may exist in a sincere and frank way.”
According to him, the visit could pave the way for a reset in bilateral relations. “A reset of bilateral ties is what both sides would be hoping for, and I think this is achievable,” he said, emphasizing that Ethiopia remains Somaliland’s key regional ally. “I am confident both sides will capitalize on this moment to improve prospects and deepen their strategic partnership.”
Rashid added that President Irro will likely seek “a re-affirmation of the strategic partnership and renewed commitment by Ethiopia to strengthen its security, trade, and economic relations with Somaliland,” pointing out that the port of Berbera will be a “key agenda item of special interest to Hargeisa.” AS
Addis Ababa -The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Irro), and the delegation he is leading have arrived in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, after receiving an official invitation from the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, His Excellency Abiy Ahmed.
The President of the Republic of Somaliland was received at Bole International Airport by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Gedion Timotheos, and other officials from the government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
The reception for the President of Somaliland was of a high diplomatic standard. He was welcomed with a warm reception in the VIP lounge of Addis Ababa Airport and was then escorted to his accommodations in the city of Addis Ababa.
