Mr. Hersi Hassan Haji Ali, the Chairman of Somaliland National Party ( Waddani) today in Hargeisa met with the visiting Turkish Ambassador.
In a post he highlighted in his social media page stated as follows:-
This afternoon in Hargeisa, the capital city, we met with Mr. Alper Aktaş, the Ambassador of Turkey to Somaliland and Somalia, and the delegation he is leading during their visit to Somaliland.
We extended our warm congratulations to the Ambassador for the victory of the ruling party, WADDNAI, in the recently concluded elections.
Furthermore, we discussed with the delegation ways to strengthen the enduring relationship between the two nations and explored opportunities for collaboration in areas of development and security.”
Bosaso-Puntland has deployed military experts to the front lines in the Al-Miskaat mountains in the Bari region as it prepares for the final phase of its operations against ISIS militants. Leading the efforts are General Mohamed Hirsi Morgan, a former high-ranking officer in the Somali National Army; General Bashir America, the former commander of the Somali National Police; and security specialist General Mohamed Jama (Indha-Yare).
The ongoing conflict has taken a heavy toll on Puntland forces. Among the casualties are General Mukhtaar Gaagale and Colonel Farhan Hareed, both of whom were killed in action. Other high-ranking officers, including General Fu’aad Xanaano and Brigadier General Abdirahman Mohamed Jama, the deputy commander of the Puntland Dervish Army, sustained injuries during the fighting.
The United States has strongly condemned last week’s ISIS attack on Puntland security forces in the Al-Miskaat mountains, where counterterrorism operations are ongoing. In a statement issued on Saturday, the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu expressed its condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers.
“We strongly condemn the ISIS terrorist attack against Puntland forces on February 11. We offer our sincerest condolences to the families of the brave Puntland Security Forces soldiers who lost their lives in the attack,” the embassy said in a social media post.
Jama Ayaanle Feyte , is a Veteran Journalist politician, and Horn of Africa political and security analyst
Hargeisa :- The President of Somaliland, HE Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, today met with the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, based in Mogadishu, and other members of the Turkish diplomatic corps.
In a press release issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Hussein Aden Egge (Deyr), it was stated that an important discussion took place between the President and the Ambassador.The press release reads as follows:
“The President of the Republic of Somaliland, HE Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), today held a significant meeting at the Presidential Palace with the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Somaliland and Somalia, Mr. Alper Aktaş, and a delegation he led. They discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest, with a focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation between the Republics of Somaliland and Turkey.
During the meeting, the Turkish Ambassador congratulated President Cirro on his victory in the recent Presidential Election. He praised the maturity of Somaliland’s democratic process and the peaceful, exemplary transition of power, describing it as a rare and remarkable achievement in the Horn of Africa. The Ambassador also commended the resilience and determination of the people of Somaliland, which he noted were worthy of celebration.
The discussions centered on key areas of collaboration, including peacebuilding, economic cooperation, trade and investment, education, healthcare, the development of economic infrastructure and skills, as well as joint efforts in humanitarian initiatives.
The President reiterated Somaliland’s strong commitment to establishing a direct, robust, and multifaceted relationship with the Republic of Turkey.”
Somaliland has strategically leveraged infrastructure diplomacy to position Berbera as a pivotal regional logistics hub, enhancing trade and economic growth. A cornerstone of this strategy is the partnership with DP World, which has led to significant developments in Berbera’s port and associated economic zones.
To capitalize on the developments in Berbera and foster Somaliland United States trade relations, the following strategies are suggested.
Promoting the Berbera Economic Zone to US Investors
The Berbera Economic Zone (BEZ) offers a strategic gateway for trade and investment, providing numerous incentives for international businesses. To attack US investors. Somaliland
should actively market the BEZ’s advantages, such as its strategic location along vital maritime routes, tax incentives, and well-developed infrastructure. A comprehensive promotional campaign targeting American companies in key industries could highlight these benefits through trade fairs, Business forums, and diplomatic engagements. Additionally, leveraging digital marketing and strategic partnerships with US trade organizations can increase visibility and interest in the BEZ.
A robust legal framework ensuring business security and contract enforcement will further enhance investor confidence. The government should work on improving regulatory transparency, offering clear guidelines on business operations, and ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights. Engaging with US Chambers of Commerce and trade bodies will facilitate direct communication between Somaliland officials and potential investors. The integration of technology-driven business solutions, such as streamlining customs processing and efficient logistics services, will make BEZ an attractive investment destination.
Encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can also boost investor confidence. Joint ventures between Somaliland and US firms in key sectors like logistics, manufacturing, and services can create a mutually beneficial business environment. Furthermore, the establishment of investment promotion agencies and liaison offices in the US will enable continuous engagement with American business communities. These measures will not only attract investment but also lay the foundation for long-term economic cooperation between Somaliland and the US.
Establishing Bilateral Trade Agreements
To facilitate smooth trade relations, Somaliland must pursue formal trade agreements with the US. Bilateral agreements can help remove trade barriers, reduce tariffs, and establish clear guidelines for commercial exchanges. Engaging in diplomatic negotiations to secure preferential trade agreements will give Somaliland-based businesses easier access to US markets. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) presents an opportunity for Somaliland to gain duty-free access to certain goods, and lobbying for inclusion in AGOA should be a key priority.
A structured dialogue between Somaliland trade representatives and US policymakers can help bridge policy gaps and foster a cooperative trade environment.
Establishing a dedicated task force to focus on US-Somaliland trade relations will provide a clear roadmap for achieving mutually beneficial agreements. Working with US-based think tanks and trade policy experts can help Somaliland navigate complex international trade regulations.
Developing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with US trade agencies can further strengthen ties and create opportunities for collaboration. These agreements should focus on key industries where both countries can benefit, such as agriculture, livestock, and renewable energy. Through structured negotiations, Somaliland can Position itself as a reliable trade partner, enhancing its economic prospects while fostering stronger diplomatic relations with the US.
Enhancing Connectivity
A well-developed infrastructure network is essential for sustaining trade growth. Somaliland should invest in both digital and physical connectivity to facilitate smooth trade relations with the US. Improving port facilities in Berbera, expanding road networks, and establishing reliable logistics solutions will enhance trade efficiency. Digital infrastructure, including secure e-commerce platforms and electronic customs systems, will further streamline trade operations.
Strengthening telecommunications and internet services will improve communication between Somaliland businesses and their US counterparts. Establishing online trade platforms that connect Somaliland exporters with American buyers can facilitate transactions and foster business relationships. Additionally, adopting smart technologies in logistics. Such as real-time tracking systems and automated warehousing, can optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce trade costs.
Partnerships with international logistics firms can enhance Somaliland’s transportation capabilities. Attracting investment in air freight and shipping services will create direct trade routes between Berbera and key US ports. Furthermore, modernizing financial systems to support secure and swift international transactions will increase trust and encourage more trade between the two Nations. By prioritizing infrastructure development, Somaliland can Position itself as a competitive player in global trade.
Focusing on Niche Markets
To effectively compete in the US market, Somaliland should focus on industries where it holds a unique advantage. Key sectors such as livestock, agriculture, and textiles have significant potential for expansion. Establishing quality control measures and certification processes will ensure that Somaliland’s products meet US import standards, making them more competitive in American markets.
The livestock sector, for example, can benefit from better disease control programs and adherence to international veterinary standards. Somaliland should also invest in sustainable farming practices and value-added agricultural processing to increase product appeal. Developing organic farming initiatives can further differentiate Somaliland’s agriculture Products in Niche US markets.
The textile industry offers another avenue for growth. Somaliland can explore partnerships with US-based apparel brands interested in ethical and sustainable sourcing. Implementing training programs for textile workers and investing in modern production facilities can boost exports. Additionally, promoting Somaliland’s cultural heritage through unique handmade crafts and artisanal goods can attract niche US consumers looking for authentic, high-quality products.
Capacity Building Initiatives
Sustainable economic growth requires a skilled workforce capable of meeting international trade demands. Somaliland should invest in education and vocational training programs to equip its workforce with the necessary skills for engaging in global commerce. Collaborations with US universities and trade institutions can provide specialized training in business management, logistics, and technical fields relevant to trade and investment.
Scholarship programs and exchange initiatives will foster knowledge transfer between Somaliland and the US. Establishing trade-focused incubation centers can support local entrepreneurs in developing export-ready businesses. Encouraging innovation and research in key industries will enable Somaliland to maintain a competitive edge in international trade.
Building strong institutions to support business development is also crucial. Establishing trade advisory services, investment support agencies, and financial assistance programs for local entrepreneurs will enhance business readiness. These efforts will create an environment where businesses can thrive and successfully engage in international trade. By prioritizing capacity building, Somaliland can ensure long-term economic resilience and strengthen its trade partnership with the US.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategic recommendations, Somaliland can maximize the potential of the Berbera Economic Zone and solidify its trade relationship with the United States. Targeted efforts in investment promotion, trade agreements, infrastructure development, niche market focus, and capacity building will contribute to sustainable economic growth. As Somaliland Continues to enhance its trade strategies, it will position itself as a key regional logistics hub and a reliable partner for international commerce. Strengthening US-Somaliland trade relations will not only benefit the two nations but also contribute to broader economic development in the Horn of Africa region.
Eng. Mouktar Yusuf Ali is a Somaliland–based Infrastructure Analyst specializing in the Horn of Africa, with a particular Focus on Somaliland’s infrastructure. With over a decade of experience in leading and developing infrastructure projects, he is also a dedicated researcher and senior lecturer. Eng. Mouktar Yusuf holds an MSc in PM and Construction Management.
The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, visited the Dubai Port of Deira Al Hamra, one of the most important ports for Somaliland businessmen through which they greatly import and conduct business with.
The Head of State visited the port while on his fifth day of his working trip to the United Arab Emirates.
According to a press release by the Presidential Spokesman Hussein Deyr, the tour of the Dubai Port, underscores Somaliland’s commitment to strengthening maritime trade and to establishing deep economic relations with the United Arab Emirates.
The President and his entourage are expected to jet back into the country on Saturday.
H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, President of the Republic of Somaliland, expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its continued support of his country and voiced his desire to further enhance bilateral partnerships across various economic and developmental fields.
In remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the 2025 World Government Summit, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, President of the Republic of Somaliland, expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its continued support of his country and voiced his desire to further enhance bilateral partnerships across various economic and developmental fields.
In remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the 2025 World Government Summit, Abdullahi praised the pivotal role played by Emirati investments, particularly through DP World, in strengthening the country’s economic infrastructure and transforming the Port of Berbera into a strategic regional logistics hub connecting Somaliland with neighbouring countries.
He explained that DP World’s investment in Berbera Port went beyond its development, extending to the establishment of a free zone and the Berbera trade corridor, which has enhanced economic links between Somaliland and neighbouring Ethiopia, with a population of around 134 million. This has made Berbera a key trade hub in the region, especially with improved cross-border transport and logistics.
Regarding UAE-funded hospitals in Berbera and Buroa, the President highlighted the significant financing challenges faced by Somaliland’s health sector. He confirmed that the establishment of these hospitals would greatly enhance the healthcare services available to the local community.
On the promising sectors for Emirati investment in Somaliland, President Abdullahi pointed to several areas with high potential, particularly the livestock sector, which forms a core pillar of the country’s economy. Somaliland boasts between 40 and 50 million livestock and exports around 4 million sheep annually to Saudi Arabia during the Hajj season.
He suggested that Somaliland could become a food basket for the Gulf States, particularly in the field of meat exports to the UAE and the wider region.
The agricultural sector also offers significant investment opportunities, given the fertile land available, which could play an important role in enhancing food security for the Gulf States if appropriately invested.
He noted that the blue economy presents a huge opportunity for investment, as Somaliland possesses an 850-kilometre coastline rich in marine resources, although it remains underutilised.
“The fishing industry simply requires modern investments, and we could become a major supplier of fish to the UAE, the Gulf States, and even European markets,” he said.
President Abdullahi also pointed out that Somaliland is home to distinctive tourist sites, including over 150 kilometres of pristine beaches, located just two hours from Dubai, making it a potential tourism destination for investors in the hospitality sector. praised the pivotal role played by Emirati investments, particularly through DP World, in strengthening the country’s economic infrastructure and transforming the Port of Berbera into a strategic regional logistics hub connecting Somaliland with neighbouring countries.
He explained that DP World’s investment in Berbera Port went beyond its development, extending to the establishment of a free zone and the Berbera trade corridor, which has enhanced economic links between Somaliland and neighbouring Ethiopia, with a population of around 134 million. This has made Berbera a key trade hub in the region, especially with improved cross-border transport and logistics.
Regarding UAE-funded hospitals in Berbera and Buroa, the President highlighted the significant financing challenges faced by Somaliland’s health sector. He confirmed that the establishment of these hospitals would greatly enhance the healthcare services available to the local community.
On the promising sectors for Emirati investment in Somaliland, President Abdullahi pointed to several areas with high potential, particularly the livestock sector, which forms a core pillar of the country’s economy. Somaliland boasts between 40 and 50 million livestock and exports around 4 million sheep annually to Saudi Arabia during the Hajj season.
He suggested that Somaliland could become a food basket for the Gulf States, particularly in the field of meat exports to the UAE and the wider region.
The agricultural sector also offers significant investment opportunities, given the fertile land available, which could play an important role in enhancing food security for the Gulf States if appropriately invested.
He noted that the blue economy presents a huge opportunity for investment, as Somaliland possesses an 850-kilometre coastline rich in marine resources, although it remains underutilised.
“The fishing industry simply requires modern investments, and we could become a major supplier of fish to the UAE, the Gulf States, and even European markets,” he said.
President Abdullahi also pointed out that Somaliland is home to distinctive tourist sites, including over 150 kilometres of pristine beaches, located just two hours from Dubai, making it a potential tourism destination for investors in the hospitality sector.
The 9th session of the members of cabinet meeting chaired by the Vice President who is currently acting as President, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, was held at the Presidential Palace of the Republic of Somaliland as per scheduled on Thursday evening.
As per their agenda, the council of ministers heard a report from the Minister of Internal Affairs and National Security, who stated that the general security situation in the country was stable and peaceful, except for usual minor crimes that occur in society and traffic accidents that cause most of the deaths and injuries cases.
The State Minister for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development gave briefs on the country’s economic situation, acceleration of tax collection and increasing the country’s revenue.
The State Minister, while speaking about the implementation of the National Revenue Unification Plan that the President recently directed to the National Agencies and Ministries, informed the session that it was progressing well.
On his part the Minister of Health Development gave the council an in-depth report on the health service conditions in the eastern regions of Sanaag, Saraar and Togdeer, areas to which the minister visited in a week-long tour earlier in the month.
The main objective of the Minister’s working trip was to thoroughly examine the needs of the health centers in the said regions as concerns medical supplies, transportation and staffing. The Minister and the delegation he led inspected the Hospitals and Health Centers in Gar-adag, Eel-Afweyn, Erigavo, Oog, Aynabo, Burao, Oodweyne and Hara-sheekh.
He lamented that the health facilities have been strained and burdened by conflict strife that calls for bolstering its situation and deployment of physicians who are specialized in emergency surgeries and casualties. The Minister Assemblies Relation and Constitutional Affairs submitted two draft Bills to the Council of Ministers, namely:
1) The National Emblem Act, and
2) The Republic of Somaliland Flag Act.
He noted that the laws would protect and uphold the dignity and values of the Republic of Somaliland National Emblems.
He pointed out that the said Bills are based on the preservation, protection and promotion of the National Emblems, in line with the international laws and regulations that each country sets for its National Emblems.
Somaliland’s sovereignty has been a fact under international law, but outdated political calculations and Somalia’s fabricated claims kept many countries from recognizing it outright. Now, that is changing fast and international politics are leading the way in aligning with the simple reality. Republic of Somaliland is a de jure state, and it is here to stay.
The 2025 World Government Summit in Dubai was not just another diplomatic gathering. It was a statement, a shift, a clear sign that Somaliland is no longer being sidelined.
This wasn’t about just attending an event. It was about how Somaliland’s president was addressed, where he was seated, who he was seen with, and what discussions took place. This summit marked a major geopolitical shift and proving that international powers are now treating it as a sovereign player.
“President of the Republic of Somaliland” – A Title That Changes Everything
For years, world leaders have tiptoed around Somaliland’s status, calling its president vague names like “Somaliland leader” or “regional authority.” But at this summit? That changed.
Political Significance:
• The official title “President of the Republic of Somaliland” was used, not some watered-down version designed to appease Somalia. Somaliland Was Introduced as a Republic on the Global Stage. At a summit attended by 30 heads of state, 400 ministers, and some of the most powerful political and business leaders in the world, Republic of Somaliland was officially introduced as the dejure sovereign state that it is.
• Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Abdullah Irro took center stage, delivering a speech in which he spoke about Somaliland’s history and independence on June 26, 1960 as well as speaking about its sovereignty, history, and future.
• On different days of the summit, President Irro’s seating was positioned alongside other heads of state, a clear diplomatic signal that Somaliland is being treated as the sovereign country that it is.
• With millions of viewers worldwide, this was one of the most significant moments in Somaliland’s modern diplomatic history. Somaliland was not just acknowledged – it was recognized in front of the entire world.
• The UAE and summit organizers did not acknowledge failed Somalia’s claim over Somaliland.
• This signals a diplomatic shift: Somaliland is being treated as an independent state, not a breakaway region.
Legal Significance:
• This sets a precedent – by using Somaliland’s proper title, world leaders are normalizing its sovereign status. It strengthens Somaliland’s legal case for it’s state continuity under international law.
Geopolitical Significance:
The African Union (AU), the UN, and IGAD are now under pressure to justify why they continue to deny Republic of Somaliland it’s de jure state when major global players are taking a shift.
Seating Arrangements: Front Row with Power Players
Diplomatic seating is never random – it reflects status and Somaliland’s president was not seated with regional or provincial leaders. He was placed next to some of the most powerful figures in the UAE, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid (MBR), and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed.
In diplomacy, seating arrangements reflect political recognition, influence, and status.
Seating the Somaliland President at the front row, alongside UAE’s top leadership, elevates Somaliland’s international standing. This is a clear message that the UAE views Republic of Somaliland as a state actor rather than just a regional entity.
Being next to the UAE’s leadership and the world leaders rather than in a secondary row solidifies that Republic Somaliland is being acknowledged as a legitimate country, not the false narrative pushed by failed Somalia as separatist region.
Legal Significance:
• Alongside the de jure 26th June 1960 independence date. The International law also recognizes state practice – if a leader is consistently treated like a head of state, it reinforces their country’s sovereign status.
The UAE is sending a message that Republic of Somaliland is a key regional player, It also forces other countries to reconsider their stance – if the UAE deals with Somaliland as a state, why shouldn’t they?
Global Media Coverage: Somaliland Takes Center Stage!
When Somaliland’s president stepped onto the global stage in Dubai, the media took notice.
• Coverage from major news outlets elevated Somaliland from a “regional issue” to a major international topic.
• This creates pressure on international institutions like the UN and AU to engage with Somaliland since they can no longer afford to ignore the reality on the ground.
• Media attention normalizes Somaliland’s de jure sovereignty, making it harder for other nations to ignore its legal arguments by giving the Republic such high visibility.
• A huge diplomatic win for Republic of Somaliland and a major setback for Somalia, which relies on keeping Somaliland out of the global conversation.
• It also strengthens Ethiopia’s case for finalizing its MOU with Somaliland – because the world is already treating Somaliland as a legitimate international partner.
UAE’s Special Treatment: Escorting Somaliland’s President to Dubai Port
This wasn’t just a casual visit. The UAE personally escorted Somaliland’s president to Dubai’s port, a level of diplomatic hospitality reserved for strategic allies.
Republic of Somaliland serves as a vital maritime partner due to its strategic location, connecting three continents through its maritime routes at the Berbera port. The UAE’s heavy investment in Berbera Port is a direct competition to Djibouti’s monopoly in the region. It also strengthens Somaliland’s role in Red Sea security, which is becoming a global strategic priority.
Ethiopia-Somaliland MOU: A Game-Changer
The Ethiopia-Somaliland MOU was openly discussed at the world government summit – meaning it’s not being treated as a side topic, but as a major regional development. This is proof that Somaliland is negotiating international agreements independently – something a “region” wouldn’t be able to do. If Somaliland were just a region, the MOU would be illegal. The fact that Ethiopia and other international partners are moving forward with it strengthens Somaliland’s legal claim as a state. The UAE, Ethiopia, and Somaliland are now forming a strategic alliance in the Horn of Africa which strengthens each country’s economy and their national interests . This further forces the AU & the UN, the Arab league to take or reconsider their position.
Somaliland’s President Speaking on a Global Panel
Somaliland’s president wasn’t just a guest – he was a speaker at a high-level panel. President Irro was not there as an observer, but as an active participant. Officially treating him as a panelist means Somaliland is included in global discussions and acknowledged as its dejure sovereign state.
This is another step toward full normalization of Somaliland’s statehood, and increases international exposure and support for Somaliland’s re-recognition efforts.
A U.S. Military Base in Somaliland?
With Russia expanding in Sudan and China’s military base in Djibouti, the U.S. is looking for new strategic locations in the Red Sea. Berbera is the perfect option.
• Djibouti is compromised – It hosts China’s largest overseas military base.
• Somalia is unreliable – It’s a failed entity, and the U.S. cannot depend on Mogadishu for security.
• Russia is expanding – A U.S. base in Berbera would counterbalance Russia’s naval presence in Sudan.
• Berbera is strategically located – It gives the U.S. direct access to Red Sea shipping lanes.
If the U.S. moves forward with this, Somaliland’s re-recognition is no longer a question of if, but when. Republicans in Congress already support the re-recognition. In 2023 & 2024 multiple Republican lawmakers pushed for Republic of Somaliland to be recognized as a U.S. ally & as an independent state that it is . Now that Trump won in November 2024, this could turn into formal policy.
• America First Agenda aligns with Somaliland. Trump’s foreign policy is realistic and transactional – he focuses on strategic partnerships that benefit the U.S. Somaliland offers geopolitical access, a stable government, and a military foothold in the Horn of Africa all on its own with minimal foreign interference and aid.
• U.S. frustration with failed Somalia. The U.S. has poured billions into that failed entity for 30+ years, and it’s still a failed state dependent on ATMIS and foreign aid. With the recent U.S. aid cuts, Washington is signaling that it’s done wasting money on a government that doesn’t function.
The UAE and Ethiopia have set the stage, but the real shift will come when the U.S. moves to re-recognize Somaliland – forcing the rest of the world to follow.
Why This is Happening Now
1. The UN is irrelevant to U.S. interests – Washington has openly criticized the UN as corrupt and ineffective, especially as it continues to undermine American foreign policy while taking billions in U.S. funding. The U.S. is now bypassing the UN when necessary.
2. The U.S. needs to secure the Red Sea fast. China and Russia have positioned themselves in the region:
• China controls Djibouti. The U.S. has its base there, but Djibouti is now heavily reliant on Chinese debt.
• Russia is expanding in Sudan and the Central African Republic, looking to control more ports and military zones.
• The U.S. cannot afford to lose ground. Somaliland is the last real opportunity for Washington to maintain dominance over the Red Sea.
3. Recognition of Somaliland forces allies to follow.
• India and EU are already watching this closely – both are wary of China’s expanding influence in the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. If the U.S. moves first, India and the rest of the allies will follow to secure their own interests.
• The UK has deep historical ties to Somaliland and has already been engaging on a different level. If the U.S. makes the move, London will have no choice but to align itself accordingly.
4. The “America First” agenda fits perfectly with Somaliland.
• Somaliland is not here for aid – it’s here for business, investment, and strategic partnerships.
• The Berbera Port is a major global trade hub that could serve as a counterbalance to Chinese-controlled ports in Africa and the Middle East as well as rare earth mineral and a major oil deposit.
• The U.S. needs reliable African partners, and Somaliland is stable, democratic, and ready for investment.
The Bottom Line: Somaliland’s Recognition is Now a Geopolitical Strategy
• The UAE and Ethiopia have already made their move.
• The U.S. has no choice but to act, or risk losing influence in the Red Sea and Africa.
• The allies will follow once the U.S. leads.
This isn’t a debate anymore – it’s a calculated move in the global power struggle. Washington sees the writing on the wall, and re-recognition of Somaliland isn’t just an option anymore – it’s the plan.
The 2025 World Government Summit in Dubai was not just another diplomatic event. It was a political declaration. A turning point. A clear signal that Somaliland is rising on the global stage.
Somaliland’s path to full re-recognition is no longer a distant goal – it’s happening, piece by piece.
More than thirty fighters from the Somalia-based Daesh/ISIS terror group were killed Wednesday in new airstrikes in the northern Puntland province of Bari, according to security officials.
The strikes targeted Daesh/ISIS positions in the Sheebaab area of the Almiskaad mountains of the Bar region.
Puntland Counterterrorism Operations said most of those killed in the air raid were foreigners without specifying the countries of origin.
“Two airstrikes that took place tonight in the Sheebaab area of the Calmiskaad mountains killed more than 30 ISIS terrorists, most of whom were foreigners, and destroyed the supply vehicle they were transporting,” the counterterrorism unit wrote on X.
The strikes came one day after security forces in the northeastern semiautonomous state of Puntland said they killed more than 60 ISIS (Daesh) terrorists.
The operation on Tuesday involved a coordinated air and ground assault against the terrorists in the mountainous area of the Bari region, according to Gen. Mohamoud Fadhigo, spokesperson for the Puntland Counter-Terrorism Operation.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) said Tuesday that a Feb. 1 airstrike it carried out against ISIS killed 14 terrorists, including a senior leader.
The strike targeted senior ISIS-Somalia leadership in a series of cave complexes approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of the port city of Bosaso, the capital of the northeastern Bari region.
Among those killed was Ahmed Maeleninine, a key ISIS recruiter, financier and external operations leader “responsible for the deployment of jihadists into the United States and across Europe.”
Security forces have been conducting operations against the terror group for more than a month, liberating large areas from its control.
Somalia has been plagued by insecurity for years, with the main threats emanating from the al-Shabaab and ISIS terror groups.
Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) — a multidimensional mission authorized by the African Union and mandated by the UN Security Council.
The terror group has stepped up attacks since Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared an “all-out war” against it.
Erigavo-The Minister of Justice of JSL, Mr. Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis, conducted a fact-finding inspection of a prisons in the Sanaag region.
This inspection is part of a broader initiative to assess and improve living conditions in the country’s prisons, with a particular focus on the fundamental rights of prisoners, hygiene standards, the basic needs of inmates, and the general challenges faced by correctional facilities.
During the inspection, the Minister was accompanied by the Governor of the Sanaag Region and the Mayor of Eirigavo District. The delegation was received by the Commander of the Custodial Corps in the Sanaag Region.
The Commander provided the Minister and his delegation with a comprehensive report on the prison and expressed great satisfaction with the Minister’s visit. Minister Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis personally inspected each cell, engaging directly with inmates to better understand their conditions.
In his remarks, the Minister thanked the prison staff and the Custodial Corps for their commendable treatment of inmates. He also pledged that the government would work diligently to improve prison conditions and support the Custodial Corps, emphasizing their commitment to addressing the challenges faced by correctional facilities.
The Minister had previously inspected prisons in Maroodi Jeh, Sahil, and Togdheer regions.
