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Somaliland Ministry Bans “Divisive” Debate Sermons in Hargeisa Mosques

By
Goth Mohamed
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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The Ministry of Endowment and Islamic Affairs has issued a formal ban on controversial debate-style sermons, citing concerns over public discord and social division.

The directive, released on Friday, specifically targets the Al-Nuur Mosque in the Suuqa Waaheen district and the Sunnah Mosque in the Xero Awr area of the capital, Hargeisa. The order commands the administration and clergy of these mosques to immediately cease hosting lectures where scholars publicly debate and argue with one another.

The Ministry’s decree, signed by Minister Sheikh Abdillahi Dhahir Jiama (Baashe), states that these recent events “can create discord and division within the community.” It further forbids the organizers from relocating these debates to any other mosques or public venues.

In a broader warning to all clergy, the Ministry urged them to “refrain from anything that could create religious conflict or damage the unity and brotherhood of the community.”

The seriousness of the order is underscored by the high-level officials copied on the letter, including the Minister of Interior, the Police Force Commander, and the Governor of the Maroodi-Jeeh region, suggesting a coordinated effort to maintain public order and social cohesion.

The ban is effective immediately from the date of the letter, August 30, 2025. The ministry has strongly emphasized that its decision must be complied with.

 

Somalia and Djibouti Strengthen Ties with New Political Cooperation Agreement

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Mogadishu – Somalia and Djibouti took a significant step on Saturday to strengthen their bilateral relations after the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for ongoing political consultations.

The agreement was announced following an official meeting at the headquarters of the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Absalam Abduli Ali, met with his Djiboutian counterpart, Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the meeting aimed to “strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.”

The discussions between the two ministers focused on matters of security, regional stability, and other international issues of common interest.

Both ministers underscored the importance of close collaboration to achieve peace, development, and prosperity throughout the Horn of Africa.

The signed Memorandum of Understanding establishes a formal mechanism for holding regular political consultations, which will further reinforce the shared priorities of the two nations at both regional and international levels.

Somalia and Djibouti share a deep, multifaceted relationship rooted in history, culture, and brotherhood. The two governments have reaffirmed that sustained dialogue is key to continuing their historic partnership.

Somalia’s New Regional President Elected Amid Claims of Government Interference

By
Goth Mohamed
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LAS ANOD – Mr. Abdikadir Ahmed Ali Firdhiye has been elected as the first President of Somalia’s newly formed Northeastern state following a vote in the city of Las Anod on Saturday. The election, however, was not without controversy, as opposition figures accused the federal government of meddling to ensure his victory.

Firdhiye, the former interim leader of the SSC-Khatumo administration, secured his win after a key opponent, Jamal Mohamed Hassan, dropped out and transferred his votes to him. This move eliminated Firdhiye’s main rival, Abdirisaq Khaliif Ahmed, from the race, preventing a second round of voting.

His victory was widely anticipated due to strategic alliances forged during the campaign. In a concurrent election for vice president, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibriil, a poet and former speaker of the Puntland Parliament, emerged as the likely winner. Jibriil is considered a close political ally of Firdhiye.

The election has been marred by allegations of interference from the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). Opposition candidates have publicly accused the government of abandoning its neutral role by actively campaigning for Firdhiye and allegedly bribing local lawmakers to secure votes.

“The government’s interference undermines the credibility and transparency of this election and could derail the process of forming a viable administration,” an opposition candidate told local media.

The federal government has not yet responded to these allegations.

This election concludes a months-long process to establish a new regional administration for the Northeastern state, a entity that has been under development in Las Anod since July. The new administration led by Firdhiye now faces the challenge of unifying the region and establishing governance.

Somaliland and Ethiopia Forge Deeper Financial Ties in High-Level Central Bank Meeting

By
Goth Mohamed
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By Goth Mohamed Goth

ADDIS ABABA – In a significant move to bolster economic integration, the central bank governors of Somaliland and Ethiopia held high-level talks in the Ethiopian capital on Saturday to strengthen financial cooperation and cross-border trade.

The meeting, held at the National Bank of Ethiopia headquarters, brought together Somaliland’s Central Bank Governor, Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi, and his Ethiopian counterpart, Mamo E. Mihretu. The discussions focused on creating a more robust and regulated financial framework between the two regions.

Key areas of collaboration discussed included the development of interoperable payments and settlement systems, trade financing mechanisms, and foreign exchange operations. The officials also addressed critical regulatory concerns, such as implementing joint anti-money laundering measures and establishing protocols for FinTech licensing.

A major outcome of the meeting was the agreement to establish a joint technical working group. This team will be tasked with following up on the initiatives and translating the discussed proposals into actionable policies.

Governor Hersi highlighted the strategic importance of the Berbera Port and its trade corridor for landlocked Ethiopia’s access to international markets. He urged for expedited progress on banking and insurance protocols to facilitate smoother port-use agreements, a move that would significantly enhance Ethiopia’s regional commerce.

In response, Governor Mamo E. Mihretu welcomed the initiative and committed to raising the matter with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to advance the discussions.

Further topics on the agenda included streamlining financial flows, regulating the cross-border khat trade, and the potential establishment of a branch of Ethiopia’s state-owned Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Somaliland.

Both parties concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to deepening financial cooperation, characterizing it as a crucial step toward fostering mutual economic growth and enhancing regional stability.

Somaliland House of Representatives Express Gratitude on U.S. Recognition Efforts and Slams Somalia Insurgency in Eastern Sool

By
Goth Mohamed
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-It reaffirms commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and stability, calling for unified action to counter external interference and promote peace in the Horn of Africa region

-Calls for suspension of Somaliland-Somalia Talks

The Somaliland House of Representatives, in its 14th session of the 12th term, chaired by Speaker Hon. Yasin Mahmoud Hiir (Faratoon), unanimously approved a resolution supporting the Somaliland recognition campaign in the United States and issued recommendations addressing the situation in the eastern Sool region.

Support for U.S. Congress Recognition Efforts: The House endorses the ongoing efforts to secure international recognition for Somaliland in the United States and expresses gratitude to U.S. congressmen and diplomats advocating for these efforts.

During the session, proposals submitted to the Members of Parliament regarding the situation in Sool Bari were presented. The House issued a resolution addressed to the Government of the Republic of Somaliland. The resolution, read by the Secretary of the House of Representatives, Abdirisak Said Ayanle, was as follows: –

  1. Condemnation of Somalia’s Interference: The House recognizes that the weak Somalia government in Mogadishu is directly interfering with Somaliland’s independence, deliberately fostering instability in eastern Sool, which undermines regional stability and security. This violates Somaliland’s territorial sovereignty, international law, the UN Charter of 1945, and the African Union Charter of 1963.
  2. Call for Accountability: The House demands a closed session with all relevant security agency officials to review measures taken and planned to counter Somalia’s interference in eastern Sool.
  3. Suspension of Talks with Somalia: The House urges the government to immediately halt all Talks with Somalia due to its ongoing interference in Somaliland’s sovereignty.
  4. Appeal to the International Community: The House calls on the international community, political allies, regional organizations, and all nations to acknowledge Somalia’s aggression, including its blatant interference, incitement of conflict, and efforts to destabilize communities in Somaliland, particularly in eastern Sool and Sanaag.
  5. Support for Peace Initiative: The House endorses and urges the government to expedite President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s peace initiative extended to the brotherly communities in the Sanaag region.
  6. Strengthening Regional Security: The House recommends that the government develop a plan to bolster security and defense in stable districts neighboring conflict-prone areas, such as Ainaba and other secure districts in Sool. These efforts should be included in the 2026 budget to address the needs of these areas and prevent further conflicts.
  7. Districts Assessment Mission: The House proposes deploying a parliamentary committee to assess the needs and potential interventions in affected districts, with a detailed report to be submitted to the House.
  8. Implementation of Prior Resolutions: The House calls for the implementation of its 2023 and July 2025 resolutions regarding Somalia Talks, national security, independence, and political party unity. It urges both houses to convene and reach a national consensus on addressing the eastern Sool situation.

The Somaliland House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and stability, calling for unified action to counter external interference and promote peace in the Horn of Africa regio

Kaah Party Chairman Refutes Rhetoric from Las Anod, Calls for Erigavo Peace and Urges Dialogue Over Conflict

By
Goth Mohamed
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Mahmoud Hashi Abdi, Chairman of the KAAH Party, issued a powerful statement yesterday addressing inflammatory rhetoric from a recent meeting in Las Anod.

He strongly condemned the speakers’ calls for civil strife, describing them as laden with incitement and driven by reckless ambition that undermines the unity of Somalia’s interconnected communities.

“Sanaag and Sool Bari are integral parts of the legal boundaries of the Republic of Somaliland,” Abdi declared. “Any disputes or conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and brotherly consensus, not through actions that fuel division or support the weak governance of Hassan Sheikh.”

Emphasizing Erigavo’s need for stability, Abdi stated, “Erigavo does not need imported conflict. It requires peace, prosperity, and the benefits of unity.” He directly addressed those inciting violence, saying, “Do not let those who will not open their homes to you drag you into conflict; it is unnecessary, like grazing on dry winter grass.”

In closing, Abdi reaffirmed Erigavo’s enduring identity: “Erigavo is not a new frontier; it is the same as it was yesterday. Its people are not newcomers but those who have long shaped its destiny. Let it not be abandoned to neglect.”

The KAAH Party calls for all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and reject any attempts to destabilize the region, urging a collective commitment to peace and progress.

Somaliland Cabinet Holds 32nd Session, Focuses on Security, Economy, and Drought Crisis

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA, Somaliland – His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) chaired the 32nd session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting was also attended by His Excellency the Vice President, Mr. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi.

The session featured extensive reports and deliberations on key national issues, including:

  1. National Security Briefing
    The Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Carab, provided a comprehensive update on the security situation across the country.
  2. Economic and Financial Report
    Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdilahi Hassan Adan, presented an overview of fiscal performance, economic developments, and revenue administration.
  3. Drought Situation and Response
    A report on the ongoing drought emergency was delivered on behalf of the Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Daahir Jama The presentation was made by the Vice President, who also chairs the National Drought Relief Committee.
  4. Local Governance and Urban Development
    Updates from the Ministry of Local Governments and Urban Development were presented by Deputy Minister Mr. Ahmed Omar lAbdilaahi.
  5. Mineral Resources and Urban Water Projects
    The Minister of Energy and Minerals, Mr. Ahmed Jama Barre, reported on mineral sector activities and progress on key urban water supply projects in Borama and Berbera.
  6. Public Health Update
    Minister of Health Development, Dr. Xuseen Bashiir Xirsi, briefed the cabinet on the national health situation, including efforts to contain a cholera outbreak in parts of the Sanaag region.
  7. Transport Safety and Road Obstructions
    Minister of Transport and Road Development, Mr. Cismaan Ibraahim Nuur (Afgaab), raised concerns over hazardous scrap metal and abandoned vehicles disrupting road networks and endangering public safety.
  8. Public-Private Partnership Law
    The cabinet held substantive discussions on the draft Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Framework Law. The Council moved to approve the legislation, with final adoption scheduled for the next session.

Recognition of High-Performing Ministries
At the conclusion of the meeting, President Cirro commended three ministries for exceptional performance over the past six months:

· Ministry of Education, Training, and Science
· Ministry of Local Governments and Urban Development
· Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

The session underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to address pressing national challenges and promote sustainable development across all sectors.

Somaliland: President Holds Talks with Djibouti Delegation

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), held an important meeting today at the Presidential Palace with a delegation from the Republic of Djibouti. The delegation was led by Djibouti’s Minister of Trade and Tourism, Mr. Mohamed Warsame Dirir.

The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two brotherly nations, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, transportation, and development projects beneficial to both countries.

The President and the Minister discussed ways to expand and reinforce the historic cultural, economic, and collaborative ties shared by the peoples and governments of Somaliland and Djibouti.

President Abdirahman Cirro expressed his appreciation for the delegation’s visit, emphasizing the importance of the two countries working together to promote trade and facilitate tourism, thereby enhancing economic growth and job opportunities for communities on both sides.

For his part, Mr. Mohamed Warsame Dirir, Minister of Trade and Tourism of Djibouti, stated that the government and people of Djibouti are committed to further strengthening the bonds of brotherhood, cooperation, and shared vital interests—especially in the fields of trade, tourism, and people-to-people movement.

Qatar Pledges $3 Million in Emergency Aid to Drought-Stricken Somaliland

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a significant move to address a worsening humanitarian crisis, the State of Qatar has donated $3 million to support communities in Somaliland grappling with a severe and prolonged drought.

The announcement was made by Somaliland’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi Dahir Jama (Bashe), who serves on the nation’s Drought Relief Committee. The funds are earmarked to provide critical assistance to populations suffering from acute shortages of food, water, and essential resources.

Minister Bashe, speaking on behalf of both the committee and the President, lauded the Qatari government for its substantial and timely contribution. He described the aid as a vital intervention that will directly address the most urgent needs of those affected.

“This generous $3 million donation from our brothers in Qatar arrives at a critical moment and exceeds our expectations,” Minister Bashe stated. “It not only provides a lifeline for our people but also powerfully reinforces the strong bonds of brotherhood and friendship between our two nations.”

The ongoing drought has devastated large areas of Somaliland, threatening livelihoods and creating a dire need for international support. The Qatari aid is expected to bolster local efforts to distribute supplies, secure water, and mitigate the widespread impact of the climate-induced disaster.

This donation marks a further consolidation of the bilateral relationship between Qatar and Somaliland, highlighting a continued commitment to mutual cooperation and support in times of need. The Somaliland Drought Relief Committee will oversee the allocation and distribution of the funds to ensure they reach the most vulnerable communities efficiently.u

Somaliland Parliament’s Gender Office Charts Path for Greater Equality, Highlights Progress

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

HARGEISA – In a demonstration of its commitment to gender parity, the Gender Advisory Office of the Somaliland House of Representatives unveiled a landmark report detailing its significant achievements and strategic future roadmap during a high-profile event at the parliament headquarters on Thursday.

The presentation, delivered by Ms. Salma Abdirahman Walaaleye, Head of the Gender Advisory Office, was attended by senior parliamentary leadership, including the Speaker, Mr. Yasin Mahmoud Hiir (Faraton), and the First Deputy Speaker, Mr. Said Mire Farah (Giire).

Outlining the office’s key accomplishments, Ms. Walaaleye highlighted several critical areas of impact. These include initiatives aimed at empowering women in the political arena, enhancing the understanding of gender equality among members of parliament and staff, and launching widespread community awareness campaigns to advance women’s rights.

“Our fundamental mission is to ensure women’s voices are not only heard but are integral to every level of decision-making in our nation,” Ms. Walaaleye stated emphatically during her address.

Looking ahead, the office has set ambitious goals to build on this foundation. Its future strategy focuses on three core pillars: the active advocacy for new laws and policies that institutionalize equality, the development of international partnerships to secure technical and financial backing, and a sustained effort to raise public awareness to create a more supportive environment for women in governance.

The leadership of the House of Representatives offered strong endorsements of the office’s work. Both Speaker Faraton and Deputy Speaker Giire commended Ms. Walaaleye and her team for their pivotal role in driving the gender equality agenda forward, urging them to continue their transformative efforts.

This event marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s ongoing journey toward building a more inclusive and equitable society, where women are empowered to play a central role in shaping the nation’s future.

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