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Somaliland Withdraws from Long-Standing Talks with Somalia, Citing Sovereignty Violations

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Somaliland has announced its complete withdrawal from decade-long talks with the Somali government, accusing Somalia of violating its sovereignty during Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre’s recent visit to Las Anod.

In a statement issued by the Council of Ministers, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Ahmed Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayanle, declared an immediate end to all dialogue with Somalia.

“The Somali government has repeatedly breached Somaliland’s sovereignty and the foundational principles of previous negotiations. Consequently, the Council of Ministers has decided to terminate all ongoing talks with Somalia, effective today, April 16, 2024,” Minister Ayanle stated.

He condemned the Somali Prime Minister’s visit to Las Anod as a “blatant violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty” and an act of “provocation and warmongering,” warning that such actions threaten regional stability.

The minister also criticized Somalia’s transfer of prisoners from Las Anod to Mogadishu, calling it an act of “kidnapping” rather than a legitimate prisoner exchange. He stressed that any such transfers must adhere to international law, with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) serving as the sole mediator—a framework previously agreed upon in bilateral talks.

Somaliland urged the international community to address Somalia’s alleged violations in eastern Sool and support efforts to restore peace in the region, which it asserts falls under its administration.

Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre’s visit to Las Anod—part of what he called a “Unity Strengthening Mission”—has further inflamed tensions. The city, previously under Somaliland’s control until early 2023, is now claimed by Somalia.

In a related development, the Somali government has formally recognized the SSC-Khaatumo administration in Las Anod as a federal member state. Additionally, 25 prisoners formerly held by Somaliland were released and transferred to Mogadishu.

Federal Government of Somalia opens oil sector to U.S. firms as force majeure lifted in Nugaal Valley

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Mogadishu — Somalia’s Ambassador to the United States, Dahir Hassan Arab, announced on Tuesday that the country is officially open for oil drilling and exploration, inviting U.S. energy companies to re-engage in Somalia’s hydrocarbon sector.

In a post on social media platform X, Ambassador Arab wrote, “Proud to announce that Somalia is officially open for drilling. I invite U.S. energy companies to return. SSC-Khaatumo is now recognized as a Federal Member State and the lifting of force majeure clears the way for oil exploration & extraction in the resource-rich Nugaal Valley Basin.”

The announcement follows the Federal Government of Somalia’s formal recognition of the SSC-Khaatumo administration as a federal member state. The move, declared by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre during a visit to Las Anod on Sunday, brings SSC-Khaatumo and existing member states into Somalia’s federal framework.

With SSC-Khaatumo now recognized and lifting force majeure restrictions—previously imposed due to insecurity—Somalia is moving to revive its petroleum exploration ambitions, particularly in the Nugaal Valley, a region believed to hold significant untapped oil and gas reserves.

Somalia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has repeatedly stated that the country is open to international investment, but security concerns and legal uncertainties over federal and regional jurisdiction have hampered progress. The new recognition of SSC-Khaatumo and inclusion in federal governance structures may help resolve past disputes over resource control in the area.

Prime Minister Barre also formally invited SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdikhadir Ahmed Aw-Ali Firdhiye to attend the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting scheduled for May 1–2 in Mogadishu. The NCC brings federal and regional leaders together to deliberate on national priorities, including resource management, security coordination, and constitutional reform.

Dr. Sada Mire Talks About indigenous And Community Archaeology In Somaliland

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Dr. Sada Mire Talks About indigenous And Community Archaeology In Somaliland

“We cannot rely on foreign teams to do right by our history and heritage- we have to take the lead ourselves” She Said Horn Heritage Foundation Dr. Sada Mire
Hargeisa(#Cawo-dhalad)Horn Heritage Foundation Dr. Sada Mire reveals her unique experience of archaeology in Somaliland.

In this video we get to hear Dr Sada Mire recall her first three months working in Somaliland’s archaeology after returning from an exile of 16 years. In 2007, Dr Mire embarked on a self-help and self-funded community archaeology in her native Somaliland that led to her development an indigenous archaeology.

She helped survey sites and set up the country’s Department of Archaeology, while pursuing her PhD in the archaeology of statehood and pre-Islamic Horn of Africa. Her foundation Horn Heritage helped create the Somaliland Heritage Act. Her book Divine Fertility, pioneering the study of archaeology of statehood and the Islamic medieval kingdoms won the SAfA book prize, making her Horn Heritage Foundation Dr Sada Mire reveals her unique experience of archaeology in Somaliland. She said “we cannot rely on foreign teams to do right by our history and heritage- we have to take the lead ourselves”.

Visit the Website Link: https://www.hornheritage.org/horn-heritage/
WATCH This Video from here

 

National Intelligence Agency Warns Public Against Spreading False News

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The National Intelligence Agency has called on the public to refrain from spreading false news targeting the National Intelligence Agency and other security institutions.
In a press statement issued today, the agency issued a stern warning to the public, stating that anyone found engaging in such acts will face legal action. The statement reads as follows:
“In recent months, there has been an increase in individuals deliberately spreading baseless news and propaganda on social media platforms against the National Intelligence Agency. These actions mislead the public of the Republic of Somaliland with false narratives far from the truth, aimed at undermining national security and creating distrust between the National Intelligence Agency and the people of the Republic of Somaliland.
The National Intelligence Agency and all security institutions will identify those spreading false news on social media as individuals working for the enemies of the Republic of Somaliland.”
The statement further warned the public, saying:
“We hereby issue a final warning to those involved in the aforementioned activities. The public is also advised to avoid spreading false news that targets the National Intelligence Agency and other security institutions. Anyone found engaging in such acts will face legal consequences in accordance with the law.”

Director of the Diaspora Department Holds a Meeting with the Somaliland Diaspora Committee in Denmark

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Director of the Diaspora Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somaliland, Mrs. Ugbaad Naasir Cumar, who is on an official visit to Denmark—particularly in the capital city, Copenhagen—held an extensive meeting with the Somaliland Diaspora Committee (JSL) in Denmark.

The meeting focused on the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen, serve, and connect the diaspora communities, as well as how to create an environment that enables Somalilanders living abroad to contribute to the country through their financial resources, knowledge, and expertise.

Additionally, the Director of the Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (WAD&IC) of Somaliland, Mrs. Deeqa Qaasim, who is on a knowledge-enhancing visit to Taiwan, participated in a conference representing Somaliland. This annual event, hosted by the Taiwanese government during this time of the year, invites friendly nations to exchange knowledge, resources, and history while also learning from Taiwan’s advancements in economic and technological development.

The Government’s Goal is to Plant at Least 3 Million Trees…” Somaliland President

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“I encourage all ministries, independent institutions, and the armed forces to take part in tree planting.” He said.

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), stated that the joint government plan and action is to plant at least three million trees to promote afforestation. The President noted that deforestation leads to drought and loss of life, adding that Somaliland’s land has turned into a desert after its trees were cut down for charcoal.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) made these remarks during the commemoration of Somaliland’s Tree Planting Day in Hargeisa, saying: “I am delighted to participate in this highly valuable event, April 15, designated as Tree Planting Day. The government’s goal is to plant at least 3 million trees. We burn charcoal, which comes from trees that are cut down, and everyone must understand that the charcoal they use comes from a tree that was felled. Without trees, there is no rain, and without rain, there is no life. Wherever trees diminish, the area is called a desert, and much of our land has turned into a desert.”

President Irro emphasized that his administration is encouraging tree planting and reiterated their target of planting three million trees. He said: “We are promoting the replanting of trees, and the government’s goal is to plant at least 3 million trees, which means planting 600,000 trees annually.  it is a joy for me to participate in this tree-planting effort and have the privilege of planting one of those 300,000 trees.”

The President also sent a message to the national armed forces and government institutions, urging them to participate in the national tree-planting campaign. He said: “I encourage all ministries, independent institutions, and the armed forces to take part in tree planting.”

Somaliland: Presidency Minister Briefs House of Representatives on Government Separation of Powers Law

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The Minister of the Presidency of the Republic of Somaliland, Hon. Khadar Hussein Abdi, appeared before a session of the Somaliland House of Representatives, chaired by the Speaker, Yasin Mahmoud Hiir Faratoon. He provided an explanation regarding amendments and updates to the Law on the Separation of Powers of the Government and Independent Institutions.

Minister Khadar Hussein Abdi, giving detailed insights to the Members of the Somaliland House of Representatives about the law on the separation of powers between the government and independent institutions, noted that this law defines the boundaries of governmental institutions.

Speaking on the matter, the Minister said, “It is an honor to stand before you to provide details and clarification on the law concerning the separation of powers of the government and independent institutions, which we have requested you to approve for amendments and updates. This law was enacted in 2015, and it serves as the foundation for the structure and definition of the powers, duties, and cooperation between the executive branches of the government, such as ministries and independent institutions.”

The Minister of the Presidency of the Republic of Somaliland, Hon. Khadar Hussein Abdi, further added, “This law clarifies the hierarchy of powers among various institutions and their roles, which has played a significant role in strengthening good governance. However, as we understand, governance and administration in general are not static; they are dynamic processes that constantly evolve. Therefore, it is necessary for laws and policies to adapt to new needs.”

Somaliland: Ministry of Energy and Minerals of Somaliland Holds Productive Meeting with Island Green Power

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa – April 15, 2025– The Ministry of Energy and Minerals of the Republic of Somaliland today hosted an important meeting with senior officials from the international company Island Green Power, headquartered in the United Kingdom (UK).

The meeting, aimed at exploring investment opportunities in renewable energy—particularly solar power—also focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and how the company could play a significant role in advancing Somaliland’s energy sector.

The company’s delegation was led by its Founder and CEO, Mr. Ian Lawrie, accompanied by Ms. Chandni Reparilia, the Executive and Legal Head of the company. Ambassador Baashe Cawil Cumar also participated in the meeting, playing a key role in facilitating the dialogue between the two sides.

Representing the Ministry, the meeting was chaired by the Minister of Energy and Minerals, Hon. Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, alongside the Director-General of the Ministry, Hon. Shucayb Osman Mahmoud. Also in attendance were the Head of the Energy Department, Hon. Abdirazaq Mohamed, as well as advisors to the Minister and Director-General—Dr. Fuad Yusuf and Hon. Madar Iman.

Ministry officials shared critical information with the company regarding the country’s natural resources, including solar, wind, and geothermal energy—all of which hold vast potential for energy sector development.

Island Green Power, renowned for implementing large-scale solar and energy storage projects, expressed strong interest in the opportunities Somaliland presents. The company conveyed its enthusiasm for being part of Somaliland’s energy advancement, emphasizing its commitment to supporting clean energy initiatives through investment and technical expertise.

Finally, the Ministry arranged for the company’s delegation to visit major power generation facilities in the country, allowing them to assess ongoing projects and potential sites for future large-scale energy developments.

Somaliland President Inaugurates WE INVEST, an Organization Dedicated to Empowering Women and Investment

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, April 13, 2025– The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), has officially inaugurated WE INVEST, an organization dedicated to promoting investment and empowering women.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by members of the Council of Ministers, representatives from various financial institutions operating in the country, different organizations, women, and other distinguished guests. The event emphasized the importance of empowering and strengthening financial support for women, as well as the role this plays in the overall economic development of the nation.

Several ministers, women who have held various positions, intellectuals, politicians, and business leaders spoke at the event, welcoming the work this organization will undertake and highlighting the need to enhance women’s participation, boost trade, and advance its growth.

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), in his keynote address, announced that the Waddani & Waxqabad Government will soon inaugurate the Women’s Development Fund, which was part of the Waddani Party’s campaign promises. He stressed that the government places special importance on advancing women’s economic growth and financial support.

Ms.Asha Abdullahi will participate in the fourth session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent will take place from 14 – 17 April 2025.

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Asha Abdullahi is the founder and Executive Director of the Somali Parents Advocacy Center for Education (SPACE), where she tirelessly supports Somali families, particularly those with children facing disabilities. A former refugee from Somalia and a mother to a son on the Autism Spectrum, Asha’s personal journey has deeply informed her professional mission. Her commitment to the community began when she faced significant challenges securing appropriate services for her son and brother, both of whom needed specialized care. Realizing that many Somali families struggle with similar issues, often exacerbated by stigma and cultural barriers, Asha resolved to make a difference.

 

To better equip herself for this work, Asha pursued advanced training through the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program at Boston Children’s Hospital, and she earned an advocacy certificate from the Federation for Children with Special Needs. Her education, combined with her lived experience, empowers her to serve as a cultural broker and advocate, helping families navigate complex healthcare and educational systems.

 

Through SPACE, Asha has developed partnerships with numerous agencies, focusing on early diagnosis, connecting families to vital resources, and educating communities to reduce the stigma associated with disabilities. Her work has been instrumental in improving communication between Somali families and institutions such as schools and healthcare providers, fostering healthier relationships and better outcomes for children with disabilities.

 

In recognition of her contributions, Asha has been appointed as a citizen member of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council, where she continues to advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Mission

Our mission is to support, educate, and empower parents to be better advocates for their children with disabilities in schools, in healthcare, and in their community.

Vision

All families will have all the resources and support they need to ensure that their children are fully participating and contributing to members of their community and society without languageculture barriers.

Asha Abdullahi

Executive Director

1127 Harrison Ave Boston MA 02119

asha@spacema.org

www.spacema.org