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Somaliland Foreign Minister Holds High-Level Consultations in Washington to Strengthen U.S. Relations

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Republic of Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Abdirahman Dahir Adan, led a high-level delegation to Washington, D.C., this week, where they held strategic consultations with senior U.S. government officials, lawmakers, and policy experts. The visit focused on advancing shared priorities under the new administrations of President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and President Donald J. Trump, with particular emphasis on strengthening bilateral cooperation in regional security, democratic governance, and international engagement.

The delegation met with officials from key U.S. agencies, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and members of Congress, including Senator Ted Cruz and Representatives Tim Burchett, Tom Tiffany, Pat Harrigan, Scott Perry, Ronny Jackson, and John Moolenaar. The delegation also participated in a closed-door roundtable hosted by the Hudson Institute, attended by former U.S. officials, diplomats, and Africa policy experts.

In addition, the delegation joined the Somaliland diaspora in Washington to commemorate the 18 May National Day. The event celebrated Somaliland’s democratic progress and national resilience, including the peaceful transfer of power in 2024. Minister Adan emphasised Somaliland’s enduring commitment to peace, democracy, and responsible international cooperation, reinforcing the country’s distinct identity and achievements as a stable and self-governing democracy in the Horn of Africa.

The visit marked a strategic milestone in Somaliland–U.S. relations, reflecting the United States’ growing acknowledgement of Somaliland as a reliable and strategic partner. The momentum generated through these engagements has laid a solid foundation for future cooperation, grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and long-term interests. Somaliland remains committed to building a transformative partnership with the United States that contributes to regional stability and democratic advancement.

President back from Djibouti visit that rekindles bilateral relations

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In solidarity with his people he brave heavy downpour and declines umbrella

By M.A. Egge

The President of the Republic of Somaliland jetted back into the country on Friday evening from a three day visit to the neighbouring country of Djibouti, in a visit that rekindled regional cooperation and stability.

Upon arrival at Egal International Airport to a heavy downpour, the Head of State braved the rains, walking into it as he disembarked the plane, hence to the surprise of dignitaries and the servicemen who mounted the reception guard of honour, refused the solace of an umbrella extended to him in a rare show of solidarity, depicting epitome of humbleness.

According to the Minister of Information, Culture and National Guidance Hon. Ahmed-yasin Sh Ali Ayaanle who was part of the Presidential entourage, the visit was one that open a new page in the bilateral relations with Djibouti.

It had thawed in the last year of the past administration.

The minister noted that focus on the visit rekindles and solidifies bilateral relations crucial to the development of the region such as security, commercial social and associated affairs.

As he briefed the press at the Presidency, he reminded the nation that the two countries shared not only religion, culture and language, but almost all families in both nations had their kin or extended families across both borders.

He noted that an indispensable highway to connect the countries is not only in the offing but is to be constructed, courtesy of the Africa Development Bank.

This was the first visit by President Abdirahman Irro since taking over the helm of the country’s leadership six months ago, hence what stark out quite distinctly different from his predecessors’ visits is the fact that he was joined by foreign ambassadors of partner nations for breakfast, a meeting that was engaging an eventful.

The President lauded the bilateral relations with Ethiopia, UK and the French as he had breakfast with their Djibouti based ambassadors. They talked of ways and means of strengthening diplomatic and economic relations.

Similarly, the President addressed the Somaliland diaspora in Djibouti in a heartwarming speech.

Somaliland and Djibouti hold high stakes in the Red Sea region, with the countries positioned at a most strategic point.

In a changing geo-political economical world, stability is the main core of development and progress hence a core foundation and focus for H.E. Abdirahman Irro’s administration.

Somaliland Minister Advocates for Peace and Cooperation with Djibouti

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In a powerful address to the Somaliland diaspora in Djibouti, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed Yassin Sheikh Ali Ayanle, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration between Somaliland and Djibouti. Speaking as the government’s spokesperson, the Minister underscored President Abdirahman Irro commitment to fostering peace and societal harmony as the cornerstone of his administration’s policy.

Highlighting the deep and unbreakable bond between Somaliland and Djibouti, Minister Ayanle described the two nations as inseparable brothers, bound by shared history and mutual interests. “The relationship between Somaliland and Djibouti is one that cannot be severed,” he stated, noting the strong ties that continue to define their partnership.

The Minister elaborated on President Irro’s vision, which focuses on reinforcing shared values and resolving differences through skillful diplomacy. “The President’s policy is to strengthen what unites us. Differences of opinion are natural, but managing them with wisdom and professionalism is at the heart of his leadership,” Ayanle remarked.

He further expressed optimism about the future of Somaliland-Djibouti relations, emphasizing the shared commitment of both nations’ leaders to reduce conflict and enhance cooperation. “We hope for a future where disputes are minimized, and collaboration thrives. The forward-thinking leadership of both Presidents ensures that our nations remain united and inseparable,” he said, adding, “With Allah’s guidance, we will succeed in this shared endeavor.”

The Minister’s remarks come at a time when both nations are working to deepen their partnership, focusing on regional stability and mutual prosperity. The Somaliland government continues to prioritize diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with its neighbors, with Djibouti remaining a key ally in the Horn of Africa.

Somaliland Foreign Minister Meets U.S. Congressional Leaders and Hudson Institute to Bolster Bilateral Ties

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Somaliland Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adam led a delegation to Washington, D.C., engaging in high-level discussions with U.S. Congressional leaders and the Hudson Institute to strengthen ties between the United States and the self-governing region of Somaliland. The meetings, held on May 23, 2025, involved Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA), Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN), and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), focusing on shared priorities such as security cooperation, economic ties, and countering China’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa.

In a post on X, Minister Adam highlighted productive talks with Rep. Jackson, emphasizing enhanced security collaboration in the strategically vital Horn of Africa, a critical chokepoint for global trade routes along the Gulf of Aden. Similarly, discussions with Rep. Moolenaar underscored his advocacy for establishing a U.S. representative office in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital, as a step toward formalizing ties despite Somaliland’s lack of international recognition. Meetings with Rep. Tiffany and Rep. Perry further reinforced bipartisan support, with Perry notably introducing the Republic of Somaliland Independence Act (H.R.10402) in December 2024 to push for U.S. recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty.

A separate X post detailed Minister Adam’s meeting with Rep. Burchett, focusing on stability, economic growth, and diplomacy, highlighting Somaliland’s strategic role in the region. The delegation’s engagement with Senator Cruz, as noted in another X post, centered on boosting trade and cooperation under the U.S. “Trade Not Aid” policy, leveraging Somaliland’s rich resources and stable governance. Additionally, talks at the Hudson Institute, a key advocate for Somaliland’s recognition through experts like Joshua Meservey, explored strategic partnerships to counter regional instability and Chinese influence, aligning with the institute’s January 2025 report on U.S.-Somaliland relations.

These meetings follow Somaliland’s presidential election in November 2024, where Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) of the Waddani party was elected, succeeding Muse Bihi Abdi. President Abdullahi’s administration has prioritized international engagement, with Minister Adam laying the groundwork for a potential presidential visit to the U.S., as reported by the Somali Guardian in April 2025. The discussions build on prior initiatives, such as the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act supporting collaboration with Somaliland and a 2022 visit by the U.S. Africa Command commander to Hargeisa, noted by the Atlantic Council.

 

Cranfield University Launches £5,000 Scholarship in Memory of Slain Somaliland Aviation Expert

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Cranfield University, a leading UK institution renowned for its aviation programs, has announced the Abdinasir Abdirahman Aviation in Africa Scholarship, a £5,000 award aimed at supporting African students pursuing an MSc in aviation-related fields. The scholarship, offered by the Cranfield Centre for Air Transport Management, honors the legacy of Abdinasir Muse Dahable, a Somaliland aviation expert and Cranfield alumnus who was tragically killed in Mogadishu, Somalia, in November 2024.

Abdinasir, a passionate advocate for aviation development in Africa, was brutally murdered in what Somaliland officials have described as a retaliatory act amid ongoing airspace disputes with Somalia. His death sparked outrage, with Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs calling for a thorough investigation and urging Somalilanders in Mogadishu to remain vigilant. The incident underscored the fragile regional dynamics between the breakaway Somaliland Republic and Somalia, as Somaliland continues its decades-long pursuit of international recognition—a hope bolstered by recent elections and potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under the incoming Trump administration, as reported by Reuters in November 2024.

The scholarship, open for applications until May 30, 2025, targets African students accepted into Cranfield’s full-time MSc programs, such as Air Transport Management, starting in October 2025. Applicants must submit a personal statement and may be required to participate in a virtual interview with the Course Director. The £5,000 award will be applied as a tuition fee reduction for overseas students, fostering the next generation of aviation leaders in Africa—a mission Abdinasir championed during his lifetime.

Abdi Cirro, a Somaliland advocate who shared the announcement on X, expressed gratitude for the tribute, stating, “Abdinasir Muse Dahable, who was brutally killed by Somalia’s failed state a year ago, is now being honored by a British university with an educational scholarship dedicated to aspiring pilots & future aviation leaders in Africa. May Allah have mercy on him.”

Cranfield University, a top postgraduate institution in the UK, is known for its world-class aviation facilities and programs addressing digital, technical, and sustainability challenges in the industry. The scholarship aligns with broader initiatives like the ISTAT Foundation Scholarships, which also support young aviation professionals globally.

As Somaliland navigates its quest for recognition and regional stability, the Abdinasir Abdirahman Aviation in Africa Scholarship stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that Abdinasir’s vision for a thriving African aviation sector endures. Interested students can apply online through Cranfield’s official website.

For more information on the scholarship and application process, visit www.cranfield.ac.uk.

Somaliland Society in New Zealand marks 18 May

By
Goth Mohamed
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0
Somaliland Society in New Zealand Incorporated, marked the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s National Day on May 18, 2025, commemorating more than three decades since the restoration of the nation’s sovereignty.
The spirited celebrations, held in a bustling public square, brought together generations of Somalilanders and allies to honor their heritage and shared history.
Attendees adorned traditional attire and Somaliland’s iconic unity flag, symbolizing resilience and self-determination, as they gathered with joy and patriotic enthusiasm. Families, youth, elders, and locals with MP from Green Party – Hon Julie Anne, Adam Awad the president of Somaliland Society in New Zealand and distinguished guests to celebrate the occasion, reflecting the Somaliland community’s integration into Kiwi/New Zealand society.
The event featured stirring speeches that recounted Somaliland’s journey, emphasizing its historical struggle for recognition and the enduring significance of May 18 as a day of national pride. Cultural performances took center stage, with traditional Somali dances, Somaliland national songs echoing the rich tapestry of Somaliland’s identity. Attendees savored authentic food, while children participated in lively cultural games, fostering intergenerational connections.
The celebrations not only showcased Somaliland’s distinct heritage but also reinforced the community’s unity and determination to keep their homeland’s story alive on the global stage.
The festivities concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity, underscoring the Somaliland Society in New Zealand’s role as a beacon of Somaliland’s enduring spirit and aspirations.by

Somaliland President Engages Key International Partners in Djibouti to Advance Regional Security and Economic Cooperation

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Djibouti— The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), currently on an official working visit to Djibouti, convened a strategic working lunch with ambassadors from France, Ethiopia, and the United Kingdom, who are accredited to the Republic of Djibouti.

The meeting served as a platform for a comprehensive exchange on regional dynamics, with a focus on Somaliland’s stabilizing role in the Horn of Africa. President Cirro outlined key priorities during discussions with the diplomatic representatives:

  1. Regional Security and Stability

– Collaborative Security Frameworks: The President emphasized Somaliland’s commitment to advancing regional security partnerships, particularly in combating threats to stability in the Horn of Africa and resolving ongoing conflicts.
– Maritime Security: He underscored the critical need for joint efforts to safeguard the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, vital corridors for global trade and regional economic resilience.

  1. Economic Development and Investment

– President Cirro highlighted Somaliland’s untapped potential for foreign investment, streamlined cross-border trade, and large-scale infrastructure projects. He stressed the importance of international support to bolster humanitarian initiatives and sustainable development programs.

  1. Strengthening Diplomatic Ties

– The President praised the robust diplomatic relations between Somaliland and Ethiopia, as well as the United Kingdom, both of which maintain active missions in Hargeisa. He reiterated Somaliland’s aspiration for broader international recognition and called on France to establish a formal diplomatic presence in Somaliland, citing growing bilateral opportunities.

Outcome:
The discussions concluded with shared optimism about deepening cooperation on regional security, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement. President Irro reaffirmed Somaliland’s readiness to serve as a reliable partner in fostering peace and prosperity across the Horn of Africa.

Somaliland and Philippines Strengthen Naval Ties in Manila Meeting

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

In a significant step toward enhancing maritime security in the Horn of Africa, Admiral Kadar Mohamed, Deputy Commander of the Somaliland Coast Guard, met with Admiral Roy A. Echeverri, Commander of the Philippine Navy, in Manila on 22nd May, 2025. The high-level meeting focused on fostering maritime cooperation and establishing a naval partnership between the two nations.

The discussions come at a critical time for Somaliland seeking to bolster its maritime defenses amid ongoing regional challenges, including piracy threats in the strategic waters of the Horn of Africa. The region, encompassing key trade routes like the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden, has historically been a hotspot for maritime piracy, though incidents have decreased since their peak in the late 2000s due to international efforts.

Somaliland’s Coast Guard, established in 1995, has been modernizing its capabilities, recently acquiring Defender-class boats from Italy and Sweden. The Somaliland Maritime Security Coordination Office, set up in 2023, plays a key role in coordinating such international collaborations. Admiral Mohamed emphasized the importance of partnerships to enhance maritime safety, security, and emergency response in Somaliland’s waters.

Admiral Echeverri, a seasoned officer from the Philippine Military Academy’s “SAMBISIG” Class of 1991, brings extensive expertise in naval operations, including surface and special warfare. The Philippine Navy, aiming to be a modern and multi-capable force by 2028, is well-positioned to share technical and strategic knowledge with Somaliland, potentially aiding in the development of its maritime defense plans.

This meeting underscores Somaliland’s growing efforts to secure international support for its maritime security initiatives, despite its lack of formal recognition as a sovereign state. For the Philippines, the partnership aligns with broader regional interests in ensuring safe and secure maritime corridors vital for global trade.

The collaboration is expected to pave the way for joint training, information sharing, and coordinated efforts to address maritime challenges in the Horn of Africa, a region critical to international shipping and geopolitical stability.

Edmonton’s Somaliland Community Celebrates 34 Years of Sovereignty with Cultural Pride and Unity

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The vibrant Somaliland community in Edmonton, Canada, marked the 34th anniversary of Somaliland’s National Day on May 18, 2025, commemorating more than three decades since the restoration of the nation’s sovereignty. The spirited celebrations, held in a bustling public square, brought together generations of Somalilanders and allies to honor their heritage and shared history.

Attendees adorned traditional attire and Somaliland’s iconic unity flag, symbolizing resilience and self-determination, as they gathered with joy and patriotic enthusiasm. Families, youth, elders, and local leaders joined Canadian government officials and distinguished guests to celebrate the occasion, reflecting the community’s integration and multicultural harmony in Edmonton.

The event featured stirring speeches that recounted Somaliland’s journey, emphasizing its historical struggle for recognition and the enduring significance of May 18 as a day of national pride. Cultural performances took center stage, with traditional Somali dances, soulful poetry, and folk songs echoing the rich tapestry of Somaliland’s identity. Attendees savored authentic Somali cuisine, while children participated in lively cultural games, fostering intergenerational connections.

In a heartfelt tribute, honorary certificates were awarded to community members and allies who have championed Somaliland’s cause and contributed to preserving its cultural legacy abroad. The celebrations not only showcased Somaliland’s distinct heritage but also reinforced the community’s unity and determination to keep their homeland’s story alive on the global stage.

The festivities concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity, underscoring the Edmonton community’s role as a beacon of Somaliland’s enduring spirit and aspirations.

President Irro Explores Telecom Collaboration in Djibouti

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Irro” of Somaliland toured Djibouti’s advanced telecommunications facilities during a working visit, focusing on enhancing regional partnerships.

A Djibouti official stated:

“We welcomed President Irro to the Haramous Submarine Cable Station, showcasing Djibouti’s role as East Africa’s digital hub. With 10 subsea cables, this facility anchors Africa’s connectivity to global networks.

By sharing expertise and strengthening ties with Somaliland, we advance a shared vision: a connected digital future that drives regional growth.”

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