By Jama Ayaanle Feyte
Accra, Ghana – Hon Hersi Haji Ali Hassan , the Chairman of Somaliland’s ruling party, Waddani, has described the 8th Africa Political Summit (APS 2026) as a vital opportunity to build strong relationships with ruling parties across the Horn of Africa, the continent, and the wider world.
The Chairman , who travelled to Accra for the landmark conference, confirmed that Waddani Party is deepening its diplomatic and political engagement with other African political organisations.
“It is a pleasure that the ruling party, WADDANI, has established good relations with the ruling parties in the Horn of Africa, as well as across Africa and the world,” the Hon. Hersi said.
The summit, organised by the Association of Political Consultants – Africa (APC-Africa), was held on May 14, 2026, at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Ghana. The host country for this year’s edition was Ghana.
Reinventing Political Campaigns
Under the theme “Reinventing Political Campaigns: Strategy, Technology, Resourcing, and Grassroots Mobilization”, the event brought together political strategists, party leaders, and election experts from across the continent.
The programme featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and the presentation of the Africa Democracy Award. Among the solidarity speakers listed was Hersi Ali H. Hassan, National Chairman of the Waddani Party, Somaliland.
The morning plenary sessions focused on campaign management, voter engagement, data-driven political strategy, and the future of political campaigning in Africa.
National Day Message
At the conclusion of his remarks, the Chairman of Waddani reminded Somalilanders of an important upcoming occasion:
“This is for our National Day on 18 May!”
The reference is to Somaliland’s independence day, celebrated annually on 18 May, marking the country’s restoration of sovereignty following the collapse of the Somali central government in 1991.
Growing Continental Influence
The summit highlighted the increasing role of African political parties in sharing best practices on election strategy, digital campaigning, and party financing. The Waddani Party’s active participation signals Somaliland’s continued efforts to forge political partnerships despite its lack of international recognition.
APC-Africa has indicated that the 9th Africa Political Summit will be hosted in another member country in 2027.
Jama Ayaanle Feyte is .Journalist, Horn of Africa Security Expert and Political Analyst
Home Somaliland Somaliland’s Waddani Party Strengthens Ties at 8th Africa Political Summit in Ghana
