As Abdullahi Hassan Adan assumes the mantle of Somaliland’s Ministry of Finance, his leadership will define how fiscal policy and economic strategy propel Somaliland toward stability and growth. 

The Ministry of Finance: A Pillar of Somaliland’s Statecraft

The Ministry of Finance is the cornerstone of Somaliland’s economic governance, tasked with managing the nation’s resources, enabling sustainable development, and ensuring fiscal stability. This role goes beyond merely collecting taxes and balancing budgets—it is a strategic institution that lays the foundation for Somaliland’s aspirations of sovereignty and prosperity.

Through its policies and management, the Ministry reflects the strength and direction of Somaliland’s statecraft. It provides the financial infrastructure for government services, engages with international stakeholders, and defines the frameworks for investment, trade, and economic development. Crucially, it is also a custodian of public trust, charged with ensuring transparency and accountability in public financial management.

For Minister Abdullahi Hassan Adan, assuming office today, these responsibilities are both daunting and filled with opportunity. His tenure comes at a pivotal moment when Somaliland’s economic ambitions, symbolized by the rapidly developing Berbera Port, are becoming central to its strategic goals. However, the path ahead demands bold and effective leadership to address structural challenges and align fiscal policy with long-term objectives.

Strategic Opportunities and Challenges Ahead

Somaliland’s economic landscape is a mixture of potential and constraints, requiring a careful balancing act. The Ministry must focus on both addressing immediate fiscal challenges and laying the groundwork for transformative growth.

The Strategic Role of Berbera Port
Berbera Port is Somaliland’s most significant economic and geopolitical asset. Its expansion, aided by partnerships with entities such as DP World, has positioned it as a critical node for trade in the Horn of Africa. However, unlocking its full potential requires a strategic vision that integrates the port with broader economic objectives.

Minister Adan must focus on ensuring that the port’s revenues are efficiently utilized to support national development, such as building transport corridors, enhancing regional trade links, and stimulating local industries. Attracting global shipping and logistics companies to Berbera will demand fiscal policies that create an investment-friendly environment, ensuring competitive tariffs, streamlined customs processes, and robust infrastructure.

Strengthening Revenue Collection and Fiscal Accountability
Somaliland’s revenue streams remain heavily reliant on customs and indirect taxes, leaving room for improvement in efficiency and equity. Modernizing revenue collection systems, addressing tax evasion, and formalizing the informal economy are essential steps for creating a sustainable fiscal base.

Minister Adan must also champion transparency in public financial management. The effective allocation and monitoring of public funds will be critical in building trust and demonstrating the government’s commitment to equitable growth. This will require investment in digital tools, capacity building within the Ministry, and clear communication with the public about how resources are used.

Economic Diversification: Reducing Vulnerability
Somaliland’s economy is disproportionately reliant on livestock exports, making it vulnerable to external shocks such as droughts and fluctuating global demand. Minister Adan must lead efforts to diversify the economy by fostering agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, and the service sector.

The Berbera Economic Zone, designed to complement the port, represents a unique opportunity to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate industrial growth. Ensuring its success will require fiscal incentives, clear regulations, and collaboration with private-sector stakeholders.

Navigating International Engagement
Somaliland’s unique political status necessitates a creative approach to engaging with international financial institutions and development partners. The Finance Ministry must position Somaliland as a reliable and credible partner, capable of managing funds transparently and delivering measurable results. Minister Adan’s ability to articulate Somaliland’s development vision and negotiate access to regional and global resources will be instrumental in this regard.

Balancing Fiscal Discipline and Public Needs
Maintaining fiscal discipline while addressing the needs of a growing population is a perennial challenge. Minister Adan must balance investments in critical infrastructure and social services with the imperative to control public debt and avoid budget deficits. Public spending must be prioritized toward projects with high economic and social returns, ensuring that fiscal policy aligns with long-term development goals.

Expectations and Leadership Priorities

Minister Adan assumes office amid heightened public expectations. The success of his tenure will depend not only on technical expertise but also on his ability to inspire confidence among Somalilanders and international partners.

Creating a Cohesive Team
Leadership at the Ministry of Finance requires collaboration and inclusivity. Engaging experienced economists, financial experts, and seasoned public administrators is crucial. Minister Adan must also draw on insights from Somaliland’s diaspora, whose expertise and resources can complement domestic efforts.

Empowering Institutional Structures
A well-functioning Ministry demands empowered departments that operate with efficiency and accountability. Strengthening the institutional capacity of the Ministry, particularly its revenue, planning, and budgeting units, will be foundational for achieving strategic goals.

Leveraging Public Diplomacy
Somalilanders view economic progress as integral to the nation’s sovereignty campaign. Minister Adan must ensure that the Ministry communicates its achievements and plans transparently, demonstrating how fiscal policy supports Somaliland’s broader aspirations. This includes actively engaging the public in discussions about priorities and progress, fostering a sense of collective ownership in Somaliland’s economic journey.

Conclusion

Minister Abdullahi Hassan Adan’s tenure begins at a critical juncture in Somaliland’s state-building journey. The Ministry of Finance stands as a pivotal institution that can transform economic potential into tangible progress. By maximizing the strategic advantages of Berbera Port, championing diversification, and maintaining fiscal discipline, Minister Adan has the opportunity to shape a resilient and prosperous Somaliland.

In an era where public scrutiny is high, and regional dynamics are shifting, his leadership will be critical in ensuring that Somaliland’s economic policies meet the needs of its people while advancing its case on the global stage. The success of the Finance Ministry will not only determine Somaliland’s economic future but also bolster its broader aspirations for recognition and self-reliance.

Waryatv.com proudly presents a visual showcase of today’s historic event, a moment that speaks volumes about Somaliland’s unique democratic practices. The world watched as former President Muse Bihi Abdi gracefully transferred power to the newly elected President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, in a ceremonial event held in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland. Among the notable attendees were U.S. and British diplomats, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan, and various regional leaders. For a country that continues to function without international recognition, this occasion was nothing short of a masterclass in political civility and maturity.

Yet, one cannot help but ask: why does the world persist in ignoring Somaliland?

Somaliland’s Democracy: An African Rarity

As the Horn of Africa grapples with instability, Somaliland remains a stark contrast. Here is a nation that holds free, fair, and peaceful elections, where leadership changes are marked by unity and optimism rather than bullets and bloodshed. This handover ceremony, conducted with decorum and transparency, is an undeniable testament to the democratic ethos of Somaliland.

Meanwhile, neighboring Somalia, a failed state synonymous with piracy, terrorism, and infighting, continues to command the international spotlight—and funding. Despite decades of turmoil, Somalia has yet to hold a single one-person-one-vote election. Instead, its government is marred by clan disputes and perpetual insecurity. In contrast, Somalilanders have consistently embraced ballots over bullets, holding multiple elections for parliament, local councils, and the presidency.

The irony here is stifling. Somaliland—a nation that functions, builds, and aspires—remains unrecognized, while the dysfunctional Somali state continues to be the darling of international diplomacy.

A Sarcastic Nod to Global Powers

Perhaps Somaliland’s greatest “failure” is that it is simply too competent. It has no pirates hijacking ships to make global headlines. It harbors no Al-Shabaab militants to draw drone strikes. And, tragically, it receives no pitying headlines to spur humanitarian campaigns. Somaliland is merely a success story—a democracy in the Horn of Africa. How boring that must be for the powers that claim to champion democracy!

Let’s not forget the global obsession with “territorial integrity” in Somalia. The international community clings to a fantasy of a unified Somalia while ignoring that Somaliland voluntarily withdrew from this union in 1991 after years of brutal oppression. Even as global powers pour billions into Somalia’s abyss, Somaliland soldiers on, building a functioning state with its own currency, passport, and institutions.

Why Recognition Matters

For three decades, Somalilanders have shouted into the void for recognition. Today’s handover ceremony sends yet another message to the world: Somaliland is not asking for charity; it is asking for acknowledgment of its undeniable sovereignty. The lack of recognition not only stifles economic opportunities but also sends a demoralizing signal to other aspiring democracies in Africa.

Conclusion

The images of this historic day—Abdi and Irro shaking hands, dignitaries applauding, and a unified populace celebrating democracy—tell a story that global powers choose to ignore. Somaliland doesn’t fit the narrative of an African nation reliant on foreign aid or entangled in unending chaos. It is a democracy thriving against all odds, making the world’s silence on its sovereignty all the more deafening.

Perhaps, as the next round of Somali infighting dominates headlines, the global community might take a moment to reflect: why are we rewarding failure and ignoring success? Until then, Somaliland will continue to lead by example, recognition or not.

As Somaliland stands poised for a significant political transition with the inauguration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro on December 12, 2024, the advice of seasoned statesmen such as Dr. Mohamed Warsame, a former senior UN officer, becomes invaluable. In order to navigate the complex landscape of governance and to fulfill the aspirations of the Somaliland people, President Irro must lay a foundation for a new government characterized by integrity, expertise, and a commitment to national interests over tribal affiliations.

Defining a Legacy from Day One

The first actions taken by President Irro will be instrumental in shaping his legacy and public perception. Serious consideration must be placed on the composition and quality of the cabinet he assembles, as this will serve as a litmus test for the transformative change promised during his campaign. To truly signify a departure from previous administrations, it is imperative that he refrains from filling key positions with candidates who have previously held power. Such a choice risks perpetuating old patterns of ineffective governance—a “draining of the swamp” is essential for revitalization and growth.

Building a Robust Cabinet

The profiles of the individuals appointed to key ministries will signal both continuity and change. President Irro should prioritize candidates with proven field knowledge and relevant experience. Talent, expertise, and visionary thinking need to be at the forefront of his selection process. This approach will not only enhance the capability of his administration but also foster public trust and confidence in his leadership.

Moreover, it is essential that the national interest takes precedence over tribal affiliations. The concept of tribal representation has often been misused and has led to division rather than unity. President Irro must choose individuals who share a commitment to implementing his vision and advancing the common goals of Somaliland.

Combating Corruption and Administrative Overhaul

Addressing the issues of nepotism, cronyism, and corruption should be non-negotiable priorities for the new administration. These challenges have plagued previous governments, eroding public trust and impeding effective governance. To lay a path toward meaningful reform, President Irro should initiate deep overhauls within vital ministries such as the Interior, Foreign Affairs, Health, and Education.

Specifically, the Ministry of Interior has grown overstretched, making it cumbersome and less effective. A strategic move could be the splitting of this ministry into two distinct entities: the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Homeland Security. This separation would allow for more focused governance and responsiveness to the unique challenges faced in each area—ensuring that issues of public safety, law enforcement, and national integrity receive the dedicated attention they deserve.

Focus on Strategic Recognition

The next six months represent a critical juncture for Somaliland, particularly regarding the pursuit of international recognition. This goal, while challenging, presents promising opportunities. President Irro should establish a think tank comprising three to four experienced individuals who can devise comprehensive strategies to navigate international relations and counter the intrigues of regional adversaries. This body could provide essential insights and innovative approaches to bolster Somaliland’s quest for recognition on the world stage.

Engaging Qualified Citizens

Finally, attracting experienced and highly qualified citizens, particularly those within the silent majority who may be disillusioned or disengaged, is imperative. President Irro should initiate outreach programs to engage this demographic, allowing their voices and knowledge to be harnessed for the betterment of the nation. By fostering an environment that values expertise and civic engagement, the new government can build an inspired and participatory citizenry.

Conclusion

In summation, as President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro embarks on this pivotal journey, the advice provided by Mohamed Warsame serves as a guiding framework. By constructing a cabinet focused on competence and integrity, combatting corruption, undertaking vital reforms, and strategically pursuing international recognition, President Irro can set a new course for Somaliland—one that fosters unity, progress, and a promising future for all its citizens. The time for transformation is now, and with decisive action, the new administration can create a legacy of which the people of Somaliland can be proud.

Why Somaliland Deserves Recognition.

Somaliland is positioning itself as a strategic and economic hub, with its Berbera Port at the forefront of this transformation. This article explores why Somaliland deserves global recognition and how its unique location and investments in infrastructure are making it an indispensable partner for global powers.

Somaliland occupies a prime location on the Gulf of Aden, at the crossroads of critical maritime routes linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its proximity to the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea makes it a highly sought-after location for trade and military bases. Major powers, including the U.S., Russia, China, and India, are increasingly vying for influence in this region to secure access to vital shipping lanes and trade routes.

For instance, the Berbera corridor connects the port directly to Ethiopia, a landlocked nation with over 100 million people, making it an economic lifeline for regional trade​

Thanks to a $400 million investment by DP World, Berbera Port has undergone significant upgrades. New cranes and expanded cargo-handling facilities have transformed it into one of the most efficient ports in Africa, surpassing even Mombasa in Kenya in global rankings for container handling. These advancements have increased its capacity and reduced turnaround times for vessels, attracting international trade​

The port’s modernization is coupled with the establishment of economic zones and initiatives to empower local communities through education, job creation, and sustainability projects. This mirrors the success stories of global trade hubs like Dubai and Singapore​

Superpowers are increasingly eyeing Somaliland as a potential base for geopolitical and military operations. Berbera’s location offers strategic advantages for monitoring and controlling maritime traffic in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Historically, both the Soviet Union and the United States established bases in Somaliland during the Cold War. Today, interest is resurging as nations recognize the strategic importance of this region​

Somaliland remains unrecognized internationally. However, its political stability, democratic governance, and strategic location make it a valuable ally for nations seeking a foothold in the Horn of Africa. By investing in Somaliland, global powers not only secure access to critical trade routes but also contribute to the stability and economic growth of the region​

Somaliland is not just a regional player; it is a rising star on the global stage. Its strategic location, thriving port, and untapped economic potential offer unparalleled opportunities for trade and investment. Recognizing Somaliland could pave the way for stronger partnerships, fostering economic development and geopolitical stability in the Horn of Africa.

Somaliland must leverage its assets, including Berbera Port, to attract global investment and diplomatic recognition. A targeted marketing campaign highlighting its strategic importance, economic potential, and political stability could position Somaliland as a crucial partner for superpowers navigating the complexities of the Horn of Africa.

By aligning its vision with global trends in trade, security, and sustainability, Somaliland is poised to become a beacon of progress and a key player in the global economy.

Somaliland is emerging as a beacon of potential, rich in untapped resources and poised for a transformative future. With its strategic location, stable governance, and a wealth of natural assets, this region is quickly becoming an attractive destination for foreign investors. As President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro leads the charge for Somaliland’s recognition on the global stage, the time is ripe for international investors, particularly from dynamic economies like USA, to engage with this promising territory.

Somaliland’s landscape is dotted with significant reserves of oil and various minerals, including gypsum, limestone, salt, and iron ore. The promise of these natural resources presents a unique opportunity to catalyze economic growth and job creation. By investing in sustainable extraction technologies, foreign investors can not only harness these resources but also contribute to the development of local economies, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future.

Situated along the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland enjoys a prime geographic advantage, serving as a natural hub for trade that connects Africa with the Middle East and beyond. This strategic position makes it an ideal location for logistics and commerce, further enhancing its appeal to potential investors. Coupled with a youthful population eager to adapt and innovate, Somaliland offers a workforce that is primed to meet the demands of various sectors, including technology and agriculture.

To effectively attract foreign investment, Somaliland must embrace the power of storytelling—crafting a narrative that resonates with prospective investors. This story should highlight the region’s vision for growth, showcasing local entrepreneurs who have thrived against all odds. By sharing these success stories, Somaliland can illustrate its resilience and potential, inviting investors to join in its journey.

The cultural richness of Somaliland is another key facet of this narrative. The warmth and hospitality of its people are a vital part of the experience, making the region an inviting place for businesses to establish roots and foster meaningful connections. As Somaliland strives for international recognition, it is crucial to underline the political stability and governance structures that have allowed it to maintain peace and security, making it a more attractive locale for investment.

To further bolster interest from global investors, Somaliland could benefit from the establishment of a dedicated investment promotion agency—a one-stop shop to provide tailored support and information about investment opportunities. This initiative could include the development of a robust digital presence through social media and targeted outreach, ensuring the narrative of Somaliland’s potential reaches audiences far and wide.

Hosting international investment forums presents another avenue for engagement, inviting business leaders from around the world, especially from tech sector, to explore opportunities firsthand. Networking events can facilitate connections that ignite collaborations and encourage dialogue about Somaliland’s investment potential.

In particular, the tech industry stands poised to thrive in Somaliland. Companies in fields like agritech, health tech, and fintech can find fertile ground for innovation and growth. By providing customized incentives, such as tax breaks and partnership models with local businesses, Somaliland can create an inviting atmosphere for investment.

A collaboration with international organizations can further lend credibility to Somaliland’s efforts. Partnerships with influential entities such as the World Bank or the African Development Bank can enhance visibility and provide a sense of security for potential investors, showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices and innovation.

At its core, the story of Somaliland is one of resilience and opportunity. As President Irro’s government embarks on this new chapter, global investors—especially those from UK, and EU—are invited to discover the vast resources and investment opportunities that await. This is more than just a financial decision; it is a chance to forge connections with a community eager for growth, innovation, and partnership.

As the world turns its gaze toward Somaliland,  join in unlocking the full potential of this extraordinary region. Together, investors and Somaliland can build a promising future, establish a unique narrative of success, and elevate Somaliland on the global stage as a vibrant hub for investment and development. Now is the time to be part of this transformative journey.

Somalia’s federal system was conceived as a solution to the decades of conflict and fragmentation that had ravaged the country. By decentralizing power and giving regional states a voice in national governance, federalism was seen as the key to fostering unity, stability, and progress. However, recent developments, including the collapse of the National Consultative Council meeting in Mogadishu, reveal that federalism in Somalia is not just faltering—it has failed. The reasons are rooted in political manipulation, corruption, and a central government more focused on consolidating power than building a functional, equitable system.

Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre’s candid acknowledgment of the Council’s failure points to a deeper crisis. The repeated breakdown of federal meetings, coupled with the absence of key regional leaders like Jubbaland’s Ahmed Madobe and Puntland’s Saeed Deni, underscores the growing divisions between Mogadishu and Somalia’s federal states. Barre’s admission that the Council’s meetings have done little but expose the federal government’s weaknesses is a damning indictment of the current leadership, especially under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud.

The Corruption at the Heart of the Crisis

At the center of Somalia’s federalism crisis is President Mohamoud’s autocratic approach to governance. Reports have repeatedly surfaced about how he uses international development aid as a tool for political manipulation. As highlighted in various analyses, including those found in sources like Warya TV, Mohamoud has weaponized aid to pressure regional leaders into supporting his political agenda—particularly his efforts to secure reelection. Regional states that refuse to fall in line are cut off from crucial funding, leaving their populations without access to essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

In an article titled “Hassan Sheikh Mohamud: Somalia’s Ultimate Betrayer,” Mohamoud is accused of betraying the very principles of federalism that he is supposed to uphold. Instead of promoting cooperation and unity, he has deepened divisions by using development funds as leverage to silence dissent. This is not merely a power struggle between politicians; it is a betrayal of the Somali people, who depend on international aid for their survival. The article further highlights how the president’s tactics have alienated regional leaders and reduced the federal system to a high-stakes political game, rather than a functional framework for governance.

A System That Stifles Regional Autonomy

One of the fundamental promises of federalism is that it allows regional states to govern themselves, addressing local needs while maintaining a unified national identity. Yet, under Mohamoud’s leadership, federalism has become a hollow shell. The president’s strategy, as detailed in “How President Hassan’s Corruption and Power Games are Crushing Somalia’s Federal States,” is to stifle regional autonomy and centralize power in Mogadishu. Leaders like Madobe and Deni have been systematically excluded from national decision-making processes, with Madobe even walking out of the latest Consultative Council meeting.

By sidelining these key regional figures, Mohamoud has effectively abandoned the principles of federalism. Rather than engaging with regional leaders to build consensus, his administration has resorted to coercion and blackmail. The result is a federal system in name only—one that does not respect the autonomy of the states or the voices of their people.

The absence of these regional leaders from critical talks illustrates how disconnected the federal government has become from the regions it is supposed to represent. In Puntland, Jubbaland, and beyond, leaders are increasingly disillusioned with Mogadishu’s refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue. This growing estrangement raises the prospect of regional fragmentation, further weakening Somalia’s already fragile state.

The Weaponization of Aid

International development assistance, which is intended to support Somalia’s recovery and development, has instead become a weapon wielded by Mogadishu against dissenting regions. The accusations against Mohamoud—that he has used aid to blackmail regional states into supporting his reelection—are not just troubling; they are dangerous. This kind of manipulation undermines trust between the federal government and its regional counterparts and risks turning aid distribution into a political tool rather than a humanitarian lifeline.

This approach is particularly egregious given Somalia’s history. After decades of civil war, international donors have poured billions of dollars into the country, hoping to stabilize it and rebuild its infrastructure. That this aid is being used as a bargaining chip in political battles is an insult to the international community and, more importantly, to the Somali people, who suffer the consequences.

International donors are already becoming increasingly wary of how their funds are being used. If this misuse continues, it could lead to a decrease in aid or stricter oversight, which would have devastating effects on Somalia’s regions. Puntland, Jubbaland, and other federal states rely on this assistance to build roads, provide healthcare, and educate their populations. Without it, the already precarious situation in these areas could become even more dire.

A Crisis of Leadership and Trust

The failure of federalism in Somalia is, at its core, a crisis of leadership. President Mohamoud’s tactics have eroded the trust that is essential for a functioning federal system. By turning aid into a political weapon and sidelining regional leaders, he has undermined the very foundations of federalism. His leadership style has alienated key stakeholders and deepened the divisions that federalism was meant to heal.

Prime Minister Barre’s remarks that Somalia lacks the “unity and nationalism we wished for” reflect a harsh reality: the country is more divided than ever. Federalism, rather than bringing the nation together, is now exacerbating these divisions, as regional leaders feel increasingly marginalized and ignored.

Somalia’s federal experiment was built on the idea that regional autonomy, paired with national unity, could stabilize the country. But under Mohamoud’s leadership, that balance has been lost. Instead of fostering cooperation, the federal government has turned to coercion. Instead of building trust, it has sowed distrust. And instead of empowering regions, it has weakened them.

Learning from Somaliland

In his remarks, Prime Minister Barre made an unexpected but telling suggestion: Somalia should look to Somaliland for lessons on unity and governance. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, remains unrecognized by the international community, yet it has maintained a relatively stable and functional governance system. Its ability to preserve unity and avoid internal division is in stark contrast to Somalia’s fractured federal system.

Barre’s suggestion is significant. Somaliland, despite its challenges, has managed to build a governance system that respects local autonomy while maintaining a strong sense of national identity. Somalia, on the other hand, is struggling to balance regional autonomy with centralized power. Perhaps there are lessons to be learned from Somaliland’s approach to governance—a model that emphasizes consensus-building and local ownership over top-down control.

A Federal System in Crisis

Somalia’s federal system is failing, and the reasons are clear: political manipulation, corruption, and a lack of leadership have turned federalism into a farce. President Mohamoud’s tactics of using aid as leverage and excluding regional leaders from decision-making processes have deepened the country’s divisions. The failure of the National Consultative Council is not just a diplomatic setback—it is a sign that federalism in Somalia is on life support.

If Somalia is to salvage its federal system, it will need a leader who can unite, not divide; who can engage in meaningful dialogue with regional leaders, not blackmail them; and who can prioritize the well-being of all Somalis, not just those who support him politically. Until that happens, Somalia’s federal experiment will continue to crumble, and its people will pay the price.

With allegations of blackmail and misuse of international funds, Somalia’s leader is accused of sacrificing national stability and democracy for personal political gain.

Imagine a country already grappling with poverty, instability, and conflict. Now, add to that a leader accused of playing political games that further entrench divisions and deprive citizens of desperately needed development resources. This is the reality facing Somalia, where President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud is facing mounting accusations of using international development funds as leverage to blackmail federal states into supporting his political agenda.

In a country where survival often depends on international aid, these allegations feel like a betrayal on the grandest scale—one that jeopardizes not only Somalia’s fragile democracy but also the well-being of millions.

Blackmail and Political Machinations

President Mohamoud’s alleged strategy is both simple and insidious: withhold international development funds from regional member states that refuse to back his election plans. This tactic is not just about political survival—it’s about consolidating power by crushing dissent. But the real cost of this power play is borne by ordinary Somali citizens in regions where these funds are crucial for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and even basic survival.

The president’s move has drawn the ire of local leaders, who say that Mohamoud is deliberately stoking divisions, transforming what should be collaborative governance into a high-stakes chess game. The message from the presidency is clear: get in line or get cut off.

One regional leader, who requested anonymity for fear of retribution, described the situation in stark terms: “It’s not about governance anymore—it’s about obedience. If you don’t bow down to Mogadishu, you’re out.”

The idea that a nation’s leader would gamble with development aid—funds that are meant to lift Somalia out of its cycle of poverty and instability—is not only shocking, it is infuriating. While the federal government continues to point to security and governance improvements in the capital, Mogadishu, the rest of the country is left to fight over scraps.

Regional States Held Hostage

Somalia’s federal states, each with their own pressing needs, rely heavily on international development assistance to address basic public services—everything from road construction to healthcare programs. Yet, under Mohamoud’s leadership, these funds have reportedly become a tool for blackmail. Any regional government that dares to question his policies or refuses to fall in line with his reelection strategy risks losing critical funding.

And it’s not just a matter of political preference. Withholding these funds exacerbates the already entrenched inequalities between Mogadishu and the regions, fanning the flames of resentment and further destabilizing the country’s fragile political landscape.

Consider a region like Jubaland, which has long been at odds with Mogadishu over autonomy and governance. Under Mohamoud’s alleged strategy, withholding funds could cripple the local government’s ability to provide basic services, deepening the divide and pushing citizens further into poverty and instability. These power dynamics leave regional leaders with an impossible choice: betray their constituents or risk losing the resources they need to govern.

International Donors in the Crosshairs

International development aid is supposed to be a lifeline, especially in a nation like Somalia, where decades of civil war and extremism have devastated infrastructure and public services. But if the allegations against President Mohamoud are true, then that lifeline is being weaponized for political gain.

For international donors—who often operate under the assumption that their aid will be distributed equitably—the accusations against Mohamoud are deeply troubling. Aid agencies and governments have long preached the importance of transparency and good governance. If development funds are being manipulated for political leverage, it could prompt international donors to rethink their support for Somalia altogether.

This scenario is a nightmare not only for the federal states but for the entire country. Somalia’s economy is fragile, and its reliance on international assistance is well-documented. A collapse in donor trust could result in aid cuts, driving Somalia into deeper economic despair and possibly igniting new waves of conflict.

As one Western diplomat put it, “We need assurances that our funds are being used to help people, not to serve one man’s political ambitions.”

The Death of Democratic Process?

Perhaps the most dangerous consequence of these alleged actions is the erosion of Somalia’s fragile democratic system. By holding development funds hostage, Mohamoud is not just undermining the autonomy of regional governments—he’s undermining the democratic processes that are essential to Somalia’s future.

Elections in Somalia are already precarious affairs, often marred by violence, corruption, and accusations of fraud. If regional governments are forced to support Mohamoud out of fear of losing essential funding, then democracy in Somalia becomes nothing more than a puppet show, with the strings pulled by Mogadishu.

This tactic reeks of authoritarianism, and it raises the question: How long before Somalia’s federal states fight back?

The seeds of discontent are already growing. Regional leaders are increasingly vocal in their opposition to the president’s tactics, and some are even considering pushing back more aggressively against Mogadishu. This internal conflict risks tearing the country apart at a time when unity is desperately needed to combat both economic challenges and the persistent threat of extremist groups like al-Shabaab.

The Human Cost

Amid these political power plays, it is easy to forget the real victims: the people of Somalia. For many, international aid is the only lifeline in a country where poverty, conflict, and instability are daily realities. With regional governments stripped of funding, the services that citizens rely on—healthcare, education, clean water—are at risk of vanishing.

Imagine being a mother in Puntland, watching your children suffer from malnutrition because the local government can’t secure the funds needed for food programs. Or imagine being a father in Galmudug, unable to access basic medical care because your regional hospital is shut down due to lack of resources.

These are not abstract concepts. These are the real, tangible consequences of President Mohamoud’s alleged blackmail of federal states. And as long as this political game continues, it is the Somali people who will pay the price.

A Ticking Time Bomb

The situation in Somalia is a ticking time bomb. President Mohamoud’s alleged use of international funds to blackmail regional states is not just a breach of trust—it’s a dangerous move that risks unraveling the entire fabric of the country.

Somalia needs a leader who can unite its people, not divide them for personal gain. As long as Mohamoud continues to play this high-stakes political game, the future of Somalia remains uncertain, and its people continue to suffer the consequences.

International donors and regional leaders must come together to demand transparency, accountability, and fairness in the distribution of development funds. The alternative is too grim to consider—a Somalia where corruption reigns, democracy is a farce, and its people are left to fend for themselves.