President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro emphasizes unity, collaboration, and strategic planning in his newly formed government as efforts to address regional crises continue.

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, has inaugurated a comprehensive training program for the newly appointed cabinet ministers, emphasizing the importance of unity, collaboration, and strategic alignment to ensure effective governance and national progress.

Speaking at the training forum, President Irro outlined the initiative’s objectives, positioning it as a foundation for the cabinet to align their efforts and collectively pursue Somaliland’s aspirations. Highlighting the critical role of cooperation, he stated, “To create the starting point, the whole group must align with each other and find the cooperation, collaboration, and working understanding that is necessary for success.”

The President described the training as an essential first step for the new government, setting the groundwork for their collective responsibilities. He expressed hope that the program would lead to a mutual understanding of Somaliland’s current challenges and opportunities, creating a clear pathway for national progress.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi And Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi

The training session, which featured the participation of Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi and all cabinet members, is expected to cultivate a shared vision among officials and ensure that each minister fulfills their role in achieving Somaliland’s common goals.

Addressing National Crises

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi

In addition to launching the training initiative, President Irro addressed the recent massacre in the Da’awaley area, where civilians suffered a brutal attack. Offering condolences to the victims and their families, the President assured the public that efforts to resolve the issue and prevent future incidents are ongoing.

“Our main responsibility is to stop the damage as much as possible and prevent the problem from happening again,” President Irro stated. He expressed optimism about the progress being made to resolve the crisis and emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring stability and safeguarding its citizens.

Significance of the Training Program

Newly appointed cabinet ministers

The training program marks a pivotal moment for Somaliland’s new administration, reflecting President Irro’s commitment to fostering unity and strategic planning within the government. By equipping the cabinet with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, the initiative aims to strengthen the government’s capacity to address national challenges and achieve long-term development objectives.

The dual focus on internal governmental cohesion and external crisis management demonstrates a holistic approach to governance under President Irro’s leadership. As Somaliland navigates pressing issues such as regional security and socio-economic development, the training program serves as a foundation for coordinated and effective policymaking.

The coming weeks will test the new administration’s ability to translate the outcomes of this initiative into tangible progress, both in addressing immediate crises like Da’awaley and in advancing Somaliland’s broader aspirations on the global stage.

Liyuu Police accused of targeting Isaaq pastoralist communities in a brutal attack that threatens regional stability and Ethiopia-Somaliland relations.

The brutal attack in Da’awaley village, Ethiopia’s Somali region, has left over 114 dead and hundreds wounded, with survivors enduring unimaginable atrocities. The massacre, carried out by the Liyuu Police—a paramilitary force dominated by the Ogaden clan—has sent shockwaves across the region, threatening decades of cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland and exposing deep-seated ethnic and political tensions.

The victims, predominantly Arap Sheikh Isaaq pastoralists, were targeted in their homes, which were burned to the ground along with mosques. Survivors with severe gunshot wounds and burns have overwhelmed medical facilities in Jigjiga, the regional capital, and Hargeisa in Somaliland. The targeted community historically straddles the Ethiopia-Somaliland border, maintaining grazing patterns and familial ties that transcend national boundaries. This shared heritage has long been a foundation for stable relations between Ethiopia and Somaliland, now jeopardized by the massacre.

The Liyuu Police, described by critics as a tool for advancing Ogaden clan dominance under the leadership of Somali Region President Mustafe Omer, stand accused of extrajudicial killings, torture, and displacing civilian populations. This attack marks a grim escalation in their documented history of human rights abuses, with particular brutality against Arap Sheikh Isaaq communities.

Somaliland’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, condemned the violence as a “gross violation of human rights” and led urgent talks with Ethiopian federal and regional officials. The resulting agreement reportedly includes federal troop deployments to the region and the reassignment of Liyuu Police forces. However, whether these measures will prevent future violence remains uncertain.

The fate of nearly 60 traditional elders from Somaliland, who had entered Ethiopia to mediate grazing disputes, remains shrouded in controversy. Their sudden public appearance in Jigjiga, following transportation by the same forces responsible for the massacre, raises concerns about their treatment and the authenticity of their involvement in reconciliation efforts.

Dr. Edna Adan Ismail, former Somaliland Foreign Minister and Special Envoy, has issued a passionate appeal to the international community. Describing the massacre as “an atrocity of unheard-of proportions,” she emphasized the destruction of lives and property, including mothers and children, and called for immediate humanitarian aid and accountability for the perpetrators.

Edna Adan highlighted the entrenched political monopoly in the Somali region that excludes Isaaq representation, allowing unchecked brutality by the Liyuu Police. Her call underscores the urgent need for global intervention to prevent further atrocities and stabilize the region.

The Da’awaley massacre has reignited longstanding ethnic and political tensions in Ethiopia’s Somali region. It highlights the fragility of regional governance and the dangers of unchecked paramilitary forces operating under the guise of state authority.

The incident also risks destabilizing Ethiopia-Somaliland relations, which have historically been rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. As the Ethiopian federal government grapples with growing ethnic unrest and the fallout from civil war in Tigray, addressing the violence in the Somali region becomes critical to preserving national unity.

The massacre in Da’awaley village is a harrowing reminder of the cost of unaddressed ethnic and political grievances. Urgent intervention is needed to protect vulnerable communities, hold perpetrators accountable, and restore stability in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

As survivors struggle to rebuild their lives and tensions simmer, the international community must respond decisively to prevent further bloodshed and uphold human rights in a region increasingly defined by violence and neglect.

Over 114 killed, hundreds wounded, and villages razed in brutal attack in Ethiopia’s Somali region, as survivors endure unimaginable atrocities.

In a harrowing account of the December 25, 2024 massacre in the villages of Da’awaley and Abokor Ahmed, Edna Adan Ismail, a renowned humanitarian and former foreign minister of Somaliland, has called for immediate international intervention to address the scale of atrocities. The brutal attack, reportedly carried out by Ethiopian regional forces known as the “New Police,” left over 114 dead and more than 200 wounded in just one day, making it one of the most devastating incidents in the region’s recent history.

Details of the Atrocity

According to Edna Adan, the attack targeted the Arab Issaq community, with 99% of those killed belonging to this tribe, including several of her close relatives. Armed with machine guns, the attackers destroyed entire villages, burning huts and cutting off escape routes toward Jigjiga, the regional capital. Survivors fled into the bush or towards Somaliland, over 50 kilometers away.

Among the horrors reported:

Mass Killings: Over 114 people killed in a single day.

Severe Injuries: More than 200 wounded, many left behind to die or attacked by wild animals.

Sexual Violence: Young girls abducted, with one survivor found raped, wounded, and abandoned.

Destruction of Property: Homes burned with petrol, leaving the villages uninhabitable.

The systematic nature of the violence and its devastating impact on civilians, primarily farmers and nomads, underscores the gravity of the incident.

A Plea for International Action

Edna Adan has described the massacre as “an atrocity of unheard-of proportions” and urged the international community to act swiftly. She emphasized the dire need for humanitarian assistance and accountability for those responsible.

Her plea comes amidst concerns about the broader implications of such violence in the already volatile Somali region of Ethiopia. The targeting of a specific tribe raises alarms about ethnic-based violence and the potential for further escalations if left unaddressed.

Broader Context

This massacre is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have destabilized Ethiopia’s Somali region. The conflict in Da’awaley has reignited longstanding tensions, highlighting the urgent need for robust intervention to prevent further atrocities.

The international community faces a critical test in responding to this tragedy. Immediate actions should include:

Humanitarian Aid: Providing medical care and essential supplies to displaced survivors.

Investigations: Launching an independent inquiry into the actions of the “New Police” and other involved parties.

Protection Measures: Ensuring the safety of vulnerable communities in the region.

Conclusion

The massacre in Da’awaley demands urgent global attention and action. Edna Adan’s testimony underscores the unimaginable suffering endured by survivors and the need for accountability to prevent further violence.

As the world grapples with complex humanitarian crises, the response to Da’awaley will be a litmus test for the international community’s commitment to justice and human rights in regions plagued by instability and conflict.

President Cirro meets with former presidents and vice-presidents to discuss national priorities and reinforce Somaliland’s unique identity.

In a significant move to reinforce national unity and continuity, the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Cirro), convened a consultative meeting with former presidents and vice-presidents of Somaliland. The meeting, held in the spirit of collaboration, focused on the current priorities and challenges facing the Republic of Somaliland.

Participants in the Historic Meeting

The consultation brought together a distinguished group of former leaders, including:

Muse Bihi Abdi: 5th President of Somaliland.

Dahir Riyale Kaahin: 3rd President of Somaliland.

Ahmed Yusuf Yassin: 3rd Vice President of Somaliland.

Abdirahman Aw Ali Farah: 2nd Vice President of Somaliland.

Bashe Mohamed Farah: Former Chairman of the Somaliland House of Representatives.

While some leaders, such as 4th and 5th Vice President Abdirahman Abdilahi Ismail (Sailici) and 1st Vice President Hassan Isse Jama, were unable to attend due to personal circumstances, their contributions were acknowledged and respected.

The inclusion of current Vice President Jam. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi underscores the government’s commitment to bridging past and present leadership to foster collective wisdom and direction.

Key Issues Discussed

The discussions centered on several pivotal topics:

National Security and Stability: Addressing immediate concerns to ensure peace and cohesion.

Special Priorities for Somaliland: Exploring strategies to bolster governance, development, and Somaliland’s unique identity in the Horn of Africa.

Strengthening National Unity: Reinforcing the shared vision of Somaliland as a distinct and stable nation amid regional challenges.

The meeting reflected Somaliland’s governance ethos, which prioritizes collaboration and unity, distinguishing it from neighboring regions.

Symbolism and Impact

President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Cirro)

This consultative gathering holds deep symbolic and practical significance:

Unity of Leadership: By bringing together past and present leaders, the meeting projects an image of solidarity and shared responsibility.

Continuity and Wisdom: Leveraging the experiences of former presidents and vice-presidents ensures that national policies benefit from institutional memory and diverse perspectives.

Message to Citizens: The visible collaboration among leaders fosters public confidence in Somaliland’s governance and strengthens nationalism.

Conclusion

The consultative meeting hosted by President Cirro exemplifies Somaliland’s commitment to inclusive governance and national cohesion. As the country navigates pressing challenges and opportunities, the engagement of past and present leaders underscores a collective dedication to the well-being and unity of its people.

This event serves as a testament to Somaliland’s unique political culture, setting it apart as a beacon of stability and collaboration in the region.

Muse Bihi Abdi: 5th President of Somaliland.

Dahir Riyale Kaahin: 3rd President of Somaliland.

Somaliland Vice President. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi

Abdirahman Aw Ali Farah: 2nd Vice President of Somaliland.

Bashe Mohamed Farah: Former Chairman of the Somaliland House of Representatives.

Ahmed Yusuf Yassin: 3rd Vice President of Somaliland.

Somaliland Special Envoy Edna Adan urges international intervention to halt atrocities by Liyuu Police in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

Hargeisa, Somaliland – In a compelling press conference at the Somaliland presidential palace, renowned humanitarian and former foreign minister Edna Adan has issued an urgent plea to the international community to intervene in the ongoing atrocities in Da’awaley, a village in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

Describing the acts as “genocide,” Adan revealed the unimaginable horrors inflicted on innocent civilians by the Liyuu Police. Villages along the Somaliland-Ethiopia border have been indiscriminately shelled, bombed, and burned to the ground.

The toll is catastrophic:

• Homes reduced to ashes.
• Women and children targeted and shot.
• Entire families massacred.
• Survivors forced into the wilderness, many severely injured, with some transported to Somaliland for emergency medical care.

“The Hawd region is being wiped off the map,” Adan stated. “These are crimes against humanity, and Somaliland cannot confront this crisis alone.”

Despite Somaliland’s best efforts to assist the victims, the sheer scale of the devastation has left the region overwhelmed. Immediate international intervention is needed to provide humanitarian aid and demand accountability for these heinous crimes.

Edna Adan’s powerful words resonate: “How many lives must be lost before the world notices?”

Somaliland calls on global powers, international organizations, and humanitarian agencies to act swiftly. The time to prevent further loss of life and secure justice for the victims is now.

Somalilanders Call for International Action Against Hostile Provocations

Marginalization and Resilience: The Isaaq-Ogaden Conflict in Ethiopia’s Somali Region

Renewed Clashes Along Ethiopia-Somaliland Border Signal Escalating Crisis

The Minister of Internal Security of Somaliland, Abdelle Mohamed Arab, has issued a strong condemnation of the massacre in the Da’awaley area of the Ethiopian Somali region, where Liyuu Police forces committed heinous acts against civilians and their livestock. These actions, the Minister emphasized, are grave violations of human rights and disregard for the principles of governance and peace.

The Minister also highlighted a troubling incident involving the kidnapping of a traditional leader from Somaliland. This leader, who had traveled to Da’awaley on a peace mission to mediate escalating tensions, was abducted by the Liyuu Police forces, further exacerbating the situation and constituting a direct affront to peace and diplomacy.

“The atrocities committed by the Liyuu Police forces in Da’awaley are reprehensible,” Minister Arab stated. “The widespread genocide and aggression against innocent civilians are intolerable, and the perpetrators will bear full responsibility for their actions.”

In response to these acts, the Somaliland government has formally contacted the Federal Government of Ethiopia to address the violence and human rights abuses in Da’awaley.

Additionally, the press release confirmed that a high-level dialogue between the Government of the Republic of Somaliland and the Federal Government of Ethiopia is scheduled for tomorrow at the Somaliland-Ethiopia border. This critical meeting aims to address the recent incidents and ensure accountability and the pursuit of peace in the affected region.

Renewed Clashes Along Ethiopia-Somaliland Border Signal Escalating Crisis

Somalilanders Call for International Action Against Hostile Provocations

The appointment of Jama Mohamoud Egal as the head of the Somaliland National Intelligence Agency (NIA) by the newly inaugurated president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, marks a pivotal moment in Somaliland’s security and governance landscape. Egal’s transition from serving as Minister of Energy and Minerals to leading the nation’s intelligence apparatus signals a strategic recalibration, underscoring the importance of seasoned leadership in navigating escalating regional and internal challenges.

Egal’s Credentials and Strategic Importance

Jama Mohamoud Egal’s tenure as Minister of Energy and Minerals established him as a pragmatic and forward-thinking leader. His work in harnessing Somaliland’s natural resources and fostering international partnerships showcased his ability to manage complex portfolios with a blend of diplomacy and operational acumen. These qualities are particularly crucial as he steps into a role that demands both vigilance and strategic foresight.

Egal’s appointment reflects President Irro’s commitment to placing experienced and trusted individuals in key security positions. With the regional instability around Somaliland’s borders, including tensions with Ethiopia and the persistent threats from militant groups, the NIA’s role in safeguarding national sovereignty and security has never been more critical.

The Regional Security Context

Somaliland’s geostrategic location in the Horn of Africa makes it a focal point in regional dynamics. Border tensions with Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Da’awaley, and ongoing challenges in maintaining internal stability amid clan dynamics, necessitate a robust and proactive intelligence apparatus. Egal’s experience in negotiating complex scenarios during his ministerial career could provide a stabilizing influence and strategic advantage in addressing these multifaceted security concerns.

Moreover, as Somaliland seeks greater international recognition, the NIA under Egal’s leadership will likely play a vital role in countering disinformation and fostering partnerships with global intelligence communities. This appointment could signal a more coordinated approach to aligning Somaliland’s security priorities with its broader diplomatic and developmental goals.

Challenges Ahead for Egal and the NIA

Egal inherits a portfolio fraught with challenges:

Border Tensions: Managing the volatile dynamics with Ethiopia’s Somali region and preventing further escalations will require deft intelligence operations and diplomacy.

Internal Security: Somaliland faces threats from extremist groups and internal clan disputes, which demand both tactical intelligence and community-based conflict resolution strategies.

Geopolitical Pressures: With regional powers like Turkey and Egypt expanding their influence and potential involvement in Horn of Africa disputes, Egal’s leadership will be tested in safeguarding Somaliland’s interests without compromising its neutrality.

Modernizing Intelligence Operations: Strengthening the NIA’s capabilities in cyber intelligence, counterterrorism, and strategic surveillance will be crucial for ensuring Somaliland’s resilience in a rapidly evolving security environment.

Implications of the Appointment

Egal’s ascension to this critical role signals a broader shift in Somaliland’s governance under President Irro. The emphasis on experienced leadership aligns with the administration’s goal of fortifying the nation’s institutional frameworks and reinforcing its reputation as a beacon of stability in a tumultuous region. Egal’s success in this role could serve as a benchmark for Somaliland’s security and governance systems, enhancing its case for international recognition and partnerships.

Conclusion

The appointment of Jama Mohamoud Egal as the head of Somaliland Intelligence represents a calculated and strategic decision by President Irro. As Egal steps into this pivotal role, his leadership will be instrumental in navigating Somaliland through an era of heightened regional tensions and complex security challenges. His success could not only bolster Somaliland’s internal stability but also its position as a resilient and forward-thinking state in the Horn of Africa.

The tragic deaths of Huda Ahmed Sheikh Farah and Hamse Ahmed Yusuf from carbon monoxide poisoning in Hargeisa underscore the critical need for heightened awareness and robust safety measures in Somaliland. This heartbreaking incident has sparked public outrage and a renewed focus on preventable dangers associated with vehicle maintenance and public education.

A Deadly Oversight

Carbon monoxide, a silent and odorless killer, is a well-documented hazard. Its ability to suffocate victims in confined spaces within minutes makes it particularly dangerous. The medical investigation revealed that a mechanical defect in the vehicle’s exhaust system allowed the deadly gas to seep into the car’s interior, turning a routine situation into a fatal trap.

Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Osman of Hargeisa General Hospital highlighted the absence of external toxins, confirming that a hole in the exhaust system was the culprit. This defect, likely unnoticed by the victims, underscores the risks associated with aging or poorly maintained vehicles in regions where safety inspections may not be rigorous or standardized.

A Call for Accountability

The deaths have sparked a broader conversation about safety standards and accountability in Somaliland. Public discourse has centered on several key concerns:

Vehicle Inspection Regulations: The tragedy has highlighted the gaps in vehicle maintenance and inspection standards. In many parts of Somaliland, systematic checks for exhaust system integrity and emissions testing are either absent or inconsistently enforced. These lapses leave vehicles vulnerable to mechanical failures that can result in preventable deaths.

Public Awareness: The incident also underscores a critical lack of awareness regarding the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure. Many citizens remain unaware of how rapidly the gas can become lethal or the telltale signs of a potential leak.

Government Responsibility: Public outcry on social media and local forums has pointed to the need for stronger governmental oversight. Citizens have demanded that policymakers institute mandatory vehicle inspections and launch public education campaigns to reduce the risks of similar tragedies.

Preventable Yet Persistent Danger

This tragedy is not unique to Hargeisa; carbon monoxide poisoning claims lives worldwide due to insufficient preventative measures. The lack of regular vehicle inspections, especially in regions where regulatory frameworks are still developing, exacerbates the problem. Moreover, public education campaigns on carbon monoxide risks are either nonexistent or sporadic in many communities, leaving individuals unaware of how to protect themselves.

While the immediate cause of the deaths in Hargeisa was a mechanical defect, the broader systemic failure lies in the lack of enforced safety protocols and widespread public ignorance about the issue.

Opportunities for Change

The incident offers a crucial opportunity for Somaliland to take concrete steps toward improving public safety. Authorities can prioritize the following actions:

Mandatory Vehicle Inspections: Establishing and enforcing regular vehicle inspections, particularly focusing on exhaust systems, can significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide leaks.

Public Education Campaigns: Launching targeted awareness campaigns about carbon monoxide poisoning, including its risks, symptoms, and prevention, can save lives.

Legislation and Regulation: Introducing clear guidelines and penalties for non-compliance with vehicle safety standards can incentivize better maintenance practices.

Community Involvement: Empowering communities through education and local initiatives can foster a culture of vigilance and responsibility.

A Turning Point for Safety

The loss of two young lives has left a lasting impact on Somaliland’s collective consciousness. While the grief is immeasurable, this tragedy can serve as a catalyst for meaningful reform. By addressing the systemic shortcomings exposed by this incident, Somaliland has an opportunity to set a precedent for improved safety standards and public health awareness.

The deaths of Huda and Hamse are a sobering reminder of how preventable dangers can spiral into devastating outcomes when left unchecked. The responsibility now lies with authorities, communities, and individuals alike to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated.