President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s cabinet takes shape as Parliament overwhelmingly endorses key appointments.

The Somaliland House of Representatives has officially approved 19 ministers from President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s newly formed administration. This development follows President Irro’s inauguration in November 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the governance of the republic of Somaliland.

Key Confirmations and Unanimous Votes

During the ninth session of its 10th sitting, the House saw strong backing for key cabinet members, signaling broad parliamentary support for President Irro’s vision.

• Minister of Information: Ahmed Yasiin Sheikh Ali Ayaanle secured 65 votes, reflecting a strong mandate.
• Minister of Foreign Affairs: Abdirahman Dahir Aden received 59 votes, highlighting confidence in his diplomatic capabilities.
• Minister of Defense: Mohamed Yusuf Ali Ikacase gained 62 votes, emphasizing trust in his leadership of national security.

Other notable approvals included:

• Minister of the Presidency: Khadar Hussein Abdi (65 votes)
• Minister of Local Government and Urban Development: Hassan Ahmed Duale (64 votes)
• Minister of Planning: Kaltuun Sheikh Hassan Abdi Madar (65 votes)

Unanimous or near-unanimous support went to:

• Minister of Youth and Sports: Ahmed Mohamed Farah Coofle
• Minister of Communications and Technology: Jamaal Mohamed Jama
• Minister of Transport: Osman Ibrahim Af-grab

Each received 65 votes, underscoring Parliament’s confidence in their roles.

Cabinet Composition and Strategic Focus

President Irro had announced a 48-member cabinet on December 14, consisting of 28 ministers, 16 deputy ministers, and four state ministers. While the reasons for presenting only 19 nominees for approval remain unclear, these appointments signal a strategic focus on essential sectors such as foreign affairs, security, planning, and youth development.

The approval of senior figures such as Said Mohamed Buraale (Investment), Abdullahi Osman Jama (Environment), and Abdilaahi Hassan Adan Awaale (Finance) underscores the administration’s prioritization of economic growth, environmental sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.

A New Era Under President Irro

Elected in November 2024 as Somaliland’s sixth president, President Irro’s leadership marks a transition from his predecessor, Muse Bihi Abdi. As a former opposition leader, Irro carries the weight of expectations for reform and unity.

The parliamentary approval of these ministers is a step forward in stabilizing his administration. However, with only a portion of the cabinet approved and questions lingering over the delay in presenting the remaining nominees, the government’s full capacity is yet to be realized.

As Somaliland charts its path forward, these early appointments will play a critical role in shaping the administration’s direction, fostering development, and strengthening its democratic institutions.

At the heart of Somaliland’s quest to preserve its identity, 21-year-old Hafsa Omer is leading an extraordinary effort to digitize the nation’s cultural heritage. Through her work at the Hargeisa Cultural Center, Omer and her team are safeguarding more than 14,000 cassette tapes containing decades of music, poetry, and oral histories that chronicle the struggles, triumphs, and spirit of Somalilanders.

For a region steeped in oral tradition and grappling with the challenges of international unrecognition, this digitization project serves as both a historical preservation effort and a statement of cultural resilience.

The cassettes, some dating back over 50 years, capture moments of profound historical significance. They include clandestine recordings from the Somali National Movement, counterculture music from the 1970s, and personal accounts of life under the dictatorship of Siad Barre. Among the tapes is a particularly poignant piece for Omer: a family recording from 1985, where her late aunt recounts the hardships of war.

As a manager of the archival project, Omer works methodically, converting the fragile tapes into a digital format that ensures their longevity. Her task is immense; only about 1,100 tapes have been digitized so far. But for Omer, the mission is deeply personal and urgent.

“People don’t see these things as important, but I do because my people—they don’t write, they don’t read—all they do is talk,” she explains, underscoring the critical role of oral tradition in Somaliland’s cultural narrative.

A Legacy Under Threat

Hafsa Omer organizes a collection of cassette tapes at the Hargeisa Cultural Center, where she leads the digitization of over 14,000 recordings to preserve Somaliland’s rich cultural and historical legacy. CREDIT / First Post

The Hargeisa Cultural Center, founded in 2014 by mathematician and cultural advocate Jama Musse Jama, serves as the project’s headquarters. The Center’s collection includes tapes salvaged from abandoned studios, private donations, and recordings smuggled out during the civil war. Many of these recordings were created in secrecy, as political dissenters sought safe spaces to express their ideas under Barre’s authoritarian regime.

The Center’s work is not just about preservation; it is also about education and cultural engagement. Through workshops, exhibitions, and the Hargeisa International Book Fair, the Center fosters a connection between Somaliland’s youth and their heritage.

Yet, the task is not without challenges. Somaliland’s post-war conservatism often clashes with the liberal artistic expressions found in the tapes, and the societal stigma around music persists. Omer, for instance, faces criticism from her own family, reflecting broader tensions between tradition and modernity in Somaliland’s evolving cultural landscape.

A National and Global Endeavor

The significance of the project transcends Somaliland’s borders. For a nation still unrecognized internationally, preserving its cultural and historical narratives is a way to assert its identity and independence. Somaliland’s golden era of music, poetry, and plays from the 1970s and 1980s, much of which is captured on these tapes, serves as a testament to the region’s creativity and resilience.

The project has garnered international recognition, with scholars and journalists lauding its efforts to preserve a crucial piece of African heritage. Omer and her team aspire to create a digital library accessible to Somalilanders worldwide, ensuring that these voices are not lost to time but remain a vibrant part of the nation’s identity.

Hafsa Omer’s work is a reminder of the power of youth-led initiatives in preserving cultural heritage. Amid societal resistance and logistical challenges, her determination has brought attention to the importance of documenting and celebrating Somaliland’s rich history.

By preserving these recordings, Omer is not just digitizing tapes; she is safeguarding the soul of a nation. Her work ensures that future generations of Somalilanders, both at home and abroad, can hear the voices of their ancestors, learn from their stories, and carry their legacy forward.

In a world increasingly defined by digital immediacy, Omer’s mission serves as a profound act of cultural stewardship, proving that even the smallest cassette tape can hold the weight of a nation’s history.

This year we break from tradition. Instead of naming a “Person of the Year,” we proudly celebrate the collective valor of the “Guardians of our Nation” – the Somaliland National Armed Forces, whose unwavering dedication has shaped the course of our history in 2024.

By; Fatima Omer
Communication Marketing & Digital Transformation Expert

The year began with a historic milestone when former President Muse Bihi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding.

This pivotal agreement promised Ethiopia coveted sea access while potentially paving the way for Somaliland’s long-awaited international recognition. However, this diplomatic triumph quickly became the epicenter of regional tension, drawing sharp criticism from neighboring states including Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, and Egypt.

The agreement highlighted Somaliland’s growing influence and its emergence as a beacon of stability in the traditionally volatile Horn of Africa, though it also attracted unwanted attention from those threatened by our nation’s remarkable progress.

The eastern regions faced escalating challenges as external forces, threatened by Somaliland’s rising prominence, poured millions into destabilization efforts. Las’Anod became an unfortunate focal point for these hostile activities, serving as a launch pad for repeated attacks in the Sanag region.

Despite these provocations, our armed forces demonstrated remarkable restraint and strategic wisdom. Their tactical withdrawal to Oog in August 2023 exemplified their commitment to minimizing civilian casualties while maintaining territorial integrity.

From their new position, they continued their vigilant defense of our borders, placing their lives on the line to protect every citizen’s safety and security.

Throughout this tumultuous period, the Somaliland National Armed Forces stood as fortified shield against chaos. Their professionalism shone particularly bright during the preparation for presidential and political association elections. In the face of multiple security challenges, they maintained an environment conducive to democratic processes, ensuring that every Somalilander could exercise their constitutional rights without fear.

The National Armed Forces’ commitment extends far beyond combat duties. They have become symbols of national unity, bridging clan divisions and fostering a shared sense of purpose. Their ranks include men and women from all regions and communities, working together to protect our collective future.

Whether responding to natural disasters, supporting civilian authorities, or maintaining peace in volatile areas, they have consistently demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism and dedication. In 2024, our armed forces have shown exceptional restraint in the face of provocation, strategic thinking in complex situations, and loyalty to the nation’s interests.

They have maintained their defensive posture while ensuring that Somaliland’s sovereignty remains intact, proving themselves true guardians of our democratic values and national aspirations.

As we reflect on this challenging year, we recognize that the stability and progress Somaliland enjoys today is not merely a product of political leadership or diplomatic efforts, but largely the result of our armed forces’ tireless vigilance and sacrifice.

They stand guard while we sleep, patrol our borders while we work, and risk their lives so that we may live in peace. To every soldier, officer, and support staff member of the Somaliland National Armed Forces: your nation salutes you. Your courage, discipline, and dedication have not gone unnoticed. You are not just defenders of our territory; you are the guardians of our dreams, the protectors of our democracy, and the embodiment of our national resilience.

As we step into 2025, we carry forward the lessons of unity, courage, and dedication that our armed forces have taught us. Their story is our story – a testament to Somaliland’s spirit and its journey toward international recognition and prosperity. In honoring them, we honor the very best of what Somaliland represents: resilience, dignity, and the unshakeable pursuit of peace and progress.

Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro pledges inclusivity, accountability, and resilience in 2025 amid national challenges.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s New Year’s address to the people of Somaliland serves as a rallying cry for unity, resilience, and shared progress. As the nation faces ongoing challenges in security, economic development, and social harmony, Irro’s speech seeks to inspire confidence while underscoring his administration’s dedication to inclusivity, accountability, and nation-building.

The president’s message comes at a pivotal time for Somaliland, as it seeks greater international recognition while navigating domestic challenges. His emphasis on inclusivity and transparency reflects a strategic approach to governance that prioritizes public engagement and mutual accountability. By inviting citizens to provide constructive criticism, Irro signals a departure from autocratic practices and underscores his commitment to democratic principles.

In addressing Somaliland’s foreign policy, Irro reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to peace and cooperation. His focus on peaceful coexistence with neighbors and the international community aims to enhance Somaliland’s credibility on the global stage, particularly as it continues its campaign for recognition as a sovereign state.

The president’s call for unity, coupled with his acknowledgment of the sacrifices and contributions of Somaliland’s armed forces and civil servants, highlights the interconnectedness of security, economic stability, and social cohesion. His emphasis on shared values and moral principles reflects a leadership style rooted in cultural and religious ethos, which resonates deeply with the Somaliland populace.

In summing up his address, President Irro’s optimistic tone is a reminder of Somaliland’s resilience. His call to action for every citizen to prioritize security and uphold shared values is not merely symbolic but a practical step toward achieving national aspirations in 2025 and beyond. The speech strikes a balance between acknowledging challenges and inspiring hope, offering a vision of progress grounded in unity and collective effort.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi emphasizes cooperation, inclusivity, and respect for fundamental rights in a landmark meeting with civil society organizations.

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, alongside Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, convened a significant meeting with leaders of civil society organizations, signaling a new era of collaboration and shared national priorities. This meeting underscores the administration’s commitment to engaging with diverse societal actors to further Somaliland’s developmental and recognition goals.

In his address, President Abdullahi lauded the civil society leaders for their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s narrative, fostering progress, and advocating for Somaliland’s international recognition. The President assured them of his government’s readiness to work closely on key issues, prioritizing inclusivity, social cohesion, and the fight against tribalism and discrimination. He also reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to upholding constitutional rights, emphasizing that criticism of the government would not result in intimidation or suppression, marking a clear stance on protecting freedom of expression.

The leaders of civil society expressed their gratitude for the swift response to their request for dialogue and pledged their unwavering support for the government’s vision. They highlighted their readiness to partner on critical issues, including security, economic development, and social awareness campaigns.

A key point of discussion was the groundbreaking inclusion of elderly communities in Somaliland’s political representation, with the appointment of a full minister dedicated to their needs. Civil society representatives commended the administration for this historic move and advocated for the creation and enforcement of laws to address social disparities.

The President’s efforts to elevate women into significant government positions also received widespread praise, with civil society leaders attributing this progress to the President’s visionary leadership rather than external lobbying.

The meeting concluded with a shared sense of purpose and consensus, reflecting the mutual commitment between the government and civil society to address Somaliland’s pressing challenges and build a more inclusive, prosperous future.

This collaborative dialogue highlights the administration’s resolve to bridge gaps, foster trust, and promote unity within Somaliland, paving the way for impactful policies and sustained national growth.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) stands with victims of the Ethiopian Somali Region attack, vowing solidarity and prayers for recovery.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) of Somaliland made an emotional visit to Hargeisa General Hospital, where survivors of the Da’awaley massacre in Ethiopia’s Somali region are receiving treatment. The attack, carried out by the Liyuu Police on December 25, targeted Arap Sheikh Isaaq pastoralist communities, leaving over 114 dead, hundreds wounded, and villages reduced to ash.

The massacre has struck at the heart of Ethiopia-Somaliland relations, threatening a fragile partnership built on decades of mutual cooperation. The victims, primarily pastoralists with deep historical ties to both sides of the border, were subjected to a brutal campaign that razed homes and mosques, forcing many to flee into Somaliland for refuge.

The Liyuu Police, a paramilitary force accused of advancing Ogaden clan interests under Somali Region President Mustafe Omer, stand at the center of this atrocity. Their record of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and displacement, has now escalated into a large-scale massacre that could destabilize the region further.

Somaliland’s president personally visited the injured, standing at their bedsides, offering prayers, and expressing his nation’s grief. “May God grant you strength and swift recovery,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting survivors and seeking justice for the atrocities committed.

The massacre in Da’awaley has not only devastated lives but has also exposed the ethnic and political tensions simmering within Ethiopia’s Somali region. For Somaliland, which has prided itself on fostering stability and unity, the attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges it faces as a neighbor to volatile regions.

As the victims recover from their wounds, Somaliland’s leadership must navigate a delicate path—standing in solidarity with its people, preserving diplomatic ties with Ethiopia, and advocating for accountability to ensure such horrors are never repeated. The visit by President Cirro symbolizes the nation’s resolve to support its people while seeking broader regional peace.

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.