High-ranking officials from Somalia and Somaliland attend celebrations in Ethiopia, highlighting cross-border engagement.
Delegations from Somalia’s Federal Government and the self-declared independent region of Somaliland traveled to Jigjiga, Ethiopia, on Thursday to participate in the anniversary celebrations of the Somali Regional State. The annual event, commemorating the region’s establishment in 1993, brought together officials, dignitaries, and members of the Somali diaspora.
Somalia’s Delegation
The Federal Government of Somalia’s delegation included Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala and Deputy Minister of Petroleum. Somali Regional State officials warmly welcomed the delegation upon their arrival at Garaad Wiil-Waal Airport in Jigjiga.
Somaliland’s Delegation
Representing Somaliland, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ali Hamud Jibriil and Minister of Environment and Climate Change Abdullahi Jama led the delegation. They were received in the border town of Wajaale before making their way to Jigjiga for the celebrations.
About the Somali Regional State
The Somali Regional State, one of Ethiopia’s federal regions, was established in 1993 with its original capital in Godey. It later moved its administrative center to Jigjiga, which has since become a hub for political and cultural activities in the region. The anniversary celebration on January 23 serves as a platform to showcase the region’s progress and foster connections among Somalis from Ethiopia, Somalia, Somaliland, and the diaspora.
Significance of the Event
The presence of delegations from both Somalia and Somaliland at the celebration highlights shared cultural and historical ties, despite the political divisions between the two regions. The event serves as an opportunity for cross-border dialogue and underscores the importance of cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
As Jigjiga continues to grow as a regional hub, such events foster goodwill and collaboration among the Somali communities in Ethiopia and beyond. The anniversary remains a significant occasion for celebrating unity, heritage, and the progress of the Somali Regional State.
