Thirty years of striving for recognition, of building a nation against all odds. Yet, within Somaliland’s heart, an uncured disease festers, silently eroding the very foundations of our hard-won stability. Clanism, that insidious force, has become the shadow self we refuse to confront, a darkness that threatens to consume our collective future.

Like a chronic illness left untreated, clanism manifests in myriad ways. Nepotism corrodes our institutions, corruption saps our resources, and political gridlock paralyzes our progress. We see it in the uneducated officials appointed solely on tribal merit, their incompetence a stark testament to a system gone awry. We see it in the whispers of favoritism, the quiet resentments that divide communities and fracture trust.

We look to Rwanda, a nation that stared into the abyss of tribal genocide and emerged with a resolute commitment to unity. They understood that tribalism was not an identity to celebrate, but a cancer to eradicate. Can we, Somaliland, learn from their harrowing experience? Can we summon the courage to confront our own demons?

The time for half-measures is over. We cannot simply pay lip service to national unity while allowing clan-based patronage to thrive. We need radical treatment. We need laws that criminalize the use of clan as a weapon, that make it a punishable offense to manipulate tribal sentiment for political gain. We need educational reforms that instill a sense of shared national identity in our youth. We need open and honest dialogues that confront the uncomfortable truths of our past and present.

Consider the alternative: a Somaliland Balkanized, fractured into tribal fiefdoms, where progress is sacrificed at the altar of clan loyalty. This is not a dystopian fantasy; it is a chillingly real possibility. The very recognition we so desperately seek will remain forever out of reach if we cannot first unite ourselves.

Our young people, the inheritors of our nation, are bearing the brunt of this tribal divide. They see opportunities denied, dreams shattered, and a future clouded by prejudice. They are the lost generation, victims of a system that prioritizes tribal affiliation over individual merit. We owe them a better future, a Somaliland where their potential is not limited by the circumstances of their birth.

For 30 years, we have been building a nation, but we have also been inadvertently nurturing the seeds of its destruction. Now, it is time to unlearn. To unlearn the ingrained behaviors that perpetuate division. To unlearn the tribal narratives that poison our minds. To unlearn the complacency that allows injustice to thrive.

This unlearning will not be easy. It will require courage, honesty, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. But it is the only way to break the unseen chains that bind us. It is the only way to reclaim the promise of Somaliland, a nation united, prosperous, and finally, truly recognized.

Let us choose the path of unity over division, merit over tribalism, and progress over stagnation. Let us build a Somaliland that is worthy of its people, a beacon of hope in a troubled region. Let us, together, cast off the darkness and step into the light of a brighter future.

In January 2024, the Ethiopia-Somaliland memorandum of understanding (MoU) ostensibly finalized the sharing of naval bases and formal recognition of statehood between the two entities. This agreement not only represented a strategic victory for both sides but also introduced significant geopolitical and security dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

Ethiopia’s acquisition of a naval base on the Somaliland coast under the MoU significantly enhances its strategic footprint in the Red Sea, a critical artery for global trade. This move aligns with Ethiopia’s longstanding goal of accessing the sea, which it lost following Eritrea’s secession in 1993.

For Somaliland, the MoU presents a pathway to achieving international recognition, leveraging its strategic geography against Ethiopia’s need for maritime access. Despite not being internationally recognized as an independent nation, Somaliland has managed to establish a stable and democratic governance structure, distinct from Somalia’s federal government.

The MoU has heightened tensions within Somaliland and between Somaliland and Somalia. Key stakeholders, including certain clan factions within Somaliland and the Somali federal government, perceive the agreement as a threat to territorial integrity and political sovereignty.

The agreement has also influenced regional security dynamics, particularly concerning the activities of terrorist organizations such as al-Shabaab and ISIS’s Somali branch. These groups may exploit perceived or real grievances stemming from the MoU to bolster recruitment and enhance their operational capacity.

Beyond the strategic and security implications, the MoU offers substantial economic benefits for both Ethiopia and Somaliland. For Ethiopia, access to the sea through Somaliland’s ports could significantly reduce logistics costs and boost trade. For Somaliland, closer economic ties with Ethiopia provide opportunities for economic growth and development, potentially increasing its political leverage on the international stage.

However, the economic advantages envisaged by the MoU are contingent on the stable implementation of its terms amidst fluctuating regional political dynamics. Both parties must navigate internal dissent and regional rivalries, particularly with Somalia and potentially with other regional powers like Djibouti and Eritrea, who may view this agreement as a strategic encroachment.

Moving forward, both Ethiopia and Somaliland will need to engage in careful diplomatic maneuvering with regional actors to mitigate backlash and integrate the MoU into a broader strategy that promotes regional stability and economic integration.

Additionally, fostering an inclusive dialogue that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders within Somaliland and Somalia will be crucial. This approach not only helps in reducing internal conflicts but also enhances the legitimacy and sustainability of the MoU.

The role of international actors and organizations will be pivotal in supporting the implementation of the MoU. Strategic partnerships that focus on economic development, infrastructural investments, and security cooperation could reinforce the benefits of the MoU, making it a model for similar agreements in politically complex regions.

In conclusion, the Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU stands as a testament to the complex interplay of geopolitics, regional security, and economic ambitions in the Horn of Africa. Its success or failure will largely depend on the involved parties’ ability to navigate these multifaceted challenges in a rapidly evolving regional landscape.

The future of Somaliland is being reshaped, and the catalyst for its rise to regional dominance is a game-changing partnership with the United Arab Emirates. With a $3 billion infrastructure deal, military training programs, and a rapidly growing diplomatic and economic footprint, the UAE is firmly invested in securing Somaliland’s position as a strategic powerhouse in the Horn of Africa.

Strategic Partnership: Strengthening Global Influence

Somaliland has just formalized a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UAE, which includes opening a UAE embassy in Hargeisa, marking a new level of political and diplomatic recognition. This shift isn’t just ceremonial—it’s a statement. As the UAE’s influence grows, Somaliland’s position in the international community will solidify. The enhanced diplomatic ties will unlock new doors for trade, global recognition, and a deepening relationship that extends beyond the Horn of Africa.

Economic Power Surge: $3 Billion Railway and Trade Hub

A cornerstone of this partnership is the development of a $3 billion railway connecting Berbera to Ethiopia, transforming Somaliland into the region’s primary trade corridor. The Port of Berbera, already one of the most vital maritime routes in East Africa, will now have a direct link to Ethiopia, a landlocked giant with a booming economy. This railway will secure Somaliland’s place as a key economic transit hub and provide immense revenue and trade opportunities for the future.

In addition to this major infrastructural feat, the UAE’s investment will see the construction of three new airports in Hargeisa, Borama, and Burco. These airports will not only strengthen regional connectivity but also open up new markets, drawing in foreign investment and positioning Somaliland as a central hub in global commercial aviation.

Military Superiority: Training, Bases, and Maritime Control

The UAE’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure. They’ve pledged to train 15,000 members of Somaliland’s military, police, and intelligence services, boosting the country’s defense capabilities and readiness. With the UAE’s proven military expertise, Somaliland’s forces will be equipped to defend their nation with cutting-edge strategies and tactics.

But that’s not all—the partnership includes the construction of a new naval base in Berbera, jointly operated by the UAE and Somaliland. This will establish Berbera as a critical naval port, reinforcing maritime security and ensuring control over vital shipping lanes. As the UAE strengthens its influence across the region, this base will play a pivotal role in ensuring regional stability and deterring piracy and terrorism in the Arabian Sea and beyond.

Regional Geopolitical Shifts: Transforming Somaliland’s Role

This strategic alliance isn’t just about economic or military might—it’s a power move in the geopolitical chess game of the Horn of Africa. The UAE’s investment is paving the way for Somaliland to rise as a dominant player on the regional stage, with strengthened security, advanced infrastructure, and enhanced diplomatic recognition. The partnership with the UAE will catalyze foreign direct investment across critical sectors like agriculture, banking, logistics, and trade.

With 11 bilateral agreements and 5 Memorandums of Understanding already signed, the groundwork for deeper economic integration and security cooperation has been laid. The shift in Somaliland’s global standing is imminent, and the UAE’s unwavering support will guarantee the country’s ascension as an economic, military, and geopolitical force.

The Future is Now: Somaliland’s Rise

The alliance between Somaliland and the UAE isn’t just a partnership; it’s the blueprint for regional dominance. With the UAE’s investment and expertise, Somaliland will become the new center of trade, security, and strategic influence in the Horn of Africa. As the UAE’s influence grows, so will Somaliland’s, with both nations standing shoulder to shoulder, shaping the future of the region. This is just the beginning, and the world will soon witness the unstoppable rise of Somaliland.

Since December 12, 2024, Somaliland has embarked on a new chapter with President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro at the helm. But instead of unity and support, we’ve seen a wave of criticism flood social media. Today, let’s take a closer look at why these reactions may miss the mark.

President Irro is not your typical leader. He’s a seasoned diplomat, with over three decades of experience in international relations. His journey has taken him through the corridors of power, shaping an understanding of global politics few can claim. Yet, in a world that craves transparency and loud proclamations, Irro chooses a different approach. He thinks deeply and speaks less.

History has shown us that society often fears those who think differently. From Socrates to Galileo, brilliant minds have faced backlash for challenging the norm. In Somaliland, poets like Hadrawi have encapsulated the struggle of being intellectually superior—something that can feel like a burden.

So why do we resist deep thinkers like Irro? It’s what psychologists call the ‘mirror effect.’ A person with profound insights doesn’t just introduce new ideas—they hold a mirror up to society’s limitations. This reflection can evoke discomfort, and that’s when defenses go up.

Irro’s silence is not a sign of weakness; it’s a strategic choice. Rather than echoing the noise of immediate scrutiny, he navigates complex negotiations with patience and precision. He understands that true leadership requires a vision that sometimes demands time and subtlety to manifest.

It’s time for us, the people of Somaliland, to reconsider our expectations of leadership. We often celebrate confidence over true depth, gravitating towards charismatic figures who speak loudly, even when their promises may be superficial. But President Irro represents a different path—a path rooted in wisdom and insight.

As Irro works tirelessly to gain Somaliland the recognition it deserves, we must learn to shift our focus from skepticism to support. Let’s give him the space to strategize, to negotiate, and ultimately to lead our nation towards a brighter future.

In the end, true leadership might not come from the loudest voices but from those who understand not just the challenges of today, but the possibilities of tomorrow. Together, let’s embrace the vision of our silent strategist, President Irro.

Why Somaliland’s rhetoric about tackling China may hinder long-term goals and how a balanced strategy is crucial for the nation’s future.

Somaliland’s aspirations for international recognition, particularly from the United States, have led to a surge of rhetoric among officials and supporters, often framing the region as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa. While the intention may be to align closely with Washington, such statements could have unintended consequences, especially given the complexities of geopolitics involving a superpower like China.

Framing Somaliland as a direct adversary to China in the region risks undermining its long-term diplomatic and economic prospects. Somaliland, while demonstrating stability and resilience, lacks the resources and geopolitical leverage to “tackle” China—a global superpower with deep economic and political influence.

Publicly positioning Somaliland as anti-China could provoke retaliation in the form of proxy destabilization, diplomatic isolation, or support for Somalia’s claims over Somaliland. China has historically leveraged its influence to counter perceived threats to its interests. Many Somalilanders overlook that China’s involvement in the region, including its presence in Berbera and other sectors, provides critical investments. Alienating China could deter further economic opportunities and risk sanctions against regional or international companies partnering with Somaliland.

On social media, many Somaliland supporters echo anti-China sentiments. While this may resonate with U.S.-aligned audiences, it risks creating an image of Somaliland as a partisan actor rather than a pragmatic, independent player.

To ensure Somaliland’s long-term stability and recognition, the government must adopt a nuanced and balanced approach. Somaliland’s officials should avoid polarizing statements about global powers like China. Instead, they should emphasize Somaliland’s role as a partner for all nations that support its economic and political development. Clear media guidelines should be developed to ensure consistent messaging. Somaliland must prioritize a sustainable strategy that balances relationships with the U.S., China, and other global powers. Aligning exclusively with one power risks creating dependency or provoking hostility from others.

While prioritizing U.S. support is essential, Somaliland should focus on presenting itself as a stable and reliable partner rather than a counterweight to China. This would strengthen U.S. partnerships without unnecessarily antagonizing China. Allowing Chinese companies to operate in Somaliland could mitigate the risk of retaliatory measures and foster economic growth.

For example, welcoming Chinese investments while maintaining a firm stance on sovereignty and transparency could strike a balanced tone. While public statements and media campaigns are important, Somaliland should focus on private diplomacy and back-channel discussions. Actions behind closed doors often yield more sustainable outcomes than public declarations.

The narrative of “tackling China” should not dominate Somaliland’s rhetoric. Instead, its officials and supporters should focus on framing Somaliland as a hub for peace, stability, and economic opportunity in the Horn of Africa. Building alliances based on mutual interests rather than opposition to other powers will help Somaliland secure its long-term objectives of recognition and development.

Somaliland’s government and supporters must carefully navigate the delicate balance between securing U.S. support and maintaining constructive relations with China. While prioritizing U.S. partnerships is crucial for economic and political advancement, alienating China could have severe repercussions.

A clear, well-communicated strategy for officials and a shift toward measured, pragmatic diplomacy will help Somaliland avoid unnecessary risks and position itself as a credible player in the global arena. Success lies not in antagonizing global powers but in fostering balanced relationships that serve Somaliland’s long-term interests.

Facing relentless opposition and misinformation campaigns, Somaliland’s Foreign Minister must lead a bold push for international recognition and global awareness.

Somaliland, a beacon of stability and democratic governance in the Horn of Africa, faces a multifaceted campaign aimed at denying its rightful place in the international community. The challenges are not only rooted in regional rivalries but are exacerbated by misinformation and diplomatic efforts to obstruct Somaliland’s sovereignty. This relentless assault underscores the urgent need for a proactive and assertive strategy by Somaliland’s leadership, particularly the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The Adversaries

Somalia, Somaliland’s former union partner, has relentlessly lobbied against its recognition. Viewing Somaliland’s independence as a threat to its territorial integrity, Mogadishu has invested heavily in portraying Somaliland as an integral region of Somalia, ignoring its decades-long separation and successful self-governance.

Egypt, with vested interests in the Red Sea’s geopolitics and its rivalry with Ethiopia, aligns itself with Somalia to block Somaliland’s recognition. Egypt perceives Somaliland’s statehood as a destabilizing force that could empower Ethiopia and shift regional dynamics.

Turkey, a significant player in Somalia’s reconstruction, has likewise opposed Somaliland’s recognition. With strategic investments and military agreements in Somalia, Ankara’s support for Mogadishu has inadvertently strengthened the campaign against Somaliland’s sovereignty.

These nations, among others, have fueled a narrative depicting Somaliland as unstable, unprepared, or undeserving of recognition. This narrative is starkly at odds with Somaliland’s record of peace, democracy, and progress over the past three decades.

The Foreign Minister’s Imperative

Somaliland’s Foreign Minister must rise to this challenge by crafting and executing a robust diplomatic and informational strategy to counteract these efforts and advance Somaliland’s case for recognition.

Countering Misinformation
False narratives must be dismantled with facts. The minister should emphasize Somaliland’s achievements in governance, democratic elections, and economic development. Documenting and disseminating Somaliland’s success stories through international media and think tanks is critical to challenging misconceptions.

Expanding Diplomatic Engagement
Beyond traditional allies, the minister must actively court nations that value democracy, stability, and strategic partnerships. African nations with influence at the African Union, European countries invested in regional security, and Asian states with economic interests in the Red Sea region could become crucial allies.

Utilizing International Platforms
Somaliland’s voice must be heard on global stages. Engaging with international organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups can amplify the narrative of Somaliland’s resilience and its potential as a stabilizing force in the region.

Building Strategic Alliances
Somaliland’s geographic location at the crossroads of key maritime routes and its role in counter-terrorism efforts offer compelling arguments for recognition. Highlighting these strategic advantages can shift the perspective of global powers, especially those prioritizing stability in the Horn of Africa.

A Broader Perspective

The push for Somaliland’s recognition is about more than sovereignty—it is about correcting historical injustices and establishing a model of governance in Africa. Somaliland’s stability and democratic practices stand in stark contrast to the turmoil in the surrounding region. Recognition would not only validate Somaliland’s achievements but also promote regional peace and encourage good governance.

Somaliland’s Foreign Minister must act decisively, countering adversarial narratives with unwavering resolve and building partnerships that reflect Somaliland’s values and aspirations. The journey to recognition is not merely a political goal but a testament to the perseverance and vision of Somaliland’s people. The time to act is now.

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.