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Taiwanese-Somaliland military cooperation agreement expected by mid-year

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Somaliland armed forces in a 2024 parade
Taiwan and Somaliland are reportedly finalising a military cooperation agreement expected to be signed by mid-2025, according to diplomatic sources familiar with the negotiations.

The proposed agreement would enable Somaliland to acquire Taiwanese naval vessels and military equipment that Taiwan has recently upgraded in its own defence forces. Several Somaliland military personnel have already undergone specialised training in Taiwan, signalling an established relationship between the two territories.

This developing partnership comes amid China’s growing economic and political influence across the African continent, particularly in the strategically significant Horn of Africa region, where Beijing has made substantial investments in infrastructure and development projects.

Analysts note that both Taiwan and Somaliland face similar diplomatic challenges on the international stage. Neither entity has secured formal recognition from the United Nations or the majority of the global community, as they continue to assert their sovereignty despite claims from China and Somalia respectively.

The Taiwan Foreign Ministry and Somaliland government officials were contacted for comment but had not responded by press time

Supreme Court Chief Justice Shares 2024 Judicial Performance Insights

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Somaliland, Adam Haji Ali Ahmed, reported on the annual judicial performance for 2024 and the initial months of 2025. He stated that in 2024, the courts handled 26,716 cases, comprising 14,046 civil cases, 7,908 criminal cases, and 3,500 enforcement cases. Of these, 22,220 cases (83%) were resolved, while 4,514 cases (17%) remain ongoing. In comparison, in 2023, the courts received 25,510 cases, with 22,445 (88%) resolved and 3,080 (12%) pending, indicating a 5% decrease in case resolution between 2023 and 2024.

He highlighted efforts to enhance judicial staff capacity, noting that in 2024, 181 personnel benefited from educational scholarships (fully funded or 50% subsidized), while 500 others attended short-term training courses on legal and supplementary skills, including first aid, fire safety, administration, and management.

Chief Justice Adam Haji Ali also emphasized the completion of the Supreme Court Library, which will serve as a reading hub housing legal documents and books essential for judges and legal researchers addressing complex legal issues scientifically.

He noted that the courts handle thousands of citizens monthly, addressing case filings, complaint management, and providing efficient legal services. Mobile courts play a critical role in extending legal services from district to Supreme Court levels across various regions.

He also highlighted infrastructure improvements, including extensive renovations in 2024 at courts in Sanaag, Togdheer, and Saaxil regions, expansions at the Awdal Regional Court, and the foundation laying for the Qol-u-jeed District Court.

The 2024 annual report included revenue generated from stamp duty offices at various courts, with the Chief justice noting that the judiciary is among the highest revenue-generating institutions in this regard.

Additionally, he discussed the significant role of Sulux (mediation) in resolving civil disputes amicably, emphasizing its alignment with Islamic principles and Somaliland’s legal traditions. He noted that mediation is increasingly trusted by the public, particularly when evidence is scarce or time is limited.

In conclusion, Chief Justice Adam Haji Ali addressed challenges facing the judiciary, which are common across national institutions, including infrastructure limitations, though progress is made annually. He identified land disputes as a major issue, driven by urbanization and rising land values, particularly in Burco, Boorama, and Berbera. However, he noted a decline in land disputes in Hargeisa due to the implementation of a modernized land information system (GIS), which has reduced fraudulent transactions and ownership conflicts. He urged the local governments of Burco and Boorama to adopt similar systems for property registration and oversight.

The Chief Justice also addressed the challenge of low public satisfaction, where some individuals pursue baseless claims through all court levels, only to reject final rulings and spread misinformation. He cautioned the public and media against such behavior and encouraged seeking balanced information to uphold justice.

He expressed gratitude to judicial staff for their dedication despite limited resources, as well as to partners, law enforcement, and constitutional institutions for their cooperation in delivering justice.

2024 Judicial Performance Report by Chief Justice Adam Haji Ali Ahmed, Supreme Court of Somaliland

Case Statistics for 2024

  • Total Cases Handled: 26,716
    • Civil Cases: 14,046
    • Criminal Cases: 7,908
    • Enforcement Cases: 3,500
  • Case Resolution:
    • Resolved: 22,220 (83%)
    • Ongoing: 4,514 (17%)
  • Comparison with 2023:
    • Total Cases: 25,510
    • Resolved: 22,445 (88%)
    • Pending: 3,080 (12%)
    • Resolution rate decreased by 5% from 2023 to 2024.

Judicial Capacity Building

  • Educational Scholarships (2024): 181 personnel received fully funded or 50% subsidized scholarships.
  • Training Programs: 500 personnel attended short-term courses on legal skills, first aid, fire safety, administration, and management.

Infrastructure Developments

  • Supreme Court Library: Completed in 2024, serving as a hub for legal documents and research for judges and legal researchers.
  • Court Renovations and Expansions:
    • Extensive renovations in Sanaag, Togdheer, and Saaxil regions.
    • Expansion of Awdal Regional Court.
    • Foundation laid for Qol-u-jeed District Court.

Service Delivery

  • Court Operations: Courts handle thousands of citizens monthly, managing case filings, complaints, and delivering efficient legal services.
  • Mobile Courts: Extend legal services from district to Supreme Court levels across regions.

Revenue Generation

  • Stamp duty offices at courts generated significant revenue, making the judiciary one of the highest revenue-generating institutions in Somaliland.

Mediation (Sulux)

  • Sulux plays a key role in amicably resolving civil disputes, aligning with Islamic principles and Somaliland’s legal traditions.
  • Increasing public trust in mediation, especially in cases with limited evidence or time constraints.

Challenges

  • Infrastructure Limitations: Common across national institutions, though progress is made annually.
  • Land Disputes: Major issue in Burco, Boorama, and Berbera due to urbanization and rising land values.
    • Hargeisa saw a decline in disputes due to a modernized GIS-based land information system, reducing fraudulent transactions and ownership conflicts.
    • Recommendation: Burco and Boorama local governments should adopt similar systems.
  • Public Satisfaction: Low satisfaction due to baseless claims pursued through all court levels, with some rejecting rulings and spreading misinformation.
    • Chief Justice urged the public and media to seek balanced information to uphold justice.

Acknowledgments

  • Gratitude expressed to judicial staff for their dedication despite limited resources.
  • Appreciation for partners, law enforcement, and constitutional institutions for their cooperation in delivering justice.

The Peace Committee Holds a Meeting in Jigjiga with the Supreme Chief of the Gadabuursi Clan

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Jigjiga – May 1, 2025-The Peace Committee of the Republic of Somaliland held an important meeting in the city of Jigjiga with the Supreme Chief of the Gadabuursi Clan, Ugaas Abdirashiid Ugaas Rooble Ugaas Doodi.

The meeting focused on strengthening peace, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence among the people of Somaliland and neighboring countries.

During the meeting, the Peace Committee conveyed greetings and respect to the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), on behalf of the committee. The committee expressed gratitude to Ugaas Abdirashiid for the significant role the Gadabuursi clan plays in promoting national unity and peace in the country.

In response, Ugaas Cabdirashiid Ugaas Rooble Ugaas Doodi warmly welcomed the committee and reaffirmed the full support of the Gadabuursi clan in standing with peace and stability in Somaliland. The Ugaas stated that Somaliland is his home and that he is always open to returning whenever he wishes. He emphasized his visible role in efforts to strengthen peace in the region and community reconciliation.

Additionally, the Ugaas instructed the committee to extend his greetings and respect to the new President of the Republic of Somaliland and his government, expressing his full confidence in the new administration led by His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro).

This meeting is part of the ongoing efforts by the Somaliland Peace Committee to strengthen dialogue, mutual understanding, and lasting peace as the foundation for the nation’s progress and unity.

– END –

Somaliland Cabinet Approves Security Measures, Economic Reforms, and Visa Policy in the weekly Ministerial Session

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, 30 April 2025-The 18th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by His Excellency President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), was held today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting addressed key national issues, including the following:

1) General Security Update

The Minister of Interior and Security briefed the Council on the country’s security situation, confirming overall stability despite minor criminal incidents and traffic accidents. Following extensive consultations with security agencies, the Minister announced that all foreigners residing illegally in Somaliland must depart within three days. After this period, security forces will begin deporting those who remain.

2) Economic and Financial Development Report

The Minister of Finance and Economic Development presented a detailed report on Somaliland’s economic conditions and strategies for boosting national revenue. A technical committee—comprising experts from various ministries and the Economic Sub-Committee—recommended policy and legal reforms to support economic growth under the Wadajir (Unity) Government. The Council then deliberated on actionable measures to strengthen the economy.

3) Drought Crisis and Humanitarian Response

The Social Affairs Committee reported on the severe drought and its devastating effects on livelihoods, livestock, agriculture, and the environment. Ministers from Social Affairs, Education, Water Resources, and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture outlined the crisis and proposed a coordinated relief effort alongside a long-term national strategy to mitigate recurring droughts.

4) Implementation of Visa on Arrival (VOA) Policy

The Minister of Aviation and Airport Development proposed introducing a Visa on Arrival (VOA) policy to enhance aviation, tourism, and economic growth. Citing examples from Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Oman, Sri Lanka, and Ghana, the Minister highlighted how such policies have increased tourism and related sectors by 20–25%.

5) Approval of the Industrial Development Law

The Minister of Investment and Industrial Development presented the Industrial Development Law of Somaliland, drafted in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Office. The law aims to foster investment as a driver of national development and economic growth.

6) Stabilization Efforts in Eastern Regions

The Minister of Transport and Road Development, Mr. Osman Ibrahim Nur (Afgaab), provided a comprehensive briefing on the 80-day stabilization mission led by the Vice President in the eastern regions. He detailed the strategies employed, challenges overcome, and the successful integration of the National Guard Force.

7) Completion of National Guard Integration

President Cirro announced the successful integration of the National Guard Forces, marking a historic achievement for Somaliland. He commended the Vice President and his delegation for their efforts during the extended mission, which continued into early 2025.

The President also expressed profound gratitude to religious leaders, traditional elders, intellectuals, women, youth, and all citizens who contributed to this milestone, underscoring its significance for the nation’s unity and progress.

 

China lauds Somalia’s move against Taiwan, backs Mogadishu over Somaliland

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

ISTANBUL – China on Wednesday lauded Somalia over its recent ban on Taiwanese citizens from entering the country, backing Mogadishu over Somaliland, a breakaway region.

Mogadishu’s decision “reflects Somalia’s firm adherence to the one-China principle, which China highly appreciates,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a news conference in Beijing.

“There is only one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory,” Guo added, underscoring that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 affirms the one-China principle.

“Somaliland is part of the territory of Somalia. China firmly supports the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to safeguard national unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firmly opposes the Taiwan authorities setting up institutions in Somaliland or conducting any form of official exchanges with Somaliland,” Guo said, according to an official transcript.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday protested Somalia’s decision to stop accepting visitors or transit passengers with Taiwanese passports, according to Focus Taiwan.

Citing a 1971 UN resolution that effectively removed Taiwan from the international organization, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority announced on April 22 that it would no longer accept passports issued by Taiwan’s authorities starting on April 30.

Ties between Taiwan and Somaliland have warmed since the two sides set up representative offices in each other’s capitals in 2020.

China considers Taiwan its breakaway province, but Taipei insists on its independence.

A former British protectorate, Somaliland gained its independence in 1960 but days later joined Somalia.

In 1991, it declared independence from the rest of the country following a war but has received no international recognition.

Somaliland’s Economic Development Committee and Bank Chairman Adopt Resolutions to Advance Economic Growth

By
Goth Mohamed
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0
The Ministry of Finance convened a critical meeting to advance Somaliland’s economic development, attended by members of the Council of Ministers and the Governor of the Central Bank. Chaired by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Abdillahi Hassan Aden, the meeting included fourteen Council members and the Director General of the Ministry, Mr. Mohamed Hassan Saleban. This session, part of a series following a similar meeting on February 16, 2025, reviewed progress on prior decisions, with technical committees presenting updates and discussions focusing on government priorities and stakeholder engagement in economic sectors.
Minister Aden outlined the meeting’s objectives, stating, “Today, we have gathered to analyze and discuss the plan prepared by the technical committees of the ministries related to the economy. We will also approve the work schedule of the high-level committee and their meeting timelines to ensure we move forward.”
The meeting concluded with the following resolutions to drive economic progress:
  • Enhance policies, regulations, studies, and strategies for agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and mining sectors, aligning with the third national development plan.
  • Secure affordable energy to support economic development.
  • Modernize air transport services and airport infrastructure in Somaliland.
  • Streamline banking operations and credit access to boost trade and job creation.
  • Facilitate domestic and foreign investment to stimulate economic growth and attract international investors.
  • Promote domestic production by replacing imported basic goods with locally made products.
  • Simplify trade and goods movement to neighboring countries, ensuring Somaliland’s port competes regionally to increase trade revenue.
Under President Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), the Ministry of Finance has expanded its role to include Economic Development. Senior officials have launched initiatives to accelerate economic priorities, establishing ministerial-level committees to engage stakeholders, holding preparatory meetings, setting work plans, appointing interdisciplinary technical committees, and agreeing on a time-bound schedule for critical tasks.
In conclusion, these efforts underscore the urgent need to organize and accelerate Somaliland’s economy through effective policies. The meeting’s outcomes aim to enhance domestic production and address pressing challenges such as inflation, food scarcity, poverty, and youth unemployment.

Somalia Officially Bans Entry for Holders of Taiwanese Passports

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Somali government has officially banned entry into Somalia for individuals holding Taiwanese passports, as reported by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This decision was attributed to Somalia’s alignment with a previously adopted United Nations resolution, although Taiwan accused Somalia of succumbing to pressure from the Chinese government.

The move comes at a time when Taiwan is strengthening its relations with Somaliland, which has reasserted it’s independence since 1991 but has not gained international recognition.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority issued a notice on April 29, clarifying that starting from April 30, Taiwanese passports would no longer be accepted for entry into Somalia.

“The Ministry formally protests this decision by Somalia, which was instigated by the Chinese government, posing a threat to the freedom and security of our citizens. We demand an immediate reversal of this decision,” Taiwan said in a statement.

The Somali government has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the ban on Taiwanese passports.

Taiwan claimed that the notice was sent to Somali airlines to comply with UN Resolution 2758, which in 1971 granted Beijing the right to exclude Taiwan from UN membership, adhering to the “One China” principle.

Taiwan and the United States argue that this resolution does not determine Taiwan’s future, while China insists it fully supports its claim of sovereignty over the island, which is democratically self-governed.

Somaliland and Puntland Execute Historic Prisoner Exchange, Former Prisoner Praises Somaliland’s Treatment

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Garoowe, Puntland: In a remarkable display of cooperation and diplomacy, Somaliland and Puntland have successfully exchanged 11 prisoners of war, marking a significant step towards easing tensions between the two regions. The prisoners, who had been held in custody for the past two years following the Las’Anod crisis, were released under an agreement brokered by both governments.

Upon his arrival in Garoowe today, one of the prisoners, a former colonel captured during the Las’Anod conflict, spoke publicly about the conditions of his detention in Somaliland, offering an unexpected endorsement of the hospitality he received.

“I am truly thankful to the Government and the people of Somaliland,”

he said.

“The conditions in the prison were exactly like a hotel for us.”

According to the former prisoner, detainees in Somaliland were provided with a range of comforts, including well-tailored suits, ties, shoes, and a handbag filled with clothes. Each individual was also given $1,000 in cash.

“The treatment was respectful, and we had everything we needed,”

he added.

While the former colonel praised Somaliland’s approach, he was uncertain about the treatment of the prisoners released from Somaliland by Puntland. However, he noted that they appeared to be in good spirits, well-dressed, and well-cared-for.

The exchange of prisoners represents a rare and positive moment in the ongoing tensions between Somaliland and Puntland, which have had a complicated relationship over issues such as territorial disputes and the status of regions like Las’Anod. The release of high-ranking prisoners, including a colonel, signals a potential thaw in relations, with both sides expressing a desire for peace and dialogue.

In recent months, both Somaliland and Puntland have made efforts to resolve their differences and promote stability in the region. The prisoner exchange is seen as a key step in building trust and establishing a foundation for further negotiations.

The exchange also highlights a broader trend of improving relations in the Horn of Africa, where local leaders are working to build bridges and reduce conflict, even in the face of historical animosities.

As the region moves forward, many hope that this exchange can serve as an example of how cooperation can lead to a more peaceful and prosperous future for both Somaliland and Puntland.

The Advocate Post

DG Abdisalaan Ilka’ase Praises Geeska Band’s Transformation, Affirms Information Ministry’s Support for Artists

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

MA Egge

The Ministry of Information, Culture and National Guidance is committed to supporting the nation’s artistes and their groups as they continue to play their role in promoting and forging forward for stability and social cohesion within the country.

The sentiments were stated by the Director General of the Ministry Mr. Abdisalan Mahmoud Duale, popularly known as Ilka’ase on Wednesday in a tribute to the Geeska Band, (the Horn Group of Artists).

He lauded them for the transformation and strengthening changes made to the troupe and the injection of new young blood to carry on their prowess.

A statement by the DG went as follows: –

“I broadly welcome the transformation and strengthening of the Horn Stars group of artists, which is one of the largest groups in the Republic of Somaliland.

“I commend the Horn Stars group for the reform they have made and the new generation they have added to their group. This step will further strengthen their artistic production and their prominent role in the nation.

“The Ministry of Information is committed to working closely with this group and other artistic groups in the country.

“The Ministry of Information, as the representative of culture and art in the government of “Togetherness and Action”, is committed to supporting and strengthening artistic groups.

“I urge the Horn Stars group of artists and all artistic groups in the country to further raise awareness of patriotism and nationalism in the Republic of Somaliland.

“Therefore, I once again commend the country’s artists for the great role they always play in the process and stages the country is going through. They should continue to play a significant role in promoting stability and social cohesion.” END.

ational Guidance is committed to supporting the nation’s artistes and their groups as they continue to play their role in promoting and forging forward for stability and social cohesion within the country.

The sentiments were stated by the Director General of the Ministry Mr. Abdisalan Mahmoud Duale, popularly known as Ilka’ase on Wednesday in a tribute to the Geeska Band, (the Horn Group of Artists).

He lauded them for the transformation and strengthening changes made to the troupe and the injection of new young blood to carry on their prowess.

A statement by the DG went as follows: –

“I broadly welcome the transformation and strengthening of the Horn Stars group of artists, which is one of the largest groups in the Republic of Somaliland.

“I commend the Horn Stars group for the reform they have made and the new generation they have added to their group. This step will further strengthen their artistic production and their prominent role in the nation.

“The Ministry of Information is committed to working closely with this group and other artistic groups in the country.

“The Ministry of Information, as the representative of culture and art in the government of “Togetherness and Action”, is committed to supporting and strengthening artistic groups.

“I urge the Horn Stars group of artists and all artistic groups in the country to further raise awareness of patriotism and nationalism in the Republic of Somaliland.

“Therefore, I once again commend the country’s artists for the great role they always play in the process and stages the country is going through. They should continue to play a significant role in promoting stability and social cohesion.” END.

Telesom showcases Variety of Consumer Service at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Conference

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Telesom the leading Communication Company participated significantly in the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Conference, organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism of Somaliland.

Telesom showcased its diverse services, including:
– VIP SIM Cards
– FBB Fiber
– 4G Super MiFi
– 5G FWA Router
– SaaS/Cloud Solutions
– IVR Service
– ZAAD for Enterprises

Telesom, a telecommunications provider, which has 90 percent market share in Somaliland, launched the first-ever 5G mobile service and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service in the country.

“Telesom’s 5G mobile service represents a quantum leap in wireless technology, offering unparalleled speed, reliability, and connectivity,” the company said in a statement. “This next-generation service is set to revolutionise the way people communicate, work, and experience the digital world.”k

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