The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Muse Bihi Abdi, has praised the community in Boon and Harirad districts for the honorable role they have taken in nation-building, maintaining peace, and implementing voluntary development projects.
The Head of State was speaking to the community of Boon and Harirad, who accorded him a warm reception as they welcomed him and the delegation he led in his tour to western regions of the country. He noted that his tour entailed meeting the populaces to practically witness how their situation is and that of their livestock hence impart upon them the way forward as far as voting is concerned in the upcoming presidential and political parties elections.
He hailed the people of Boon for having shown their love for the country, nationalism and patriotism.
“We are grateful to the Boon community for the part you have taken in building the nation of Somaliland, that you are a peace-loving community, and that you have done voluntary projects as much as possible”.
He pointed out that as much as the state ought to acknowledge positive critique, he noted that the streak of development achieved by the KULMIYE le administration was self explicit.
The Ministry of Planning and National Development of Somaliland has opened the third quarterly meeting of National Development Partners in Hargeisa, which is held every three months.
The Minister of Planning and National Development, together with members of the Somaliland cabinet, opened the forum for the participants of the Third National Development Plan III.
The meeting of the stakeholders forum which is held every three months was attended by the ministers of Planning, Interior Affairs, Finance, Labor and Social Affairs, Agriculture, Directors General, Members of International Organizations, Local and all stakeholders in terms of development in the country.
The Director General of the Ministry of Planning and National Development of Somaliland, Mohamed Abdillahi Duale gave details and highlighted the things that will be discussed during the meeting.
Members of the international community have also warmly welcomed this meeting and the agenda it carries and how to focus on the plans to develop the nation.
The Minister of Interior Hon. Mohamed Kahin Ahmed, Labor and Social Affairs Hon. Ali Omar Mohamed and Minister of Finance Hon. Saad Ali Shire who all spoke at the forum reported on the imperativeness of the Third National Development Plan III and the cooperation of Somaliland’s partners by giving more information about the pillars of the foundation.
The Minister of Planning and National Development Hon. Ahmed Mohamed Diriye Toorno, who officially launched the meeting, underpinned the importance o the quarterly meetings in as far as the NDP III are concerned.
He further sent a message to the International Community donors to channel humanitarian funds directly to the country and not through proxy ways and means that would further jeopardize the economic and political affairs of the Horn of Africa region.
The President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Muse Bihi Abdi graced the graduation ceremony of the 23rd batch of Amoud University over the week that saw 1,240 students graduate from different disciplines.
The university was founded in 1997, being the oldest one in Somaliland.
The Head of State congratulated them in their fetes and wished them well in their future endeavours.
The Chairman of Amoud University, Dr. Mohamed Musa Jibril spoke about the historical background of Amoud University and the graduates. Haji Ahmed Misaan who was one of the founders of Amoud University and the chairman of the board of the University and Sultan Abdiwahab Cige Ahmed also spoke on behalf of the students who graduated today, thanking the University and their teachers.
The Chairman of the National Education Committee, Prof. Suleiman Ahmed Guled, also spoke at the event. Ahmed Ismail Samatar, and the chairman of higher education Prof. Suuleiman Dirir Abdi, also addressed the audience and both emphasized the importance of improving education, urging the students to continue advancing their education and practice it.
In a significant development that has sent ripples through Somaliland’s political landscape, the arrest of Member of Parliament Mohamed Abib Yusuf has triggered a fierce legal and constitutional debate between the government and the House of Representatives. The arrest, which has been met with sharp criticism from the legislative body, is now the subject of intense scrutiny as both sides present their arguments.
Adding to the controversy, the Deputy Minister of Interior recently held a press briefing where he accused MP Abib of exploiting parliamentary protection to engage in activities detrimental to Somaliland’s stability. The Deputy Minister claimed that the Parliament’s refusal to suspend Abib’s immunity, as requested by the Attorney General, has emboldened the MP to continue his actions. The Minister further alleged that Abib has met with individuals overseas who are intent on destabilizing Somaliland, and assured that evidence will be presented in due time in a court of law.
On 2nd September 2024, MP Mohamed Abib Yusuf was detained by law enforcement authorities upon his return from Dubai, a move that has since drawn widespread condemnation from the House of Representatives. The parliamentary body has been vocal in its opposition to the arrest, denouncing it as a violation of MP Abib’s parliamentary immunity and accusing the government of overstepping its legal bounds.
In a detailed response dated 3rd September 2024, the House of Representatives issued a letter of protest, in which it strongly rebuked the government’s actions. The letter asserts that MP Abib’s arrest contravenes Article 55 of the Somaliland Constitution, which guarantees immunity to sitting members of Parliament. According to the House, the government’s decision to detain MP Abib without first seeking parliamentary approval represents a blatant disregard for this constitutional protection.
The House’s letter also raises concerns about the principle of double jeopardy, arguing that MP Abib is being subjected to multiple legal actions for the same alleged offenses. The parliamentary body contends that the government’s actions undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent for the treatment of elected officials in Somaliland.
However, the government has responded to these accusations with a robust defense of its actions, articulated through a letter from the Attorney General’s office. Dated 3rd September 2024, the Attorney General’s letter provides a detailed legal justification for the arrest of MP Abib, countering the claims made by the House of Representatives.
According to the Attorney General, the charges against MP Abib are of a serious nature, necessitating the lifting of his parliamentary immunity to allow for legal proceedings. The letter references Article 79(2) of the Somaliland Constitution, which permits the suspension of immunity in cases where a parliamentarian is accused of serious crimes. However, in a move that has further fueled controversy, the letter notably does not specify the exact charges against MP Abib, leaving the nature of the allegations shrouded in mystery. This omission has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some accusing the government of a lack of transparency in handling the case.
The Attorney General’s letter also addresses the issue of double jeopardy, asserting that the charges currently being pursued against MP Abib are distinct from any previous legal actions. The letter emphasizes that the prosecution is based on new evidence and additional allegations, dismissing the House’s concerns as unfounded.
The Attorney General defends the judiciary’s role in the case, stating that the courts are operating within their jurisdiction and that MP Abib’s arrest and detention were carried out in full compliance with Somaliland’s legal standards. The letter stresses the importance of judicial independence, arguing that the judiciary must be allowed to function without interference from the legislative branch to ensure a fair and impartial trial.
Adding to the growing chorus of opposition, Somaliland’s main opposition party, Waddani, has also condemned the arrest of MP Abib. In a statement shared on their official Facebook page, Waddani expressed strong disapproval of the government’s actions, labeling the arrest as politically motivated and a direct attack on parliamentary independence. The party called for the immediate release of MP Abib and urged the government to respect the rule of law and constitutional protections afforded to elected representatives.
The timing of MP Abib’s arrest is particularly significant as it comes just months before Somaliland is set to hold crucial elections in November 2024. These elections are expected to be a pivotal moment in Somaliland’s democratic process, with both local council and presidential elections on the horizon. The arrest of a prominent MP like Abib, who is known for his fiery rhetoric and controversial positions, could have far-reaching implications for the electoral landscape. Opposition parties are likely to leverage the arrest as evidence of government overreach and an attempt to stifle dissent ahead of the elections, further intensifying the political climate.
The upcoming elections in Somaliland, scheduled for November 13, 2024, represent a significant moment in the region’s political evolution. This election will encompass not only the presidential race but also parliamentary and local council elections, marking the fourth instance of universal suffrage since Somaliland’s declaration of independence from Somalia in 1991. The electoral landscape will feature candidates from three principal political parties: Kulmiye, UCID, and Waddani, each vying for influence in a climate charged with anticipation and scrutiny. Originally slated for November 2022, the elections were postponed due to a contentious extension of President Muse Bihi Abdi’s term, which has led to widespread protests and a violent crackdown by security forces. These events have raised alarm about the stability of Somaliland’s political framework, which has historically been characterized by consensus-building and peaceful transitions of power. As the country approaches this critical electoral milestone, the stakes are high, with the potential for both democratic consolidation and renewed tensions.
The popular and fiery legislator, elected from the Awdal region, has long been a lightning rod for controversy in Somaliland politics. MP Abib has been at the center of numerous heated debates, including his stance on the Somaliland-Ethiopia Memorandum of Understanding, which he initially supported before later opposing. His shifting position on this issue has drawn both support and criticism from various quarters. Most recently, he stirred further controversy with a statement regarding the Somali National Movement (SNM), the rebel group instrumental in toppling the Somali dictatorship and securing Somaliland’s independence. His remarks, perceived by some as disrespectful to the legacy of the SNM, have only added to the contentious atmosphere surrounding his political career.
Despite his often-rambunctious demeanor and penchant for making controversial statements, the exact crime MP Abib is being charged with remains unclear. The government has yet to provide a detailed account of the allegations against him. However, sources within the government, speaking on condition of strict anonymity, have accused MP Abib of committing high treason, although they have yet to present any evidence to substantiate these claims. It remains to be seen what specific charges the Attorney General will bring against MP Abib and how these charges will interact with the legal questions surrounding his parliamentary immunity.
As this high-stakes legal and political battle unfolds, the tension between Somaliland’s legislative and executive branches has become increasingly pronounced. The arrest of MP Abib has not only sparked a constitutional crisis but has also raised questions about the balance of power within Somaliland’s government. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for the country’s legal and political systems, testing the resilience of its constitutional framework and the integrity of its democratic institutions.
On the court of public opinion, those that support the government’s position and the actions it has taken are framing the issue as not only a case of treason but also as evidence that Mr. Abib is attempting to destabilize Somaliland, much like the former Chairman of the Parliament, Mr. Abdirasak Khalif, who abandoned Somaliland and joined SSC at the beginning of the Las Anod conflict. The opposition party, Waddani, has also defended Mr. Khalif despite his clear stance against Somaliland.
For now, the nation watches closely as the case of MP Mohamed Abib Yusuf continues to develop, with both sides preparing for what promises to be a protracted and contentious legal showdown.
President Muse Bihi Abdi has made significant strides in transforming Somaliland’s foreign policy since taking office in 2017. His leadership has been marked by a bold approach aimed at elevating Somaliland’s status on the international stage while fiercely defending the nation’s sovereignty.
One of the central aspects of President Bihi’s foreign policy is his unrelenting pursuit of recognition for Somaliland as an independent state. Unlike his predecessors, Bihi has taken a more assertive stance, focusing on direct diplomacy with key regional and global players. His administration has cultivated closer ties with countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Taiwan, and Kenya, which has helped Somaliland gain more visibility and strategic partnerships. The UAE’s investment in the Berbera Port and Taiwan’s establishment of diplomatic relations with Somaliland are prime examples of Bihi’s successful diplomatic initiatives.
President Bihi’s bravery in this arena is particularly evident in his approach to dealing with Somalia, which continues to claim Somaliland as part of its territory. Rather than engaging in protracted and fruitless negotiations, Bihi has taken a more confident and firm position, calling for the international community to recognize Somaliland’s de facto independence. His stance has been praised by many Somalilanders who view him as a strong leader willing to challenge the status quo in pursuit of their national aspirations.
Bihi’s boldness extends beyond diplomacy. Domestically, he has shown courage in maintaining stability in a region often beset by conflict. His administration has strengthened internal security and upheld Somaliland’s democratic processes, reinforcing the notion that Somaliland is a bastion of peace and democracy in the Horn of Africa. This stability has, in turn, been a cornerstone of his foreign policy, as it demonstrates to the international community that Somaliland is a functioning, self-reliant state deserving of recognition.
President Muse Bihi’s transformation of Somaliland’s foreign policy reflects his bravery and strategic vision. Through a mix of assertive diplomacy and steadfast leadership, he has advanced Somaliland’s quest for recognition, bringing the nation closer to achieving its long-standing goal of being acknowledged as a sovereign state. His legacy will likely be remembered as one that put Somaliland firmly on the global map, both diplomatically and politically.
President Muse Bihi Abdi’s bold decision to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia has marked a pivotal moment in Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition and reshaped the political landscape of the region. This strategic move has not only deepened bilateral ties with a critical regional player but also signaled Somaliland’s growing influence and independence in the Horn of Africa.
The MoU, signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia, covers various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, and security cooperation. By formalizing relations with Ethiopia—one of the most influential countries in the region—President Bihi demonstrated Somaliland’s capacity to engage in state-to-state relations, despite the lack of formal international recognition. This decision was a bold assertion of Somaliland’s de facto independence, challenging the prevailing narrative that Somalia exclusively represents the former union of the two territories.
This agreement with Ethiopia is particularly significant as it underscores Somaliland’s strategic importance in the Horn of Africa, especially in the realms of trade and regional security. Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, relies heavily on access to ports, and Somaliland’s Berbera Port has emerged as a key asset. The MoU reinforced Ethiopia’s commitment to utilizing the port, further solidifying Somaliland’s position as an essential regional partner and increasing its leverage on the global stage.
Politically, the MoU has sent ripples through the region, altering how Somaliland is perceived internationally. By engaging directly with Ethiopia, Somaliland has shown that it can independently manage complex diplomatic relations. This move also sends a message to other nations that Somaliland is open for business and capable of playing a significant role in regional development. For Somaliland, this has created a renewed sense of momentum toward achieving its long-sought goal of recognition, as more countries begin to acknowledge its functional autonomy.
Critically, this agreement has also put pressure on Somalia’s weak government in Mogadishu, which has long opposed Somaliland’s quest for independence. By securing closer ties with Ethiopia, Somaliland has gained a powerful ally, further isolating Somalia in its efforts to deny Somaliland’s recognition. This shift in alliances has redefined the geopolitical dynamics in the region, making it increasingly difficult for Somalia to assert control over Somaliland diplomatically.
In conclusion, President Muse Bihi’s decision to sign the MoU with Ethiopia has been a game-changer for Somaliland. It has enhanced Somaliland’s diplomatic standing, boosted its economy through strategic partnerships, and shifted the political calculus in favor of its recognition. By leveraging regional relationships and asserting Somaliland’s interests on the international stage, President Bihi has demonstrated bold leadership, positioning Somaliland closer to its ultimate goal of full statehood.
Hasan Sheikh could jeopardize the entire Horn of Africa with his reckless, non-starter politics.
Hassan Sh. Mohamoud, the president of the Federal Government of Somalia, controls Mogadishu and its environs, which are controlled by Al-Shabaab. He is recognized as the president of Somalia at international diplomatic forums. However, he pursues policies that are detrimental to the interests of the Somali people and to the entire Horn of Africa. Recently, Hassan offered a military base to Egypt to foil the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
Egypt’s Abdel Fattah El-Sisi alleges the reason his troops are in Somalia is to bolster Somali unity. He vows to build a Somali army that is strong enough to crush Somaliland and bring it back to the fold of Somali unity. A unity that would be achieved by the force of arms.
The objective of Egypt’s involvement in Somali affairs at the present is not to attack Ethiopia or do something about the Millenium Dam. However, Egypt is here to dismantle and make Somaliland the sacrificial lamb as it is the easiest way to prevent the MOU from materializing.
Heavy weaponry is already being transported to Somalia by Hercules C130 planes. Clan militias bordering Somaliland are being armed and backed financially by the Somalia Federal government and the Egyptian military.
Hassan Sheikh and El-Sisi may be under the delusion that if they get rid of Somaliland, the MOU would be something of the past and hence after Somali unity will be reborn. However, do the two presidents ever envisage the wider consequences of their reckless and short-sighted plans?
It is disturbing for anyone to contemplate Somaliland, which has hitherto been the only peaceful entity in the region, to be destabilized or worse break into a civil war. Afterall, Somaliland has been a beacon of hope for Somalis and many in the region.
Attacking Somaliland is an offence against the peace and security of the entire region, offence against its nascent democratic process. These hostilities will be compromising strategic areas such as the coastal areas of Gulf of Aden, the Golis Mountain chain which if insecure would be certainly a haven for terrorist networks of Al-Shabab and the Islamic state (Daish) who have been striving to acquire a foothold in the Golis Mountains.
Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Hassan Sheikh are playing with fire and endangering the Horn of Africa, the facing gulf countries, and important shipping lanes. The international community, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the African Union should wake up to the dangers unfolding in the Horn of Africa and confront these reckless policies of Hassan Sheikh and El-Sisi.
As the Las Anod conflict unfolds, a more ominous spectre looms—the presence of extremist groups. Reports suggest that Al-Shabab and Daesh (ISIS) are exploiting the chaos by tactically merging with local militias with whom they share clan descendency. These groups thrive in unstable environments, recruiting, radicalizing, and planning attacks.
Thesituation in Las Anod has become increasingly volatile since the events of August 25, 2023. On that day, Somaliland’s military forces withdrew from the city following intense pressure from what local militias perceived as international support for their cause. This development has led to a dangerous power vacuum, with lawless militias now controlling the area and threatening to expand their influence to neighbouring cities – only one aspect of the diverse unintended but seriously far-reaching consequences of international actors’ arm-twisting tactics.
The military withdrawal of August 25 was particularly devastating for the Somaliland army. Reports indicate that the operation inflicted heavy casualties, with over 500 troops either killed or captured. The army also suffered significant material losses, including over a hundred military vehicles as it also resulted in unspeakable human rights violations against the POWs some of which showed women stabbing prisoners to death with blunt knives. The hasty, undignified retreat not only weakened Somaliland’s military capabilities but also emboldened the Las Anod militias, who viewed the outcome as a decisive victory.
In the aftermath of this single-day triumph, the Las Anod militias have transformed their perceived success into a cornerstone of their identity and motivation. They have woven a narrative around this event, elevating it to the status of a lifelong achievement in what can be described as a make-believe history. This distorted view of their capabilities and standing has had alarming consequences for the region’s civilian population.
Exacerbating the already volatile situation is the role of irresponsible social media influencers and self-proclaimed leaders who exploit the crisis for personal gain and notoriety. One particularly concerning figure is an individual known as “Captain Ayoub,” who, despite being a German citizen with no official military rank, has taken to wearing a general’s uniform in his online appearances. This impersonation of military authority, coupled with his inflammatory rhetoric and hate speech, has significantly contributed to the escalation of tensions in the region. Such figures, leveraging the reach and immediacy of social media platforms, have been instrumental in spreading misinformation, inciting violence, and radicalizing vulnerable individuals, particularly the youth. Their actions not only undermine efforts at peaceful resolution but also contribute to the overall destabilization of the region by promoting a narrative of conflict and division.
Further complicating the situation are the activities of former political figures who are now actively working to escalate the conflict. A prime example is ex-vice president Ahmed Karaash, who has been touring the region to drum up support for a concerted offensive on Erigavo and its surrounding areas. Karaash’s efforts to mobilize forces for an attack on Erigavo represent a dangerous escalation that threatens to expand the conflict beyond Las Anod. By leveraging his former political status and connections, Karaash is able to gather significant support for this aggressive stance, potentially drawing more communities into the conflict. His actions not only risk widening the geographical scope of the hostilities but also deepen the political and social divides that underpin the current crisis. The involvement of such high-profile figures in promoting offensive actions severely undermines diplomatic efforts and pushes the region further away from a peaceful resolution.Adding fuel to this already volatile situation is the role of the government in Mogadishu, which operates under the protection of foreign troops. In a startling admission, the Mogadishu administration has openly acknowledged its involvement in initiating and supporting the takeover of Las Anod. Moreover, it continues to actively contribute to the spreading of anarchy through political, military, and financial means. The government led by Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has taken unprecedented steps to undermine the stability of the Republic of Somaliland. In a move that has raised serious concerns regionally and internationally, Mogadishu has reportedly reached out to countries such as Egypt, Djibouti, Turkey, and Iran, seeking support to subdue Somaliland. Perhaps most alarmingly, there are reports of the Mogadishu government’s involvement in training and arming lawless militias in the Sool and Awdal regions of Somaliland. These actions represent a direct threat to the democracy and stability that have long been hallmarks of the Republic of Somaliland. The involvement of external actors and the support for destabilizing elements within Somaliland’s borders not only escalates the conflict but also risks drawing the entire region into a wider conflagration.Emboldened by the militia’s perceived victory and misinterpreted international support, these militias have engaged in increasingly aggressive and indiscriminate actions. Reports suggest that they have begun attacking pastoralists, livestock herders, and non-combatant villagers at will. These attacks on civilians not only violate basic human rights but also contribute to the destabilization of the entire region, displacing communities and disrupting local economies.
The absence of a stable governing authority in Las Anod has created fertile ground for extremist ideologies to take root and flourish. As history has shown time and again, areas lacking effective governance often become breeding grounds for radical groups seeking to exploit local grievances and establish their own systems of control. The situation in Las Anod is particularly concerning given its strategic location and the potential for extremist influence to spread throughout the region.
Reports indicate that militias based in Las Anod are now poised to launch offensives against several key cities in the region, including Erigavo, Burao, Oog, and Qorilugud. These groups, emboldened by what they perceive as tacit international support following the Somaliland army’s withdrawal, pose a significant threat to regional stability. Their actions could potentially trigger a wider conflict, destabilizing an already fragile area and creating opportunities for extremist groups to expand their influence.The belief among these militias that they have international backing stems from the events surrounding the Somaliland army’s withdrawal in August 2023. The pressure exerted by the international community on Somaliland to pull back its forces has been interpreted by some as an endorsement of the militias’ actions. This misinterpretation of international intentions has inadvertently contributed to the current crisis, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.
The urgency of reclaiming stability in Las Anod cannot be overstated. The longer the city remains under the control of lawless militias, the greater the risk of extremist ideologies taking hold and spreading. This not only threatens the immediate region but could have far-reaching consequences for the Horn of Africa and beyond. Extremist groups have a history of exploiting unstable regions to establish safe havens, recruit new members, and launch operations against both local and international targets.
To address this growing threat, a multi-faceted approach is needed. First and foremost, efforts must be made to restore legitimate governance in Las Anod. This may require a combination of diplomatic initiatives, security operations, and community engagement to build trust and support among the local population.
The international community, while cautious about direct intervention, must play a role in facilitating dialogue between all parties involved and supporting efforts to establish a stable and inclusive governing structure. Additionally, addressing the root causes of instability in the region is crucial. This includes tackling issues such as poverty, unemployment, and political marginalization that often fuel extremist recruitment. Economic development initiatives, education programs, and efforts to promote social cohesion can all contribute to creating an environment less susceptible to extremist influence.
The role of regional actors, particularly neighboring countries and regional organizations, is also critical in resolving the crisis. Coordinated efforts to secure borders, share intelligence, and provide humanitarian assistance can help contain the spread of instability and mitigate its impact on civilian populations.
As the situation in Las Anod continues to evolve, the international community must remain vigilant and engaged and actively support the Republic of Somaliland to return the land to law and order. The misperception of international support for the militias’ actions underscores the need for clear and consistent messaging from global actors. It is crucial to communicate unequivocally that stability, the rule of law, and peaceful resolution of disputes are the priorities, rather than supporting the aggressors posing as victims.The battle for Las Anod is not just about control of a single city; it represents a critical juncture in the fight against extremism and instability in the region. The outcome of this conflict will have significant implications for the future of Somaliland, Somalia, and the broader Horn of Africa. Failure to address the current crisis could result in the emergence of a new stronghold for extremist groups, with potentially devastating consequences for regional and global security.
The urgency of reclaiming stability in Las Anod and adjacent areas cannot be overstated. The threats posed by extremist ideologies and lawless militias demand immediate and coordinated action from local, regional, and international stakeholders. Only through a comprehensive approach that addresses both the immediate security challenges and the underlying causes of instability can lasting peace and stability be achieved in this volatile region.
The Commander of the National Forces of the Republic of Somaliland Major General Nouh Ismail Taani participated in the closing ceremony of the 8th batch of the National Army, who have been training in Ethiopia for the last time.
Thousands of new Somaliland army graduated from the Ethiopia Defense Force training center on 30th August 2024.
This is the 8th batch trained in Ethiopia in 2023 -2024.
Somaliland and Ethiopia have a defense pact and collaborate on security.
In the intricate chess game of Horn of Africa geopolitics, Somalia has embraced a strategy so myopic that it threatens to reduce the entire region to ashes. At the heart of this perilous gambit lies a zero-sum mentality that has consumed Mogadishu’s political elite, driving the nation to the brink of self-immolation. The catalyst? The specter of Somaliland’s potential recognition.
The possibility of Ethiopia recognizing Somaliland in exchange for port access and a military base has triggered a paroxysm of irrational fear in Somalia. In the eyes of Mogadishu’s power brokers, Somaliland’s gain is inevitably Somalia’s loss, a simplistic calculus that fails to account for the nuances of regional cooperation and mutual benefit. This zero-sum perspective has become the lens through which Somalia views all regional developments, driving it towards increasingly desperate measures. In its frenzied attempt to thwart Somaliland’s aspirations, Somalia has cast reason to the wind, embracing alliances that promise short-term obstruction at the cost of long-term stability.
Like a wounded animal attracting predators, Somalia’s stench of desperation has drawn the attention of opportunistic powers. Egypt and Turkey have descended upon the war-torn nation, each eager to exploit Somalia’s vulnerability for their own gain. The agreement with Turkey, granting Ankara access to 30% of Somalia’s maritime resources, exemplifies this desperate ploy. This deal not only compromises Somalia’s economic future but also risks entangling it in broader geopolitical conflicts. Turkey’s interest in Somalia is purely commercial, having already secured control over Mogadishu’s airport and port, the two largest sources of income for a country heavily reliant on donor nations. The recent military pact with Ankara further cements Turkey’s grip on Somalia’s vital infrastructure, signaling a troubling trend of external dependency.
The courtship of Egypt, a nation with its own axe to grind against Ethiopia, is a prime example of this reckless strategy. By inviting Egyptian influence into the region, Somalia hopes to create a counterweight to Ethiopian-Somaliland cooperation. Yet in doing so, it has opened Pandora’s box, potentially unleashing forces far beyond its control. Egypt’s primary motive for deepening its involvement in Somalia is rooted in the contentious Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) project on the Blue Nile. Egypt, which relies on the Nile for over 90% of its water supply, views the GERD as a dire threat to its water security. By expanding its influence in Somalia, Egypt aims to pressure Ethiopia from multiple fronts, despite Ethiopia’s homecourt advantage and established security buffer zones along their border. The assumption that Egypt can project meaningful power against Ethiopia under these conditions is a strategic miscalculation on Somalia’s part.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia and Somaliland forge ahead with plans for economic integration and shared development. The Port of Berbera in Somaliland, which could serve as a catalyst for regional growth, is seen by Mogadishu not as an opportunity for collaboration but as a threat to be neutralized at all costs. The Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) goes beyond mere port access. It envisions a comprehensive partnership, including economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and potentially, a path to Somaliland’s recognition. This agreement represents a fundamentally different approach to regional politics, one that prioritizes mutual benefits over zero-sum calculations.
Another regional player, Djibouti, has made its disapproval of the MoU very clear. Djibouti, long accustomed to its role as Ethiopia’s primary access to the sea, views the potential diversion of Ethiopian traffic to Somaliland’s ports as an existential threat to its economic lifeline. The loss of its presumed outsized influence over Somaliland also vanishing into thin air did not help President Guelleh’s delicate sensibility. This opposition underscores the far-reaching implications of the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement, which has the potential to reshape regional economic dynamics and power balances.
Somalia’s fanatical leadership, hailing these alliances as major successes and its troll factory on social media framing them as though Somalia has become a nuclear power and threatening Ethiopia and Somaliland with annihilation presumably with Egyptian and Turkish muscle, but are oblivious to the inferno they are stoking and the new alliances forming around them. Each move to undermine Somaliland’s position is viewed as a victory in a game where the only acceptable outcome is total domination. Yet with each such “victory,” Somalia edges closer to a precipice from which there may be no return.
Compounding its status as a failed state with all accounts dealing with resurgent Al-Shabaab that is capable of attacking targets in Mogadishu’s presumably secure areas, Somalia has become a vector for instability, its leaders invoking past hostilities between Somalia and Ethiopia and even threatening to partner with same terror groups and relitigate issues of mythical lost Somali lands. But the most egregious is inviting external powers that have zero interest in seeing Somalia succeed in any meaningful way.
The tragedy is compounded by the missed opportunities for genuine regional cooperation. A Somalia secure in its own sovereignty and willing to engage constructively with its neighbors could serve as a cornerstone of stability in the Horn of Africa. Instead, it has chosen a path of confrontation and self-destruction, risking not only its own future but the stability of the entire region.
As the situation intensifies, crucial questions loom: Will Somalia recognize the folly of its approach before it’s too late? Will it continue its self-destructive path, so consumed by its obsession with dragging Somaliland into the fiery gutter that it fails to see the danger to its own future? And how will the opposition from Djibouti and the deepening partnership between Ethiopia and Somaliland reshape the regional balance of power?
The answers to these questions may well determine the fate of the entire Horn of Africa for generations to come. The region stands at a crossroads, and the path chosen in the coming months could either lead to a new era of cooperation and prosperity or plunge the Horn into a maelstrom of conflict from which it may not easily emerge. As Ethiopia and Somaliland take concrete steps towards realizing their partnership, the pressure on Somalia to reconsider its destructive course only intensifies. The coming days and weeks may prove crucial in determining whether reason and cooperation will prevail over the politics of division and self-immolation.
Somtel has announced that it will invest $25 million more in the development of the country’s Internet connection during the ongoing 6th National Telecommunications Conference.
The business manager of Somtel Mr. Samir Hassan Duale who spoke at the National Communication Conference said that his organization is focused on strengthening the connection of Internet services in the country.
The 6th National Communication Conference this year is focused on Internet Connectivity and aims to promote Internet of Things (IOT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
To confirm this, Somtel, one of the companies of Dahabshiil Group, announced the large new investment during the conference.
Many officials from government departments, local and international institutions and commercial companies have hailed the move by SOMTEL.
