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Somaliland: Minister of Justice Concludes Inspection of 13 Prison Facilities Nationwide

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa-The Minister of Justice of Somaliland, who oversees the inspection of the conditions of prisoners and the country’s prisons, has concluded an extensive tour during which he inspected 15 of the country’s prisons. This week-long tour aimed to reform the prison system and assess the conditions and fundamental rights of prisoners.

The tour included investigations and interviews regarding the living conditions of prisoners, their food, water, healthcare, and how prison staff treat the inmates. The legal status of the prisoners was also examined, including the duration of their sentences and their rights.

There are currently 13 operational prisons in the country, with two additional prisons expected to become operational this year. The plan is to transform these prisons into rehabilitation centers that produce skilled individuals and educated citizens who contribute positively to society.

The journey, which started in Baki and ended in  Erigavo, covering a distance of 2000 KM, demonstrated the commitment to reintegrating citizens who have violated the law back into society.

The inspection concluded at the Maroodi-Jeh Regional Prison, which houses some of the most serious offenders. Valuable insights were gathered on how to improve the prison system and safeguard the rights of prisoners. This information will be forwarded to the relevant authorities responsible for reforming the country’s prison system.

The 100-day plan of the WADDANI government, led by President H.E Dr.  Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro, includes the enhancement of the justice system and prisons. The Minister of Justice is responsible for implementing policies and advancing the justice system.

This tour highlights the government’s and the minister’s efforts to improve the prison system and ensure the rights of prisoners are protected.

Somaliland: President urges both local and foreign entrepreneurs to invest in Somaliland agricultural sector

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By M.A. Egge

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro on Wednesday urged the country’s top entrepreneurs and foreign ones too, to invest in Somaliland’s agricultural sector for it had a lot of opportunities.

The President made the appeal as he opened the Somaliland Farmers Conference that focused on the indispensable role of agriculture in development and the economy.

The conference is aimed at encouraging farmers to increase their production, in order to avoid dependence on imported subsistence farm produce.

At the conference, organized by the Ministry of Agricultural Development, the President delivered an esteemed and worthwhile speech emphasizing on the importance of domestic production for the development of the nation.

He disclosed the fact that his administration is formulating national plans to increase agricultural production in the country and also bolster agricultural techniques.

He said, “The government is formulating a plan to develop agriculture and strengthen its production and also establish high schools to teach agricultural sciences hence provide farmers with training to improve their knowledge of modern farming, pest control, climate change adaptation, and to develop economic infrastructure such as roads so that they can transport their products to domestic markets.”

The President called upon the nation’s top entrepreneurs to invest in agriculture, in order to increase domestic production, and that it had a lot of opportunities.

He urged them, “There are great opportunities for investment in agriculture in Somaliland and we encourage businessmen to invest in agriculture and industries that process agricultural crops. We also welcome foreign investment in agriculture.”

Earlier on the same day President Abdirahman Irro launched a symposium conference on the promoting, establishing and fledging of TVET school programmes in the nation.

President Abdirahman Irro launches National Symposium on Vocational and Technical Education

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By M.A. Egge

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro has underscored the fact that there was a need to equip the youth with technical and applied skills to cater for the demands of skilled manpower in the country.

The Head of State made the remarks as he inaugurated on Wednesday a symposium on the National Conference to Promote Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes in the country.

The congress was convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, Training and Science.

It was attended by several members of the cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, academicians and associated dignitaries.

President Abdirahman Irro noted the imperativeness and the importance of skills for development and the need to equip young people with the technical know-how needed as he addressed the conference.

He stated, “In order to reduce unemployment, we must teach our youth vocational and technical skills and invest in them and the sector hence further encourage them to come up with their own ideas to create necessary jobs.”

The President disclosed that his administration would increase the budget allocated to the TVET sector.

He said, “The Government of the Republic of Somaliland will increase the budget for the technical and vocational education and training related to industrial, agricultural, constructions, and associated technologies.”

He was convictional that the government is committed to equipping the youth with the skills necessary for the development of the nation.

The President pointed out that aligning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with the needs of the labor market is not merely an educational reform but indeed investment in the future of the country.

According to a press release by Presidential spokesman Hussein Deyr, the conference is expected to yield recommendations and guidelines that would contribute to the reform and modernization of the Vocational and Technical Education and Training Curriculum in order to produce skilled citizens who can meet the needs of the labor market.

Somaliland: President meets with representatives of international partners and organizations

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa-The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), flanked by senior cabinet ministers and senior officials from the government, held a comprehensive meeting today with representatives of international partners and development organizations.

Among those present were representatives from the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), the United Nations (UN), Canada, the USA, and other delegates or officials from their respective organizations.

The President began by expressing profound gratitude to the delegation for their consistent support, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration in advancing the developmental agenda of the Republic of Somaliland.

This meeting focused on aligning key strategies aimed at boosting the economy, social development, and sustainable growth, thereby strengthening Somaliland’s resilience and its international partnerships.

The discussions highlighted the international community’s strong recognition of the security, stability, and democratic progress in the Republic of Somaliland. As a result, there is a pressing need to further strengthen the relationship between Somaliland and the global community.

In conclusion, the President of the Republic of Somaliland presented each member of the delegation with a symbolic gift representing the partnership and cooperation between the Republic of Somaliland and the international community.

Somaliland: VP meets with Traditional leaders in Erigavo to discuss security and ongoing peace efforts

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By Goth Mohamed Goth

Erigavo- The meeting between the Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, and the traditional leaders of the Sanaag region marks a significant step toward fostering peace and development in the region, particularly in Erigavo. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and local leaders to address security challenges and promote stability.

The Vice President’s delegation outlined the objectives of their visit, emphasizing the need for traditional leaders to play an active role in peace-building efforts. This reflects the government’s recognition of the influential role that local leaders hold in maintaining social cohesion and resolving conflicts.

The traditional leaders of Sanaag region  expressed their readiness to work closely with the government, underscoring the importance of peace for the well-being of the community. Their involvement is crucial for ensuring that peace initiatives are culturally sensitive and widely accepted by the local population.

The Vice President announced the government’s commitment to implementing extensive development projects in the Sanaag region. This signals a focus on addressing underlying issues such as infrastructure, economic opportunities, and public services, which are essential for long-term stability and growth.

The meeting concluded with a shared agreement on how to move forward with peace-building and stabilization efforts. This mutual understanding is a positive indicator of the potential for effective collaboration between the government and local and traditional leaders.

Overall, this meeting demonstrated the importance of inclusive dialogue and partnership in addressing regional challenges. By engaging traditional leaders and prioritizing development, the government of Somaliland is taking a holistic approach to peace-building in the Sanaag region.

Somaliland’s Sovereignty Undermined: University of Hargeisa’s Controversial SomaliREN Participation

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Since reclaiming its independence in 1991, Somaliland has functioned as a self-sustaining, democratic, and stable entity—unlike its erstwhile partners in the failed union of 1960-1990. While Somalia has endured lawlessness, autocracy, and political instability, Somaliland has successfully built state institutions, held democratic elections, and maintained relative peace. Its people have consistently fought to safeguard their sovereignty, resisting any attempts to be dragged back into the chaotic orbit of Mogadishu’s administration.

Clear Contradiction

Against this backdrop, the decision by the Rector of the University of Hargeisa to engage with SomaliREN raises serious concerns. SomaliREN, by design, appears to be an initiative intended to create a centralized academic framework that aligns universities across Somalia and Somaliland under one umbrella. This move is widely perceived as a stealthy effort, backed by the Somali federal government, to erode Somaliland’s hard-won independence.

Critics argue that Dr. Sulub’s acceptance of the Chair position signals tacit approval of an agenda that undermines Somaliland’s sovereignty. Moreover, his collaboration with institutions like SIMAD University and East Africa University—both known for their anti-Somaliland stance—further exacerbates concerns that this is part of a broader scheme orchestrated by Mogadishu to blur the lines of Somaliland’s independence.

Public Backlash

The reaction to this development has been swift and fierce. Numerous Somalilanders have taken to social media to express their outrage. Some of the most striking comments include:

  • “A new tactic from the weak and failed administration of Italian Somalia by introducing #SomaliREN that represents and unifies all universities in ‘Somalia.’”
  • “The president of @hargeisaunivers violated Somaliland’s sovereignty in terms of this.”
  • “I strongly condemn and it is very sad and surprising that the University of Hargeisa appears in the university system of the weak administration of Somalia. Therefore, we must protest and oppose this issue of bad labor.”
  • “Sometimes, I find myself wondering—what percentage of the people living in #Somaliland truly believe in the Somaliland cause?”

The backlash has not been limited to online discussions. Nasir M. Ali, a respected academic, formally resigned from his position as Director of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Hargeisa, citing this development as a major factor. His resignation underscores the gravity of the situation and serves as a strong indictment of the University’s leadership for its perceived betrayal of Somaliland’s national interests.

A Stealthy Strategy

This is not the first time Somaliland-based universities have participated in Somali government-led initiatives. Just last year, several institutions took part in a curriculum forum held in Mogadishu, organized by Somalia’s Ministry of Education. These incremental steps raise red flags about a systematic effort to integrate Somaliland’s academic institutions into Somalia’s framework. The concern is that these seemingly benign collaborations are part of a broader strategy to slowly dissolve Somaliland’s independent identity, making it easier for Mogadishu to claim administrative control over its institutions.

These developments indicate that some Somaliland officials have been covertly working with the so-called SomaliREN over which the Somalia Federal Government loomed. A few of the latest SomliREN operations on Somaliland soil include:

  1. In 2024, the Somalia Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education successfully implemented the HEMIS (Higher Education Management Information System), a modern program designed to streamline the governance of higher education institutions. Within just one year, 125 universities registered in the system, including 15 from Somaliland, highlighting a covert integration effort.
  2. On February 9, a two-day training session was completed in Burao, enhancing the technical skills of staff at the University of Burao, a SomaliREN member institution. The training covered advanced network management and key SomaliREN services such as Somali Research and Education Repository (SORER), SomaliREN Identity Federation (SIF), eduroam, EduVPN, and other digital infrastructures aligned with Somalia’s academic vision.
  3. On January 3, a modern education methods training session was conducted at Nugaal University in Las Anod, with over 60 instructors participating. The event was led by SomaliREN’s leadership and focused on improving teaching techniques, classroom behavior, and modern pedagogical approaches.
  4. On January 1, another training workshop on advanced teaching and higher education strategies was launched in Las Anod, hosted by Nugaal University—a SomaliREN-affiliated institution. The training was attended by more than 60 lecturers, reinforcing SomaliREN’s deepening influence within Somaliland’s academic circles.
  5. On February 11, a two-day workshop was held in Borama, engaging ICT units, computing faculty members, and librarians from Amoud University. The workshop covered Network Operations and SomaliREN Services, further integrating Somaliland’s academic infrastructure into the broader Somalia-led education framework. Notably, the event was officially opened by Prof. Hamud Barkhadle, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, signaling high-level participation in this controversial initiative.

These incremental steps raise red flags about a systematic effort to integrate Somaliland’s academic institutions into Somalia’s framework. The concern is that these seemingly benign collaborations are part of a broader strategy to slowly dissolve Somaliland’s independent identity, making it easier for Mogadishu to claim administrative control over its institutions.

Observers have pointed out that SomaliREN’s leadership election was conducted in a manner that seemingly crowned Dr. Sulub to implicitly validate its authority over Somaliland’s academic institutions. This maneuvering demonstrates how Somalia’s federal government continuously seeks to reassert influence over Somaliland, despite having no legal or political legitimacy to do so.

In Defense of Sovereignty

This latest incident highlights the need for a firm response from Somaliland’s government and academic institutions. There must be clear policies prohibiting Somaliland universities from participating in any forums that threaten the republic’s sovereignty. Institutions must uphold the values of independence and self-determination that Somalilanders have fought for over the past three decades.

Moreover, public awareness and activism are critical. Somaliland’s citizens must continue to hold leaders accountable and push for greater institutional discipline in safeguarding the nation’s interests. The government must take a firm stance against any attempts—overt or covert—to integrate Somaliland’s systems into Somalia’s collapsing administration.

The University of Hargeisa’s involvement in SomaliREN represents more than just an academic collaboration—it is a political misstep that risks undermining Somaliland’s long-standing struggle for international recognition. It is a reminder that vigilance and unity are essential in the face of ongoing attempts to reverse Somaliland’s independence.

The people of Somaliland have spoken, and their message is clear: the sovereignty of Somaliland is not up for negotiation, not even under the guise of academic cooperation.

At a time when Somalia is leaving no stone unturned to completely obliterate the ‘Somaliland’ name from the surface of the earth, it is not only inopportune but utterly foolhardy for Somalilanders to assist Somalians in any way to succeed in this gross flagrancy and obsession against everything ‘Somaliland’.

 

 

Somaliland: Former President Muse and the CEO of Dahabshiil Group Discuss the Role of the Major Companies in Economic Development

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The Former President of Somaliland and the CEO of Dahabshiil Group this week met to discuss the role of the major companies in economic development.

President Muse highlighted the significant role that Dahabshiil Group of Companies plays in economic growth, job creation, and the enhancement of social services in the region and globally.

The CEO of Dahabshiil Group, who recently returned from a trip to the United States, participated in a conference at Harvard University, one of the world’s leading institutions in economics. He had previously attended major forums at UK universities such as Oxford, where discussions focused on strengthening economic development, financial integration, technological advancement, internet growth, and global progress in various sectors (Beyond Borders).

The former President and the CEO of Dahabshiil emphasized the positive role that major companies like Dahabshiil can play in the future to further enhance development in areas such as water resources and job creation. They stressed the importance of collaboration between governments and companies worldwide through public-private partnerships.

#Dahabshiil #MuuseBiixi #Harvard #BeyondBorders #WaterResources #EconomicDevelopment

Somaliland’s Paradigm Shift: From Conflict Mentality to a Future of Peace, Unity, and Global Engagement

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By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin

For decades, all previous Somaliland presidents have navigated in challenging obstacles marked by political issues, economic hurdles, and the persistent quest for international recognition.

The same is true for the new President , Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi and as we march forward with a new era, a powerful shift in narrative is essential—not one rooted in past grievances and entrenched rivalries, but one that embraces peace, unity, and global cooperation as the driving forces of socio-economic and political progress in Somaliland.

Much like South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Project, which helped a divided nation move beyond the scars of apartheid, Somaliland has an opportunity to redefine its trajectory by prioritizing dialogue,reconciliation, and forward-thinking engagement with the world.

The traditional approach of viewing adversaries through the lens of hostility has long hindered Somaliland’s ability to fully harness its potential. A mentality of perpetual confrontation—whether political, economic, or diplomatic—has only reinforced divisions, stalling much needed economic development.

However, a transformative change is now not just desirable but necessary. By shifting from a conflict-driven mindset to one centered on peacebuilding and inclusive governance,Somaliland can create a stable foundation for long-term progress and prosperity.

Unity in terms of national identity ,remains a crucial pillar in this new vision. Internally, fostering cohesion among political actors, clans, and communities is imperative to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that governance structures reflect the aspirations of all citizens.

Externally, forging strategic partnerships with international allies requires Somaliland to present itself as a constructive and forward-looking actor on the global stage. Recognition will not be achieved through isolation or defiance, but through engagement, negotiation, and a demonstrated commitment to stability and prosperity.

Economic transformation is equally tied to this paradigm shift. Somaliland’s untapped potential—ranging from its strategic location in the Horn of Africa to its growing commercial and technological sectors—can only be fully realized in an environment of peace and predictability. Investors, both domestic and foreign, require confidence in a stable sociopolitical climate, free from the uncertainties of entrenched conflict. A reconciliatory approach to regional diplomacy, particularly with the Eastern regions of Sool and Sanaag, could unlock new trade opportunities, infrastructural development, and economic partnerships that will propel Somaliland toward sustainable growth.

Ultimately, the power of narrative cannot be underestimated. Just as South Africa’s reconciliation process enabled a nation to heal and rebuild, Somaliland must actively craft and champion a story of transformation—one that moves beyond historical grievances and embraces a future of cooperation, progress, and global integration in store for posterity.

By adopting a mindset of peace, unity, and forward engagement, Somaliland can solidify its position not just as a resilient self-governing democratic entity in a turbulent region , but as a model for sociopolitical stability and economic powerhouse in the Horn of Africa region.

Somaliland: The EU Delivers a Valuable Stock of Law Books to the HoR

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The books, procured through an EU-funded initiative and facilitated by MPF, were formally presented at the HoR Library in the presence of key figures from both houses of the Somaliland bicameral legislature.

MPF’s partnership with Somaliland’s Parliament has been ongoing for nearly four years, focusing on legislative reforms and procedural enhancements. The foundation’s engagement began with a thorough needs assessment of the House of Representatives, which led to the formulation of a support program financed by the European Union.

Jan Schmidt, the Head of MPF’s Somaliland/Somalia Project, highlighted the remarkable progress made over the years. He recalled the initial visit to the parliamentary library and emphasized the importance of knowledge repositories for lawmakers. Through this collaboration, MPF has facilitated the procurement of critical legal literature, helping to strengthen the foundation of Somaliland’s legislative processes.

“We sincerely hope that this new legal literature will aid members of parliament in shaping Somaliland’s legal framework more effectively, ensuring long-term benefits for the nation’s governance,” said Schmidt during the ceremony. He also expressed MPF’s commitment to sustaining and expanding this initiative in the future.

MPF’s assistance extends beyond book donations. Under this EU-funded project, the foundation has provided technical legal support, comparative legal research for parliamentary committees, and essential translations of legal documents. Other key contributions include:

  • The development of a comprehensive legal glossary.
  • A legislative drafting manual to streamline lawmaking processes.
  • A series of twelve capacity-building workshops for members of parliament.
  • Training of Trainers (ToT) programs to create sustainable internal expertise.
  • Stakeholder consultations to refine legislative procedures.

Hon. Saed Mire Farah, in his address, conveyed his deep appreciation for MPF’s efforts, recognizing the pivotal role the foundation has played in elevating Somaliland’s legislative standards. He emphasized the need to complete the Joint Rules of Procedure to enhance cooperation between the House of Representatives and the House of Elders, further solidifying the country’s parliamentary efficiency.

The partnership between MPF and Somaliland’s Parliament, with the unwavering backing of the European Union, is a testament to the power of international cooperation in state-building efforts. As Somaliland continues to refine its legal and parliamentary structures, sustained engagement from partners like MPF will remain crucial.

With commitments from both MPF and the European Union to continue this work, Somaliland’s lawmakers are better equipped to navigate the complexities of governance, ensuring a more robust, transparent, and accountable legislative process for years to come.

The handover ceremony was attended by key figures from both the House of Representatives and the House of Elders, including the EU Somaliland Head of Office, Adnan Suleiman, the House Deputy Secretary-General, Jamal Jama Hassan, Department Directors, and the House Advisor on Development Partnerships and Intra-Parliamentary Relations, Prof. Hassan Heiss. The event underscored the commitment of international partners to enhancing Somaliland’s legal and parliamentary capacities.

Lawyers Ibrahim Jama and Guled Jama of the Somaliland MPF office were also present alongside Dr. MOhamoud Hussein, Nina, and Abdikadir Osman of the MPF Head and regional offices, present, also contributed much to the success of the stocking of the HoR Library.Somtribune

Dahabshiil Group Honoured with Corporate Social Responsibility award

The Dahabshiil Group of Companies was honored with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) award at the Somaliland Achievement Awards 2025, in recognition of its significant role in advancing education and supporting community development projects in all Somali speaking regions.

Dahabshiil Group has over the years relentlessly been committed to supporting and fostering societal progress, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, job creation and creating investment opportunities for youth.

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