Preamble

Somaliland’s remarkable progress over the past 30 years—emerging from civil war to establishing a stable democratic state—stands out among many nations. Despite notable achievements in governance and economic stability, the quest for international recognition remains a significant challenge. This challenge is driven by a mix of internal and external factors, including misunderstandings of global diplomatic dynamics and ineffective communication of Somaliland’s successes. This article highlights the need for a strategic shift in Somaliland’s approach to international relations, emphasizing the importance of aligning with global interests, refining diplomatic strategies, and embracing innovation.

Introduction

Somaliland’s progress over the past 30 years is nothing short of remarkable, especially when compared to many recognized nations in Africa and Asia. After emerging from the devastation of a brutal civil war with Somalia from 1988 to 1991, Somaliland has established a functioning democratic state characterized by peaceful transitions of power, a robust civil society, and a relatively stable economy. According to the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators, Somaliland consistently outperforms many sovereign states in key areas such as government effectiveness, rule of law, democracy, and control of corruption. Furthermore, Somaliland has implemented Public Financial Management (PFM) with World Bank support. Despite these achievements, international recognition remains elusive. Somaliland was legally recognized in 1960, later formed an unratified union with Somalia, and reclaimed its independence in 1991. This situation reflects not only global indifference but also significant shortcomings in Somaliland’s diplomatic strategy and communication. At times, Somaliland’s pursuit of global legitimacy has been undermined by its own actions.

The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (SNEC) has introduced the IRIS-BVVS biometric system, described by Harvard University as one of the few in the world capable of identifying voters through iris recognition. This system is expected to be utilized in the upcoming Somaliland elections.

The challenges surrounding Somaliland’s lack of international recognition are not solely due to a shortage of achievements. They also arise from a fundamental misunderstanding of how global interests shape foreign policy, insufficient showcasing of Somaliland’s accomplishments, and excessive micromanagement across government institutions. This micromanagement often results in conflicts between ministers and directors general. Despite Somaliland’s progress in establishing a stable and democratic state, its efforts to gain international recognition have been hindered by ineffective communication of its successes and strategic importance. Moreover, micromanagement has led to inefficiencies and fragmented international outreach. A senior EU diplomat in 2018 identified pervasive micromanagement within all government institutions as a significant barrier to progress. To overcome these challenges, Somaliland must enhance the strategic presentation of its achievements and better align its diplomatic efforts with the broader interests of key global players.

Somaliland’s politics and culture are deeply intertwined with a prevailing mindset that anticipates favorable outcomes without substantial effort. This cultural inclination often leads to the expectation that international recognition should be effortlessly granted, as if it should come on a silver platter. Such expectations can be counterproductive, as global diplomacy requires more than just achievements; it demands strategic engagement, effective communication, and a proactive approach to building alliances. Additionally, the belief that challenges will eventually lead to improvement, encapsulated in the Somaliland adage, “When it gets harder, Somaliland gets better,” is a fallacy.

To overcome these challenges, Somaliland must adopt a more dynamic and strategic stance in its international efforts. This involves not only showcasing its achievements more effectively but also actively engaging with global players to align its interests with theirs. By embracing a proactive and strategic approach, Somaliland can better navigate international relations and enhance its prospects of achieving recognition.

Missteps in Diplomacy: Understanding the Global Arena

Somaliland’s quest for international recognition has been hindered by two primary factors: a fundamental misunderstanding of global affairs and a lack of experienced diplomats without nationalist biases. Often, Somaliland’s governance has been seen as an extension of internal power struggles, where some opposition figures and officials view the state apparatus as a means for personal enrichment rather than national service. This internal focus has occasionally undermined stability, as some may see their turn in power as an opportunity for personal gain. This distraction has detracted from engaging with the international community based on mutual interests and strategic partnerships.

In the international arena, relationships are shaped by national interests and strategic calculations, not moral imperatives. Recognizing this reality is crucial. Somaliland’s diplomatic efforts have frequently fallen short due to a lack of coherent vision aligned with potential allies’ strategic interests. Diplomatic outreach has often been reactive, unfocused, and lacking in clear objectives. Compounding this issue is the recurring appointment of inexperienced individuals to critical positions, leading to a cycle of inefficiency and missed opportunities.

Personal Perspective: Lessons from the Past

My engagement in Somaliland’s affairs spans over two decades, providing me with a deep understanding of its diplomatic and governance challenges. In 2016, during talks in Addis Ababa between Somaliland and Khatumo, I was honored by Mahamoud Hashi and Ambassador Awil with an offer to serve as State Minister for Foreign Affairs. Although I declined for personal reasons, my commitment to Somaliland remains steadfast. It is evident that Somaliland’s quest for international recognition is not solely hindered by external factors. At times, Somaliland has been its own greatest obstacle.

The challenges Somaliland faces are not insurmountable. They require a shift in mindset and a more strategic approach to international relations.

Successful diplomacy involves aligning interests with those of potential allies, adopting a sophisticated approach rooted in an understanding of the global power structure, and demonstrating how Somaliland’s stability, security, and economic potential align with other states’ interests.

Strategic Thinking: The Key to Navigating Global Realities

Navigating geopolitics, geo-strategy, and geoeconomics requires skill and foresight. It is about understanding the intricate interplay of power, influence, and interests shaping the global order. Somaliland must position itself as a valuable partner in the international community, emphasizing its strategic location, commitment to peace, and potential as a gateway for trade and investment in the Horn of Africa.

Experienced mentors and advisors play a critical role in guiding national strategy. Their expertise is invaluable in crafting pragmatic and visionary policies capable of advancing Somaliland’s interests in a competitive international environment. Cultivating a cadre of professionals who understand international diplomacy is essential for Somaliland’s long-term success.

Embracing Innovation: Building a Future-Ready Somaliland

Furthermore, the government must embrace diverse perspectives and innovative ideas. In a rapidly evolving world, rigid adherence to traditional thinking can hinder progress. By embracing new ideas and alternative approaches, Somaliland can develop resilient and adaptive policies suited to 21st-century challenges. Innovation should extend beyond economic policies to how Somaliland presents itself to the world, leveraging technology and modern communication strategies to advocate for its recognition.

For Somaliland to secure its place on the global stage, it must combine strategic decision-making with seasoned leadership and a willingness to innovate. By aligning national interests with potential allies, enhancing diplomatic efforts with experienced expertise, and embracing innovation, Somaliland can strengthen its international standing, build lasting partnerships, and achieve sustainable economic growth. These principles are not just foundational to effective governance; they are keys to Somaliland’s long-overdue recognition as a sovereign state.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Somaliland’s journey toward international recognition is not merely a diplomatic challenge; it is a test of its ability to navigate a rapidly changing world. The achievements of the past 30 years testify to the resilience and determination of the Somaliland people. Now, Somaliland must take the next step—transforming its governance, refining its diplomatic strategies, and boldly advocating for its rightful place among the community of nations. The path to recognition will not be easy, but with a clear vision, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment, Somaliland can and will achieve its goal.

Author: Hussein M. Al-Ishaqi

Senior Political Analysts and Adviser SL-SAG

The education ministry is convictional that national examinations should be guided by schemes that deter, hinder and impede any disrepute that may tarnish its essence.

In a meeting held under the auspices of the National Education Board, the education department, examinations council and representatives from the Edna Aden, Amoud and Hargeisa universities converged to see to it that the management of examinations be streamlined in order to maintain a high quality of educational standard in the country..

The conference opened by the Chairman of the National Education Committee, Prof. Suleiman Ahmed Gulleed who explained that the meeting was focused on issues related to the certification exam in secondary schools for the academic year 2023/2024, and how to solve the challenges of cheating and other associated hiccups surrounding the examination system.

The chairman of the National Examinations office Mr. Daoud Ahmed Farah gave a detailed report at the meeting about the challenges faced in the high school certificate examination, especially in the 2023/2024 school year.

The report focused on how to solve the problems that arose during the examination, and the current stage of marking of the certificate examinations going on.

The minister of financial development Hon. Sa’ad Ali Shire suggested at the meeting that strict laws with stringent provisions should be issued to prevent students from causing problems in exams.

Members of the National Education Committee, such as Prof. Suleiman, Prof. Omar, Dr. Adna Adan and Mrs. Raaqiya emphasized, in consensus, the need to find a lasting solution to the issue of cheating and associated hiccups in the system of exams.

A number of important points drawn from the conference included:

• Quickly create comprehensive stringent rules and procedures encompassing all conducts regulating processes of national examinations.
• 2. That the National Examination Office should declare the official period of the examination in accordance with the National Education Act No. 77/2018 and the Examination procedure.
• 3. Prompt preparations of complete report on the examinations as conducted, with the National Examination office working in conjunction with the universities incorporated.
• It s worth noting that recently the national universities were co-opted to aid in the invigilation processes for the immediate past exams in an effort to streamline the services.

By M.A. Egge

The Somaliland National Elections Commission has started trials to test the viability of the IRIS-BVVS Biometric Voter Verification System at the hall of the Civil Service Institute.

The exercise was attended by leaders of both political parties and political organizations, SONSAF officials and some members of the public.

The National Electoral Commission introduced the appliances and briefed the gathering on it hence was openly tested in the trials tests on those in attendance.

The stake-holding officials who later gave their analysis expressed both their observations and reservations on the pros and cons they assumedly deduced.

At the close of the exercise it was agreed in consensus that they would meet in consultations to review the IRIS-BVVS system once the trial exercises are completed across the targeted areas.

He underpins the imperative needs of having and maintaining a formidable force and rights of defense

By M.A. Egge

The President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi gave a passionate morale-boosting speech to several contingents of the military servicemen stationed at the frontlines in the eastern parts of the country.

The Head of State emphasized the imperativeness of a nation to have formidable security forces in place for the safeguarding of both internal and external security interests of the country and her people.

“Foremost, we all acknowledge as all nations elsewhere in the world would, that any country ought to have a formidable military whose strength safeguards the security of its people and defense of the country at large”, he said.

He said that it was trivial to have a weak military force and that it was dangerous to a country.

He noted that the Somaliland Armed Forces has been an apparatus that has had its people contented with hence have safeguarded their security welfare to the hilt since its inception.

He pointed out that the forces had for the past four decades been active all along hence they had high in their ranks the brave esteem of the fallen heroes during the struggles for the re-assertion of the country’s independence.

Similarly among the ranks are the aged and retiring, the active ones who had joined in the recent past, and all those who would in future be part of the brave men and women servicemen will always be the brave heroes who are ready to selflessly give their lives for their nation and people, if need be.

He reminded the military of their steadfastness for the past four decades and assured them that the nation and her people are indebted to them and are content with their national services.

He was categorical that the struggle of the aspirations of the nation was continuous hence that the military was a back bone of the efforts which would not rest until it secures the integral territorial rights of the nation as per independence.

He acknowledged that minor setbacks can be witnessed in any struggle but that do not impede the achieving and furthering of the endeavors envisioned and expected.

He pointed out that the formidability of the military prowess and the people’s aspirations have been formidable all along and their efforts would be re-doubled to fearlessly achieve and realize its justified aspirations.

The Swedish government has been asked to prevent conflict and war Somalia is creating by the cooperation agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
Member of Parliament Markus Wiechel who presented a question to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Tobias Billström in the Swedish Parliament on 20 August 2024, demands that he take diplomatic measures to prevent the conflict in Somalia.
Hon. Wiechel’s questions reads as follows;

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which among other things gives Ethiopia access to the port of Berbera, a very important port on the Gulf of Aden adjacent to the Red Sea, will have far-reaching diplomatic and humanitarian benefits in a strategically very important location. This agreement opens up positive effects that affect millions of people in the region and also has the potential to benefit relations between this region and Europe, and not least Sweden.

Ethiopia has a central role in the region as one of Africa’s most populous nations and a rapidly growing economy. By gaining access to a strategically located port, the country’s capacity to participate in global trade is strengthened, which can result in economic growth, improved infrastructure and a strengthened trade balance. It reduces costs and increases the efficiency of import and export operations, which directly affects food security and can improve the standard of living of millions of people.

Cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland also promotes regional integration and security, which is important for stabilizing the Horn of Africa, a historically turbulent region. Stability in Ethiopia and its vicinity means a reduced risk of conflicts and humanitarian crises, which of course has a positive impact outside the region as well.

For Sweden and Europe, a stable and economically stronger Ethiopia means improved trade relations and new investment opportunities. It can lead to increased imports of Ethiopian goods and open doors for European technology and expertise to contribute to local development, including a green transition. Stability in the region also reduces migration and refugee pressure towards Europe through improved living conditions in the home countries.

What is worrying in this situation is the fact that Somalia’s unelected president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has threatened war, as well as approached both Turkey and, most recently, Egypt to strengthen their military capabilities. It is thus a dictator, whose ministers include former terrorist leaders, who, despite having no control over his own territory, is prepared to invade the most democratic country in the region. Worse yet, there is extensive evidence that Somalia is at risk of continuing the ethnic cleansing of Somaliland’s dominant clan (Isaaq) that began during dictator Siad Barre’s time in power.

In light of the above, Foreign Minister Tobias Billström is requested to answer the following question:

Can the Minister consider taking diplomatic steps to prevent Somalia from starting an unnecessary war or possible genocide, and if not, what steps can we expect from the Minister and the Government?

The question of MP Wiechel published on the website of the Swedish Parliament said that the response of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Md. Tobias is expected on September 2, 2024.

By Jama Ayaanle Feyte

The Former Somaliland Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Dr. Mohamed Abdullah Omer today in Nairobi the Kenya Capital met with representatives of the various Foreign missions and UN officials.

Dr.  Mohamed Abdillahi Omer and the diplomats discussed the upcoming Presidential and Political organizations democratization process in the country and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland which stands at the center of these complexities in the region.

The Somaliland National Party if elected will allow women and minority group candidates to have Equal Representation in politics. “Waddani will put in place a framework to address the challenges that persist for women in Somaliland but stressed that more action is needed for equal representation in all facets of public life. “Enhancing women’s political participation also remains critical,” He said.

The Somaliland Former Minister of Foreign affairs further said, “The volatile political crisis in the Sool region has left experts confused and diplomats worried about a broad societal collapse that could ignite violence or prompt a wider conflict in the area unless appropriate measures are put into place to resolve the conflict.

He added that Dr. Abdurrahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Cirro” emerges as a promising candidate, with a vision to heal divisions, restore public trust, and tackle the challenges facing the nation.

Dr. Mohamed lastly said the Somaliland National Party Presidential hopeful Dr. Abdurrahman Cirro is expected to visit  Nairobi, Kenya in the coming weeks to meet Western diplomats and Somaliland international partners based there to discuss the upcoming Presidential elections which are due to be held in November this year.

Mr. Jama Ayaanle Feyte is “WADDANI” Somaliland National Party Shadow Secretary in charge of Coordination with United Nations and International Organizations