Taiwan-Somaliland expected to continue under new Somaliland president. (Taiwan Representative Office in Somaliland)
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi reaffirmed bilateral ties during campaign
Cooperation with Somaliland will continue under newly-elected President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, Wang Wen-Lin (王文麟), a counselor in Taiwan foreign ministry’s Department of Asian and African Affairs, said on Tuesday (Nov. 26).
Wang said Abdullahi remains committed to seeking international recognition for Somaliland, Liberty Times reported. During the presidential campaign, Abdullahi reiterated that ties with Taiwan would not change under his leadership. Wang mentioned that the Taiwan representative office in Somaliland maintains connections with his Waddani Party.
The counselor said Taiwan and Somaliland cooperate in public health, information technology, agriculture, and education. Two key projects in Somaliland are underway, including a road infrastructure project and a medical center.
The “Taiwan Road” was announced in September and will connect the nation’s Egal International Airport to its capital Hargesia. The Taiwanese government agreed to provide US$1.85 million, approximately 70% of the total cost, with Hargeisa Municipality covering the remaining 30%.
In October, Taiwan pledged US$22 million to design and construct a medical center at Hargeisa Group Hospital. The Taiwan Medical Center will be a two-story building with 97 beds to increase the hospital’s capacity to nearly 600 beds, according to Representative Allen C. Lou (羅震華).
The representative office said Taiwan “is proud to support Somaliland’s democratization.” The office looks forward to advancing people-centered cooperation between the two countries
The Minister of Finance of the Republic of Somaliland Dr. Saad Ali Shire together with the Director General of the Ministry of Finance, the Mayor of Burao District, the Deputy Governor of Togdher Region, the Executive Secretary of Local Government and other officials opened a well-organized event in Burao.
This annual forum aims to give businessmen {Taxpayer} and the Heads of the Ministry an opportunity to exchange any questions and suggestions that both parties have, and was attended by 84 members including hotel owners and managers, local factories, telecommunications companies, electricity providers, Burao Water Agency and other similar entities whose sales are subject to sales tax.
This forum which is held once a year as we mentioned above members of businessmen/women from various business sectors, it’s the fourth time, and it is the first time that it is held outside of Hargeisa City. Each year, a specific theme is chosen depending on the topic that is considered worthy of focus, and this forum’s theme was “Raising Community Awareness of Goods & Services Tax”, during the event, they exchanged ideas and suggestions, on the other hand, the participants shared their questions with the Heads of the Ministry.
The Tax Forum of 2024 which was sponsored by the World Bank is part of the program of expansion and advance of GST {Goods & Services Tax}, this type of tax which is indirect-tax is since the seller transfers to the buyer or customer. According to the Somaliland Inland Revenue Act Law No. 72/2016 this tax is applicable to the following categories:
Sales made by hotels/restaurants such as; sales of food, beverages, lodging services, various events and parties.
Communication services.
Electricity/lighting services.
Domestically manufactured products.
Sales of water.
Sales made by televisions {Example: Receivers for rent}.
Sales of transport tickets {air and land}.
And the other similar areas.
In conclusion, the Goods and Services Tax is not new, but what is new is only by modernizing the way it is carried out, and at the same time it is intended to be expanded so that it can be fully implemented across the country.
Somaliland Ministry of Finance based on the Financial Management Act of Regulation No. 75/2018, applying the Principles of the Public Finance Management Reform Program, and at the same time taking advantage of modern technology, in 2021 it began to install EFDs {Fiscal Electronic Devises} GST machines in hotels to obtain a secure and reliable tax return. The first phase was started in the capital city of Hargeisa with around 300 hotels fully implemented, and the next phase was passed to the cities of Berbera, Borama, Tog-Wajale and Burao. Domestic tax revenue is 25% of the Government’s revenue, while the other 75% comes from Customs, and the goal is to strengthen or increase domestic revenue to reduce over-dependence on customs revenue.
By Abdirasaaq Cadami Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG)
The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) has taken note of reports that Dr. Mohamed Hassan attended the Djibouti Somali Heritage Conference, claiming to represent the Waddani Party. This has raised serious concerns within our organization and among the people of Somaliland.
President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro won the trust of the Somaliland public with a historic 65% of the vote a record-breaking achievement that demonstrates the overwhelming confidence placed in him by the people. As he prepares to assume office, there is an expectation for his administration to stand firm on matters of sovereignty and to deliver more than any previous administration.
The Djibouti Somali Heritage Conference is closely linked to the idea of “Somaliweyn,” a concept that fundamentally contradicts Somaliland’s sovereignty. SL-SAG is deeply concerned about Dr. Mohamed Hassan’s participation in this event. If he attended with the approval of President-elect Irro or the Waddani leadership, this decision risks sending the wrong message at a critical moment in Somaliland’s journey.
The new administration must make it clear that Somaliland’s sovereignty is not negotiable. Dialogue with Somalia should only happen on the basis of mutual recognition as two independent states. Somaliland does not have territorial disputes or animosity with Somalia, but any engagement that fails to respect our independence is a waste of time.
As SL-SAG, we urge President-elect Irro to prioritize the mandate given to him by the people. Somalilanders expect him to address and reverse the agreements made under the previous administration that compromised our national interests. It is vital that any representative of the Waddani Party or the government firmly reject actions or forums that undermine Somaliland’s independence.
We call on the President-elect and his administration to take a principled stand, ensuring clarity and consistency in Somaliland’s policies and actions. The people of Somaliland deserve leadership that reflects their aspirations and defends their sovereignty at all costs.
About SL-SAG The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) is focused on promoting the statehood and sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Telephone: 703-774-7416 Fax: 703-724-9407
Email: somalilandsag@gmail.com
Website: https://slsag.org/
By pushing for international recognition, Somaliland has been carving out a space for itself in the region and in the international system.
After 33 years of peaceful state building, the role Somaliland plays in regional geopolitics cannot be downplayed anymore. Somaliland’s political system is democratic in a neighbourhood of authoritarian states and the country has remained largely peaceful.
Several foreign nations have representative offices in its capital, Hargeisa, while Somaliland itself maintains liaison offices in 20 countries on five continents. From its role in counter terrorism to its strategic positioning as regional logistics hub, Somaliland cannot be wished away as a key partner in Horn of Africa.
Achieving recognition has been a foreign policy priority for Somaliland. All previous administrations have made efforts to raise awareness about its situation internationally.
However, Somaliland’s lack of international recognition makes it fragile and susceptible to being drawn into regional disputes as it seeks allies, bilateral ties and eventual recognition. This has been the case with the Gulf states, where it has sided with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In part as a result of this fragility and desire to secure more allies and improve bilateral ties, Somaliland now finds itself in the middle of multiple disputes among other states, including Ethiopia and Egypt, China and Taiwan and on the Red Sea.
The presidential elections in November this year will give the country an opportunity to chart a new path in its foreign policy should a new administration takes over the power. Somaliland will need to adjust to these global and regional dynamics to forge strong international relationships, enhance its diplomatic initiatives, and develop a resilient strategy that aligns with both its domestic ambitions and the broader global context.
The current international landscape is increasingly influenced by the rise of regional blocs and alliances, which provide new platforms and opportunities for advocacy and collaboration. For Somaliland, engaging with these blocs offer a strategic avenue to amplify its voice and advocate for its interests.
By aligning with regional groups that share similar political, economic or security goals, Somaliland can enhance its diplomatic reach and leverage collective bargaining power to its advantage. Should the opposition Waddani party unseat Kulmiye from power, we will adopt a progressive foreign policy that will forge balanced political, economic and security partnership with like minded states in the region and beyond.
Waddani looks to adopt progressive politics which will aim to improve the living conditions of our people through social, economic and political deforms based on shared vision. The reality is that Somaliland is a self governing state with a democratically elected government that has been in place since reasserting its independence in 1991.
Engagement with regional economic organisations like the East African Community presents significant opportunities for Somaliland and can facilitate economic benefits including access to larger markets, shared infrastructure projects, and increased foreign investment.
The commitment to innovative and forward-thinking strategies will undoubtedly be key in navigating the future of Somaliland’s international relations.
-The writer is former Somaliland foreign affairs minister and vice chair of Waddani Party
A meeting to discuss the elections held in Somaliland on 13 Nov 2024, which have drawn the attention of the international community and the region to Somaliland, has been concluded in Boorama, the capital of Awdal region.
The meeting aimed at reviewing the elections organized by the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC), was held today at the Safari Hotel in Borama.
According to a brief report issued by the Somaliland Electrol Committee (NEC), the purpose of the meeting was to review and evaluate the Presidential and National Party elections held on November 13, 2024.
The meeting was focused on the analysis of the process of the elections, the challenges encountered, the lessons learned, and suggestions on the development of the future elections process for the Regional Councils and Representatives of the Republic of Somaliland.
Conclusion Among the important points discussed at the meeting were:
Election Process: An assessment of how the election procedures and plans were implemented.
2 Challenges faced: An analysis of the challenges that have occurred and recommendations on how to prevent them in the future.
Lessons learned: Insights and experiences gained from previous elections, which can guide the activities of the upcoming elections.
4 Future development: Recommendations on strengthening electoral planning and processes for effective and modern elections.
The chairman of the Somaliland Electoral Commission (NEC), Muse Hassan Yusuf, pointed out the importance of evaluating the elections held in Somaliland on 13 Nov 2024, saying that the recommendations from the meeting will contribute to the development of democracy in the Republic of Somaliland.
The conclusion of the meeting showed how the National Electrol Committee (NEC) of the Republic of Somaliland is committed to continue the review and evaluation process, which earns the trust of the community, with the Somaliland Elections as a good examplein the Horn of Africa region, at the same time showing the maturity of democracy and the process that has attracted the attention of the world
The recent discussions surrounding the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland have reignited outdated fantasies of Somali unity, exposing once again the deep chasm between political illusions and on-the-ground realities. While Mogadishu clings to the rhetoric of sovereignty and unity, Somaliland continues to thrive as a de facto independent state, deserving of recognition and respect for its achievements in democracy, governance, and stability. It is time to put aside the illusion of Somali unity and acknowledge the legitimacy of Somaliland’s independence.
Somaliland’s independence is not a modern invention but a reclamation of the sovereignty it was granted by British colonial authorities in 1960. After voluntarily uniting with Somalia in
pursuit of a pan-Somali dream, Somaliland was subjected to decades of systemic oppression, culminating in the genocidal violence of the 1980s under the regime of Siad Barre. Tens of thousands of Somalilanders were slaughtered, their towns bombed into rubble, and their rights trampled under the weight of southern domination. The scars of that brutal era are still fresh, but they also serve as a foundation for Somaliland’s decision to reclaim its independence in 1991.
For 34 years, Somaliland has functioned as an independent state in all but name, demonstrating time and again that it is not only viable but exemplary. While Somalia descends further into chaos, Somaliland has emerged as a beacon of democracy in the Horn of Africa. The recent elections on November 13, 2024, reaffirmed this commitment to democratic principles. Opposition parties secured presidential and parliamentary victories in an election process hailed by international observers as free, fair, and transparent. Ambassadors, high-ranking officials, and election monitors from around the globe commended Somaliland for its professionalism and integrity, providing yet another testament to its democratic credentials.
This starkly contrasts Somalia, which remains a failed state dependent on international military and financial support to maintain even the illusion of governance. Outside Mogadishu, Somalia is a fragmented mosaic of clan militias, al-Shabaab insurgents, and autonomous regions that openly defy federal authority. The very idea of Somali unity collapses under the weight of these realities. How can a state that cannot govern its own territory hope to unify with a region that has thrived independently for decades?
The MOU between Somaliland and Ethiopia reflects the shifting geopolitical realities of the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia, landlocked and reliant on neighboring states for access to the sea, has long sought alternative maritime outlets. For Somaliland, the partnership with Ethiopia is an opportunity to strengthen its economy, enhance security, and edge closer to international
recognition. The agreement, quietly supported by the United States and the United Kingdom,
acknowledges Somaliland’s strategic importance along the Red Sea and its potential as a
stabilizing force in the region.
Opposition to Somaliland’s recognition comes primarily from actors like Djibouti, Egypt, and
Turkey, whose motivations are rooted in self-interest rather than a genuine concern for Somali unity. Djibouti fears losing its monopoly on Ethiopia’s trade, while Egypt and Turkey seeSomaliland’s independence as a threat to their strategic leverage over Ethiopia. Eritrea and other authoritarian regimes in the region view Somaliland’s democratic success as a dangerous precedent that could undermine their despotic rule.
Somaliland’s achievements, however, cannot be ignored. Unlike its neighbors, Somaliland hasdemonstrated an unwavering commitment to democracy, security, and governance. While Somalia struggles under a United Nations trusteeship that has spanned more than three decades, Somaliland has charted its own course, building institutions, holding elections, and ostering a sense of national unity that Mogadishu can only dream of.
The African Union must recognize Somaliland’s independence as a matter of principle and
pragmatism. Somaliland meets all the criteria for statehood under international law, including
defined borders, a functioning government, and a permanent population. Its recognition would not only validate the will of its people but also serve as a powerful signal that democracy and self-determination are valued in Africa.
Recognizing Somaliland would promote regional stability, offering a counterbalance to the chaos in Somalia and strengthening ties between the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. It would also unlock economic opportunities, attracting international investment and fostering development in a region with immense untapped potential. Somaliland’s partnership with Ethiopia, anchored by the MOU, is a step toward realizing this vision.
The argument for Somali unity is not only baseless but also dangerous. It perpetuates a cycle of denial and distraction that prevents real progress in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland’s
independence is not a threat but an opportunity—a chance to build a more stable, prosperous, and democratic region. It is time for the world, and particularly the African Union, to abandon the illusion of Somali unity and embrace the reality of Somaliland’s sovereignty.
Somaliland’s people have earned their independence through resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to their values. The international community must now honor that achievement by recognizing Somaliland for what it is: a sovereign, independent state
The illusion of Somali unity has persisted for too long. The time for Somaliland’s recognition is now.
The chairman of ADMAS University in Somaliland, Hussein Abdillahi Mohamud, today held a congratulatory and prayer meeting with the elected president of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Abdirahman-Irro) and prayed to God to protect him from the heavy duty of the nation.
“I went to a congratulatory and prayer meeting for the new sixth President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Abdirahman-Irro), after he won the presidential and union elections in the country on November 13, 2024. that duty to the nation. I also talked about other important issues,” said the Chairman of ADMAS University in Somaliland, Hussein Abdilahi Mohamud
Chairman Hussein Abdillahi, who is a talented scholar and has a great reputation in the Somaliland community, has been suggested by many people to join the scholars standing around the new president so that the country can progress.
The meeting between the President-elect Mr. Abdirahman Irro and the president of ADMAS University, Hussein Abdillahi, is part of a series of visits that have been going on for the last few days with academics and traditional leaders, politicians, businessmen and Somaliland communities with the sixth President of Somaliland.
The Media Monitoring Committee during the Elections commended the media for their work and for the good ethical way they reported news about the Elections.
They gave the nation’s general media fraternity a clean bill of health as far as their reporting conducts during the electioneering processes were concerned.
The committee said that the Somaliland media acted with maturity during the elections and showed great care in how they reported the election news.
On the other hand, they urged the Somaliland media to continue their patriotic efforts and avoid unverified news that could cause conflict. They also pointed out that the public should be vigilant against anyone who misrepresents anything.
They stated that the media should continue its impartial work unhindered and direct more efforts to nation building and cohesiveness.
In conclusion, they advised both the public and private media in Somaliland not to interfere in family matters and not to report unverified news that divides the community, especially exaggerations that spew discords.
Officials of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) of the Republic of Somaliland led by Chairman Mr. Musa Hassan Yusuf, visited over the week H.E. President Musa Bihi Abdi at the Presidency, and also visited the newly elected President Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro at his home.
The National Electoral Commission of Somaliland and the president-elect exchanged views on the important work of the recent presidential elections held on November 13 in the country, which they conducted in a transparent, free and fair manner.
The members of the National Electoral Commission wished the president-elect and his deputy well in their endeavours and onerous duties bestowed upon them through the people’s mandate and prayed for them.
Prior to meeting him they had paid a courtesy call to the outgoing head of state H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi and later on they made a similar visit to four-times presidential contender Feisal Ali Hussein.
The President-elect commended them for implementing elections in the country that brought prestige and honor to the Republic of Somaliland.
The President-elect was flanked by the two Waddani Party officials responsible for working with the National Electoral Commission, namely the Secretary-General of the Waddani Party, Khadar Hussein, and veteran politician Ismail Adan Osman.
The Minister of Transport and Roads Development, Mr. Raabi Abdi Mohamed, has given orders on government vehicles and government assets to be protected from unscrupulous officials during the transition period.
He instructed all officials in ministries and government agencies to have government vehicles with valid government license plates.
He noted that it was prohibited for state vehicles driven while fitted with civilian plates hence warned that culprits driving such would be apprehended.
He ordered the Director General of the Ministry of Transport and Roads Development of Somaliland to establish a technical committee to follow up and monitor all government vehicles during the transition period.
The circular issued by the Minister of Transport and Road Development read as follows:
“The Ministry of Transport and Road Development of the Republic of Somaliland, hereby orders all officials of ministries and government agencies to have government vehicles attached with valid vehicle plates. From the date of this letter, it is prohibited to see government vehicles driving with un-assigned number plates, and anyone who is caught driving with irregular plates will be subject to legal action.
“The Director General of the Ministry of Transport and Road Development is also instructed to form a technical committee to monitor and evaluate government vehicles during the transition period”. END.
