Mr. Abdirashid Duale, the CEO of Dahabshiil Group of Companies speaking to BBC Focus on Africa Programme regarding the recently concluded Global Food Security Summit 2023 which was held in the UK said, “The Global Food Security Summit which took place on 20th of November 2023 focused on international attention on the deepening global food security crisis and help boost efforts to achieve Zero Hunger and end malnutrition.
He added that hunger is affecting nearly 1 Billion people all around the world and the global food system is facing unprecedented challenges. Amongst other drivers, climate change and extreme weather, and the related pest and disease burdens, are reducing crop yields, and increasing famine and conflict in food-producing countries such as Ukraine, Russia, and others. Science and technology in food systems have the potential to unlock substantive growth in the Global South, reduce global food prices, tackle hunger, and enable healthier diets. It is also essential for tackling climate change and nature loss.
“Dahabshiil plays a vital role in empowering Somali-speaking people by setting up microfinance institutions to help small-scale business people to build their status in business and on the other hand has been supporting cheap energy for businesses to reach off-grid rural communities with low-cost, clean energy products and services. Somali-speaking people should forge new ways of food production such as fishing in order to address and avert the famine in 2022 which decimated the livestock and the current climate-induced severe shocks in the country”, he said.
Mr. Abdirashid Duale further added that the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a £100 million (nearly $125 million) for Somalia’s development projects, encompassing economic infrastructure and agricultural development.
The Global Food Security Summit, co-hosted by the UK, the UAE, and Somalia, was attended by representatives from more than 20 countries, aiming to discuss ways to enhance efforts to achieve zero hunger.
The complexity of Somaliland’s struggle goes far beyond the surface conflict in Las’Anod, delving into a web of global interests, regional power plays, and ideological clashes. At its core, this conflict embodies more than a Clan’s demand for secession—it’s a stage for geopolitical maneuvering.
By Yousef Timacade
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa, particularly the case of Somaliland, presents a complex interplay of regional interests, historical contexts, and strategic alliances. The emergence of conflict in Somaliland, a beacon of democracy in a strife-torn region, has underscored the complexities of geopolitics and regional power struggles. The war that ignited in Las’Anod, ostensibly a bid for secession, has revealed deeper layers involving global players, proxy interests, and the clash of ideologies.
At its core, the conflict in Somaliland’s eastern territory serves as a smokescreen for various vested interests. While the initial pretext might appear as a Clan demand for secession, the underlying motives are multifaceted. One crucial aspect revolves around disrupting the burgeoning diplomatic relations between Somaliland and the United States. The impending establishment of a US military base in Berbera seems to have become a focal point, triggering opposition from certain global powers.
Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has made significant strides in establishing democratic institutions, holding credible elections, and fostering a relatively stable socio-political environment. However, its quest for international recognition faces significant challenges due to the non-recognition policy upheld by the international community.
This conflict has evolved into a proxy war, with China taking a veiled stance against Somaliland’s aspirations. Furthermore, Somalia’s staunch resistance to Somaliland’s independence intensifies the intricate web of this conflict. America’s reluctance to overtly support Somaliland might stem from delicate diplomatic considerations or a broader strategy in the region, which may involve balancing interests among various stakeholders.
The involvement of external players further complicates the situation. China’s role in supporting anti-Somaliland factions signals a broader strategic interest in the region. For China, undermining US influence and securing its own strategic foothold in the Horn of Africa might be the primary motivation. This proxy involvement exacerbates the conflict and complicates efforts toward resolution.
The absence of overt support from the United States for Somaliland can be viewed through a multifaceted lens. While Somaliland embodies democratic ideals and stability, geopolitical calculations often dictate foreign policy decisions. The US might be cautious in overtly supporting Somaliland’s independence due to concerns, potential backlash from Somalia, and the delicate balance of alliances in the region.
Furthermore, the establishment of a military base in Berbera might have strategic implications for the US, but the complexities of local politics and international relations necessitate a careful approach. Balancing support for Somaliland’s democratic aspirations while considering broader regional implications requires a nuanced and cautious strategy.
The plight of Somaliland highlights the intricate web of geopolitical interests, regional dynamics, and the challenges inherent in supporting emerging democracies in volatile regions. Resolving the conflict and supporting Somaliland’s quest for recognition demands a delicate balance between fostering democratic values and navigating complex geopolitical realities.
Religious militancy has also found fertile ground in this turmoil, exploiting the situation to expand its influence and sow seeds of discord. Their involvement poses an added layer of complexity, threatening not only the stability of Somaliland but also the broader region.
Somaliland, as a pro-Western democratic entity, finds itself at a crossroads. It requires robust support from the United States and the international community to fend off multifaceted attacks. To safeguard its democratic ideals and resist external pressures, Somaliland’s plea for backing its military and diplomatic efforts should be seriously considered.
The world should acknowledge and reward Somaliland for its resilience against terrorism, piracy, and other destabilizing forces. Supporting its stance for peace, stability, and democratic values not only serves the interests of Somaliland but also aligns with broader global objectives of combating extremism and fostering democracy in volatile regions.
The war in Somaliland’s eastern region, seemingly rooted in a Clan movement, is a symptom of deeper geopolitical rivalries, proxy interests, and ideological clashes. For Somaliland to uphold its democratic principles, resist external pressures, and combat militant extremism, it urgently requires substantial support from the United States and the international community, such backing is not merely a gesture of goodwill but a strategic imperative to maintain stability and promote democratic ideals in an otherwise turbulent region.
Despite its democratic achievements and geopolitical significance, the nation faces the challenge of recognition on the global stage. To truly leverage its importance and garner international support, Somaliland must depart from traditional diplomatic approaches and embrace contemporary international relations strategies. One of the pivotal moves in this paradigm shift involves showcasing its democratic triumphs. Somaliland has held credible elections, a rarity in the region, underscoring its commitment to democratic principles. These accomplishments serve as a testament to the nation’s stability and readiness for global engagement. However, effectively marketing these achievements requires a departure from conventional diplomatic methods.
Moreover, the strategic alliance formed through the Berbera base with the United States presents a crucial opportunity, while this move has geopolitical significance and potential benefits, it has also sparked proxy wars and internal conflicts, such as the Las’Anod conflict. To mitigate such repercussions, Somaliland’s government needs a nuanced approach, t should highlight the mutual benefits of this alliance while addressing and mediating internal tensions that stem from it.
Another critical aspect necessitating change is the appointment of government officials based on clan affiliations. Somaliland’s leadership must transition towards a merit-based system, nominating competent diplomats and officials well-versed in the intricate geopolitical landscape–This shift would enable Somaliland to navigate international relations effectively, fostering relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Surviving the multifaceted diplomatic battles requires strategic foresight, Somaliland must cultivate mutual respect, solidarity, and support from its international allies, including the United States and the United Arab Emirates. These alliances, if nurtured strategically, can bolster Somaliland’s position and aid in overcoming diplomatic hurdles.
Additionally, breaking away from clan-based power-sharing can foster unity and coherence within the government, presenting a more cohesive front to the international community. A unified government, driven by competence rather than clan affiliations, will enhance Somaliland’s credibility and strengthen its diplomatic footing.
Somaliland’s journey towards international recognition and sustainable diplomacy demands a departure from conventional practices, and by emphasizing its democratic achievements, balancing the implications of strategic alliances, reforming government structures, and cultivating strategic alliances, Somaliland can assert its geopolitical importance and pave the way towards recognition and respect on the global stage.
Yousef Timacade is lawyer, legal analyst and commentator. He has a master’s degrees in law and executive management, and has been working with national and international non governmental organizations for the last ten years in the areas of program management, research
Mogadishu, 21 June 2023 – International partners* are concerned about the violence in Garowe and its impact on civilians.
The partners call for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and a return to calm. We call on all political stakeholders to engage in dialogue as the only avenue to address and resolve differences.
The recent escalation risks jeopardizing the positive outcomes secured following the recent district council elections in Puntland.
*African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Belgium, Denmark, Djibouti, Ethiopia, European Union (EU) Delegation, Germany, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Italy, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Norway, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, and United Nations.
The Somali Government received the good news of achieving the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Completion Point (CP) before the deadline of December 31, 2023, which is a historical milestone for important reasons. First, the HIPC-CP determines the eligibility for full and irrevocable cancellation of about 90% of the $5.6 billion of Somalia’s external debt, committed at the decision point (DP). Second, it confirms the commitment of Somalia to repay the remaining debt, estimated to be about 10% of the total debt, amounting $557 million, and any future debt. Technically, this implies that Somalia’s debt burden is reduced to a sustainable level in relation to its gross domestic product (GDP) and export earnings (EE), although reality casts doubt.
Third, it commits the federal government to increase substantially the financial resources allocated to social sectors to implement the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). The increase comes from the forgiven debt, a hypothetical revenue convertible into domestic expenditure. Fourth, it requires the continuation of the track record of good macroeconomic performance under IMF and WB supported programs.
In other words, the debt relief promotes sound macroeconomic management, adherence to the free market principles, recognition of private sector as the engine of economic development, establishment of efficient public administration, prudent domestic and external borrowings, and above all the respect for the rule of law. However, the case of Somalia is unique in the sense that it’s politically and administratively fragmented without common macroeconomic governance, which limits the ability of the federal government to perform macroeconomic functions for Somalia’s socio-economic development and stability.
Somalia receives debt relief on good will, because according to World Bank Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA), Peace Fund Fragile States Index (FSI), Ibrahim Index of African good governance (IIAG), Transparency International Corruption Perception (CPI), and UN Human Development Index (HDI), it fails on all indicators. On the scale of 1 to 6, the overall 2023 CPIA score of Somalia is 2.1. The sub-score for public sector management and Institutions is 1.9, which indicates bad governance defined as systemic corruption, arbitrary policy making, lack of transparency and accountability, and political marginalization.
In addition, the seven-year discussions between the Somali government and the IMF staff missions on debt relief have taken place in Nairobi, Kenya or in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for insecurity in Somalia. Unfortunately, that kind of high-risk assessment didn’t motivate the Somali leaders to repudiate the characteristics of leadership failure that has derailed Somalia’s peace and state building, despite considerable international support.
President Hassan’s campaign to defeat Al Shabab militarily is one of the six pillars of a strategy designed to restore the Somali State. The second and third pillars are the systematic completion of the constitution and the enactment of democratic electoral system which lays the basis for the legitimacy of the political power. The fourth and fifth pillars are credible security and judicial system and an efficient public administration. The sixth pillar is good macroeconomic management to fight poverty, unemployment, inflation and corruption.
IMF has announced preliminary approval of new Extended Credit Facility (ECF) of $100 million to strengthen the priorities pursued under the three-year Extended Credit Facility (ECF) of $243.20 million and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of $52.30 million Somalia received in March 2020 for HIPC-CP. The loans under the ECF are zero interest and payable on final maturity date of 10 years while the EFF loans are concessional with interest rate of 1.05% plus surcharge and fees and payable in 12 installments upon maturity date of 5 to 10 years.
Few questions came to mind to highlight the ultimate goals of the debt relief process. The first question is, do Somalis appreciate the critical importance of having common macroeconomic governance? Second question is, do Somalis recognize the leadership role of the federal government on macroeconomic management? Third question is, does the Federal Government factor in the debt -servicing of the remaining debt of $557 million plus any additional debt under current economic condition? Fourth question is, did the federal and state Institutions gain the necessary capacity for pursuing sound macroeconomic management and good governance? Fifth question is, do the Somali leaders take into account the correlation between the growth of private entrepreneurship and direct foreign investment, and the supremacy of the rule of law and credible judicial system?
“The de facto intergovernmental fiscal arrangements that are emerging, as interim state administrations are formed, will affect what is politically possible to negotiate as part of the constitution-making process. In particular, state administrations are occupying most available tax bases, limiting the scope for the federal government to play its proper role in redistribution. …… Inequitable distribution of resources was a fundamental cause of conflict in Somalia.……. Somalia’s new fiscal arrangements should be designed to (a) work as coherent system, preserving a strong common economic space across the country; and (b) provide scope to address inequities across regions…. If states without access to strong revenue bases are supported through transfers, they will be less likely to look for economically harmful ways to raise revenue.”
Today, Somalia faces the intractable problem of negotiating genuinely fiscal federalism to perfect the federal system. Views circulating within various constituencies foil the establishment of coherent system of governance, including common macroeconomic governance. Despite institutional and legal gaps, the following national priorities pursued during the past seven years will be pursued in the next three years:
Mobilization of domestic revenues to support self-sufficiency, provision of public services, and social stability.
Development of national, digital identification (ID) for critical objectives.
Strengthening of public financial management and debt management.
Continued deepening of the Central Bank Capacity in terms of supervisory on financial institutions, and the analytical and operational capacity to manage liquidity and foreign exchange operations for the reintroduction of Somali Shilling. Somalia is de facto dollarized economy.
Strengthening the capacity of the Financial Reporting Center (FRC) to enforce compliance with the AML/CFT laws and regulations.
Continued deepening of the efforts to improve the private businesses environment for competitiveness, economic growth and development.
Enhancing the production and dissemination of reliable macro-economic statistics for effective policy formulation, evaluation, forecasting, transparency, and accountability.
Strengthening the fiscal budget preparation and execution, enhancing parliamentary oversight functions, and the quality of the general government fiscal reporting.
Deepening of the inter-governmental fiscal relations and consolidated reporting of FGS and FMS fiscal operations in line with IMF GFSM2014 Standards.
Implementation of national anti-corruption strategy.
The IMF, the WB, the AfDB, and the UN Security Council have consistently highlighted the risks stemming from bad governance, the defilement of the federal constitution and federal system, and the sham elections. Many failures and crisis were temporarily mitigated by the interventions of the international community. Therefore, Somalia faces the serious choice between going back to clan fiefdoms or moving forward and expediting constitution-based peace and state building as substantiation of the national reconciliation and honor of the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity of Somalia, recognized and respected by the international community.
Somtuna Factory officials received a delegation from FCDO who paid a visit to the factory in Berbera. The delegation and Somtuna discussed the role of the UK in job creation, food security, and investment opportunities in the country.
A statement published on Dahabshil Twitter on Thursday is said, thrilled to host the UK Foreign Office delegation at our Berbera tuna factory. We discussed job creation, Food Security, trade, export, and Investment Opportunities in this crucial Red Sea zone.
We gave the delegation a tour of our new Somtuna Fishing factory in Berbera. It was great to discuss with Damon Bristow, Development Director, FCDO Somalia, Ilyas Malek, Head of British Office Hargeisa, and Christina Toepell, Deputy Head of Hargeisa Office.
Somtune Fishing is Horn Africa’s leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality and affordable canned tuna, is a company owned by Dahabshil Group.
Tune fish processed by Somtune Factory is expected to enter the country and international markets in the coming months.
The police headquarters have warned of dangerous flash floods countrywide following heavy down powers that I expected to continue for a while.
It is worth noting that the decades-seasonal El-nino rains has been witnessed in Africa and beyond with catastrophic effects.
In the background of the rains, the Somaliland National Police has given an advisory through its press office to caution the members of the public to maximum take care and avoid points that are prone to strong currents and similarly warned motorists to take utmost care.
The public advisory notice said.
“As you may be aware it is a rainy season that can have devastating effects that can be catastrophic hence we are informing all the people of the Republic of Somaliland in all the regions, districts, coastal and rural areas to stay away from the valleys, forests, electric poles and lines, and general drainage areas”.
It continued, “We are also instructing the drivers to show more caution and avoid speeding while adhering to Road Security Enforcement (Traffic) rules. We are also informing the people of Somaliland that the security forces are on alert; in case of emergencies people should call the police number 999 / 520175 -Press Office Somaliland National Police Force”.
Two days ago, a van has been reported in the media to have been swept away from the city by the Hargeisa River with the three occupants in it feared dead.
Rains in the country have historically been causing havoc.
Neighboring countries and others in Eastern Africa are currently reeling from devastating flash floods from the heavy downpours.
Corruption in Somaliland has resulted in severe consequences for the nation. The lack of essential services such as health, education, water, and sanitation is a direct result of this pervasive corruption. The destruction of newly built bridges and the DP World project serve as glaring examples of mass corruption and looting by those in power. The President’s lack of foresight, extension of presidential and parliamentary terms, and the absence of an independent judiciary further contribute to the lack of accountability of the power holders.
By Yousef Timacade
Corruption within Somaliland has wrought devastating consequences, most acutely felt in critical sectors like health, education, and infrastructure. The ramifications of this systemic issue are profound, casting a dark shadow over the lives of the populace and stalling progress in the nation. The misappropriation of funds meant for public services has left citizens without adequate healthcare, education, and essential amenities. Hospitals struggle with insufficient resources, leading to a scarcity of medical supplies and inadequate facilities. This dire situation has dire implications for the health and well-being of the community, especially in times of crisis.
Corruption has led to a scarcity of healthcare services in Somaliland, depriving the population of essential medical attention. The deteriorating healthcare system due to corruption has led to a decline in public health, increasing the prevalence of diseases. Recent years have seen an increase in diseases including dengue fever, typhoid, gastritis, and other illnesses brought on by unclean water and poor sanitation in Somaliland. However, It’s troubling to hear about these rising health issues in Somaliland, particularly when they’re linked to factors like poor sanitation and lack of clean water. Corruption can indeed exacerbate these problems by diverting resources away from crucial infrastructure and public health initiatives.
Similarly, the education sector suffers from underfunding and neglect. Schools lack basic resources, hindering students’ access to quality education and limiting their prospects for the future, this scarcity perpetuates a cycle of poverty and impedes social and economic development. The compromised education system has resulted in decreased educational outcomes and limited opportunities for students. Basic necessities like clean water and proper sanitation remain elusive for many due to rampant corruption, essential infrastructure projects aimed at providing these crucial services often fall victim to embezzlement and mismanagement, as a result, communities face water scarcity, unsanitary conditions, and health hazards, exacerbating the already challenging living conditions of the Somaliland people.
The destruction of newly constructed bridges and setbacks in projects like the DP World Project highlights the pervasive corruption within the power circles of Somaliland. These acts not only symbolize the squandering of public resources but also impede the much-needed progress in infrastructure development, such actions undermine economic growth and stall efforts to improve connectivity and trade. Corruption doesn’t just erode infrastructure or deplete funds—it corrodes trust in institutions and governance, it fosters a culture of impunity where those in power exploit their positions for personal gain, disregarding the needs and aspirations of the population.
To address these issues, tackling corruption at its roots is imperative and implementing transparent governance structures, reinforcing accountability mechanisms, and fostering a culture of integrity are crucial steps, and empowering independent oversight bodies and engaging civil society can help in holding accountable those responsible for malfeasance.
Somaliland stands at a crossroads where addressing corruption is pivotal for its growth and prosperity, reforms that prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical governance are essential to steer the nation toward a more promising future. Investing in institutions, ensuring responsible management of resources, and fostering a culture of integrity is pivotal in this journey toward progress and development. Somaliland stands at a pivotal moment where the voices of its people must echo louder than ever, Todays crumbling of newly constructed bridges unveils a disturbing reality—corruption has seeped into the very foundations of power. It’s a wake-up call for every citizen to stand up, unite, and demand accountability from those in authority.
Politicians, driven by self-interest and fostering tribal divides, have maneuvered through the shadows, evading accountability for too long, they’ve sown seeds of division, distracting the people from holding them responsible for their actions, but it’s time for the people of Somaliland to see through these divisive tactics and unite for a common cause. The power to effect change lies within our unity as the people of Somaliland, therefore peaceful demonstrations, echoing our collective concern against corruption, can send a powerful message. It’s a time to call to hold power holders accountable and demand transparency in every decision made on behalf of the nation.
The road ahead might be challenging, but a united front against corruption can reshape the future of Somaliland. It’s a time to call not just to protest but to actively engage in shaping a better tomorrow, where integrity and accountability reign supreme. The time has come for every Somalilander to stand as a pillar of change, to transcend tribal boundaries, and to build a resilient, corruption-free Somaliland. United, the people possess the strength to hold power holders accountable and pave the way for a brighter, more just future.
Corruption within Somaliland has wrought devastating consequences, most acutely felt in critical sectors like health, education, and infrastructure. The ramifications of this systemic issue are profound, casting a dark shadow over the lives of the populace and stalling progress in the nation. The misappropriation of funds meant for public services has left citizens without adequate healthcare, education, and essential amenities. Hospitals struggle with insufficient resources, leading to a scarcity of medical supplies and inadequate facilities. This dire situation has dire implications for the health and well-being of the community, especially in times of crisis.
Corruption has led to a scarcity of healthcare services in Somaliland, depriving the population of essential medical attention. The deteriorating healthcare system due to corruption has led to a decline in public health, increasing the prevalence of diseases. Recent years have seen an increase in diseases including dengue fever, typhoid, gastritis, and other illnesses brought on by unclean water and poor sanitation in Somaliland. However, It’s troubling to hear about these rising health issues in Somaliland, particularly when they’re linked to factors like poor sanitation and lack of clean water. Corruption can indeed exacerbate these problems by diverting resources away from crucial infrastructure and public health initiatives.
Similarly, the education sector suffers from underfunding and neglect. Schools lack basic resources, hindering students’ access to quality education and limiting their prospects for the future, this scarcity perpetuates a cycle of poverty and impedes social and economic development. The compromised education system has resulted in decreased educational outcomes and limited opportunities for students. Basic necessities like clean water and proper sanitation remain elusive for many due to rampant corruption, essential infrastructure projects aimed at providing these crucial services often fall victim to embezzlement and mismanagement, as a result, communities face water scarcity, unsanitary conditions, and health hazards, exacerbating the already challenging living conditions of the Somaliland people.
The destruction of newly constructed bridges and setbacks in projects like the DP World Project highlights the pervasive corruption within the power circles of Somaliland. These acts not only symbolize the squandering of public resources but also impede the much-needed progress in infrastructure development, such actions undermine economic growth and stall efforts to improve connectivity and trade. Corruption doesn’t just erode infrastructure or deplete funds—it corrodes trust in institutions and governance, it fosters a culture of impunity where those in power exploit their positions for personal gain, disregarding the needs and aspirations of the population.
To address these issues, tackling corruption at its roots is imperative and implementing transparent governance structures, reinforcing accountability mechanisms, and fostering a culture of integrity are crucial steps, and empowering independent oversight bodies and engaging civil society can help in holding accountable those responsible for malfeasance.
Somaliland stands at a crossroads where addressing corruption is pivotal for its growth and prosperity, reforms that prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical governance are essential to steer the nation toward a more promising future. Investing in institutions, ensuring responsible management of resources, and fostering a culture of integrity is pivotal in this journey toward progress and development. Somaliland stands at a pivotal moment where the voices of its people must echo louder than ever, Todays crumbling of newly constructed bridges unveils a disturbing reality—corruption has seeped into the very foundations of power. It’s a wake-up call for every citizen to stand up, unite, and demand accountability from those in authority.
Politicians, driven by self-interest and fostering tribal divides, have maneuvered through the shadows, evading accountability for too long, they’ve sown seeds of division, distracting the people from holding them responsible for their actions, but it’s time for the people of Somaliland to see through these divisive tactics and unite for a common cause. The power to effect change lies within our unity as the people of Somaliland, therefore peaceful demonstrations, echoing our collective concern against corruption, can send a powerful message. It’s a time to call to hold power holders accountable and demand transparency in every decision made on behalf of the nation.
The road ahead might be challenging, but a united front against corruption can reshape the future of Somaliland. It’s a time to call not just to protest but to actively engage in shaping a better tomorrow, where integrity and accountability reign supreme. The time has come for every Somalilander to stand as a pillar of change, to transcend tribal boundaries, and to build a resilient, corruption-free Somaliland. United, the people possess the strength to hold power holders accountable and pave the way for a brighter, more just future.
Corruption within Somaliland has wrought devastating consequences, most acutely felt in critical sectors like health, education, and infrastructure. The ramifications of this systemic issue are profound, casting a dark shadow over the lives of the populace and stalling progress in the nation. The misappropriation of funds meant for public services has left citizens without adequate healthcare, education, and essential amenities. Hospitals struggle with insufficient resources, leading to a scarcity of medical supplies and inadequate facilities. This dire situation has dire implications for the health and well-being of the community, especially in times of crisis.
Corruption has led to a scarcity of healthcare services in Somaliland, depriving the population of essential medical attention. The deteriorating healthcare system due to corruption has led to a decline in public health, increasing the prevalence of diseases. Recent years have seen an increase in diseases including dengue fever, typhoid, gastritis, and other illnesses brought on by unclean water and poor sanitation in Somaliland. However, It’s troubling to hear about these rising health issues in Somaliland, particularly when they’re linked to factors like poor sanitation and lack of clean water. Corruption can indeed exacerbate these problems by diverting resources away from crucial infrastructure and public health initiatives.
Similarly, the education sector suffers from underfunding and neglect. Schools lack basic resources, hindering students’ access to quality education and limiting their prospects for the future, this scarcity perpetuates a cycle of poverty and impedes social and economic development. The compromised education system has resulted in decreased educational outcomes and limited opportunities for students. Basic necessities like clean water and proper sanitation remain elusive for many due to rampant corruption, essential infrastructure projects aimed at providing these crucial services often fall victim to embezzlement and mismanagement, as a result, communities face water scarcity, unsanitary conditions, and health hazards, exacerbating the already challenging living conditions of the Somaliland people.
The destruction of newly constructed bridges and setbacks in projects like the DP World Project highlights the pervasive corruption within the power circles of Somaliland. These acts not only symbolize the squandering of public resources but also impede the much-needed progress in infrastructure development, such actions undermine economic growth and stall efforts to improve connectivity and trade. Corruption doesn’t just erode infrastructure or deplete funds—it corrodes trust in institutions and governance, it fosters a culture of impunity where those in power exploit their positions for personal gain, disregarding the needs and aspirations of the population.
To address these issues, tackling corruption at its roots is imperative and implementing transparent governance structures, reinforcing accountability mechanisms, and fostering a culture of integrity are crucial steps, and empowering independent oversight bodies and engaging civil society can help in holding accountable those responsible for malfeasance.
Somaliland stands at a crossroads where addressing corruption is pivotal for its growth and prosperity, reforms that prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical governance are essential to steer the nation toward a more promising future. Investing in institutions, ensuring responsible management of resources, and fostering a culture of integrity is pivotal in this journey toward progress and development. Somaliland stands at a pivotal moment where the voices of its people must echo louder than ever, Todays crumbling of newly constructed bridges unveils a disturbing reality—corruption has seeped into the very foundations of power. It’s a wake-up call for every citizen to stand up, unite, and demand accountability from those in authority.
Politicians, driven by self-interest and fostering tribal divides, have maneuvered through the shadows, evading accountability for too long, they’ve sown seeds of division, distracting the people from holding them responsible for their actions, but it’s time for the people of Somaliland to see through these divisive tactics and unite for a common cause. The power to effect change lies within our unity as the people of Somaliland, therefore peaceful demonstrations, echoing our collective concern against corruption, can send a powerful message. It’s a time to call to hold power holders accountable and demand transparency in every decision made on behalf of the nation.
The road ahead might be challenging, but a united front against corruption can reshape the future of Somaliland. It’s a time to call not just to protest but to actively engage in shaping a better tomorrow, where integrity and accountability reign supreme. The time has come for every Somalilander to stand as a pillar of change, to transcend tribal boundaries, and to build a resilient, corruption-free Somaliland. United, the people possess the strength to hold power holders accountable and pave the way for a brighter, more just future.
Yousef Timacade is a lawyer, legal analyst, and commentator. He has a master’s degree in law and executive management and has been working with national and international non-governmental organizations for the last ten years in the areas of program management, research, and human rights.
The Government of the Republic of Somaliland has been invited to attend the mega international conference on climate change COP28.
The UN Conference on Climate Change 2023 is also known as UNFCCC/ COP28.
According to reports the conference of the climate change conference is slated for 28th November 2023 in the UAE. The climate symposium will welcome 70000 participants from around the world.
Somaliland has been given a spot at the conference and its delegation will address the conference.
This information was made available by the Minister of Environment and climate change Hon. Shukri Haji Ismael Bandare.
She said this during the closing ceremony of the three-month environmental meeting for climate change stakeholders held in Hargeisa.
Speaking about the climate change conference Hon. Shukri Haji Ismael said, “As you are all aware we have been invited to attend COP28 meeting in the UAE. More than 70000 international delegates will grace the occasion.”
She went on to state “It’s a triumph for Somaliland to be invited to such an international conference since it will give us a platform to lobby for our international recognition.”
The Central Bank of the Republic of Somaliland, which is continuing the operation to stabilize the Somaliland shilling, on Wednesday withdrew from the country’s foreign exchange markets about 12 billion Somaliland shillings which were surplus in the currency and exchange markets.
The continuous steps taken by the central bank of Somaliland to inject the hard currency into the market so far have had the bank manage to raise the value of the Somaliland shilling by 4.5 percent.
The operation was led by some central bank officials which was carried out in the central market of the capital Hargeysa.
Some of the people who were at the place and at the same time being served in the exchange markets and some of the money changers have welcomed these steps taken by the central bank of the Republic of Somaliland in strengthening the value of the shilling.
They urged the general business fraternity to be patriotic and use the local currency extensively and chided those who needlessly hiked the prices of basic commodities hastily.
bank of Somaliland share with the community, and at the same time clarify the exchange rate whether it is the front hand or the backhand
“The inflation is ending, because they brought a lot of money to the market from the Central Bank, we are the ambassadors of the bank and we are working with them, traders and warehouses, we have sustainable market prices that are kind to the community”, they said.
A meeting was held on Tuesday at the Ministry of the Interior to discuss the security of the country consisting of cabinet ministers under the auspices of the Joint Government Information Desk Committee (JGIDC) and the service commanders.
The meeting as chaired by the Internal Security Minister Hon. Mohamed Kahin Ahmed.
In a press release issued by the Director of Media and Public Relations in the ministry of interior Mr. Abdillahi Ahmed Aarshe the ways and means on how to strengthen the general security of the country and how to prevent the acts of insecurity planned by the groups against the nationhood of the Republic of Somaliland.
The meeting discussed the most appropriate way to strengthen the cooperation between government agencies and the people of the Republic of Somaliland to unite in strengthening peace.
