Re: June 27, 2009 event at the P.S., 76 Elementary Auditorium
220 W. 121st Street
New York, New York 10027
Registrations start at 1pm
Event 2pm to 7pm
New York City, 17 June 2009 ( – You are called this day to gather in a historical and note praiseworthy meeting to reacquaint Habesha Afrikan families who for so long have missed each other during the recent years of disunity. With the efforts of Afrikan Unity of Harlem, Inc all will have the opportunity to see each other in a neutral and social environment firstly to build the fraternal spirit, then to discuss collective oneness, which will lead to Heart felt HABESHA UNITY!!!
The whole of Afrika detailing unity for the Horn will also be of focus for discussion to highlight ancient history and culture as one people, with noted guest speakers sharing their academic and cultural experiences. For centuries Habesha has fought outside forces that served to divide their families and tradition, and now are seen fighting one another. It is imperative to work toward reconciliation from past abuse that only serves systems whose structure dose not value the people as the higher good.
The over all purpose of the gathering is to reacquaint and bring back family bonds that stood in oneness to build such ancient civilizations that give birth to the whole world in art, religion, language, and human morality. We are confident that the gathering will crash the fake stories about Habesha people being divided based on ethical lines and bring forward a nation of God’s free people focused education, health, economics, history and culture for the benefit of Afrika’s children.
Afrikan Unity of Harlem, Inc (A.U.H.., Inc.) is requesting your participation on this day of June 27, 2009.. As a learned team, we believe that the community would greatly benefit from meeting you and learn your expertise concerning Africa and the unity of Habesha people.
This event will be in two parts. The afternoon session is set-aside for representatives from the Habesha community sharing the commonalities of the people based on history, culture, religion, and developmental efforts centered on unification. The late afternoon/evening period is set aside for celebrations with traditional music and socialization the Addis Café suitably located at 435 West 125th on Amsterdam Avenue, Harlem New York 10027..
You will also have the opportunity to inform the community on your expertise and express how it can strengthen African and Habesha people worldwide.
Please respond so we can announce your presence. Also you are invited to be a guest speaker on our internet web cast radio program which airs live globally, Tuesdays at 2pm EST. If you can or not make it, please send a reply or ask for directions.
“SAVING OUR HOME LAND AND REACQUAINTING OUR FAMILIES!!!”
Afrikan Unity of Harlem, Inc., a not for profit organizational catalyst to spearhead the empowerment and unity of All Afrikan people worldwide is calling all Habesha People (East Afrikan Peoples) in the Diaspora to the, “Saving our Homeland and Reacquainting our Families”, event held June 27 2009 (2001 Ethiopic) from 2 to 7 pm, at P.S, 76 Elementary School Auditorium 220 W. 121st Street New York, New York 10027
For thousands of years Habesha has proven a collective greatness by defeating all areas of colonization and foreign invasion, by God’s own design for Afrikan People to be free. In this new millennia time all must see that posterity needs family bonds to continue in the old faith of one united people moving collectively by the spirit, defeating all powers that be, who try to come in to change an ancient tradition which is the integrity of all.
“Is there hope for Afrika? Yes there is. Our future begins with our present. Africa’s present condition has its origins in Africa’s history. An honest collective acknowledgement of our history helps to encourage Afrikan unity. From history we are able to pinpoint mistakes and injustices that may have resulted in our present conditions,” says Ato Kassayi Hailu, President of Afrikan Unity of Harlem, Inc.
It has been a long time coming, for Habesha people to set down with one another to allow their children to meet and see each other. When we look to history we see that it has been the East Afrikan people who gave to the whole world culture, civilization and moral values that have been established throughout the earth. Our continent, Mother Afrika, is the museum of the world that has given birth to a free people.
Ato Kassayi agrees that, “All Habesha people must work for the integrity of East Afrikan countries. Forget about our personal political interest. Come out of your Ethnic trenches and collaborate with all Habesha for the benefit of all, based on our collective history as one Afrikan People.”
AVENUE: Re: June 27, 2009 event at the P.S., 76 Elementary Auditorium
220 W. 121st Street
New York, New York 10027
Registrations start at 1pm
Event 2pm to 7pm
Sincerely,
Sister Ivory Ann Black II Woletta Sellassie Executive Secretary Afrikan Unity of Harlem, Inc
Office Phone: 212 531-0384 / Fax: 212-531-0382
Mobile: 414-429-2160
Website: afrikanunityofharlem.com
Blogesite: http://360.yahoo.com/african.unity
Radio/TV Program: Tuesdays starting at 2pm Est. watch live at afrikanunityofharlem.com
Hargeisa, 16 May 2009) – Greg Garland, media and outreach coordinator for the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, answered questions in a June 16 CO.NX webchat on Somalia.
Following is the transcript:
(begin transcript)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Bureau of International Information Programs
Webchat Transcript
CO.NX Webchat: Is there hope for Somalia?
Guest: Greg Garland
Date: June 16, 2009
Time: 8 a.m. EDT (12:00 GMT)
Gregory L Garland: Hello everybody! Thanks you for taking the time to participate today. I won’t be able to answer all the many questions you have, so please be understanding. I’ll try to answer those that have a broad interest and applicability. Let’s start!
Q [Mbekwe]: What are the main factors driving problems in Somalia?
A [Gregory L. Garland]: The two biggest factors? A shattered economy that magnifies the temptation for young men to enter into piracy, and the lack of a rule of law that could enforce national and international law. There are a variety of other factors unique to Somalia, such as illegal fishing, but lack of effective governance in much of the country and few jobs opportunities are the keys.
Q [Rooble]: Why the US government is not taking a brave step to recognize Somaliland as the first step to settle things in Somalia?
A [Gregory L Garland]: The U.S. believes that the Transitional federal Government provides the best solution for a unified Somalia. Inasmuch as Somaliland provides a degree of good governance, it offers an example to what is possible to all Somalis.
Q [jigoli]: Do u think imposing shariff to the presidency will solve the Somalian problem?
A [Gregory L. Garland]: No one person can solve the country’s problems. What is needed is effective and inclusive governance that extends nation-wide.
Q [Joseph]: What role will USA play in fixing Somalia?
A [Gregory L. Garland]: Somalis themselves will fix Somalia. The United States, along with the rest of the international community, will play a vital role in maintaining levels of humanitarian assistance, such as food and medicines. We are also participating in the international, multilateral Contact Group on Somalia to devise long-term ways and programs that can bolster the efforts of Somalis to establish rule of law and revitalize their economy.
Comment [Shakur]: Of course, both Somali Land and Puntalnd regional administrations can be seen as good role models.
Q [Rooble]: Why the American government is not doing anything effective about the piracy in the Somalia’s waters with those huge warships?
A [Gregory L Garland]: In fact, there is considerable evidence that the multinational naval presence off the coast of Somalia has become an effective deterrent against piracy. But it is only a short-term answer, a band-aid let’s say. The long-term solution is on-shore — the establishment of effective governance throughout Somalia and the revival of an economy that will offer employment alternatives.
Q [Joseph]: How would you repair Somalia as a country?
A [Gregory L. Garland]: Somalia has gone almost two decades without an effective central government. Thus, it’s necessary to establish effective national authority that extends into the interior and all along the coast. That, in fact, is the goal of the Transitional Federal Government that is situated in Mogadishu but controls little beyond the capital. Once that authority is established, there should be a return to the rule of law based on Somali traditions. The economy will rebound once rule of law has been established. The international community — East Africa, the Arab world, East Asia, Europe, and the United States — has a vital role to play to nurture the economy while in the meantime maintaining levels of humanitarian assistance.
Amelia Vance IIP Washington: Thank you everyone for your questions! Mr. Garland is currently reviewing them and will respond shortly. If you are new to the web chat, please let us know where you are from. Thank you!
Q [Mukesh Williams]: Marine piracy has a long history though ‘illegal waste dumping’ is new. Since 1992 environmental rules in the Anglo-American world became quite strict and it became increasingly difficult for companies to dispose toxic and nuclear waste illegally in the civilized world. In such a climate, politically or economically weak countries were easily exploited. Poor and politically weak Somalia became an ideal victim. The solutions proffered today do not take account of this factor and are therefore not acceptable by the Somalis themselves. What should the world do?
A [Gregory L Garland]: You’re statement in general is correct. First, about the history of marine piracy. It is one of the oldest professions. But it is controllable, as recent history has taught in the Straits of Malacca. Piracy thrives where there is weak governance and poor economic choices — the formula in Somalia today. As for dumping of illegal waste, there is considerable evidence that a problem has existed in Somalia, with damage to its waters. This does not excuse or even explain the motives behind the wave of piracy, it is a factor that certainly ought to be assessed and dealt with as part of the long-term solution. At the end of the day, it is Somalis themselves who have to come to terms with the root causes of piracy with effective, inclusive governance throughout their country.
Q [Shakur]: I must admit that I find it difficult to understand the word “international community”! Eretria, Ethiopia, North Korea, Iran, etc – are members of the international community, the definition of international community may be as wide as you cannot imagine. That is the reason why I think America has to take the lead?
Shakur: I think the federal government deserves the maximum support, without compromising peace and stability in other regions. Yet, we learned from past interventions that there are seemingly disagreements from within the international community. I would think, Somalians are ready to grip the opportunity, provided America takes the lead of international help.
Amelia Vance IIP Washington: America.gov just released its new feature on piracy, so after the chat anyone interested can check out http://tinyurl.com/n96534 . There will also be a chat specifically on piracy in the 21st century on June 30, 09:00 am EDT (13:00GMT) at http://statedept.connectsolutions.com/conx . For more info on the chat, check out http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=89483129015.
Q [Mukesh Williams]: Many African leaders within and outside Somalia believe that instead of attacking the pirates and extremists it is wise to negotiate with them. Western leaders however feel otherwise. They feel that there can be no negotiation with pirates or extremists. The only way out is military action like the one successfully mounted in the wake of the hijacked US cargo ship Maersk Alabama. Both these approaches seem to be fraught with problems. What is your solution to break this impasse?
A [Gregory L Garland]: I have to disagree with the conclusion that an impasse exists. The multinational offshore naval presence is a short-term bandage supported by United Nations Security Council resolutions and contribution worldwide. Nobody pretend it is the solution. What is has succeeded in doing is keeping major shipping lanes more or less clear. Meanwhile, Africans, Middle easterners, Europeans, Americans, and Asian have gathered numerous times in the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia to discuss all aspects of the problem. Somalia’s TFG is an active participant, as is the African Union, Kenya, Yemen and Egypt. I know because I have attended meetings as a U.S. head of working group in Cairo and New York and have worked closely with the Africans (including Egypt) in particular. Force has rarely been used, and no country argues that it is an answer — though it makes for sensationalist television footage. The solution, all agree, is for effective governance to be reestablished throughout Somalia with a revived economy.
Q [Shakur]: Greg. It is not up to the Somalians any longer. You see, we are on life support machine; our country has been destroyed by million and one conflicting interests. Today so many countries call themselves as “the stake holders” Stake holders of what I wonder?
Comment [dia alesawi]: guys we forget the that there’s a countries like Ethiopia and Eretria supporting some of militia against the other they bring to them the money and the weapons and if they stop it gona fix some of Somalia problem
Q [Guest]: Hiiraan Online: Why the international community is out financed by the extremist’s elements in Somalia? Due to the financial situation in Somalia, young improvised Somalis are flocking to extremist camps; however these same young men could be recruited to the Somali Security Forces if the international community comes forward with promised financial support to TFG
A [Gregory L Garland]: You’ve hit upon one of the short-term answers — there has to be economic incentive to wean young men away from the temptation of piracy to other means of earning a living. The U.S. believes that the TFG is the best path for establishing effective governance in Somalia. Our support has and is taking many forms, including humanitarian assistance and starting work on building a coast guard. Can we do more? Yes, and that’s what we’re mapping out in the international Contact Group on Somalia (separate from the one on piracy).
Comment [Shakur]: Dia, they will not stop. They need to be told enough is enough. Take the case of Afghanistan, the neighboring countries were told to stay away mainly because of the direct interest they may have. In Iraq, again same applies. It is only when it comes to Somalia that we consult Ethiopia, Eretria, Kenya – that seems double standard to me.
Q [Rashid Ebrahim]: Hello Everyone…I’m From Bahrain where as many of you know the anti piracy task force is stationed (The US 5th Fleet). My question is Will we ever really put an end to this pirate menace?
CO.NX Moderator (Mark): For those of you just joining the webchat, welcome! Feel free to introduce yourself.
Q [Abdiaziz Hassan]: The fact is that a Failed Somalia is a threat to the global security and Something needs to be fixed. The nation and its people are ready to take the lead, but are you, U.S, the world’s number one power ready to assist Somalia militarily to overpower its rivals who do not have agenda? As much as I know, the peace for Somalis is peace for the world. Now, young, uneducated men who have no bigger agenda have disrupted world trade and caused the mess we can see in the maritime. Therefore, did you ask yourself [as Obama administration] what the consequences of Alshabaab takeover, which is getting direct order from Al-Qaeda can be?
A [Gregory L Garland]: The world understands that a failed Somalia is a global threat, not just one to its own people or its immediate neighbors. The U.S is working closely with the international community — including nations in East Africa and the Middle East as well as the African Union — to find answers to the issues you raise. As I have said, the U.S. believes that the TFG is best vehicle for rebuilding Somalia, and the international community is proceeding to support it. At the same time, the U.S. continues efforts to combat violent extremism and eliminate the terrorist threat in Somalia.
Q [Wise]: Do you think that the US did enough for Somalia? like do you think that sending navy troops at the sea and not helping the new government?
A [Gregory L Garland]: On-shore and off-shore contributions are two sides of the same coin of U.S. policy toward Somalia. The U.S. and a number of other countries could immediately respond to the piracy threat to international shipping with naval units. Hat naval; presence has helped maintain the Gulf of Aden as a viable waterway in the face of extraordinary piracy menaces. But it is only a quick fix; the long-term solution is tackling the root causes of piracy on shore The U.S. is also deeply engaged on shore in Somalia to assist the Somali people. It is the major provider of food and other humanitarian supplies that keep so many Somalis alive. It has supported the Africa Union Mission in Somalia — key to the security of the TFG — with logistics. And it has led international coordination through the two contact groups and the United Nations.
Q [sahardid from DC but in Kenya]: who must/should be involve in formulating the change plan for Somalia?
A [Gregory L Garland]: Somalis themselves, not outsiders. The core U.S. objective has been to encourage dialogue among Somali stakeholders with the goal of resuming the transitional process outlined by the Transitional Federal Charter. This means bringing in parts of society who can agree to the shared goal of effective governance, rule of law, and revival of the economy. Much of the world is willing to support that process, but the leadership and implementation must be Somali.
Q [Mohamed Ahmed Ali]: Current Somalia will be like Afghanistan and it may take decades to overpower the militants, the recent international policy is giving Somaliland as a present to the militants Muslim radicals, what is the US policy to safe Somaliland?
A [Gregory L Garland]: You are likely correct that Somalis must plan for decades, not years, much less weeks. We are acutely aware that two decades have already been lost. The U.S. believes that Somaliland is part of the solution for a unified, well-governed Somalia. I have heard the TFG Somali foreign minister himself make this assertion, and recognition on the record the accomplishment of the region’s governance.
Amelia Vance IIP Washington: Hi everyone! Don’t forget to check out the other programs CO.NX has available after the chat today. Find out more at http://co-nx.state.gov . If you are new to the chat, please say where you are from. Thank you!
Gregory L. Garland: Posted by Nwadi Udoka Eze (Nigeria) – bye this was great event. I am so happy to be an honored guest here. The food is great, the wine, off the hook. or maybe tea, depending on where you are or brunch, whatever. I am just trying to say: It’s funny attending an event online, but it feels good. I feel important. lol!
Gregory L. Garland: Posted by Muntaka Ghana – Somalia could be a beacon of the horns of Africa if a stable democratic platform is mounted with a structured society. It’s sad the ferocious tendencies of religion has infested deeply patrolling and controlling the minds of my brothers up there. I hope one day Africans will realize religion is primitive and whiles they might has been instruments of liberation sometimes in the past are now predominantly the contrivance and agents of the enormous ignorance in our societies, despotism and persecution of our thoughts and freedom.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Posted by Baba Iddi – Dialog with stakeholders in the region is a sure way to resolving the Somali crisis. Military approach to the issue would lead to undesirable results just like we have seen in many parts of the world. The west must be committed to finding permanent workable solutions to the crisis. The Obama approach to dealing with states such as Somalia, Iran, Cuba may yield great results for the US and the world at large, if sustained with sincerity.
Q [Mukesh Williams]: In a book entitled Villains of All Nations: Atlantic Pirates in the Golden Age, historian Marcus Rediker points out that when poor seamen become pirates it draws attention to their social class, when enslaved Africans turn pirates it poses questions of race and when women take to piracy it reveals gender issues. All those who became pirates and sailed under their Jolly Rogers were participating in a political drama exposing the ills of their nations. They represented a specific geography and a dramatic condition, which was hard to ignore both literally and metaphorically. Most pirates went to sea to prevent starvation and death exposing the irresponsibility of the state. Do you think modern piracy in Somalia exposes the ills of the state and the complicity of Europe and the US in destabilizing it?
A [Gregory L Garland]: Yours is an academic and historical analysis that bear attention inasmuch as those of us in the present can learn from the past. It is granted that piracy is an ill (and an international crime) that has roots causes in social, political, and economic chaos. So does murder, and so does drug trafficking. But as a crime that threatens a major international trade corridor, it must be treated criminally. That’s something the world’s nations have agreed on. An analogous case took place in the Straits of Malacca some years ago, and international cooperation combined with effective local governance to stamp out most of the piracy. That’s effective governance and long-term economic opportunity in Somalia is crucial as long-term solutions. That’s not a matter of race or gender — interesting as those approaches might be. Just as piracy law came about in response to threats to international commerce centuries ago, Somalia reminds us why this is so and the common interest of all the world in containing it through effective governance on shore.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Posted by Rashid Ibrahim (Kenya) – I believe, the only thing that has the slightest chance of bringing stability in Somalia is more bloodshed; but it should be organized and precise. An individual of immense resources and an army of around 4000 well trained vigilantes will surely get things straightened. What we have had in Somalia is a confused and disenfranchised population that believes its interests are best served by individuals of their own ethnic background and this myth can only be quashed by getting rid of the trouble makers and ensuring that the power vacuum is filled and in the short run putting in place institutions that will safeguard the sovereignty of a nation and creating a constitution that protects the rights of all.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Posted by Suleiman Abdullahi – As long as individual rights are respected, the will of the people upheld and accountability, transparency and human rights are upheld, we don’t need to coin the word democracy to any kind of government. What is essential is satisfaction of the citizens with their country and how its affairs are being run. Again, it’s the bearer of the shoe who knows where it pinches most? Have we taken the time to listen and to reflect upon the wishes of the Somali people, we haven’t. Most of the people today only know about the existing problems in the country through media outlets and intelligence services who base their findings on “reliable” sources, too bad.
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Posted by Ali Macalin – Hello..Always Hope and life goes on.. Positive thinking..When we take the first step in helping someone else – we are helped – often in ways that we do not know. We become part of a community that matters to us. We matter… Consider the people as potential resources, not as problems AND develop human potential through a proper education that acknowledges and promotes human nobility HOW- Learning to know,- Learning to Do,- Learning to Live Together and,- Learning to Be Peace, Ali
CO.NX Moderator (Tim): Posted by Suleiman Abdullahi – Somalia’s rich mineral resources that lie untapped is the reason we are focusing so much on this nation in the Horn of Africa. Why are we not giving similar attention to Kosovo which remains besieged by Serbia? And Armenia which has been constantly bullied by Turkey? why don’t we lend support to Myanmar which lives at the mercy of a military junta and where religious tolerance is non-existent? For crying out loud, let us be impartial and most importantly honest! A lot of the people who will lend their comments to this discussion have skewed and irrational view of Somalia. What we think of are the war mongering lords and hard line politicians but what we should be focusing on are the people of Somalia who live in fear everyday and are constantly on the move in search of safer grounds.
Comment [Abdi]: addressing seriously the situation and supporting the TFG is the only way to sort out the problems in Somalia
Comment [ahmed indepedebt researcher]: There is hope and the hope is that Somalis will force the world to balance the need of the Somali people for stability and prosperity against merciless international politics in the form of international NGOs
Comment [katus]: The situation that is….
Q [katus]: Osman am keen to know is nearly as bad as the media makes it…or is it worse?
Q [ahmed indepedebt researcher]: There are more than 800 international NGOs working in Somalia all the UN agencies are supposedly working in Somalia with a combined expenditure of $2billion since 2002 according to UNPOS so why not there is no peace still?
Osman Moallim: There is hope when you compared in the past. For example some time people now talking and thinking how the administration where before they were busy to support clan ambition. We have seen election of president as well as president resignation and elected another one. 10 years ago it was dream to believe such of this change
Q [rafiandra]: what should UN do about Somalia?
A [Gregory L Garland]: The UN is already deeply engaged in Somalia. There are two international contact groups, on for on shore and one on piracy off shore (I’m participating in the latter). The UN Office on Somalia (check on the formal name) in Nairobi coordinates aid effort. The U.S. has placed the UN at the center of its Somalia policy. But please remember that the UN is made of member-states, and is only as effective as its membership. By the way, the African Union has the only peacekeeping troops actually in Somalia — a bold testimony to that organization’s evolution. You mention Indonesia. While Indonesia has an interest in Somalia as a growing economy reliant on international shipping, as an Indian Ocean littoral state, and a fellow Muslim nation, we should remember that Indonesia has its own piracy issues. Together with Singapore and Malaysia, it has effectively controlled piracy in the Straits of Malacca. As such, I would suggest (personally speaking, not as a USG spokesman) that Indonesia offers the priceless expertise of having been there and done that well — that is, fought and reduced piracy in one important waterway.
Q [Iqraa Alamiin]: I am Iqraa, from Indonesia I think that I am so optimistic that there is hope for SOMALIA in future. The United Nation must pay attention in deed to make the situation becomes conducive and the world must help the Somalian from starving. They are our brother as human beings. I do hope that Somalia will be better and better as soon as possible. All Nations can take participate materially and morally as well to decrease the suffering of the Somalia. I just wonder about the children’s destinies dan the future in Somalia. They have to cooperate hand by hand to bring our only one earth planet into peaceful and love. My question is What actions can be done by United Nations to make the situation becomes normally.
A [CO.NX Moderator (Tim)]: Hi Iqraa…check above for UN engagement in Somalia.
Osman Moallim: the recognition of the Italian government to the TFG is one of the sign that shows you the hope because the Italian government is one of the key player the Somali conflict
Q [Rooble]: (09:28) Why this sudden support for Somalia after 18 years of civil war under the eyes of the US?
A [Gregory L Garland]: (09:28) That’s a common perception, but wrong. The U.S. has struggled with Somali issues for decades if we are to talk history, going back long before 1991-92. But support for effective nation-wide governance and rule of law by an inclusive national authority has been consistently a core objective of US policy. Somalis know better than most the strong voices of the Somali émigré community in the US, as well as in other Western countries. They have helped keep Somalia on the table so to speak, in the public eye domestically here in America. The current interest is exceptional in one important respect: piracy has made it to the front pages. It has given the American media a story that can be told easily with occasional valuable footage. Now, Americans think of piracy first when they think of Somalia. I would argue that this is an opportunity for all those concerned with Somali’s future, including Somalis themselves, to take advantage of. Americans don’t pay sustained attention as a general rule to the rest of world. Right now, with US naval units off shore, an American freighter that was attacked and freed by US naval intervention, and a suspect being detained in New York, piracy is still headlines here. This is the opportunity that the TFG, African Union, regional leaders elsewhere, and the UN all recognize. But believe me, as an Africanist I can assure that the US Government has paid sustained attention to Somalia since the early 1990s and before.
Gregory L Garland: (09:32) Thank you all for participating, listening, reading. I learned at least as much from your questions as you may from my answers — that’s what keeps me passionate about the business of cross-cultural dialogue. And thanks to my colleagues at IIP for making this program possible. Regards, Greg Garland
Amelia Vance IIP Washington: (09:35) Thank you so much for joining us today, Mr. Garland. And a big thanks to our audience. This chat is now closed. A transcript of this chat will be available in one to two days on America.gov and on our facebook page at http://co-nx.state.gov. We love to hear feedback so please email us at conx@state.gov or write on our facebook wall.
An illustration shows a woman looking at the Twitter page of US President Donald Trump reading "Sanctions Are Coming November 5" at an office in Washington, DC on November 2, 2018. - The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week, US officials said November 2, 2018. The sanctions come six months after President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal struck between world powers and Iran. (Photo by STF / AFP)
Hargeisa, 16 May 2009 – The arrival of BCIMR commercial bank in Somaliland is a great indicator of how fast the region is progressing economically, socially and politically as a bank that is a subsidiary of a major international banking organisation such as BNP-Paribas which is based in France, would not have taken the decision to open a branch that offers such a large variety of financial products and services in Hargeysa so lightly.
The most important factors for any businesses to consider when investing outside their home countries are security, political stability and most importantly, the potential for growth and expansion within the new market and within Somaliland, BCIMR has found all of these. Despite, the widespread poverty within Somaliland, what is clear is that not only is their peace but that peace itself is what the citizens of the nation value most and hence there is very little risk of their investment being wasted.
Somaliland has also enjoyed political stability for over a decade now and this is best illustrated by the free and fair election that is to be held this year with the two main opposition parties being in a better position than the current ruling UDUB party to form the next administration after the election. Furthermore, as is evident from the expansion both in size and trade of the major cities in Somaliland such as Hargeysa, Berbera, Burco and Borama, the potential for growth and expansion is not only a real possibility but it is one that is achievable within a short timescale.
In the last ten years, despite the civil war in the South, Somaliland has seen an explosion of business activity in the major cities such as Hargeysa which has been strongly driven by the tourism, construction and education industry. Currently, Somaliland welcomes over a hundred thousand visitors a years from Europe, the Middle East and North America who all come to spend their summer holidays in the country.
The construction and education sectors success and growth is evident in the large number of private schools and higher education providers that exist and the reconstruction of the major roads, towns, hospital and privately owned homes that line the streets of most major towns. It is this very boom that has attracted BCIMR Bank to Hargeysa and whilst it is a sign of progress and prosperity, the government of Somaliland must be warned in advance that if unregulated what can now be perceived as progress could easily turn into an economic disaster.
In order to avoid this disaster banking and lending practices must be regulated thoroughly to ensure that the consumers not only get value for money but also a service that is solidly trustworthy unlike the ponzi scheme that conned hardworking investors and savers in Hargeysa out of, what for some, were their life savings. In line with Lord Turner’s (of the UK) recommendations, the government of Somaliland must ensure that BCIMR and other banking groups do not encourage risk taking on the sale of exotic financial products by offering large commissions and incentives to bankers who sell these products to the public and that these same banks actually put aside reserve capital to compensate for any potential loss on their investment so that the government does not become burdened with the expensive task of bailing them out like in the USA and UK.
The government should also encourage competition within the market so as to make the market more consumer led than it been dominated by a few large corporation who have a monopoly within the banking sector and as a result heavily influence the policymaking process which would bring Parliamentary sovereignty in Somaliland into question.
There are many effective methods of regulating banks and general business activities but what is crucial is that this should be carried out by an impartial and well qualified agency staffed by professionals and academics with experience from the same sector. Furthermore, a select committee of MP’s should be set up to scrutinise banking and business rules and practices within the region so as to ensure that the corporations such as BCIMR remain accountable to the public and are governed in a way that best represents their interests as well as that of their customers.
The entire G20 Summit in East London was an excellent illustration of what the ramifications would be if the markets are not well regulated because despite the fancy rhetoric and the utopian like promises, the entire summit was called to discuss ways of getting back to banking basics and formulating regulation methods that would ensure that the financial system would not collapse again in the future. The Western style economic models that are encouraged by the developed world in Africa are risky and these are not risks they insure them against in case they go wrong.
The lesson to learn from the G20 summit is that the Anglo-American economic model breeds greed and should be discouraged and based on this, it is better for Somaliland to start with strong economic foundations by creating a system whereby good regulation is standard practice so as to insure itself and its people against the greed of a few which in the banking circles is known as “investments.”
In conjunction with regulation the government must encourage and to some extent, enforce social responsibility upon businesses that operate in Somaliland by creating clear and fair business tax structures which they can enforce for the greater good of the wider, poorer population. Just like in the West, in Africa a small percentage of businesses and wealthy families control over 95% of the wealth and Somaliland is no exception.
The business taxes that are collected should be used to invest in public policy ideas in the key areas of education, job creation, healthcare, housing and other social endeavours that are desperately needed in the country. It would be wrong to suggest that this system of taxation does not exist in Somaliland because it does, but the issue is that collected taxes rarely reaches the people and the social development goals it is aimed at assisting.
As a result of corruption, much of the meager collected business taxes are spent before it even reaches the treasury and when it does come as far as the treasury, it disappears in to the government executive’s pockets or expenses. Arguably, the Somaliland government must first tackle its own in the area of corruption before it enforces social responsibility upon businesses because business are unlikely to pay taxes if they can avoid it through bribing government officials.
The fact is that businesses hate regulation and taxation and would do anything to avoid both. In most of the developed world they hold the governments to ransom by threatening to invest in other countries that have less or none of both of the things they are running away from but unlike in these developed countries, the majority of companies that have invested or invest in Somaliland are Somali owned such as Dahabshiil, Daallo airlines and Rays Hotel.
This means that the Somaliland government does not need to fear these businesses leaving and finding a better business climate because the majority of their clientele are in Somaliland and they have nowhere to go to hide from the taxation. In fact if they could have found a better business environment for themselves they would have relocated many years ago, but the fact is that they cannot and because of this the government must be brave enough to stand up to them and enforce their obligation to pay the taxes they owe to the country and its people, which they in turn should use to invest in the services that are most needed by the people.
The government should also be looking at other ways of making businesses socially responsible such as creating employment for the population and where this does occur, or is already happening, it should work towards creating a minimum wage which the businesses can afford to pay without upsetting the flow of business.
Regulation and taxation are a must if there is to be stability and growth in Somaliland and if the government is brave enough to stand up to businesses in both areas then it will enjoy a successful working relationship where they are equals as opposed to slave and master. The government of Somaliland should never encourage profit before people and should avoid creating and nurturing a Wild West economy run by business fat cats who inflate prices and restrict supplies to create personal profits.
The government is challenged instead, to create a business environment that is both profitable economically for businesses and socially for the public it has been elected to serve. It will not be an easy task as greed is impossible to regulate but banking practices are not and this is where the government must take the initiative and lead the economic policy of the country rather than leaving it to the banks and businesses who the public distrust more than them.
HARGEISA, SOMALILAND: The Somaliland Ministry of Water and Mineral Resources has extended the country’s first bid round for hydrocarbon concessions by three months. The deadline for final submission of bids has been pushed to Dec. 15, 2009, and concessions will be awarded on March 15, 2010.
The bid round includes eight concession blocks comprised of more than 34,604 square miles (89,624 sq km) of onshore and offshore areas. The bid round was originally scheduled to close and award bids in August and December, respectively.
The geology off the coast of Somaliland is analogous to the oil-producing basins in nearby Yemen that have yielded several discoveries. Yemen’s Balhaf Graben Basin and Somaliland’s Berbera Basin contain similarities in fault trends and structural complexity.
In preparation for the Somaliland licensing round, TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Co. ASA acquired 3,293 miles (5,300 km) of seismic, gravity and magnetic data in the offshore areas and 21,562 miles (34,700 km) of high resolution aeromagnetic data covering all known petroleum basins. The surveys mark the first new geophysical data acquired in the area in almost 30 years.
The data acquisition was completed in 2007 and 2008, and TGS used this data along with existing well logs and interpreted data to create comprehensive interpretation reports for the Ministry. The reports, as well as the newly acquired geophysical data and well logs are all multi-client products to be exclusively marketed by TGS on behalf of the Ministry.
One hindrance to the bid round could come from the fact that Somaliland has not been recognized as its own country, but rather still a part of Somalia. Somaliland, which is located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Ethiopia, Djibouti, the Puntland region of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, withdrew from Somalia in 1991 and has maintained a de jure separate status since that time. However, without international recognition, oil and gas companies may be hesitant to sign long-term contracts and invest money into projects that could possibly become void if the political situation in Somaliland changes in the future.
Hargeisa, 16 June 2009 – Somaliland is giving suitors an extra three months to submit bids in its debut licensing round, with the Ministry of Water & Mineral Resources pushing the deadline back until December.
The deadline for final submission of bids is now 15 December, rather than August, with bids due to be opened on 19 February next year.
Concessions will now be awarded on 15 March next year instead of in December.
The round includes eight concession blocks covering more than 89,624 square kilometres in both on- and offshore plays.
“The geology off the coast of Somaliland is analogous to the oil-producing basins in nearby Yemen that have yielded several discoveries to date,” the ministry in a statement.
“Yemen’s Balhaf Graben basin and Somaliland’s Berbera basin contain similarities in fault trends and structural complexity.”
Ahead of the round, Norway’s TGS-Nopec shot 5300 kilometres of seismic, gravity and magnetic data in the offshore areas and 34,700 kilometers of high resolution aeromagnetic data of the onshore areas.
The surveys mark the first geophysical data acquired in Somaliland for almost 30 years.
Map of Federal Republic of Somalia through magnigying glass
Hargeisa, 16 June 2009 — The dusty, potholed streets of Hargeysa in Somaliland are filled with battered cars and ambling pedestrians. The tangled birds’ nests of wires that cling to every telegraph pole are testament to a boom in telephony, informal stalls line the roads, selling imported goods and Ethiopia-grown khat, a plant chewed as a stimulant – and behind bricks of local currency sit the money changers.
It is a long way from Western Union’s pristine headquarters in Colorado or Moneygram’s in Minnesota, but not quite a different world. Here, in a perhaps unlikely northwestern corner of Somalia, is the home of a multimillion-dollar financial services company. One, indeed, that almost single-handedly keeps the East African country afloat.
Dahabshiil’s office in Hargeysa has the relaxed charm of many a family-run African business. As I arrived, Mohamed Saïd Duale, Dahabshiil’s founder and chairman, shuffled by in his sandals, a length of printed material wrapped around his waist and a short, traditional walking stick tucked under his arm. He made his way to a private office on the roof, where he sat cross-legged on the floor in front of a computer.
His company began as a small, informal organisation, helping Somalis to get money to their relatives in refugee camps in Ethiopia, charging a commission as it did so. Now it is an economic linchpin, connecting the wealthy Somali diaspora with the impoverished population at home.
“Remittances are a lifeline to Somalis,” Abdirashid Duale, the company’s chief executive (and son of the founder), said. “They are the main income people here receive.” The World Bank estimates that remittance worth about $1 billion (£610 million) a year reached Somalia from émigrés in Britain, the United States, Sweden and the Gulf. Industry experts reckon that Dahabshiil may be responsible for handling two thirds of that and as much as half may reach the semi-autonomous region of Somaliland.Predictably, Dahabshiil has grown with the Somali diaspora.
The money transfer, or hawaala, business is rooted in traditional networks of kinship and trust, using clan allegiances to guarantee the near-instant transfers. Identifying information still includes details of clan membership, but the traditional networks have been updated with modern technology, including online money transfers and SMS notification.
Dahabshiil’s growth accelerated after the September 11 terror attacks in 2001, when the US Government shut down its biggest competitor, the Mogadishu-based al-Barakat, amid suspicions that it had helped to fund terrorism. The company now has 1,000 agents in 40 countries (including 160 in the UK, where it is registered) and is the largest private sector employer in Somalia, with 2,000 workers in more than 200 offices.
The younger Mr Duale, who lives in London and Hargeysa, admits that the collapsing world economy has hit remittances from the West. “People from Britain and America are sending less, just the basic amount, say, to pay school fees, not the amounts that they used to send, to build houses or to invest in businesses.”
Nevertheless, he intends to make Dahabshiil’s foreign exchange, banking and mobile phone businesses as popular among Somalis as the money transfer business. His ambitions are seen clearly in downtown Hargeysa, where a huge new Dahabshiil bank is under construction.
“Very soon people will be able to go to a Dahabshiil ATM in Hargeysa and withdraw money,” Mr Duale said. “Very soon, we will offer a lot of the products you can get in London here in Hargeysa. Why not?”
Somaliland
Somaliland is located in the eastern Horn of Africa, bordered by Ethiopia, the rest of Somalia and the republic of Djibouti.
It was a British colony from 1884 until June 1960. After gaining independence, the State of Somaliland merged with Italian Somaliland to form Somalia. When Somalia’s military government collapsed during a civil war in May 1991, rebel forces in the northwest reasserted local independence.
No other country recognises the Republic of Somaliland, leaving it in legal limbo and financial isolation.
The capital is Hargeysa.
Fifty-five per cent of the 3.5million population is nomadic.
This file photo taken on May 18, 2016 shows a woman holding a flag as soldiers and other military personnel of Somaliland march past during an Independence day celebration parade in the capital Hargeisa. It wants to be recognised as autonomous. PHOTO | MOHAMED ABDIWAHAB | AFP
Emily will be writing about her experience in Somaliland and will be offering tips to anyone who may want to visit the unrecognized republic along the way – discover Somaliland from a Non-Somali perspective. This is the second article – It is a great privilege to be here in Hargeisa.
It is a great privilege to be here in Hargeisa. The sounds of the call to prayer wake me up each morning as the city bustles around me. It is much more alive than other cities I have come to know; here you can always find people outside, sipping tea, chatting, hauling loads on their mules, chewing qat [a narcotic leaf chewed in parts of East Africa and Yemen]. I had intended to write this article sooner but my internet access has been limited to the internet café across the street, and my 7-year old laptop has retired. My co-workers were amused that my laptop was not shiny and new, but quickly hooked up a reliable desktop in my breezy office so now I should have regular internet access.
My flight here was an adventure as I expected it would be. The visa process in Addis was very easy though, and I would recommend acquiring a visa there to other travelers. The hardest part of the process was finding the Somaliland Liaison Office, which is hidden behind the Mozambiquean and South African Embassies. But once you find the office, with its gardens and dusty driveway, the entire visa process takes only about 10 minutes, and is very straight forward.
When I was ready to leave Addis with my visa in hand, I arrived at Bole International Airport an hour and a half before my flight, as I was instructed to. I had picked up my boarding pass the day before at Air Ethiopia’s office downtown, but when I asked the airport officers where to find the flight to Hargeisa, they looked at me and my boarding pass quizzically. Nobody I spoke with had heard about this flight, and they even told me that there were no flights to Hargeisa from Addis. Luckily I maintained my confidence and thanks to the Somali dress I was wearing, some fellow passengers walked over and asked me if I was looking for the flight to Hargeisa. With relief, I told them I was, but they too were just as lost as I was. We all commiserated for a few minutes before taking a seat and waiting for someone who knew something. Eventually a young, skinny Somali guy showed up and asked us for our boarding passes and collected our bags. We then proceeded to customs and through security; the whole while airport officials were confused as to who we were and where we were going. Had I been alone I may have just given up! After customs and security, we looked around the gates and read the illuminated screens, but found no indication of a flight to Hargeisa or of the Somali man who had taken our bags. We decided to sit in a group (there were 8 of us in total) and wait by Gate 5, hoping someone would come. One passenger seemed more informed than all of us so we just followed whatever he did. The flight was slated to depart at 11:00, but by 11:15 we still did not know where to go. We all remained calm though, waiting further instruction. Eventually the same man who had taken our bags returned, and guided us to the gate where we were told to wait for a van to take us to the plane. We waited, and after a few false alarms the van came and we all got inside, curious as to what the plane would look like. It was a white plane with a blue stripe, and from the outside it was essentially what I had imagined, but once I got inside I was stunned at how tiny it was! There were no overhead compartments and certainly no safety orientation before take-off. We were all happy to be inside though, at this point it was about 1:00, and luckily I had brought some cookies and chocolate which I shared with the other passengers.
The flight was smooth enough, we were given bottled water, and I was trying not to worry about whether or not someone would be waiting for me when we landed, and if he would be able to recognize me or not. As we descended towards the ground, it looked as though we were landing in the desert, with no buildings in sight. But just as we hit the ground I could make out the city of Hargeisa, which was larger than I had imagined it. We walked off the plane onto the pavement and someone from my work (Abdi) was indeed waiting for me, al-hamdu l’illah. I suppose I was easy to recognize being the only female and only foreigner on the flight. When he saw me, Abdi grasped my arm and led me quickly to the customs area, where he asked me for $50 and for my passport. In my head I was thinking, who is this man and why does he want my money? I decided to bargain with him and said I will give you $40, before I realized that the $50 was not for him but was a required amount of money you need to change into Somaliland shillings in order to enter the country. Within two minutes he handed me two huge stacks of money held together with rubber bands, along with my passport and entry stamp. Now is a good time to point out for those who may not know, that $1 is equal to 7,000 Somaliland shillings, and the remarkable part is that the highest bill they have is 500 shillings, so for $50, you receive 700 individual bills.
We proceeded forward in a rush, and then Abdi led me back outside were I pointed to my bag which someone thrust on his shoulders and brought to the car. The car ride was my first opportunity to see the city and I enjoyed looking out the window and attempting to chat with Abdi in a mix of broken Somali and English. Abdi drove me to the bed and breakfast where I am staying. In order to give him directions, I just told him the color of the house and the name of the owner and he knew where it was. Directions here are often given in such terms, using landmarks and names instead of numbers and streets. When we arrived at the gate of the house, Abdi honked for the guard to open the door, but the guard just looked at the car then closed the gate. I assumed he was alerting the owners of my arrival, whereas Abdi assumed the guy was a rude man and started yelling at him. I tried to calm him down but it was too late, and the sort of amusing scene culminated with the guard spitting at Abdi who slapped him across the cheek. Abdi then told me I could not stay there, that he would not come get me each day for work, and he was going to take me to a guest house. I insisted that I must stay here and that he should come every day, we shook hands, and I went inside.
Do not be fooled by this introduction I had to Hargeisa, as it is certainly not typical and was actually a drama which spread around, and which I heard recounted in several different ways during my first few days here. Life has actually been quite calm and laid back. During the weekend I had a chance to get to know my surroundings a bit, and am grateful to the family I am staying with for showing me around, feeding me, and being such wonderful hosts. (They are not reading this so rest assured this is not a shameful plug). I already feel comfortable. Likewise, my co-workers have been very helpful and friendly and I am learning fascinating information about the history and intricacies of Somaliland. I remember when I was in Addis the night before leaving for Hargeisa, my stomach was so nervous and I could hardly sleep– I did not know what was awaiting me. I even said to my friend that I was afraid my stomach would stay in a knot all summer! But as soon as I landed the knot went away and I have been able to sleep well each night here.
Indeed the misconceptions about Somaliland, which is internationally known as Somalia, are plentiful and disturbing. I found the same to be true about Ethiopia. I packed enough soap, shampoo and toothpaste to last me for months, and just across the street from where I am staying are rows of shops which sell the very items I brought. Don’t get me wrong, Hargeisa is vastly different from any other place I have been, it does not have the high-rises of Boston and hot water is hard to come by, but the city is peaceful, lively, functioning, and far more developed than I had imagined. I hope to post pictures and provide you with more information about my experiences here next time, and look forward to your comments and insights as always.
Hargeisa, 15 June 2009 — Daallo airlines has launched a new luxury, daily nonstop services connecting Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa to number of cities in Africa, Middle East and Europe using it’s new fleet – the McDonnell Douglas DC-9, a twin-engine, single-aisle jet airliner.
The DC-9 passenger Jet can carry 91 passengers; 75 people in economy class and 16 business class passengers and its flight crew. The airliner has long been known for its reliability and efficiency.
The first Daallo airline DC-9 passenger jet arrived at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport at 10:30 am, on time, on Sunday by a French flight crew. The carrier was met at the VIP terminal by cheerful political dignitaries, influential members, business executives, media personnel and community leaders who were invited to the occasion.
Among those who attended this historical inaugural flight were the chairman of Somaliland’s House of Elders, Mr Saleban Mohamud Adan, Chairman of the Somaliland parliament, Mr Abdirahman Mohamed Abbdillahi (‘Iro‘), Member of Parliament, Sheikh Mohamed Adan, Civil Aviation Minister, Mr Ali Mohamed (‘Waran Ade‘), former Somaliland Foreign Minister, Ms Edna Adan Ismael, President of WHO [Hargeisa], Ms Asiya, business executives from Dahabshiil, Telesom and Daallo airline’s Hargeisa employees and management staff.
Daallo Airline’s Hargeisa chief executive Mr Munir Haji Abdullahi told Somalilandpress that Daallo is the oldest private carrier to operate in Somaliland.
“Daallo has been operating in Somaliland for very long time from the time of the civil war when we started with old carriers, in fact, the legs would not even fold, we use to circulate around the city three times before landing. People use to wait for such a long time. Today however we brought a new luxury airliner, the DC-9 configured for 75 people in economy-class and 16 in the business-class.”
Mr Munir concluded that they will expand their flights from Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport. “Daallo airlines will operate seven days a week from Hargeisa to all the states. In addition, we will operate two flights to Hargeisa from Nairobi, three flights to Hargeisa from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, four flights to Hargeisa from Dubai, two from Europe to Hargeisa and two flights to Hargeisa from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” Mr Munir told Abdulqani of Somalilandpress.
In recent times, airline business has became one of the hottest industries in Somaliland, where in the last four months two new airliners were created, Suhura airways and Cosob airlines. There are also plans to expand Somaliland international airports to accommodate this surge in flights. Just last week Somaliland’s Civil Aviation Minister, Mr Ali Mohamed traveled to the port city of Berbera to unveil new plans to reconstruct and expand the existing airport due to fears of Hargeisa airport becoming too over crowded. Mr Ali told local media he plans to divert some of the flights to Berbera to ease the pressure on Egal International Airport during busy flights and in times of expansion and repairs.
Daallo airline unveils new luxury jets
Mr Ali also told reporters that his staff are expecting new equipments from Djibouti that will enable them to expand and construct a new highway for Egal International Airport to give motors better access.
Daallo airlines is the market leader in the industry and has been introducing customer-driven schemes and attractive fares due to competition from the new carriers. Most passengers complain about Daallo airline’s noisy old Russian jets, lack of proper ventilation and often over crowded. Will the new McDonnell Douglas DC-9 jets restore passenger’s confidence with Daallo? Only time will tell but one thing is for sure, its new day for Daallo airlines and Somaliland.
About Daallo:
Daallo Airlines was established 1991 by two prominent Somaliland investors Mohamed Haji Abdullahi Abusita and Mohammed Ibrahim Yasin (Olaad). In early 2008, it entered a strategic partnership with Dubai World’s subsidiary Istithmar World Aviation and the Government of Djibout. It’s fleet consisted of 757-200, 727-200, AN24, with IL76 and AN12 for the cargo operations until today. It plans to become Djibouti’s National flag carrier, giving Daallo exclusive access to all routes and traffic rights held by the Republic Djibouti.
A woman waves a flag as soldiers and other military personnel of Somaliland march past during a celebration parade in the capital, Hargeisa on May 18, 2016. PHOTO | AFP
By Mohamed Omer Maigag – Chair of SSUK on behalf of the committee.
1) Somaliland Society UK – early history
If not the oldest, the Somaliland Society UK (SSUK) is one of the oldest Somaliland organisations in the UK. The SSUK went through lot of changes and overcame many barriers since it was established. Initially in the early years a group of Somaliland intellectual used to meet in 1996 to have political debates and thoughts in relation to what was happening in Somaliland at that time. The debates were very lively and at times generated in to disputes which created fragmentation amongst those early Somaliland intellectuals. The SSUK rose from this fragmentation. There were certain social issues that the Somaliland community was dealing with at the time such as young Somali boys in prisons and the issues of Somalis killing other Somalis which was a new phenomenon in the UK. This was an opportunity to grab the massive energy, which was around and benefit from the wisdom of Somaliland intellectuals and community leaders.
The early Somaliland intellectuals, activists and community leaders who contributed to the formation of the SSUK included:
Fadumo Omar–was a Social Worker at time,
Dr Saad Ali Shire–was working for Oxford House,
Dr Abdillahi Diriye–retired from WHO,
Haji Osman Ahmed–one of the founders of the HSCCA and who later became head of the Somaliland mission until recently
Dr Abdillahi Mohamed Guleed,
Mohamed Abdullahi Abbi,
Yusuf Haji Adan(May allah bless his soul), father of education in the former Somali Republic (Somaliland and Somalia)
Ali sheikh Darabulis(May Allah bless his soul) – Journalist and writer
Mohamed Dahir Khaire–Community leader
Mohamed Aw Dahir – Community leader
These Somalilanders worked tirelessly from 1996 to 1997 forming themselves in to a preparatory committee to work on the constitution of the SSUK and the planning of the launch event of the Society. The SSUK was launched on 8th of August 1998. Yusuf Haji Adan was elected as the new Chair, Dr Saad Ali Shire was elected as a Vice Chair, Fadumo Omar was elected as Treasurer, and Ahmed Hashi was elected as Secretary
Amongst the most notable achievements of the SSUK in the early years apart from the rallies and demonstrations that were held in support of Somaliland, was the important part the Society played in the Somaliland referendum which was held on 31 May 2001. Membership of the SSUK was strong at the time and reached over 180. During the referendum period 3 Somaliland Ministers were invited to brief the members. This was during the crucial time when Saudi Arabia banned the export of Somaliland Live Stock. The SSUK raised around $20,000 from its members and wider Somaliland community in the UK to contribute towards the costs of the Somaliland referendum. On the eve of the referendum the SSUK lead at the time by Mohamed Ahmed Hersi organised a vigil opposite 10 Downing Street and held a demonstration the next morning in support of the recognition of Somaliland
2) Aims & Objectives of the SSUK
To promote the social and cultural development of the Somaliland Society in the UK and further its common interests by providing a frame work within which to:
Foster mutual understanding and support amongst the Somalilanders in the UK
Organise Social & Cultural events
Network and Collaborate with Other like minded Somaliland Organisations to achieve the aims of the Society
Engage the Society in the Development of Somaliland
Promote understanding, in the UK, of the history, culture, achievements and aspirations of the people of Somaliland
3) SSUK Committee – 1st April 2006 – 7 June 2009
The annual general meeting (AGM) where the SSUK committee for the above period was elected was held on 1st of April 2006 at the Selby Centre in North London. The AGM was well attended. Musa Ali Hersi the vice Chair of the SSUK and Abdulhakim Sulub Mohamoud – SSUK Secretary gave a report about the SSUK and its work including the challenges the committee faced during their time and the financial contributions received from members. Musa and Abdulhakim were accompanied by Mohamed Aw Dahir who was also a member of the outgoing committee.
The following members were elected to serve the SSUK at the AGM on 1st April 2006
Mohamed Omer Maigag Chairman
Ali Hamud Jibril Vice-Chair
Mohamed Mahmoud Ali Secretary
Fadumo Omar Spokes-Person
Samiya Sheef Treasurer
Yasin Osman Idiris Coordinator
Mohamed Qani Diriye Member
Asha Mohamud Qalib Member
Khadar Abokor Member
Ahmed Waqaf Member
Yasin Mohamed Ahmed Member
Abdi ali Mahdi Member
Suleyman Adan Farah Member
Adan Gaas Abdi Member
Mohamed Omer Maigag – the new elected Chair of the SSUK thanked the AGM participants and informed the meeting that he is honoured to be elected to this important position. He thanked the previous committee for their devotion to the cause of Somaliland and for the time and effort they have put voluntarily on the valuable duty of running the SSUK.
Mohamed Maigag informed the meeting that they have been elected to steer the SSUK at a time when the formation of the Somaliland political parties and emergence of other Somaliland organisations have weakened the strong membership of the SSUK but that his committee with the support of the wider Somalilanders in the UK will continue the work of this historic Society.
The Mayor of Hargeisa Engineer Hussein Mohamoud Jacir who was on a fundraising visit to the UK was a guest of honour at the AGM. The Mayor was raising funds for the Hargeisa Bridge near Hargeisa club which collapsed due to flooding.
In our 1st day at the election, we found ourselves in a huge fundraising campaign for the bridge totaling over $1 million USD.
On 22 July 06 Mohamed Mohamud Ali stepped down from the position of the Secretary. At the following meeting on 16th of September 2006 Yaseen Osman Adris was elected as the new secretary of the SSUK. Samia Shef expressed that she won’t be able to continue as SSUK treasurer and at the SSUK meeting of 9 December 2006, Fadumo Omar was elected as Treasurer.
4) Activities in Support of SSUK objectives
Up until 18 May 2007, the SSUK regained the early years momentum it had and organised and took part in many activities to further its objectives. However after the organisation of the high profile 18th of May celebration event at Alexandra Palace on Saturday 12th of May 2007, where the SSUK Invited the Vice President of Somaliland Ahmed Yusuf Yasin as guest speaker, the SSUK incurred a huge deficit in organising the event with NOMAD and this hampered its work plan as all the efforts of the committee concentrated on the repayment of the debt incurred.
The report can not cover all the activities SSUK undertaken during this reporting period, but here we highlight in chronological order some of the significant activities:
4.1) 29 April 06 – Role of Higher Education in Somaliland
On Saturday 29th of April the new committee of the SSUK organised its first Somaliland public activity. This was a public meeting about the role higher education plays in the development of Somaliland. The Committee was fortunate because Professor Saleban Ahmed Guled was in the UK at the time and he was invited as guest speaker.
Dr Mohamed Sheekh Hamud who was coordinating the meeting recited verses from the Quran before introducing the Chair of the SSUK to say few words about the Society and its objectives.
This was followed by a keynote speech by Professor Saleban Ahmed Guled the Chair of Amoud University. The Professor spoke generally about Somaliland higher education and informed the meeting that Somaliland universities are planning to establish a Commission that unites Somaliland universities. The meeting benefited from the professor’s enormous experience in the field of Somaliland education. Talking about development and politics, Professor Guled said “in Somaliland the development vehicle is empty but the political one is so full people are hanging by the sides.”
The Chair of Amoud University’s Department of Medicine – Dr Siciid Walkad also gave a presentation about the health situation of Somaliland and the need for more doctors in the country. Dr Walhad said that Amoud University is planning to establish a formal link with London University.
Dr Sacad Ali Shire was also a guest speaker at the event. He gave a Power Point presentation about the importance of investing in education. He informed the event participants that a country’s development largely depend on how much it spends on education and how far it educates its own people.
The final speech of the day was from Dr Mohamed Abdullah Omar – a senior lecturer at Brunel University in London. Dr Mohamed’s speech centred around the importance of gearing the education courses provided by Somaliland Universities to the skills and knowledge that the country needs and the importance of raising the standard and the quality of the Somaliland higher education system.
The event ended with a brief address by the SSUK Vice Chair Ali Hamud Jibril who thanked the meeting attendees particularly the guests who arrived from Somaliland.
4.2) Certificates of achievement to Professor Saleban Ahmed Guled &
Dr Sa’ad Ali shire
On 16 of May 2006 at an educational Conference held at SOAS organised by NOMAD and supported by SSUK, the SSUK presented certificates of achievements to Professor Saleban Ahmed Guled & Dr Sa’ad Ali Shire. The Certificates were prepared by the SSUK and signed jointly by Mr Osman Ahmed Hassan head of Somaliland Mission in the UK and SSUK Chair – Mr Mohamed Omer Maigag.
4.3) The President of Somaliland’s visit to the UK – August 2006
The SSUK put a lot of effort in organising a Somaliland public event where President Dahir Riyale Kahin could address Somalilanders in UK about the purpose of his visit.
SSUK Members felt that a lot of effort and time was wasted in organising this public meeting as the President and his delegates declined to take part in the meeting.
Representative of the SSUK committee met the President and the Somaliland Foreign Minister Mr Abdullahi Mohamed Duale at their hotel where President Riyale briefed members about the purpose of the visit. The President informed the committee that they were not aware that a public event where he was expected to attend and address the Somaliland public in the UK was organized by the SSUK.
Members agreed that in future such events should not be organised unless full cooperation and written confirmation is received from the Somaliland Government and its representatives in the UK.
4.4) The SOPRI Convention September 2006
The SSUK Chair Mohamed Omer Maigag took part in the SOPRI convention held on the 7th, the 8th and the 9th of September 2006 at Double Tree hotel in Washington DC representing the SSUK. In his speech at the convention, the Chair thanked SOPRI for organising the convention and talked about the SSUK , its work and its aims and objectives.
The convention was well attended by Somalilanders from all over the world, friends of Somaliland and significant numbers of Somalilanders living in the USA. The president of Somaliland who was expected to come to the conference sent an apology and was represented by the Head of the Somaliland mission in the USA.
Participants of the SPRI 2006 Convention at Washington DC
Amongst the dignitaries who flew from Somaliland and attended the Conference were Abul Aziz Mohyamed Samale, Mohamed Xashi Dhamac (Gaariye), Ahmed Xaji Elmi (Cadami) and Dr Bulxan.
Present at the conference were also an MP from the Canadian parliament, representatives from the USA state Department and a number high profile guests including Matt Bryden Director of Africa Program (International Crisis Group) and Prof. Eqbal Jhazbhay, Lecturer, University of South Africa
The main topics and issues discussed at the Conference were the recognition of Somaliland and how to lobby for this, Somaliland electoral system and the importance of having a voter registration system, representation of woman and ethnic minorities within Somaliland political system and the role played by Somaliland civil organisations and NGOs in the development of Somaliland.
From left to right: Dr Osman Sheekh Chair of the Convention, the Educationalist Abdi Duse and the President of SOPRI, the late Saeed Maigag Samater ( May Allah bless his soul)
4.5) SSUK public meeting to welcome the Chair & Vice chair of Somaliland Parliament
As part of its yearly activities, the SSUK organised a public event On Saturday the 5th of November 2006 at the John Kelly Technology College in North west London, where the SSUK invited the Chairman of the Somaliland parliament Mr Abdirahman Mohamed Abbdillahi (Ciro) and Vice Chair Abdul-Aziz Mohamed Samale as well as representative of the three Somaliland political Parties and Head of the Somaliland mission UK for a discussion on Somaliland.
The event opened with a brief address by the SSUK Chair. This was followed by speeches from the Chair and the Vice Chair of Somaliland Parliament who shared with the meeting participant’s insight in to the political situation of Somaliland particularly the challenges facing the Somaliland Parliament in terms of capacity and exercising power an authority.
This was a successful event in terms of the number of people who attended and the contents of the speeches which were highly enjoyed by those present at the meeting.
4.6 SSUK Public meeting – guest of Honour Ambassador Abdirahim Abi Frah
The SSUK organised a Somaliland public meeting on 20 January 2007. The aim of the even was to share information and discuss how Somalilanders in the UK can contribute to the development of Somaliland. The Meeting was held at the Selby Centre in North London and was well attended.
The key note speaker at the meeting was Ambassador Abdirahim Abi Farah. Other speakers included the Head of Somaliland Mission in the UK Haji Osman Ahmed Hasan and Dr Mohamed Abdillahi Omar.
Ambassador Abby spoke about the SOPRI goodwill mission . He said initially he was included in the team that went to Somaliland in November 2006, but later he decided that together with Dr Mohamed Abdillahi Omar, he should establish contact with the Somaliland communities in the UK to explain the SOPRI good will mission to Somaliland.
Ambassador Abi told the meeting that we should not rest until the entire international community is made aware of the facts and justice behind, Somaliland’s quest for international recognition. He said without strict adherence to the provisions of the constitution, without the equal application of the rule of law, without an independent and qualified judiciary, without the determination of all citizens, and without honest, and unbiased leadership by the credited leaders as well a those in civil society – the future of our nation will be placed in jeopardy.
Ambassador Abdirahim Abi Farah amongst London Somaliland leaders including the Vice-Chair of the SSUK Ali Hamud Jibril, the secretary of SSUK Fuad Osman Ismail (Yasin osman Idris) Dr Mohamed Abdillahi Oma and the SSUK Chair Mohamed Omer Maigag at SSUK public event of 20 Jan 2007
Other guests at the Meeting included Abdifatah Saed Ahmed – the Coordinator of Somaliland communities in the UK, representatives of Somaliland business leaders in the UK including Ahmed Cadare and Abduladif Samater as well as the Chairman of SDWO – Guled Abdi Shekhash.
4.7 Demonstration in Support of the independence and the recognition of Somaliland
The Somaliland community in the UK organised the biggest Somaliland demonstration in the UK on Thursday the 22nd of February 2007. The demonstration held at Whitehall, opposite No 10 Downing Street, was organised in support of demonstrations held in all the major cities in Somaliland on January 16th 2007, where hundreds of thousands of Somalilanders gathered together in unity to show their support for the recognition of Somaliland.
The aim of the UK demonstration was to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements that Somaliland has made in the last 16 years, to support the recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state and to show the love that Somalilanders in the UK have for their beloved country.
The thousands of Somalilanders at the demo and the friends of Somaliland who have joined them spent the day peacefully celebrating the achievements of Somaliland oblivious to the drizzling rain that never ceased throughout that day. The flag of Somaliland was everywhere to see with its beautiful colours attracting the passing crowds; it was even decorated on the faces of young Somalilanders.
The Demonstration was lead by the three national Somaliland political Parties: KULMIYE, UCID & UDUB, and Coordinated by the SSUK. Somaliland Organisations who supported and took part in the Organisation of the demonstration included: Somaliland Society UK (SSUK), Democracy Network for Somaliland, Somaliland Focus UK, SIRAG, NOMAD, Horizon Reach, Office of the mission of Somaliland in the UK & the Coordinator of the Somaliland Communities in the Diaspora.
The demo started at 12 noon and no words can describe how happy we have felt when we saw Somalilander after Somalilander leaving the Westminster Tube station and heading towards Whitehall to take part in the` biggest Somaliland demonstration in the UK so far. As they came out of the station some were heading towards the wrong direction but their hearts and minds were fixed to the right cause and came prepared and determined for this big occasion.
The February 2007 Demo in support of the recognition of Somaliland
With their placards and banners listing the successes of Somaliland, At around 3:45 pm on the day, Alun Michael MP and Kerry McCarthy MP escorted nominated representatives from the UK Somaliland Network to 10 Downing Street to hand a petition signed from the thousands of Somalilanders at the demo in support of the case for the recognition of Somaliland.
4.8 The 2007 18 of May celebration
After the huge success of the February 2007 rally in support of the recognition of Somaliland, the team work spirit between Somaliland Organisations and Somaliland political parties in UK continued. A Somaliland network Committee was established that met few times after the demonstration. In one of the meetings of the Network it was decided that SSUK and NOMAD UK will organise the 18th of May Celebration in commemoration of the 16th anniversary of the independence of Somaliland.
At their meetings in early 2007, SSUK and NOMAD decided to make the event the Largest 18th of May celebration ever organised in the UK and sent an invitation to the Vice President of Somaliland Ahmed Yusuf Yasin to take part in the event. The Vice President accepted the invitation and after looking at few venues for the occasion, SSUK and NOMAD booked the Alexandra Palace in North London for the celebration.
The event was publicised at universal TV and all Somaliland websites and through leaflets flyers which were widely distributed in London and other UK regions. Finally, the celebration was held at Alexandra Palace on Saturday the 12th of May 2007.The hundreds if Somalilanders who came to take part in the celebration enjoyed the panoramic view of the Palace and took part in the many activities that were organised by SSUK and NOMAD on that memorable day.
Workshops on key topics such as youth, education, woman and the case for the recognition of Somaliland were held in the early part of the day.
Somaliland Vice-President Ahmed Yusuf Yasin at the SSUK/NOMAD 18th of Mat Celebration event held at Alexandra Palace on Saturday the 12th of May 2007.
Workshops on key topics such as youth, education, woman and the case for the recognition of Somaliland were held in the early part of the day.
Mohamed Bashe and Suad Carmiye who were coordinating the evening part of the programme introduced Mohamed Adan kodhadhi the Chair of NOMAD and Mohamed Omer Maigag the Chair of SSUK for a welcoming address. This was followed by a number of brief speeches before the Vice President was introduced for his key note speech for the occasion.
The Vice President talked about the early history of Somaliland and the rationale for independence. He explored the achievements of the people of Somaliland and the challenges facing the country including the case for the recognition. The Vice President was accompanied by the late Mr. Abdi Hassan Buni, the Minister of Relations with Houses of Parliament who died in London on 2nd of June 2009 may Allah bless his soul.
The event ended with an entertainment in the form of national Somaliland songs sang by the legends of Somaliland Music Mohamed Ahmed Kuluc, Ahmed Ismail Xudaydi, Ahmed Ali Dararamle and Sahra Halgan.
Although the SSUK and NOMAD’s 18th of May celebration was a success as testified by the hundreds of Somalilanders who took part in the occasion, financially SSUK and NOMAD incurred huge deficit in organising the celebration. Although we raised £10,400.00 from the event the expenditure far outweighed the income we generated.
2 – 3 weeks after paying the venue deposit, which was £5000 + Vat, and further £5000 upfront, we came across some difficulties. We have realized that after paying the remaining hire costs of the hall, the security and the Pay system, the cost s of the event will reach over £20,000. We could have hired cheaper security firm and PA system, but Ally Pally insisted that we use only the Security and the PAY system firms they deal with.
SSUK and NOMAD at one time considered to cancel the event, but that was not possible as it would have meant the lost of over £10,000.00 paid upfront to Ally Pally including the deposit. After confronting this situation, SSUK and NOMAD had no option but to go ahead and organise the event as planned.
Without the Support of Somaliland businesses such as Dahabshiil and Links travel, Somali Organisations such SORAG and Somaliland individuals including SSUK and NOMAD committee members, SSUK & NOMAD may not have been able to overcome the deficit they have incurred in organising the 18th of May 2006 celebration.
The following table gives a picture about the event expenditure
Alexandra Palace hall hire costs
14,330
Event security
3500
Event PA system
2180
Vice Presidents hotel costs
900
Meca Medina Band
350
Flyers and posters
290
Small PA system
250
Event insurance
210
Sahra Halgan Plane ticket
165
Transport costs
110
Prince Abdi stand up Comedian
50
Total expenditure
£22,335
The table below summarizes the financial contributions towards the deficit we have received from Somali business and individuals.
Dahabshiil
1580
Links Travel
1500
SORAG
1000
Contribution from North London Somalilanders
500
Turki Jama
100
Saad Ali Shire
100
Total Contributions
£4780
The table below illustrates the loans SSUK and NOMAD members paid that have not been recovered.
NOMAD
1500
Casha Qalib
1000
Fadumo Omar
1000
Mohamed Omer Maigag
1000
Dariq Yusuf Madar
500
Cadil Ahmed
500
Ali Hamud Jibril
500
Mohamed Qani Diriye
350
Mohamed adan koodhaadhi
300
Khadar Abokor
120
Total un-recovered loans
£6770
Although we have approached many Somalilanders to support us to overcome the deficit, we are sad to report that we have managed raising only £700 from individuals even though many promised they will help towards the repayment of the debt.
4.9 Hargeisa Bombing Victims appeal
The SSUK played part in a fundraising event organised in east London on 29th of November 2008 in support of Hargeisa hospital’s struggle with the aftermath of the 29th of October 2008 bombings in the capital of Somaliland. The event managed to raise £765.00 for Hargeisa Hospital.
Mohamed Bashe – the event MC introduced Mohamed Adan Kodhadhi Chair of NOMAD to open the event with verses from the Holy Quran before Clips about the Hargeisa bombings were screened as well as a video about an interview with one of the victims of the acts of terrorism. The event programme also included a number of highly moving poems about the atrocities presented by Adan Tarabi Jama, Asha mohamoud Yusuf, Yusuf Aabdullahi Shacir, Ali Ahmed Rabi and Faisal Awabdi Cambalash.
Abdulqadir Ismail Jirde MP shared his testaments about the bombings through teleconferencing transmitted via the PA system of the event. The MP told listeners that what happened in Hargeisa did not target particular Somaliland individual or the Somaliland Government but the whole Somaliland nation. He said Somalilanders every where must be united so that we can collectively defend our selves against similar attacks in the future.
The Chair of the SSUK – Mohamed Omer Maigag, the Chair of SSE and the Vice Chair of UCID political party – Saeed Omar Ahmed also shared their feelings about the Hargeisa bombings and the importance of safeguarding Somaliland from similar acts of terrorism in the future.
The event was organised by Somaliland Organisations in the UK and East London Somaliland women. It was Coordinated by a committee Chaired by SSUK Chair . The other committee members included: Faysal Awcabdi, Kaltun Farah, Safi farah, Zainab Sahardid, and Abdulrahman Abdullahi.
Its is worth noting that Somaliland Organisations in the UK raised $7772 for Hargeisa hospital in addition to the funds raised in this event.
4.10. West London Somaliland Community 18th of May Celebration.
The last event that the SSUK took part this year was the 18th anniversary celebration of the independence of Somaliland Organised by West London Somaliland Community on Saturday the 16th of May 2009 in Greenford. Somaliland Organisations including the SSUK supported the event which was successful considering the number of foreign guests of hounour who took part in the occasion which is a new development in London for our 18th of May celebrations.
The Occasion was coordinated by the SSUK Chair who after thanking the guests of honour and the event participants talked about the importance of the occasion.
Iid Hassan Muse – the Coordinator of west London Somaliland Community and Suad Armiye each gave speeches about the rationale for the independence of Somaliland.
Ali Ahmed SSE Coordinator and Deputy Director or Welsh refugee Council talked about the importance of Education and Darlington foundation’s Scholarship for Somaliland. IID introduced Richard Sills – a cousin of Darlington who said few word about the foundation and the scholarship.
Other speakers included Dr Charless Tannock MEP, Cllr Jullian Bell,
Md. Axmed Maxamed Maxamuud (Siilaanyo ) Leader of Kulmiye Party
Md. Abdinaasir Yussuf Cusman – the media Secretary of UCID UK political Party
The highlight of the event was a play about diversity acted by Somaliland youngsters. The play was highly enjoyed by every one and reinforced the Somaliland identity.
Two poems were recited by Faisal Awcabdi Cambalash – Chair of west London Somaliland Community and Asha Mohamoud Yusuf. The poems articulated the plight Somaliland went through before regaining its independence and how important it is to keep this history alive.
The guests of honor who took part in the occasion included
Dr Charles Tannock MEP (Member of European Parliament)
Cllr. James Allie (Wembley )
Steve Pound MP (Ealing North)
Virander Sharma MP ( Ealing Southall)
Cllr. Julian Bell (Greenford )
Mr Richard Sills (Darlington Foundation)
Mrs Susan Sills (Darlington Foundation)
Mr Len Tiahlo Businessman (Director of Enex Energy Resources)
Mr. Simon Jones (Director of Triton International Ltd)
Mr. Tobias Masterton ( UK Academy )
Md. Axmed Maxamed Maxamuud (Siilaanyo ) Leader of Kulmiye Party
Dr. Moxamed Omar , Foreign affairs Spoksperson Kulmiye Party.
4.11 SSUK UK Press releases
The SSUK released the following Press releases addressing various issues:
The 15th Anniversary of Somaliland 18 may 2006
Reconciliation between the Daror Communities 2 June 2006
The Anniversary of Somaliland’s 46th Independence from Britain 26 June 2006
Meeting with President Riyale – August 2006 Visit to the UK
A note of congratulation to SOPRI for a successful Somaliland Convention September 2006
The detention of Haatuf Journalists 11 Jan 07
The Deferral of Somaliland Presidential elections 3 March 2009
Articles:
The Chair of the SSUK – Wrote an article about the Somaliland February 2007 Demonstration. The article was featured in Somaliland Focus’s News letter.
5) Challenges met & Lessons learned
The SSUK faced many challenges and difficulties. Some lessons can be drawn from this that can benefit future SSUK committees and similar Somaliland Organisations.
5.1) The SSUK/NOMAD deficit
This was the biggest challenge we have faced during the time we have been running the SSUK. The deficit incurred from the 2006 18th of May celebration had significant impact on the morale and the motivation of SSUK committee members and on the work plan of the Society. From May 2007 on wards we spent our time fire fighting in order to repay the debt we have faced rather than pro actively engaging in activities in support of the SSUK objectives.
SSUK and NOMAD should have carried a thorough risk assessment before deciding to hold the celebration at Alexandra Palace. An event like this requires long term planning and secured financial support – SSUK and NOMAD booked the hall less than two months before the event and heavily relied on loans to fund it.
5.2) Commitment of SSUK members
After the deficit, this is probably the second biggest challenge we encountered. We started as 14 committee members when we have been elected, but when the going got tough, only 6 members made commitment turning up for meetings and seeing the SSUK through the financial hardship exerted by the Ally Pally deficit.
Because of this lack of Commitment on the part of the majority of members, the SSUK was not able to undertake the activities we planned such as creating and administering effective SSUK membership data base.
5.3) Capacity of the SSUK
Unlike other similar Societies which are registered charities and generate funds from Trusts and other means or supported by National Governments abroad the SSUK is not registered as a charity and does not receive financial support from Somaliland so that it can both effectively work with Somalilanders in the UK and contribute to the development of Somaliland. It does not have paid staff and office premises to work from. It is entirely run on voluntary basis.
This places enormous responsibility on the shoulders of committee members. In order to overcome this problem the SSUK must either be registered as a charity to raise funds or receive strong financial support from Somaliland members through member ship fees and monthly donations.
5.4) Accountability
The SSUK needs to develop strong membership; members who can hold committee members accountable for their actions. Without strong membership who can elect and choose future committee members, serious conflict can erupt in the future.
We have not been able to develop the membership database of the SSUK due to the difficulties mentioned above and very much hope that this will be an area that will be given a priority by the next committee.
5.5) Office of the Somaliland Mission in the UK
The SSUK needs to develop a strong working relationship with the Office of the Somaliland Mission in the UK because as this report has shown, the SSUK can play a very important and useful role in coordinating Somaliland activities in the UK.
On their part the Office of the Somaliland mission in the UK must take an active part in the affairs of the Somaliland community in the UK. In his last two visits to the UK the president of Somaliland Dahir Riyale Kahin did not make an effort to meet the Somaliland public even when a public event was organised for this to happen. On each occasion fragmentation amongst Somaliland Organisation in the UK was given as the reason why the President did not address the community even though there is strong unity and working relationship between Somaliland communities.
The Office of the Somaliland Mission in the UK can play an important part in the relations and communication between SSUK and Somaliland Government particularly when the SSUK and other Somaliland Organisations organise public events to welcome the President of Somaliland and other Somaliland Government Officials when they are visiting the UK.
5.6) Written confirmation for public events
In order to avoid last minute disappointments, in the future SSUK should not organise public meetings for high profile Somaliland Government figures without written confirmation that they will take part in such events.
5.7) Duplication
Although Somaliland Organisations in the UK particularly those in London are working closely together there is lot of duplication going on and the numbers of Somaliland Organisations are increasing. It will be very good if Somalilanders in the UK can put their efforts and resources together in the formation of one strong viable Somaliland Organisation that is well respected by both Somalilanders and non Somalilanders. The SSUK can fill that role but needs the Support of other Somaliland Organisations and the support of the Somaliland people in the UK.
6) Thanks and acknowledgements
We will like to thank and acknowledge the support of the following individuals.
Abdiradhid Duale (CEO) Dahabshiil, Abdul Ladif Samater – Links Travel, Ahmed Yusuf – SORAG, Fawzia Haji Adan – RAAD International, Sa’ad Ali Shire, Turki Jama, Members of the Somaliland Community in North London, Mohamed Abi Digaale, Ahmed Mire.
Special thanks to Guled Abdi Shekhash – the Chairman of SDWO for allowing us to use SDWO pictures in this report.
Also special thanks to Shirwac Guled and Iid Dawlad for producing the SSUK and NOMAD Videos for the 2006 18th of May celebration at Alexandra Palace.
Source: Somaliland Society of United Kingdom (SSUK)
