Vice President Aw Abdi hails Berbera as the beating heart of Somaliland’s economic sovereignty and regional dominance during landmark visit.

Somaliland Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi visits Berbera Port to inspect critical upgrades, signaling the government’s bold push to dominate Horn of Africa trade.

Berbera isn’t just a port — it’s Somaliland’s sword and shield in the Horn of Africa’s new economic battlefield. That message rang loud and clear as Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi landed in the Saaxil Region to inspect the nation’s most prized strategic asset: Berbera Port.

Escorted by top brass from DP World, the logistics titan driving Berbera’s transformation, the VP’s visit underscored what many are beginning to understand — Somaliland is no longer a quiet frontier; it’s a rising trade epicenter. Gleaming cranes, expanded terminals, and fresh multimodal corridors now signal a new kind of power: economic leverage.

“This is no longer a vision — it’s a revolution in motion,” said the Vice President. “Berbera is the heartbeat of Somaliland’s economy and the gateway to our geopolitical ascent.” The port isn’t just getting wider — it’s getting bolder. More than concrete and cranes, it’s about sovereignty, recognition, and influence in a volatile region where trade routes equal power.

Backed by President Irro’s administration, the government is deploying Berbera as a weapon of diplomacy and self-determination. With Gulf actors watching, Ethiopia lurking, and the Red Sea militarizing, Somaliland’s control of a functional, modern port is a geopolitical trump card.

But Aw Abdi’s tour wasn’t just about inspection — it was about symbolism. His praise for the people of Saaxil was a rallying cry: a call to own the future, stand tall, and assert Somaliland’s place in global logistics — without waiting for the world’s permission.

As regional tensions rise and trade routes become contested, Berbera is no longer just a port. It is Somaliland’s frontline.

Editor Saed Ibrahim reminds the world: When Siyad Barre was massacring Somalilanders, Israel was the lone voice of justice at the UN.

Editor Saed Ibrahim reminds the world: When Siyad Barre was massacring Somalilanders, Israel was the lone voice of justice at the UN.

 In an explosive i24 interview, Saed Ibrahim says Somaliland’s independence bid isn’t about Gaza—but about justice, democracy, and a decades-long history of betrayal by the world. Only Israel spoke out when it mattered.

When Somali dictator Siyad Barre launched airstrikes on Hargeisa and slaughtered tens of thousands of Isaaq civilians in 1988, the world said nothing. Except for one nation—Israel. Now, in a stunning televised interview with i24 News, Somaliland Chronicle editor Saed Ibrahim is reminding the world of that painful truth, and why Somaliland deserves justice, recognition, and respect—on its own terms.

“Only Israel raised its voice at the UN when our people were being massacred,” Ibrahim said. That haunting fact, largely forgotten in Western capitals, has re-emerged in the context of Somaliland’s rising diplomatic visibility and fierce insistence that its bid for independence has nothing to do with Gaza.

As Ibrahim made crystal clear: Somaliland is not a pawn in the Israel–Palestine conflict. “There are no talks with anyone regarding Palestinians,” Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan confirmed. There are no deals. No side games. The recognition Somaliland seeks is based solely on its own record—three decades of stability, democracy, functioning institutions, and peace.

Yet the irony is glaring. While global powers trip over each other to fund Somalia—a failed state still harboring ties to terror groups like al-Shabaab—Somaliland remains blocked, punished, and ignored for choosing stability. For daring to walk a democratic path. For surviving.

Ibrahim’s interview wasn’t just a media appearance. It was a callout. A demand. A reminder that Somaliland regained its independence from Somalia over 34 years ago and has since built what most African countries can only dream of: a peaceful democracy with its own currency, army, constitution, and civil society. What it doesn’t have is a seat at the UN. Why? Because the world still pretends Somalia owns it.

What makes this story unique, and incendiary, is that it exposes the cowardice of the global diplomatic elite. When it mattered most, only Israel spoke up. When the bombs fell, only Israel raised the alarm. And now, when Somaliland asks for recognition, most of the world looks the other way—unless there’s a Palestinian bargain attached.

As Taiwan arms Somaliland, a new anti-China front rises in the Horn of Africa. The war calculus in the region just shifted.

A Taiwan–Somaliland military cooperation deal could reshape the Horn of Africa’s strategic balance, defy China’s influence, and mark Somaliland’s most aggressive step yet toward full sovereign defense. 

A geopolitical earthquake is rumbling beneath the Horn of Africa, and no one saw it coming — except those paying close attention to Taiwan and Somaliland.

While Somalia bows to Beijing and cancels Taiwanese passports like a puppet, its northern neighbor Somaliland is gearing up for something else entirely: military firepower. According to diplomatic sources, a landmark military cooperation agreement between Taiwan and Somaliland is imminent — expected by mid-2025.

The deal reportedly includes Taiwanese naval vessels and upcycled military equipment, alongside ongoing training of Somaliland forces by Taiwanese defense experts. In military terms, Somaliland is preparing to raise a sovereign deterrent force — not to please global elites or UN bureaucrats, but to hold the line against regional destabilization, piracy, and terrorism.

This is a direct slap in the face to both Beijing and Mogadishu.

China has spent two decades buying loyalty across Africa with ports, roads, and poisoned promises. Somalia is its loyal errand boy, chanting “One China” in return for empty infrastructure loans and surveillance tools. But Hargeisa isn’t playing along. Instead, it’s forging real alliances that support sovereignty through strength, not speeches.

Like Taiwan, Somaliland is diplomatically isolated — but not intellectually or militarily weak. The two entities share a rare strategic clarity: if you’re not recognized by the global system, you build your own.

This deal is about weapons, training, and war-preparedness. But more importantly, it’s about declaring to the world that Somaliland won’t beg for recognition — it will defend it.

With China tightening its grip over the Red Sea, and Iran-Houthi terror rising across Bab el-Mandeb, this military deal plants a democratic outpost right in the heart of a contested zone. For Washington, for Tel Aviv, and for anyone who values regional security, this should be a wake-up call: Somaliland is becoming a frontline state.

While Somalia sleeps with the Houthis and harbors Al-Shabaab in the name of fake sovereignty, Somaliland is building alliances, naval capacity, and regional resilience. That’s the real story — and it’s just getting started.

Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi declares a new era in Ceel-Afweyn: “No more sons killing sons, no more tribes divided — we choose peace.”

In a historic speech at the conclusion of the Ceel-Afweyn Peace Conference, Somaliland Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi called for a united, conflict-free future. His legacy: “Let no mother mourn, let the youth put down arms, let Ceel-Afweyn rise.”

Ceel-Afweyn, long marked by fraternal strife, has emerged as the new symbol of reconciliation in Somaliland. In an emotional yet firm address, Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi declared the end of internal bloodshed and tribal division at the conclusion of the National Peace Conference in the Sanaag region.

Flanked by ministers, party leaders, parliamentarians, scholars, and elders, the Vice President told the gathered clans that the days of buried dreams and lost sons must end. “We want a Ceel-Afweyn with one heart, one purpose, one people — free from war and the pain of division,” he said.

His speech wasn’t just ceremonial. It was a moment of reckoning.

“We were elected not to rule over ashes,” he said. “We were chosen to lead our people to life — and there is no life without peace.”

The conference — a national effort involving all branches of Somaliland’s civil and political leadership — produced binding resolutions designed to ensure long-term stability in one of the most conflict-prone zones in the country.

But perhaps the most powerful moment came as the Vice President made a personal vow to the families of Ceel-Afweyn: “My legacy will not be of blood. I never want to see your sons raise weapons against each other again. I never want to hear the cries of mothers again. Let us bury the old hatreds — and raise a new future together.”

As Somaliland stands at a political crossroads, the peace achieved in Ceel-Afweyn could become a national blueprint — not just for ending conflict, but for transforming identity from tribal loyalty into collective nationhood.

This is not just a local story. It is a warning to the region and a message to the world: Somaliland is choosing peace — not with empty words, but with blood-stained hands washed clean by courage.

In a rapidly escalating political feud that has electrified Somaliland’s media landscape, a sharp divide has emerged between two influential figures: Dr. Mohamed Warsame, a former senior UN officer and fierce advocate for Somaliland sovereignty, and Boqor Osman Aw-Maxamuud Buurmadow, a revered traditional leader accused of overstepping into state affairs.

At the heart of the controversy is Buurmadow’s recent initiative to broker a prisoner exchange between Somaliland and Puntland involving detainees from the 2013 Las Anod conflict. Though the move was welcomed by some as a humanitarian gesture, it has drawn fierce condemnation from Dr. Warsame, who accuses Buurmadow of undermining Somaliland’s hard-earned sovereignty and flirting with dangerous unity rhetoric.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Warsame declared, “The tribal paramount chief Buurmadow has crossed a red line. Somaliland sovereignty is sacrosanct and non-negotiable. Reuniting with the failed state of Somalia is an empty dream & treasonous.”

Warsame’s statement follows a viral image showing Buurmadow seated alongside Puntland President Said Abdullahi Dani, a photo that ignited outrage across Somaliland’s nationalist circles. Adding fuel to the fire, Buurmadow was quoted praising Puntland as “our leader,” a comment seen by critics as not just politically tone-deaf, but an outright betrayal of Somaliland’s decades-long push for recognition.

Though Buurmadow holds no official position in the Somaliland government, his traditional influence remains formidable. Supporters argue he played a pivotal role in nationalizing former rebel fighters in the east, contributing to peacebuilding and reintegration efforts. But detractors like Dr. Warsame argue that Buurmadow’s rising involvement in cross-border diplomacy and ambiguous loyalties threaten Somaliland’s national identity.

This clash of visions—between a formal statehood advocate and a culturally rooted monarch—exposes a deeper crisis in Somaliland: the tension between modern political sovereignty and traditional clan leadership. As the debate spills into diaspora forums and local media, the question remains: Who truly speaks for Somaliland?

What began as a prisoner negotiation has now evolved into a full-blown ideological war over the soul of the nation. And in this fight, silence is no longer an option.

Irro’s Strategic Statecraft: Somaliland’s President proves he’s governing with purpose, not performance. The latest Council of Ministers meeting reveals a presidency grounded in pragmatic reform and national unity.

In just over 100 days in office, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has demonstrated what strong, purposeful governance looks like. At the helm of Somaliland’s 18th Council of Ministers session, held at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa, Irro laid out a clear direction: stabilize the nation, grow the economy, safeguard sovereignty, and modernize governance.

What stood out wasn’t just the range of topics discussed — from national security and economic reform to infrastructure and immigration — but the disciplined coordination between the presidency and his cabinet. It’s becoming clear that Irro is not merely chairing meetings; he’s steering a nation.

Security with Sovereignty

A major highlight was the Interior Minister’s bold immigration directive, ordering all undocumented foreigners to leave within 72 hours. Irro’s administration is sending an unambiguous message: national security and demographic order are not negotiable. In a region increasingly vulnerable to transnational threats, Somaliland’s decision to enforce sovereignty is both principled and strategic.

A Technocratic Economic Vision

Equally impressive was the economic brief by the Finance Minister. Guided by expert recommendations, the cabinet initiated structural fiscal reforms to boost sustainable revenue growth — a long-ignored priority. President Irro’s administration is moving from reactive budgeting to long-term economic strategy. It’s a shift that speaks to investor confidence and homegrown development, not dependency on donor cycles.

Proactive Climate and Drought Response

With droughts increasingly threatening food security and livelihoods, Irro’s government is prioritizing coordinated responses involving the Ministries of Social Affairs, Education, Water, and Agriculture. The push for a national drought resilience strategy shows a presidency unwilling to manage crises by default. It’s about planning ahead — a governance principle rarely seen but deeply needed across the Horn.

Opening the Nation to the World

In a move aimed at boosting investment and regional integration, the Minister of Civil Aviation proposed a visa-on-arrival policy modeled after Rwanda, Kenya, and Sri Lanka. This forward-looking initiative aligns with Irro’s broader vision of repositioning Somaliland as an accessible, secure, and dynamic entry point in the Red Sea corridor.

Institutional Reforms and Industrial Growth

The Industrial Development Act, introduced in this session, is no less transformative. President Irro’s administration seeks to legislate for long-term industrial expansion and job creation — a stark departure from decades of stop-gap policies. It’s a strategic signal to global investors: Somaliland is open for real business.

A Commander-in-Chief Who Knows Peace Is Power

Perhaps the most politically significant moment came in the President’s closing remarks, where he praised Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi and his eastern reconciliation delegation. Their work to peacefully integrate civilian forces into the national army represents a milestone in state legitimacy and post-conflict recovery. Irro’s leadership here isn’t just about silencing guns — it’s about building one nation, under one flag.

Conclusion: Vision With Teeth

This cabinet session didn’t just review policy — it projected a government that’s actively governing. President Irro is quietly transforming Somaliland’s political landscape: technocratic, stable, inclusive, and security-conscious. His presidency isn’t about posturing — it’s about progress.

And that’s exactly what Somaliland needs.

At the National SME Conference, President Abdirahman Irro commits to eliminating barriers and boosting access to finance for Somaliland’s entrepreneurs.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro

President Irro’s Economic Vision Anchored in SME Empowerment

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s address at the National Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Development Conference marks a pivotal moment in Somaliland’s economic narrative. By prioritizing the empowerment of SMEs, the President has reaffirmed a development path that is both inclusive and sustainable.

SMEs are not only the backbone of the national economy but also the main engine of employment and grassroots innovation in Somaliland. President Irro’s recognition of their value signals a serious shift toward policies that focus on everyday economic actors, not just top-tier business elites. His administration’s approach to tackle long-standing barriers — such as limited access to credit, outdated regulatory frameworks, and bureaucratic bottlenecks — reflects a hands-on, reform-minded leadership style.

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro

The President’s commitment to reviewing and removing institutional obstacles is significant. It suggests a willingness to modernize Somaliland’s business climate, making it easier for entrepreneurs to launch, operate, and scale up their ventures. This, in turn, can increase domestic revenue, reduce dependency on foreign aid, and stimulate innovation across key sectors including agriculture, services, and light manufacturing.

Equally important is the directive to the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism to enhance public awareness and entrepreneurial training. This reflects an understanding that sustainable economic transformation must be cultural as well as structural — building a society that values risk-taking, innovation, and self-reliance.

In his first 100 days, President Irro has made clear that economic development under his leadership will be broad-based and people-centered. His vision is not just about growth, but about building a resilient economic foundation that serves every Somaliland citizen.

This conference, and the policies it may inspire, could be the starting point for a new economic era in Somaliland — one that turns aspiration into action, and potential into prosperity.

Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi and General Nimcaan Yusuf Osman conclude the most successful operation of Somaliland’s new government: uniting the nation’s armed forces and ending internal divisions.

In the annals of Somaliland’s history, few moments stand out as boldly as the recent achievements of Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi and Brigadier General Nimcaan Yusuf Osman. Their unwavering commitment to national unity and security has not only reshaped the future of Somaliland but has also solidified their places as heroes in the eyes of the Somaliland people.

Their joint efforts culminated in the stunning success of the civilian disarmament initiative—a landmark program aimed at integrating militias into the national military framework. This essential operation began in February 2025 and concluded with remarkable efficiency, with the final handover of armed civilian forces and their vehicles taking place in Qori-lugud District. Their leadership stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through vision, courage, and steadfast resolve.

Unification Through Leadership

From Conflict to Control: Civilian Disarmament Completed in the East

As violence erupted earlier this year in regions like Erigavo, tensions between Somaliland forces and Khaatumo terrorist posed a significant threat to national stability. Many feared that internal divisions would spiral out of control. However, the timely interventions led by Vice President Aw Abdi and Brigadier General Nimcaan have effectively neutralized these tensions, laying the ground for a new era within Somaliland.

In his address during the military ceremony, Vice President Aw Abdi affirmed: “The national armed forces have taken control of the country’s defense. Somaliland’s unity is not negotiable—and today, our shield is stronger than ever.” This strong stance resonated deeply within the community, reinforcing the idea that every citizen must stand united under one flag—one army.

A Commitment to Peace

Somaliland Vice President Leads Historic Nationalization of Civilian Forces

The recent actions taken by both leaders reflect a broader commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Somaliland. Through the brave decision to disarm civilian militias and integrate them into the Somaliland National Army, VP and General Nimcaan demonstrated a risk-taking leadership approach designed to eradicate the era of private wars and clan-based loyalties. By establishing uniformity across the ranks, they have cultivated a sense of pride among the citizens who now recognize that their security is in the hands of a unified force.

The integration process has not been without skepticism, but the clear messaging from both leaders has resonated across the nation. Their emphasis on control and discipline has helped dismantle distrust and fear, reinforcing the notion that all arms now serve one purpose: the preservation and protection of Somaliland’s sovereign identity.

Achievements in 100 Days

Erigavo: Somaliland’s Peace Initiative

In just over 100 days, this administration has solidified its legacy with the strongest gains for national unity since Somaliland’s reassertion of independence in 1991. The work of Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi alongside the strategic military guidance of Brigadier General Nimcaan Yusuf Osman has garnered admiration and support from every corner of Somaliland. This partnership is not just about military might; it’s about fostering a sense of responsibility and dedication to the nation as one.

Somaliland has successfully neutralized internal threats, regained control over local security dynamics, and is now poised for greater international recognition—a fundamental step for a nation often stuck in diplomatic limbo due to its historical claims.

Preparing for the Next Chapter

VP Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi Champions Vocational Revival

With the groundwork laid for national unity and security, Vice President Aw Abdi and Brigadier General Nimcaan now face the dual task of continuing to solidify their achievements while preparing Somaliland for the international diplomatic stage. The challenges ahead remain, but the leaders have demonstrated a clear understanding of the strategic landscape, prioritizing stability over divisive politics.

Their collaboration with international partners, particularly in defense and security sectors, will further strengthen Somaliland’s position. As the world increasingly looks toward recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty, the time is ripe for this administration to leverage its military successes as a platform for diplomatic negotiations.

A Nation United

Somaliland Cracks Down on Unauthorized Flags Ahead of May 18

As we reflect on the monumental strides taken by Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi and Brigadier General Nimcaan Yusuf Osman, it is clear that their destinies are linked to that of Somaliland. They represent a future marked by strength, unity, and resilience. As their actions continue to inspire and galvanize the Somaliland populace, we stand at the precipice of a new dawn.

Together under the leadership of these great figures, Somaliland emerges not only as a self-governing entity but as a symbol of hope and tenacity. They remind us that through cooperation, discipline, and unwavering resolve, we can forge a dynamic future where our narrative is one of strength, stability, and national pride.

Let us rally behind our heroes, celebrate their achievements, and march forward into a new chapter of Somaliland’s rich and promising history.