HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) used his address to diplomats, ambassadors and international development partners to present Somaliland as a stable, democratic and investment-ready partner while seeking stronger international engagement based on mutual interests rather than foreign aid.
The speech combined a review of his administration’s achievements during its first year and seven months with a renewed appeal for diplomatic recognition, investment and technical cooperation.
Irro argued that Somaliland has demonstrated the qualities of a functioning state through peaceful governance, security reforms, infrastructure development and democratic institutions, asserting that international recognition should reflect realities on the ground rather than political assumptions.
Key Quotes from President Irro
On Partnership
“We seek partnership, not dependency. We seek investment, not charity. Above all, we seek relations founded on mutual respect, shared interests and common responsibilities.”
On Peace
“Peace remains the foundation upon which every other national objective must rest.”
On International Recognition
“Recognition is not the conclusion of our journey. It is the natural consequence of what Somaliland has consistently demonstrated.”
On Governance
“We have returned with evidence of democratic governance strengthened through peaceful constitutional institutions.”
On Security
“Former combatants have been fully trained and integrated into the Somaliland National Army.”
On Infrastructure
“These projects are vital for our national cohesion, regional commerce and economic inclusion.”
On Energy
“Our objective is to extend affordable, reliable and sustainable energy across the country.”
On Water Security
“Water remains Somaliland’s greatest long-term challenge.”
On Healthcare
“This is not simply an investment in healthcare. It is an investment in dignity, self-reliance and national resilience.”
Final Appeal
“Engage with Somaliland not as an extension of another political entity, but as a responsible and capable sovereign partner.”
Major Policy Announcements
1. Peace and Security
President Irro identified security as the government’s first priority, announcing that approximately 6,000 former civilian fighters had completed demobilization, military training and integration into the Somaliland National Army.
He also confirmed that reconciliation efforts had reduced inter-clan tensions in eastern Somaliland through dialogue led by government institutions and traditional leaders.
2. International Recognition
Irro described Israel’s recognition of Somaliland on Dec. 26, 2025, as a historic diplomatic breakthrough and argued that it validated more than three decades of state-building.
He maintained that Somaliland’s democratic governance, peaceful transfers of power and stable institutions provide the foundation for wider international recognition.
3. Relations with Somalia
The president criticized Somalia’s Federal Government for what he described as interference in Somaliland’s internal affairs and urged international partners to encourage implementation of previous agreements, particularly regarding civil aviation management.
While reaffirming Somaliland’s willingness to engage in dialogue, he stressed that future negotiations must be based on mutual respect and adherence to existing commitments.
4. Infrastructure Development
Irro outlined major investments in national infrastructure, highlighting:
- Berbera Corridor road improvements
- Hargeisa road projects nearing completion
- Ongoing Lughaya Corridor construction
- New Burao–Ceerigaabo Corridor
- Additional strategic highway projects
He said these investments are intended to strengthen national integration, facilitate trade and promote inclusive economic growth.
5. Economic Transformation
The president reaffirmed his government’s development priorities:
- Livestock
- Agriculture
- Fisheries
- Renewable Energy
He explained that these sectors are now supported by expanded investment in transport, electricity, water, healthcare, education and communications infrastructure.
6. Electricity Reform
Irro announced that electricity prices had been reduced:
- From approximately US$0.80 per kilowatt-hour to around US$0.59 in major cities.
- Berbera has reduced tariffs to approximately US$0.20 per kilowatt-hour through renewable energy investment.
He pledged to expand affordable electricity nationwide.
7. Water Security
Calling water Somaliland’s most significant long-term development challenge, the president appealed for international technical cooperation to identify and develop deep groundwater resources.
He specifically welcomed continued collaboration with Norway on geological research.
8. Healthcare Modernization
The government plans to transform Hargeisa Group Hospital into a modern national referral hospital capable of providing advanced specialist healthcare within Somaliland.
According to Irro, the reform aims to reduce dependence on overseas medical treatment while strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
President Irro’s speech presented Somaliland’s foreign policy around four central themes:
- Peace and national stability.
- Economic development through domestic investment.
- International partnerships based on equality.
- Recognition grounded in Somaliland’s institutional achievements.
Rather than framing Somaliland as a recipient of international assistance, Irro positioned the country as a reliable regional partner seeking investment, technical cooperation and broader diplomatic engagement.
The address also underscored Somaliland’s strategy of linking security, democratic governance and infrastructure development to its broader case for international recognition and deeper partnerships across the Horn of Africa.
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff
HARGEISA, Somaliland
