Recognizing Somaliland—A Strategic Imperative for Global Security, Energy, and Mineral Independence

[Deeq A.]

To: The Rt Hon. British Prime Minister,
European Union Leadership, African Union Commission, and United Nations Secretary-General

Subject: Recognizing Somaliland—A Strategic Imperative for Global Security, Energy, and Mineral Independence

The time has come for the international community, led by Britain’s historic vision, to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state. This is not merely a matter of justice for a stable, democratic people—it is a strategic necessity for global security, energy resilience, and a rebalanced supply chain free from China’s dominance. I urge you to act decisively.

Somaliland, self-governing since 1991, stands as an oasis of peace in the volatile Horn of Africa. Its democratic elections, functioning institutions, and control of 850 km of Red Sea coastline contrast sharply with Somalia’s chaos, piracy, and Al-Shabaab insurgency. Recognizing Somaliland bolsters global security by securing a pro-Western ally at a chokepoint of world trade—the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, through which 10% of global oil passes. Britain, with its naval legacy and post-Brexit African focus, should lead this charge, rallying the EU, AU, and UN to preempt regional crises that threaten us all.

Beyond stability, Somaliland offers untapped renewable energy potential critical to the West’s green transition. Its arid highlands boast some of the world’s highest solar irradiance levels (up to 6.5 kWh/m²/day) and wind speeds averaging 8-10 m/s along its coast—ideal for gigawatt-scale projects. Feasibility studies suggest it could export clean energy via Ethiopia or power desalination for regional food security. This is an alternative to fossil fuel dependence and a bulwark against energy insecurity, amplified by conflicts like Ukraine. The EU’s climate goals and Britain’s net-zero pledge demand such bold diversification.

Equally vital are Somaliland’s strategic minerals. Geological surveys hint at deposits of rare earths, lithium, and cobalt—resources China currently monopolizes (60-80% of global supply). Berbera port, modernized with UAE investment, positions Somaliland to bypass Beijing’s chokehold, offering the West a reliable partner for battery metals and tech supply chains. The AU’s hesitance on secession must yield to this reality: Somaliland’s colonial borders and de facto statehood make it a unique case, not a Pandora’s box.

To the British PM: Your Balfour Declaration legacy calls you to shape nations anew—Somaliland is that opportunity.

To the EU: Your energy and industrial future hinges on such allies.

To the AU: Stability, not dogma, should guide Africa’s rise.

To the UN: Self-determination and peace demand this recognition.

Act now—convene a coalition, upgrade diplomatic ties, and table a UN resolution. Somaliland’s recognition is not charity; it’s a strategic win for a world at a tipping point.

HRH King Désiré-Joseph Mugisha
@UmuhaMugisha

Qaran News