The Annual Constitutional Address of the President of the Republic of Somaliland to both Houses of Parliament

[Deeq A.]

  

The Annual Constitutional Address of the President of the Republic of Somaliland to both Houses of Parliament

Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro)
April 20, 2025

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May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Eternal Light of Guidance for all of mankind.

Esteemed Speaker, respected members of the Guurti and the House of Representatives, distinguished legislators of the Republic of Somaliland, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of national political parties, members of the Cabinet, commanders of the national armed forces, the Governor of Maroodi-jeex, the Mayor of Hargeisa, honorable community leaders, women, youth, and all citizens of Somaliland, both at home and abroad:

It is with great respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland that I stand before you today to fulfill my duty and provide an update on the state of our nation. I also wish to outline the path ahead as we continue to work together toward our shared goals.

I begin by honoring the sacrifices made by our national heroes—those who fought for our independence, the leaders who have served this nation with distinction, and the courageous men and women who continue to safeguard our peace and sovereignty.

Once again, I reaffirm that the unity and sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland are non-negotiable. Our national integrity, history, culture, and traditions must be preserved and strengthened for future generations.

Nation’s Progress and Path Forward

Honorable Speaker,
Our nation stands at a pivotal moment in its history. This is a time that requires careful thought as we steer the future course of Somaliland. We have emerged from a period marked by profound challenges, including prolonged economic difficulties, diminished national security, and political instability, which led to delays in our electoral processes.

However, over the first 100 days of my administration, we have taken decisive steps to rebuild public trust, strengthen the pillars of peace, and initiate the reforms entrusted to us by the people.

Today, we see a country that is more secure, with growing peace and an economy that is steadily recovering. Key reforms are underway across the judiciary and public institutions, and we are enhancing the delivery of essential services to our citizens.

Our international relations have been revitalized, opening new doors for cooperation and engagement with the global community.

More importantly, we have restored a sense of collective ownership and inclusion among our citizens, ensuring that all Somalilanders are part of the journey toward shaping our nation’s future.

While we celebrate these achievements, we are aware that challenges remain. To fully recover and thrive, we must optimize the use of our resources and continue the critical work of sustaining peace and fostering unity—a task that requires ongoing effort from all of us.

Government Achievements in the First 100 Days

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• Safeguarding the Sovereignty and Security of the Republic of Somaliland

Peace and security are the bedrock of progress and the foundation of nationhood. Over the first 100 days of my administration, we have made significant strides in implementing key initiatives to secure the peace and integrity of our Republic.

We have formalized and trained our civilian defense forces, who now provide essential support to our national military forces.

We have completed a thorough census and registration of our armed forces, ensuring accuracy in the structure and size of our military and eliminating any discrepancies. This process is paving the way for a significant increase in military salaries. As of today, soldiers receive their pay directly from the national treasury. Additionally, soldiers and their families will benefit from free healthcare and essential services, a commitment we intend to further enhance in the future.

More than 700 officers have participated in specialized training programs, with some sent abroad for advanced instruction.

We have introduced modern technology to the Immigration Department, tripling the capacity of our Coast Guard to secure our maritime borders. We have also strengthened security at airports across Somaliland.

To further bolster our defense capabilities, I am proud to announce today the creation of the National Reserve Forces of the Republic of Somaliland. This new initiative will significantly enhance our ability to protect our sovereignty and maintain peace within our borders.

These initiatives not only fortify our national security but also lay a solid foundation for long-term peace and prosperity for our people. The strength of our defense forces is a testament to the unity and resolve of our people, and together, we will ensure the continued peace and security of Somaliland.

As we move forward, our government remains committed to continually enhancing our defense capabilities, adapting our strategies to meet the evolving security landscape. We also extend our gratitude to international partners and allies who have supported our training programs and defense initiatives, helping us build a stronger and more resilient Republic.

• Good Governance and Judicial Reform

Good governance is the cornerstone of a prosperous, transparent, and accountable government. Guided by this vision, we have taken bold steps within the first 100 days to enhance the operational efficiency of government institutions and improve the quality of public services.

We have restructured key government institutions, focusing on transparency and accountability at their core. New and revised legal frameworks have been introduced to ensure greater openness and strengthen the rule of law.

Strategic planning and policy development have been completed, laying a solid foundation for administrative reforms and the advancement of good governance.

During this period, we have implemented crucial tax reforms and streamlined government revenue collection, eliminating inefficiencies that hindered governance and combating corruption. As a result, revenue has increased by 19% from February to March, compared to the previous two years.

My administration remains unwavering in its commitment to upholding the rule of law, leading by example and ensuring that all government leaders adhere to legal principles.

In addition to these efforts, we have launched a comprehensive judicial reform initiative, designed to ensure justice for all, safeguard judicial independence, and restore public confidence in our legal system.

• Economic Development

In a relatively short time, my administration has made significant strides in unlocking the economic potential of the Republic of Somaliland.

We have initiated the construction and rehabilitation of critical road networks that serve as essential links between rural areas, domestic markets, cities, and ports—key for the development of the livestock and agriculture sectors. Seven major roads have either begun construction, undergone rehabilitation, or completed feasibility studies. Notably, these include vital routes connecting Hargeisa to Baligubadle and Borama to Baki.

The preliminary phase of the Lughaya Port development project has been successfully completed, laying the foundation for it to become a key commercial hub.

In an effort to reduce the cost of living, the government has announced a significant reduction in electricity prices in Berbera. Starting in July 2025, the rate will drop to $0.20 per kilowatt-hour, making it the most affordable electricity available in Somaliland’s cities. Additionally, we have upgraded the electricity network in Saylac, directly improving the lives of families in this coastal city.

We have drilled 32 wells and constructed dams and reservoirs to ensure reliable access to drinking water and irrigation for livestock and agriculture, particularly during the dry seasons.

To support the growth of our fishing and agricultural sectors, my government has provided essential technical assistance, equipment, and training.

Moreover, we are making significant progress in attracting foreign investment to establish livestock product processing industries, including meat processing, aimed at tapping into global markets.

• Key Economic Priorities of the Government

Building on the significant progress made in a short time, the government’s economic strategy is centered on three key areas that will bolster domestic production, increase the national GDP, and strengthen the national budget.

1. Strengthening Domestic Production

Fisheries:
We are dedicated to modernizing and expanding the infrastructure and technical expertise within the fisheries sector. This will not only enhance domestic consumption but also open doors for access to international markets, ensuring greater export opportunities.

Livestock:
Our efforts to develop the livestock sector remain steadfast, focusing on improving veterinary care, expanding grazing opportunities, and attracting foreign investment for the local processing of livestock products. These measures will significantly boost exports and create sustainable growth in the sector.

Agriculture:
To establish the Republic of Somaliland as a self-sufficient food producer, we will intensify agricultural development—particularly in irrigation systems, agricultural healthcare, light processing industries for food production, and strengthening the domestic market for agricultural goods.

We have already secured foreign investment for two major agricultural projects: $20 million from the Pharo Foundation and $22 million from the German government.

Minerals:
The mining sector holds immense untapped potential and remains a critical priority for economic growth. Our plan is to attract both domestic and international investment to expand exploration, production, and the export of Somaliland’s mineral resources to global markets.

2. Revenue Generation & Economic Diversification

Taxation:
A key element of our strategy is the modernization of the tax collection system and broadening the tax base. This will ensure sustainable funding for essential government services and infrastructure projects, driving long-term economic stability.

Business Innovation & Investment:
We are committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, with particular emphasis on supporting youth and women entrepreneurs. This will create a more dynamic and diverse economy, encouraging job creation and economic development across all sectors.

Port of Berbera:
We remain fully committed to realizing the potential of the Port of Berbera, which has undergone significant expansion and modernization. This will strengthen the port’s role in the regional economy and significantly enhance its capacity to facilitate international trade, positioning Somaliland as a critical hub for commerce.

3. Economic Infrastructure & Energy Development

The government is actively working to expand and enhance strategic road networks, ports, and airports, improving trade connectivity and facilitating access to regional markets. Additionally, we are prioritizing the development of renewable energy sources—investing in solar, wind, and hydrogen energy to ensure that citizens, public services, and industries have access to affordable and sustainable electricity. The World Bank has allocated $30 million for solar power generation projects in Berbera and Boorama.

Climate Change:
The adverse impacts of climate change remain one of the most significant challenges facing our economy. The Republic of Somaliland is not immune to these challenges, and we have made it a top priority to address environmental concerns such as water scarcity, food security, and the broader effects of climate change.

Our policy focuses on preserving the environment, combating deforestation, and launching an ambitious tree-planting initiative. Over the course of our government’s term, we will plant three million trees, equating to an annual planting of 600,000 trees. In celebration of National Tree Planting Day on April 15, we have already committed to planting 300,000 trees this year.

• Social Affairs and Public Services

Our government firmly believes that every citizen deserves equal access to public services, regardless of geography or background.

In the first hundred days of this administration, we have taken bold and strategic steps to enhance the delivery of essential services across the country. Seventy-seven healthcare facilities—including clinics and hospitals—have been renovated, revitalized, or restructured to improve their efficiency and capacity. As a result, more mothers are now receiving timely care during childbirth, particularly in remote rural areas previously underserved by the healthcare system.

We have also launched a comprehensive overhaul of the national education system. A key part of this reform is the modernization of the national curriculum, which now includes essential subjects such as national identity, moral values, environmental stewardship, and anti-discrimination education.

Particular attention has been given to increasing school enrollment among girls and reducing dropout rates. In addition, we have introduced educational programs in correctional facilities to equip inmates with knowledge and skills that can help reduce recidivism and support their reintegration into society.

I am proud to share that we have begun providing free education to the first group of orphans from families of our national armed forces—offering them the tools to build a better and brighter future.

At the same time, we have initiated key reforms within the public service sector, aimed at modernizing employment practices and establishing a pension fund for civil servants. To support this transformation, we are also digitizing the public workplace—already having trained 54 government employees in essential digital tools to improve their efficiency and productivity.

• Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

My government has undertaken decisive and strategic initiatives to revitalize our international relations and strengthen the longstanding friendships the Republic of Somaliland enjoys with nations across the globe. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that Somaliland’s voice is not only heard but respected on the international stage.

Our foreign policy is unequivocal: to secure the global recognition of Somaliland—a right to which we are fully entitled. We will not rest until the world acknowledges our sovereignty. Those who support our cause will be met with our enduring gratitude and a spirit of cooperation grounded in mutual interest and shared prosperity.

We are proud that, within the brief tenure of this administration, we have held productive high-level meetings with the leadership of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—a key ally of Somaliland. The UAE has committed to investing in our country and supporting efforts to open new global markets for Somaliland’s exports. They have also encouraged domestic businesses to pursue partnerships with Somaliland in vital sectors such as livestock, agriculture, fisheries, and mining.

To ensure the success and longevity of these partnerships, both governments have established dedicated technical committees to oversee the planning, implementation, and sustainability of joint projects.

In addition, the UAE has pledged substantial support for strengthening critical infrastructure in healthcare, education, water management, and transportation—foundational pillars that will drive Somaliland’s long-term development and prosperity.

I had the distinct honor of representing Somaliland at an international summit in Dubai, following an official invitation from the UAE government. This summit brought together over 140 nations, including heads of state, prime ministers, vice presidents, ministers, global leaders, and the world’s foremost investors and corporations.

The summit marked a significant milestone for Somaliland’s international standing. It amplified our diplomatic visibility and provided a strategic platform to promote our untapped economic potential to a global audience. Our message reached over 50 million people worldwide—firmly placing Somaliland on the radar of influential actors in diplomacy and investment.

We have also cultivated essential diplomatic relationships with countries that support our vision. The United States remains a vital partner in advancing Somaliland’s global interests. Our bilateral cooperation has grown stronger, particularly in the areas of governance, security, and regional stability. The United Kingdom has also been instrumental in providing critical support, especially in the field of security and institutional development.

Our efforts have garnered praise from regional and global stakeholders alike, who have commended Somaliland’s unwavering commitment to peace, reconciliation, and nation-building. Our achievements in the eastern regions, in particular, have been recognized as a model for peaceful coexistence and development.

I remain fully committed to addressing the persistent challenges of underdevelopment and intercommunal tensions that threaten our stability. Let it be clear: we will not be deterred. We will move forward together—united as one people—relentlessly pursuing progress, peace, and lasting security.

The Government of Somaliland continues to strengthen its historical relationships with neighboring Ethiopia and Djibouti—bonds built on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared regional interests. We are preparing official state visits to both countries aimed at deepening bilateral ties and advancing collaborative development initiatives.

Regarding the recent visit by the Prime Minister of Somalia to the eastern Sool region of Somaliland, I must reaffirm our government’s firm and unequivocal position. Following our 16th Cabinet session held on April 16, 2025, we have officially declared the termination of dialogue with Somalia. This administration will not tolerate any infringement on Somaliland’s sovereignty.

We have formally communicated to the international community that the Prime Minister’s visit constitutes a flagrant violation of our territorial integrity and a direct provocation aimed at destabilizing the peace and reconciliation that Somaliland has painstakingly built over the years. These gains have come at immense sacrifice, and we will not allow them to be undermined.

We issue a stern warning: any further provocation will not go unanswered and may lead to serious consequences.

While the Republic of Somaliland remains committed to peace, dialogue, and regional cooperation, we will not hesitate to defend ourselves against acts of aggression. Let it be known: Somaliland will no longer tolerate any encroachment upon its sovereignty or the peace its people have so rightfully earned.

• National Unity and Democracy

Building upon the government’s political vision and the early successes achieved within its first hundred days, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to strengthening national unity and upholding the democratic values that lie at the heart of our political ideology.

The strength and esteemed reputation of the Republic of Somaliland are rooted in our democratic system, our culture of dialogue and conflict resolution, and the resilience of our people. We have taken decisive action to reinforce stability, peace, and inclusive governance throughout the nation.

As part of this effort, we have established a national institution dedicated to promoting peace and fostering reconciliation among the citizens of Somaliland.

Our approach has been inclusive—engaging all segments of society in the national decision-making process. We have ensured broad representation in governance and worked diligently to rebuild trust between the people and their government. We have consulted with a wide range of stakeholders, including members of the National Assemblies, scholars, traditional leaders, businesspeople, academics, media professionals, artists, and citizens from all walks of life. Their insights and contributions are now embedded in the foundation of our national development.

However, the repeated delays in our elections have cast a shadow on our reputation and hindered the international recognition we seek. On several occasions, these delays have posed direct threats to our political stability and national security.

Therefore, the position of the Government of the Republic of Somaliland is unequivocal: elections must be held on time. Timely elections are critical to maintaining democratic legitimacy and advancing our efforts toward international recognition, which have reached a pivotal stage.

The issues addressed today reflect our unwavering dedication to realizing a Somaliland built on unity, cooperation, justice, peace, and democracy—the cornerstones of our nationhood.

I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the brotherly clans of Ceel-Afweyn, along with their traditional leaders, parliamentarians, intellectuals, and political figures, who have come together to resolve a longstanding conflict. Their collective efforts have led to the disarmament of both sides and the handover of their weapons and forces to the Republic of Somaliland.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the elders, community leaders, and all those who worked tirelessly and patiently to secure this peace. Their steadfast dedication has been instrumental in ending a conflict that spanned more than nine years.

This is a historic achievement—an end to the bloodshed that has long afflicted our people. Our focus now must turn to rebuilding and developing the affected regions.

I also wish to express heartfelt thanks to every clan and community that contributed resources, vehicles, and civilian forces. These contributions have now become part of our national army—a source of great pride and national unity.

Let us give a well-deserved round of applause to the Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, my esteemed brother Mohamed Ali Aw Cabdi, and his delegation—comprising ministers, members of parliament, traditional leaders, military commanders, and other key figures—whose tireless efforts, time, and national commitment were vital in resolving this issue.

We also call upon our national institutions—particularly Parliament and the political parties—to collaborate in a spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual consultation, for the greater good of our nation and the brighter future of our children.

To the citizens of Somaliland: I share with you the tangible progress we have made in this short time. These achievements mark only the beginning. With renewed determination and collective effort, we must continue to move forward together.

Declaration and Conclusion:

• To the youth of the Republic of Somaliland, both our young men and women, I call upon you with all the urgency and hope in my heart. The future of our beloved nation rests in your hands. This is your time to rise and take on the mantle of leadership. With your boundless energy, creativity, and vision, you have the power to shape the destiny of Somaliland. Step forward with pride and embrace the responsibility of steering us toward progress and prosperity.

• To our elders, our traditional leaders, intellectuals, and every member of our community, I ask you to stand with us, sharing your wisdom, your experience, and your knowledge. Your guidance is not just valuable; it is essential to the nation-building process. Your lessons, forged over years of struggle and triumph, will light the path for the next generation to follow.

• And to the women of Somaliland, the true backbone of our society, I make a special call. You have always been the strength that sustains us, and now, more than ever, it is your time to step into your rightful place. Contribute with your unmatched resilience, wisdom, and nurturing spirit. You are key to the advancement of Somaliland, and your voices, your hands, and your hearts must be at the forefront of this journey.

Let us unite under the banner of our national  flag, bound together by a common purpose, a shared vision. We will build the future we have long dreamed of, a future that reflects the sacrifices of our past and the hope of our future. With determination, we will achieve the recognition we deserve on the global stage.

May Allah bless the Republic of Somaliland. May peace, sovereignty, and prosperity endure in our land, Insha’Allah.

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