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The Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has taken a significant step in supporting Somaliland’s democratic journey by committing $2 million for the upcoming 2024 Presidential and Party elections. This funding, announced by Ambassador Allen Lou, aims to reinforce Somaliland’s electoral process, advancing transparency, accountability, and fairness. The Ministry of Finance will transfer the funds to Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC).
This commitment builds on Taiwan’s previous contribution to Somaliland’s electoral infrastructure in 2021, when it provided funds for an Iris Biometric Voter Verification System (IBVVS) during the parliamentary and local government elections. While technical issues prevented its full deployment at the time, Somaliland’s political parties have now agreed to use the system in six cities for the upcoming elections. Taiwan’s Ministry of Finance will transfer the funds to Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) to facilitate this process.
“Taiwan is proud to collaborate with the Somaliland government, especially NEC, to advance transparency, accountability, fairness, and trust in the 2024 Presidential and Party elections,” said the Taiwanese Representative in Somaliland Ambassador Lou.
The IBVVS, designed to enhance voter verification and reduce fraud, combines traditional voter cards with advanced iris scan technology. Somaliland’s National Election Commission states that the system ensures no voter is registered more than once. However, the introduction of this technology has sparked debate within Somaliland. While President Muse Bihi Abdi’s Kulmiye party strongly supports the system as a safeguard against election fraud, opposition groups such as the Waddani party have raised concerns about potential delays and voter disenfranchisement. Logistical challenges in deploying the technology in remote regions have also been highlighted as potential issues.
The Taiwan-Somaliland partnership, established in 2020, has faced opposition from both China and Somalia. Beijing, adhering to its “One China” policy, views Taiwan’s international outreach, particularly in Africa, as a challenge to its sovereignty claims. Similarly, the Somali government, which does not recognize Somaliland’s independence, has criticized the partnership. Despite these pressures, both Taiwan and Somaliland have maintained a strong relationship built on shared democratic values and mutual interests.
In addition to financial and sectoral cooperation, Taiwan has offered democratic expertise. In January 2024, Taiwan invited NEC officials to observe its own Presidential and Parliamentary elections, giving Somaliland’s election authorities an opportunity to learn from Taiwan’s advanced electoral systems. A high-level Somaliland delegation, including the Vice President of the Guurti and members of the House of Representatives, also attended the inauguration ceremony of Taiwan’s 16th President and Vice President in May 2024.
The cooperation between Taiwan and Somaliland extends far beyond electoral support, encompassing critical sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and technology:
- Healthcare: Taiwan has provided crucial support to Somaliland’s public health infrastructure, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes the delivery of medical supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE), and testing kits. Taiwan has also sent medical teams to Somaliland, offering expertise in disease prevention and healthcare management.
- Agriculture: Taiwan has partnered with Somaliland on projects aimed at improving food security and increasing agricultural productivity. These initiatives include technical training for farmers, introduction of modern farming techniques, and support for water conservation and irrigation systems.
- Education: Taiwan offers scholarships to Somaliland students, enabling them to pursue higher education in fields such as engineering, science, and information technology. This program equips young Somalilanders with skills crucial for their country’s development.
- Technology: Beyond the electoral biometric system, Taiwan has been involved in strengthening Somaliland’s IT infrastructure. This includes the development of e-governance systems and cybersecurity measures, aimed at modernizing public services and enhancing administrative efficiency.
As Ambassador Lou noted, “Freedom and democracy constitute the fundamental values that connect Taiwan and Somaliland to the international community.” This multifaceted collaboration reflects Taiwan’s deep commitment to Somaliland’s development, demonstrating a shared vision of progress, modernization, and stability.
As Somaliland prepares for its 2024 elections, Taiwan’s contributions, both financial and technical, underscore the growing strength of this unique partnership. Their relationship serves as a model for international cooperation, particularly in regions striving for greater democratic governance and sustainable development.