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Set apart by its home-grown democratic governance, coherent foreign policy, great economic potential, and strategic maritime relevance, Somaliland has become a singular and indispensable actor in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland has maintained peace, promoted democracy, and created a strong economic foundation for more than three decades, so defying the volatility that defines most of the region. Its dedication to responsible government and capacity to effectively organise peaceful elections define it as a political mature model in Africa. Unlike many of the surrounding countries, Somaliland regularly holds free and fair elections whereby people choose their leaders and manages power transitions free from conflict. The combination of conventional and modern governance systems has produced a strong and stable political system that guarantees state institutions operate as they should, and people stay involved in the political process. The people of Somaliland define their government’s legitimacy, therefore strengthening a system whereby the state stays answerable to the voters.
Driven by a philosophy that gives regional security, mutual economic advantage, and dependable international partnerships first priority, Somaliland’s foreign policy has remained surprisingly constant for the past three decades.
Somaliland has developed its ties based on respect, cooperation, and a clear strategic goal unlike many other states in the Horn of Africa that routinely find themselves caught in diplomatic conflicts. Its position as a reliable security partner has been crucial in guaranteeing the stability of the Gulf of Aden and beyond. By combating piracy, stopping illegal cargo, and securing international trade routes, Somaliland has actively contributed to maritime security by means of well-trained security troops and a competent coast guard. Somaliland’s foreign policy is important because it can reconcile national goals with global expectations, therefore rendering it a desirable and dependable ally for security and economic projects. Somaliland has instead promoted trade-driven alliances ensuring mutual development and prosperity by rejecting the conventional reliance on foreign aid that defines most of the African continent.
With its rich key mineral deposits, prospective oil and gas reserves, and wide blue economy prospects, Somaliland has great economic potential but mostly untapped capacity.
Significant stocks of vital minerals including lithium, uranium, and rare earth elements—all of which are vital for high-tech sectors, renewable energy development, and worldwide supply chains—have been confirmed by geological studies of Somaliland. Somaliland’s critical importance in the global economy is positioned by the rising demand for these resources from all across the world. Attracting growing interest from investors and energy corporations looking to investigate Somaliland’s petroleum potential, the undeveloped oil and gas reserves also present a transforming economic possibility. Somaliland might become a major energy supplier with the correct infrastructure and investment, therefore lowering regional reliance on imported foreign fuels and greatly increasing its own economic development. Another underused resource is the blue economy; Somaliland’s lengthy coastline along the Gulf of Aden has great possibilities in logistics, marine trade, and fisheries. Although the sector has one of the best fishing zones in the area, infrastructure and little investment keep it mainly underdeveloped. Somaliland may generate jobs, improve food security, and increase exports by releasing this potential, therefore helping to contribute greatly to national economic development.
The strategic maritime location of Somaliland at the mouth of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden increases its worldwide trade importance. Somaliland, acting as a gateway between Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, has great potential to develop as a significant commerce and logistical centre. Thanks in great part to DP World’s development of the Berbera Port, Somaliland’s position in regional trade has been much enhanced—especially by providing landlocked Ethiopia with a substitute path for imports and exports. Along with diversifying Ethiopia’s trade reliance, this development puts Somaliland as a major East African transit hub. Somaliland’s strategic advantage still mostly consists of maritime security. Its stability in the Gulf of Aden guarantees the secure passage of world energy shipments and international trade, therefore promoting regional and worldwide economic security.
Maintaining a steady, piracy-free coastline helps Somaliland to safeguard one of the busiest maritime routes worldwide, therefore supporting its importance as a global partner.
Unlike many African nations dependent mostly on foreign assistance, Somaliland has developed a strong and essentially self-reliant economy. By means of taxes, customs fees, and trade, it creates income guaranteeing financial independence and stability. Although aid reliance sometimes results in foreign political influence and economic vulnerabilities, Somaliland’s model of economic self-sufficiency improves its autonomy and negotiating position in international interactions. With laws that guarantee that investment corresponds with national development goals and helps to create a business-friendly environment, foreign direct investment is increasingly important in Somaliland’s economic plan.
Somaliland promotes long-term national development and progress by giving investment top priority over aid, hence fostering sustainable economic alliances. This realistic economic strategy guarantees that international cooperation stays mutually beneficial, therefore avoiding predatory economic systems that can afflict countries depending on help.
Globally trade, security, and development depend on Somaliland’s geopolitical importance, economic potential, and democratic government. Unlike many other African countries, Somaliland has effectively instituted democratic institutions ensuring political stability and peaceful power transitions. Built on reliability and strategic alliances, its foreign strategy guarantees that it stays a trustworthy actor in regional and international events. The undeveloped economic resources of the nation—including important minerals, oil, gas, and maritime sectors—offer investors and worldwide markets a chance to profit from its resources while also helping the nation to grow economically. The strategic location of Somaliland increases its significance as a trade and security centre, therefore guaranteeing effective and safe worldwide trade.
Somaliland presents itself as a viable and self-reliant country able to create fair and profitable international ties by keeping financial independence and following trade-driven economic policies. Somaliland’s global involvement should be deepened, so it is essential that the world community appreciates its sovereignty and contributions. The values of Somaliland—democracy, economic development, and regional stability—align with those of world powers and international organisations. Interacting with Somaliland serves not only a political but also a strategic need for improving security, economic development, and stability in the Horn of Africa. Not only would recognition and integration into the global economic and diplomatic system help Somaliland, but it would also improve the larger geopolitical scene by guaranteeing a trustworthy friend in a territory vital for world trade and security. The moment has arrived for the world to honour Somaliland’s achievements, respect its sovereignty, and include it into the international community as an autonomous and indispensable actor in world events.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mohamed Hagi (PhD) is a diplomat, politician and academic currently serving as the Advisor to the President for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. He was formerly the Somaliland Ambassador to Taiwan. Dr. Mohamed Hagi holds a PhD in Political Science and International Relations from the Department of History, Politics and Philosophy at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the opinions, viewpoints of the Somaliland Chronicle, and its staff.
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