Pharo Foundation hosted an Early Childhood Development and Education Symposium in Somaliland. Their Education Program Lead, Yohannes Teklu Keliku, has attended the event with other key stakeholders in Somaliland.
Watch the video below to learn from Yohannes, what the symposium is all about.
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Somaliland announced that it has made a noteworthy advancement towards receiving international recognition.
The Ministry also mentioned that Somaliland has formed a State Recognition Taskforce at the ministerial level to plan and work towards gaining recognition. It was also mentioned that this decision is in line with the government’s continuous diplomatic efforts, including the recent Memorandum of Understanding with Ethiopia for sea access.
Somaliland takes a significant step towards international recognition today. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established a Ministerial Level State recognition Taskforce to strategize and pursue recognition efforts. (1/2) #Somaliland #Diplomacy #Recognition pic.twitter.com/IyDLowNqOo
— MFA Somaliland (@somalilandmfa) August 1, 2024
Ethiopia and Somaliland entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 01 January 2024, which allows Ethiopia to access the sea in exchange for providing international recognition to Somaliland.
The ruling Prosperity Party (PP) announced in January that it had made the decision to bring the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that Ethiopia signed with Somaliland “to a practical agreement” while simultaneously paying attention to the principles of give and take to secure additional options for port access with other neighboring countries in a resolution that was issued at the conclusion of four days of meetings by members of both the Executive and the Central Committee.
The agreement with Somaliland, according to the ruling party, demonstrates “Ethiopia’s position for regional economic and cultural ties.”
In February, Somaliland announced that it was “on course without any wavering, and remain seized” of the implementation of the MoU and that it had appointed a high-level advisory group and a technical team of international legal experts to advise and guide the process.
Following declarations of disapproval from Egypt and the other Arab League members, Ethiopian officials formally retaliated against those who disapproved of the MoU, all the while upholding their position to see through the agreement.
Since then, though, Ethiopia has not provided an update on the status of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which has sparked criticism from the neighboring Somalian government and ensuing diplomatic disputes.
A potentially devastating visa fraud scheme, allegedly orchestrated by high-ranking Somali government officials, has been uncovered, raising serious concerns about U.S. national security. The revelation threatens to upend U.S. immigration policies and diplomatic relations, highlighting a chilling reality that underscores the vulnerabilities of the American visa issuance system.
A startling letter sent to U.S. Ambassador Richard Riley by Dr. Abdillahi Hashi Abib, a Somali lawmaker and member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, lays bare a massive, government-backed operation that could be allowing terrorists to enter the United States under false pretenses. This letter, dated July 30, 2024, exposes a web of corruption and deceit that could have catastrophic consequences far beyond Somalia’s borders.
At the heart of the scandal is a shocking statistic: 600 out of 700 visas issued to Somali civil servants by the U.S. Embassy have resulted in overstays, with these individuals failing to return to Somalia. This staggering 86% overstay rate is not just an alarming figure—it is a dire warning that American security may be at risk. This overstay rate is alarmingly higher than the global average of less than 3%, suggesting a systemic exploitation of the U.S. visa system. US Homeland Security overstay reports are available here.
Compounding this alarming scenario is the well-documented infiltration of Somali government institutions by Al-Shabaab, a notorious terrorist organization. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud himself has acknowledged this infiltration, underscoring the threat posed by the visa fraud scheme. The possibility that individuals with terrorist ties could be slipping into the United States undetected is a chilling prospect that demands immediate action.
Dr. Abib’s letter accuses Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs of masterminding a scheme to misuse civil servants’ passports, securing visas from the U.S., Canada, EU, and UK for individuals who are not government employees. The alleged cost for these fraudulent services ranges from $20,000 to $25,000 per visa, indicating a lucrative operation potentially funneling millions of dollars into corrupt hands. This revelation suggests a deeply entrenched network of corruption that poses a significant threat to global security.
In 2017, former President Donald Trump implemented a travel ban that included Somalia among several Muslim-majority countries, citing national security concerns and the potential threat of terrorism. These new allegations of widespread visa fraud reinforce those fears, highlighting the critical need for vigilant visa controls. The potential for terrorists to exploit these vulnerabilities is a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by lax immigration enforcement.
The U.S. Embassy in Somalia faces an urgent need to reevaluate its visa issuance practices. The traditional diplomatic courtesies extended to government officials must be reconsidered in light of these explosive allegations. The international community is already reacting; Turkey has suspended tourist visas for Somali service passport holders as of July 15, 2024, signaling growing global distrust of Somalia’s travel documents.
The scandal reveals disturbing evidence of political manipulation within the visa process. While hundreds of “civil servants” remain in the U.S., over 30 Somali Members of Parliament have been denied visas, raising suspicions that the system is being exploited to serve certain political factions. Dr. Abib’s frustration with the lack of response from Somali officials to his repeated warnings is palpable. He urges the U.S. Embassy to investigate potential political interference, emphasizing the urgent need to address these threats.
As this story unfolds, the demand for immediate and thorough investigations by U.S. authorities grows more pressing. The integrity of the U.S. immigration system is at stake, and the potential impact on national security is too great to ignore. These revelations highlight the urgent need to overhaul current vetting processes and reinforce visa policies related to Somalia.
Although Ambassador Riley has only recently assumed his post, he faces the challenge of navigating a complex diplomatic landscape. Previous U.S. engagements with the Somali government have been criticized for lacking sufficient scrutiny, particularly concerning the fight against Al-Shabaab. Ambassador Riley’s reputation as a troubleshooter with experience in challenging environments may lead to increased accountability and oversight in diplomatic relations.
The Somali MP, Dr. Abib would only confirm the authenticity of the letter he sent to the US Embassy in Mogadishu and would not comment further.
The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu has yet to comment on these allegations, but the gravity of the situation demands a swift and comprehensive response from U.S. officials. This scandal serves as a stark warning of the dangers posed by failed states in an interconnected world. As the international community grapples with these revelations, the need for a delicate balance between diplomatic engagement and national security becomes ever more critical. The world watches anxiously as the implications of this visa fraud scheme continue to unfold, underscoring the urgent need for action to protect against potential threats.
Somaliland’s National Intelligence Agency (NIA) has intercepted an alleged assassination squad sent by Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). The squad was reportedly tasked with destabilizing the strategic city of Borama through targeted killings, according to a statement published by the NIA on social media.
The statement adds that two operatives are in custody while six more are under close surveillance. The agency has called for public vigilance, urging citizens to report suspicious activities to a dedicated hotline. This transparency underscores the gravity of the situation and the NIA’s strategy to involve the public in national security efforts.
Recently, the NIA has been notably public in its operations, a shift that coincides with the appointment of its current director awhile back. By sharing details of operations, the agency emphasizes community involvement as a key component of national security.
This transparency has been welcomed by the public, who see it as a demonstration of accountability and an effort to build trust. However, this departure from traditional intelligence methods, which typically operate in the shadows, has sparked some criticism. Experts argue that revealing operational details could compromise the agency’s effectiveness and tip off potential threats. While community involvement is crucial, maintaining a balance between transparency and operational secrecy is essential to ensure national security is not compromised.
This thwarted plot bears striking similarities to security challenges Las Anod, where a series of assassinations and bombings have plunged the region into turmoil. These incidents in Las Anod have been used as a pretext to instigate broader conflict, suggesting a coordinated effort to undermine Somaliland’s stability. Targeting Borama, a crucial cultural and economic hub, indicates a broader strategy to weaken Somaliland’s governance and sovereignty.
The alleged assassination attempt follows a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia on January 1st, 2024. The MoU, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through the port of Berbera and formal recognition for Somaliland, has dramatically shifted regional dynamics and further strained already tense relations between Hargeisa and Mogadishu. The MoU showcases Somaliland’s efforts to assert its independence and foster economic development, sharply contrasting with Somalia’s apparent focus on exporting regional instability.
High-ranking Somali officials, including the President and Foreign Minister, have publicly issued threats and declared intentions to destabilize Somaliland in the wake of the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement. These statements, documented by SomalilandChronicle.com, coupled with the alleged assassination plot, paint a troubling picture of Somalia as a failed state that, unable to govern its own territory effectively, resorts to exporting chaos to its neighbors.
Somalia’s inability to control its borders, tackle internal extremist threats, or provide basic services to its citizens starkly contrasts with Somaliland’s relative stability and democratic governance. Rather than focusing on internal reconstruction, Somalia appears to be channeling its limited resources into destabilizing a peaceful neighbor, raising serious questions about its priorities and the international community’s continued support.
The MoU has not only aggravated Somalia but also prompted hostile reactions from other regional actors. Notably, Djibouti has shifted from its quasi-neutral stance to open antagonism. Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh seems to have called up every resource at his disposal including extended invitations to anti-Somaliland forces, including those currently engaged in conflict with Somaliland in the eastern Sool region and groups aiming to foment unrest in Awdal. This alignment of regional actors against Somaliland further complicates an already volatile situation.
As tensions mount, Somaliland finds itself in an increasingly under pressure. The foiled assassination attempt in Borama, combined with ongoing instability in Las Anod and growing regional hostility, paints a picture of a peaceful nation surrounded by escalating threats. Despite these challenges, Somaliland continues to pursue stability, economic development, and international recognition, standing as a beacon of relative peace in a troubled region.
The interception of these alleged operatives underscores the real possibility of open conflict between Somaliland and Somalia. It remains unclear whether Somaliland has formally addressed Somalia’s alleged attempts to foment conflict within its borders or brought the matter to any international forum. This silence on the diplomatic front raises questions about Somaliland’s strategy in dealing with external threats.
The international community’s response—or lack thereof—to these developments could prove pivotal in shaping the region’s future. As tensions simmer, the need for transparent dialogue and robust conflict resolution mechanisms becomes increasingly urgent, not just for Somaliland and Somalia, but for regional stability as a whole.
As Somaliland bolsters its defenses and continues its pursuit of international recognition, the stability of the entire Horn of Africa hangs in a precarious balance. The coming weeks may prove critical in determining whether this latest incident becomes a catalyst for diplomatic engagement or a precursor to further escalation.
The Djibouti regime is teetering on the edge of collapse, driven by economic desperation and a growing sense of insecurity. The rise of Berbera port in Somaliland as a major competitor has exposed the weaknesses of Djibouti’s growth model, which relies heavily on its port sector and Ethiopian trade.
Djibouti’s external public debt has ballooned from 33.9% of GDP in 2013 to 68% in 2022, largely due to loan-financed investments in state-owned enterprises, including the port and railway. The World Bank has warned that this model is unsustainable, citing the emergence of Berbera port as a strong competitor.
Instead of embracing healthy competition and finding ways to innovate and improve, Djibouti has chosen a destabilization path. It has opposed the MOU between Somaliland and Ethiopia, signed a military pact with Turkey, and recruited militias to destabilize Somaliland. Most alarmingly, sources from within Djibouti report that the regime is planning false flag attacks within Djibouti to justify invading the western part of Somaliland.
However, Djibouti is gravely miscalculating Somaliland’s resolve and capabilities. Somaliland has been exercising self-restraint in the face of Djibouti’s aggression but will not hesitate to defend itself if attacked. The people of Somaliland are determined to protect their sovereignty and territorial integrity and will stand up against any aggression with unwavering resolve.
Djibouti’s regime would do well to recognize the futility of its plans and seek diplomatic solutions to its economic and security challenges. The international community must also take immediate action to prevent regional instability and support Somaliland’s right to economic freedom.
Badri Jimale is Horn of Africa follower and Pragmatic solutions advocate.
Notice: This article by Somaliland Chronicle is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial 4.0 International License. Under this license, all reprints and non-commercial distribution of this work are permitted.
Britain’s former defense secretary Sir Gavin Williamson has urged Foreign Secretary David Lammy to listen to calls for the UK to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign nation, The Independent reported on Friday.
“This is an important symbolic step and I hope the foreign secretary listens to the growing cross-party voices on this matter and acts to move UK policy to recognize Somaliland, so recognizing the reality on the ground,” he said.
Lammy is being pushed to review UK foreign policy toward a potential key ally in the Red Sea conflict with the Iran-backed Houthis. The former British colony is not officially recognized by any international power despite functioning as an independent state since 1991 when it broke away from Somalia following a civil war.
Earlier this week, the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Richard Kemp said: “Liverpool council unanimously agreed a motion calling upon HMG (His Majesty’s Government) to recognize the former British Protectorate of Somaliland as an independent country free from Somalia. The Somaliland representative to the UK and local Somaliland residents were delighted.”
We deeply appreciate Liverpool City Council’s July 24th, 2024 motion re-recognizing Somaliland’s independence. This milestone is a testament to the tireless efforts of the #Somaliland community in Liverpool, the UK Mission, and advocates worldwide. We congratulate all involved! pic.twitter.com/NkshhG8WNX
— Somaliland Diaspora Office (@SldiasporaGN) July 25, 2024
The Somaliland Diaspora Office wrote on X: “We deeply appreciate Liverpool City Council’s July 24, 2024 motion re-recognizing Somaliland’s independence. This milestone is a testament to the tireless efforts of the Somaliland community in Liverpool, the UK Mission, and advocates worldwide. We congratulate all involved!”
Williamson praised Liverpool’s decision and urged Lammy to take note.
Since the UK and US were forced to intervene against Houthi terrorists from Yemen in the Gulf of Aden — one of the world’s key shipping routes — pressure has increased to rethink recognition of Somaliland. Its port of Berbera has been described as a potential base for UK and US military operations.
Ethiopia last year became the first African country to agree any form of recognition with Somaliland with a deal that gave it access to the sea. The move infuriated Somalia which claims Somaliland as part of its territory and led to mass protests.
On a different voice, the Memorandum of Understanding that Somaliland and Ethiopia signed on January 1, 2024, was greatly praised by Lord Stuart Polak recently at the House of Commons session as a historic and consequential accord.
He underlined that the world maritime gateway and the Horn of Africa will both greatly benefit from this historic accord in terms of peace and development.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strongly worded statement in response to recent accusations from the Somali government, escalating diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa. The press release, published on July 26 in both English and Somali, refutes what Ethiopia calls “unwarranted and irresponsible statements” from Somali officials.
The timing of this diplomatic clash is significant, coming shortly after reports of militias in Somalia looting truckloads of heavy weapons. This incident appears to validate concerns raised by Somaliland regarding the UN’s decision to lift its arms embargo on Somalia.
Ethiopia’s statement emphasizes its long-standing role as an ally to Somalia: “For more than three decades, we’ve sacrificed for Somalia’s peace. Now, they repay us with baseless accusations.” This sentiment underscores the sense of betrayal felt in Addis Ababa and highlights the complex nature of regional relationships.
Somalia has floated the idea of alternative areas for an Ethiopian naval base, suggesting that their primary concern is not necessarily about preventing Ethiopia from accessing Somali territory. Instead, the core issue seems to be the potential implicit recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty that the Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU represents. This nuance contradicts Somalia’s framing of the issue as a nationalistic defense of its territory.
Attempts at diplomatic resolution have so far yielded little progress. Turkey-mediated talks between Somalia and Ethiopia, held in Ankara on July 1st has failed to produce any significant breakthroughs.
The Ethiopian government expresses deep concern over the proliferation of illegal arms in the region, citing “porous borders and unregulated coastal lines” as factors contributing to the issue. This situation is further complicated by recent geopolitical developments.
Somalia has recently signed defense pacts with Turkey and Egypt, moves seen as attempts to counter the Somaliland-Ethiopia Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Turkey has agreed to assist Somalia in developing its naval capabilities, while Egypt’s involvement adds another layer of complexity to regional dynamics.
However, experts note that neither Egypt nor Turkey has the capacity to mount meaningful or kinetic action in Somaliland, which lies outside their immediate sphere of influence. While these alliances may represent diplomatic posturing and an attempt to pressure Ethiopia into negotiations, the possibility of preventing the Somaliland-Ethiopia MoU by force seems far-fetched. Both countries lack the resources and technical capability to sustain such an effort over the long term and across such distances.
The Egypt-Somalia alliance is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Ethiopia considers the GERD crucial for its development, while Egypt fears it will impact its share of Nile waters. Egypt’s support for Somalia is viewed as a strategic move to balance Ethiopia’s influence in the region and secure its interests in the Red Sea, even if direct intervention remains unlikely.
These developments may prompt Ethiopia to accelerate its deal with Somaliland, aiming to establish a strategic presence along the coast to counteract potential naval threats. The Egyptian Navy’s considerable strength in the region adds urgency to Ethiopia’s strategic considerations.
Meanwhile, Ethiopian troops continue to play a crucial role in Somalia as part of the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), working to prevent the country from being overrun by Al-Shabaab. This ongoing military involvement underscores the interconnected nature of security issues in the region.
In a chilling vindication of Somaliland’s warnings, truckloads of weapons have been looted in central Somalia, mere months after the controversial lifting of the UN arms embargo. This brazen attack has sent shockwaves through the region, confirming the worst fears of those who cautioned against the politically motivated lifting of the embargo and its potential to flood the volatile Horn of Africa with more arms.
The Somaliland government, which had vehemently opposed the embargo’s lifting, has renewed its dire warnings about the consequences of this ill-fated decision. In a forceful statement, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs decried the UN Security Council’s resolution, asserting that it poses “grave risks to the stability and security of the Horn of Africa region.”
The recent incident in South Central Somalia has shockingly validated Somaliland’s warnings. A convoy carrying a vast arsenal was ambushed and looted, resulting in a disturbing spectacle reminiscent of scenes from “Lord of War.” Social media erupted with images of women and children brandishing an array of small arms, a chilling visualization of weapons proliferation. According to various news agencies, the incident claimed at least five lives.
Horn of Africa analyst Rashid Abdi dubbed it “the single most serious incident of arms proliferation in central Somalia.” This grim tableau of civilians, including vulnerable groups, handling military-grade weapons starkly illustrates the chaos unleashed by the embargo lift. The scene tragically vindicates Somaliland’s repeated warnings about the dangers of unrestricted arms flow in this volatile region, painting a bleak picture of a future where deadly weapons are commonplace even among the most vulnerable populations.
Adding to the embarrassment, on July 12, 2023, the United States donated weapons and ammunition to Somalia in its fight against terrorism. This decision has been criticized as another blunder, with fears that these weapons may end up in the hands of terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab. This incident underscores the risks of supplying arms to unstable regions without stringent safeguards. The U.S. Embassy in Somalia announced the donation as part of a broader effort to support the Somali government, but critics argue that it may inadvertently exacerbate the security situation in the region.
Somaliland’s government has long maintained that lifting the embargo would inevitably lead to weapons falling into the hands of terrorist groups, a scenario that now seems to be unfolding. The statement from Hargeisa pulls no punches, expressing profound doubt about Somalia’s capacity to manage and secure these weapons effectively.
The contrast between Somalia’s volatility and Somaliland’s stability couldn’t be starker. For over three decades, Somaliland has maintained peace within its borders, a fact that its government argues should have been given more weight in regional security considerations. Now, Somaliland fears that the influx of arms into the region directly threatens its hard-earned peace and stability.
As the situation spirals, Somaliland is calling for an urgent reconsideration of the decision to lift the arms embargo. The government advocates for a more nuanced approach to regional security, one that recognizes the complex dynamics of the Horn of Africa and the unique position of stable entities like Somaliland.
The international community now faces a rapidly escalating crisis. The need for immediate action—including enhanced border controls and a reassessment of the arms embargo decision—has never been more pressing. The recent looting incident serves as a stark reminder of the powder keg that the Horn of Africa has become, with the potential to undo years of stabilization efforts in a matter of moments.
As the UN Security Council deliberated on lifting the embargo, Somaliland’s warnings of catastrophic consequences fell on deaf ears. Now, with weapons flowing freely and falling into the wrong hands, those dire predictions have become a stark reality. The international community stands at a critical juncture, facing the urgent need to heed Somaliland’s renewed calls for action. Failure to respond swiftly and decisively risks plunging the region further into chaos, leaving it heavily armed and on the brink of widespread conflict. The Horn of Africa teeters on a precipice, with the specter of escalating violence looming large over its fragile peace.
The Somaliland Professionals Association of America (SLPA), a prominent organization dedicated to uniting and empowering Somaliland-connected professionals in the United States, recently hosted a landmark event, the “Empowering Tomorrow: Somaliland Professionals in Unity” summit. Held from May 24th to 26th, 2024, the conference brought together a diverse array of professionals, fostering cultural celebration, professional development, and networking opportunities.
“The SLPA conference in Atlanta was an unforgettable experience! Connecting with the brightest minds of the Somaliland diaspora, we celebrated our heritage and explored future opportunities. Visionary leaders like Dr. Edna Adan and Dr. Osman Sheikh Ahmed inspired us, while other discussions such as civic engagement, technology, and education highlighted urgent priorities. Thank you, SLPA, for a remarkable event and a brighter future for Somaliland!” said Sayidcali Ahmed, an attendee of the SLPA Unity Summit.
The SLPA, which comprises medical professionals, engineers, educators, lawyers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and students, organized this three-day event to promote unity, cultural identity, and professional growth among its members while discussing Somaliland’s development.
The summit commenced with a vibrant cultural mixer, featuring a keynote address by Dr. Jama Muse Jama, founder of the Red Sea Cultural Foundation. Dr. Jama emphasized the critical role of cultural preservation in shaping Somaliland’s national identity, setting an inspiring tone for the conference.
Saturday’s main conference showcased eleven concurrent panels, covering a wide range of topics crucial to Somaliland’s future. The “State of the Nation” panel, featuring Dr. Edna Adan Ismail and Dr. Osman Sheikh Ahmed, provided a comprehensive overview of Somaliland’s current socio-economic landscape and future prospects.
Healthcare was a prominent focus, with panels discussing the challenges and opportunities in Somaliland’s medical sector. The Somalilander American Health Association (SAHA) presented their ongoing initiatives to strengthen healthcare systems in the region.
Technology and entrepreneurship took center stage in several sessions. Somali-American tech professionals shared their journeys and insights, while a business panel explored investment opportunities and strategies for economic growth in Somaliland.
The summit also addressed critical social issues. A panel on “Women in the Professional World” examined the unique challenges faced by Somali, Black women in their careers. Another session focused on civic engagement, featuring prominent figures like State Senator Kayse Jama, who offered guidance on public service and community leadership.
Education was another key theme, with discussions on fostering student success in both Somaliland and North American contexts. Jonathan Starr, founder of Abaarso School in Somaliland, shared exciting educational opportunities during the closing remarks. The Abaarso School has been a transformative force in Somaliland’s educational landscape, offering world-class education to Somali youth and preparing them for global opportunities. Mr. Starr’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the school’s success, fostering a generation of future leaders committed to Somaliland’s progress.
Jonathan Starr is the founder of Abaarso School in Somaliland, an institution that has achieved remarkable success in educating students from a region often overlooked. Starr, a former hedge fund manager, was inspired to make a difference after traveling to Somaliland and witnessing the potential of its youth. He faced numerous challenges, including skepticism from the local community and navigating cultural differences. Despite this, the school has produced students who have gone on to attend prestigious universities globally, demonstrating the transformative power of education.
The conference wasn’t all business – a gala dinner on Saturday night recognized outstanding SLPA members and sponsors, featuring performances by notable Somali artists. This awards ceremony highlighted SLPA’s commitment to recognizing and encouraging member participation. The event concluded with a relaxed BBQ on Sunday, allowing attendees to network and build lasting connections.
Reflections from key attendees, including Dr. Edna Adan and Liiban Yusuf Gaaxnuug, Deputy Minister of Health, highlighted the conference’s success in showcasing Somaliland’s potential and fostering a spirit of unity and progress among its professionals.
The success of this summit underscores SLPA’s role as a vital platform for Somaliland-connected professionals in America to connect, share knowledge, and contribute to both their professional growth and Somaliland’s development. With its well-organized structure, including committees for programming, finance, social media & marketing, logistics, and entertainment, SLPA demonstrated its capacity to host impactful events that bridge professional development with cultural celebration.
“The Somaliland Professionals Association of America (SLPA) has expanded to over 600 members across 41 states, forming strategic partnerships with similar organizations globally. We are unwavering in our commitment to providing specialized expertise across various industries to uplift our community and Somaliland. We invite you to check out the recap report about the event and reach out to collaborate with us on projects and initiatives where we can leverage our skills, including mentorship and volunteer programs. Join us in our mission to drive positive change and foster development for our ancestral homeland,” stated the organization’s executive summary.
The SLPA stands out as a beacon of progress by uniting a vast array of subject matter experts dedicated to contributing to Somaliland’s development. By facilitating collaboration between the public and private sectors, SLPA is injecting cutting-edge ideas and innovative solutions into Somaliland’s socio-economic landscape. This proactive approach contrasts sharply with the often-criticized NGO industrial complex, which can perpetuate aid dependency. Instead, SLPA’s efforts are focused on sustainable growth and self-reliance, empowering Somaliland to leverage its own professional diaspora to build a brighter future.
This groundbreaking summit marks a significant step in harnessing the collective expertise of Somaliland professionals worldwide. As the SLPA looks to the future, the energy and commitments fostered during this conference are poised to make a lasting impact on Somaliland’s development and its global standing, while strengthening the bonds within the Somaliland professional community in America.
The SLPA demonstrated meticulous organization with dedicated committees for programming, finance, social media & marketing, logistics, and entertainment, ensuring the event’s success and impact.
By hosting such an influential and well-attended event, SLPA has established itself as a central hub for professional development and cultural celebration, uniting Somaliland professionals in America and contributing significantly to Somaliland’s progress and global presence.
Hargeisa, Somaliland, July 11, 2024 – The Central Bank of Somaliland has issued a critical warning about a series of fraudulent cryptocurrency applications threatening the nation’s financial security. Deputy Governor Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi revealed nine apps engaged in elaborate Ponzi schemes, exploiting the growing interest in digital currencies.
The identified fraudulent apps are:
These apps operate by promising unrealistic returns, sometimes as high as 1-2% daily or 30-50% monthly. They feature sophisticated-looking trading interfaces that mimic legitimate cryptocurrency platforms, complete with seemingly real-time market data. To build trust, these schemes often provide small initial returns to early investors, using funds from new participants to pay out these “profits.”
A key feature of these scams is their aggressive referral programs, which encourage users to bring in new investors for additional bonuses. This pyramid-like structure helps the scheme spread rapidly through communities.
“These applications do not comply with our financial regulations and pose significant risks to our citizens’ funds,” Abdillahi stated. He emphasized that the difficulty in withdrawing large amounts is a red flag, often preceding the sudden disappearance of the app and its creators – along with all invested funds.
The use of cryptocurrencies in these schemes makes it particularly challenging for authorities to trace funds or apprehend the perpetrators, especially across borders. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for promoting these scams, with fake testimonials and fabricated success stories luring in unsuspecting investors.
This crisis echoes a similar incident in March 2020, where Somaliland faced sophisticated Forex trading scams. The recurrence of such frauds highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting citizens in the rapidly evolving digital financial landscape.
The Central Bank has promised stringent legal action against anyone involved in promoting or facilitating these schemes. However, the borderless nature of cryptocurrency transactions complicates enforcement efforts.
As Somaliland grapples with this threat, authorities urge citizens to exercise extreme caution, verify the legitimacy of investment opportunities, and report any suspicious financial activities. The Central Bank emphasized that participating in these schemes could result in substantial financial losses, potentially destabilizing the nation’s economy.
This developing situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in unregulated digital financial services, even as cryptocurrencies continue to gain traction worldwide. The coming weeks will be crucial as Somaliland works to contain the spread of these fraudulent apps and mitigate their impact on the nation’s financial stability.
