The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland is at first so grateful to the dedicated Somalilanders, all ethnic Somalis, kindhearted Africans and all those liberally standing by and with the people of Somaliland in rebuilding the massive fire engulfed Waaheen Market and assisting the fire-affected community to resume business.
Concurrently, Somaliland Diaspora Office under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation, calls on the global Diaspora of Somaliland to enthusiastically commemorate 31st Somaliland National Anniversary of regaining independence 18 May 2022 under the year’s selected theme which reads “Statehood Recognition & Prosperity,” and all at once take the opportunity of this momentous occasion to effectively raising funds for Waaheen Disaster Relief , whilst considering kind cooperation with all partners and sympathetic friends abroad.
In spite of that Somaliland experienced severe drought crisis which affected 1.5 million people in nationwide before current rains, and coupled with the catastrophic incidence of Waaheen inferno which resulted in the loss of $1 to $2 billion worth of property, yet, this year’s celebration coincides with substantial progress achieved in the foreign policy leverage and considerable diplomatic gains, successful joint parliamentary and municipal elections unlike elsewhere in the volatile region as well as infrastructural development projects, among others.
Appreciating ongoing preparations for 18 May Celebrations in more locations than before, we are urging the committed Somalilanders in the Diaspora around the globe as well as the esteemed friends of Somaliland to honor this grand National Anniversary with inspiring celebrations, cultural events, receptions, rallies, fundraising, and undertake all efforts to successfully utilize the opportunity to advance Somaliland’s cause, promote nation branding and public diplomacy.
Both 26 June and 18 May are historic national days of the Republic of Somaliland and have special significance as they mark receiving independence from the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland 1960 and regaining sovereignty and dissolving the dubious failed union with Somalia 1991 respectively. We especially celebrate 18 May as the greater national anniversary because of its costs to the people of Somaliland in restoring independence and on the other hand, the freedom of life, peace and order, unity and the wellbeing the people of Somaliland have enjoyed since the reassertion of their sovereignty unlike elsewhere in the region.
Saad Mohamed Abdi
Director of Diaspora Office, MoFA
Hargeisa, May 5th, 2022
