The Government of the Republic of Somaliland has ushered in a new era of support for its national forces with the official implementation of a long-awaited salary increase, fulfilling a key promise made by President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro. This landmark initiative, hailed as a significant step toward strengthening the backbone of Somaliland’s security, has been met with widespread appreciation from the nation’s diverse forces.
According to reports from Dawan newspaper, by the end of June 2025, all branches of Somaliland’s armed forces received their salaries, which included an increase of 540,000 SL Shillings. This raise aligns with a presidential decree issued earlier this year, outlining a strategic plan to enhance the welfare of the military and police through incremental salary hikes.
Voices from the Forces: A Renewed Sense of Hope
Ridwaan Mahmoud Hussein, a member of the Somaliland Police Force, expressed his gratitude to Dawan Media, confirming the receipt of the salary increase. “At the end of June, we received the first salary increment. It’s a great step forward. I hope the government continues to increase our salaries annually to achieve the President’s promised 250% raise,” Ridwaan said. He emphasized the potential for the increase to improve the lives of soldiers’ families, provided challenges like inflation and dollar exchange rates are addressed. “This raise is something to be thankful for, but tackling inflation is crucial to ensure its full impact,” he added.
Other members of Somaliland’s forces, speaking to Dawan Media echoed Ridwaan’s sentiments, describing the raise as a “new dawn” for the military. They noted that the increase, long anticipated, has boosted morale and reaffirmed their commitment to serving the nation.
A Strategic Vision for Security
President Irro announced the salary increase during the inauguration of the renovated Western Division and Central Police Station in Hargeisa, underscoring his administration’s dedication to the forces. “My government is fully committed to improving the welfare of our forces, enhancing their training, and increasing their salaries,” he declared. “Our forces are the backbone of national security, and their livelihoods cannot be overlooked. This salary increase is part of our broader plan to strengthen and support them.”
The initiative is closely tied to a comprehensive census of Somaliland’s forces conducted earlier this year. The census ensured transparency and accuracy in salary distribution by verifying active personnel and eliminating discrepancies. Hamse Ali Bulbul, the President’s Media Advisor, highlighted. “The census removed any room for error, ensuring that the salary increase is transparent, fair, and accurate. It guarantees that only eligible personnel receive compensation, preventing payments to nonexistent soldiers.”
A Step Toward a Brighter Future
The salary increase is more than a financial boost; it is a powerful political signal and a tangible fulfillment of campaign promises that Somalilanders have awaited for years. By prioritizing the welfare of the forces, President Irro’s administration is fostering a stable security environment and reinforcing national pride and duty among the troops.
However, the success of this initiative hinges on addressing economic challenges such as inflation and the high dollar exchange rate, which could erode the benefits of the raise if left unchecked. If the government achieves its goal of a 250% salary increase over the five-year term, it could transform the lives of military families and solidify Somaliland’s security framework.
Looking Ahead
The salary increase marks a promising start to President Irro’s tenure, demonstrating his commitment to actionable change. As Somaliland moves forward, the government’s focus on transparency, fairness, and the well-being of its forces sets a strong foundation for a secure and prosperous future. The nation’s forces, reinvigorated by this support, stand ready to continue safeguarding Somaliland’s peace and stability.
