In a landmark joint session of the two houses of the Republic of Somaliland Parliament, President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro presented a detailed report on the nation’s progress, highlighting significant strides in security, peace-building, governance, economic development, infrastructure, social services, and international diplomacy while acknowledging persistent challenges.
The President began by addressing the honorable Speaker of the House of Elders, the Acting Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the presiding committees and honorable Members of Parliament from both houses, the Honorable Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of the national political parties, members of the Council of Ministers, commanders of the various national armed forces, the Chairman of the Peace Committee, the Governor of Maroodi Jeh Region, the Mayor of the Capital Hargeisa, leaders from all sectors of society, women, youth, and all citizens of the Republic of Somaliland both at home and abroad.
He stated: “It is a great honour for me, while fulfilling a constitutional duty, to appear before this joint session of the two houses of the Parliament of the Republic of Somaliland to brief you on the progress of the nation’s affairs and the direction in which we are moving forward.
The Republic of Somaliland is the beacon of stability, security, democracy, and good neighborliness in the Horn of Africa region. Despite facing many challenges and various attempts to undermine it, by the grace of Allah, it has succeeded in maintaining its security, building its statehood, and managing its aspirations and development with determination and planning. This has drawn the attention of the world and is the reason why, today, its friends and partners in the international community continue to increase steadily.
CHALLENGES
The President noted that whenever evaluating progress and achievable successes, it is essential to know where the nation came from, the real challenges before it, and where it is heading.
He recalled that the Unity and Performance Government he leads began work on 12 December 2024 amid difficult conditions, including prolonged economic pressures; the security situation in the eastern regions returning to the control of civilian armed groups; livestock — the backbone of the economy — suffering greatly from droughts and climate change problems; and recurring security issues from inter-clan conflicts that consume significant time and resources.
Nevertheless, he said the Government succeeded in addressing these problems through close collaboration with national institutions and the public, enabling the overcoming of many challenges.
THE GOVERNMENT’S PERFORMANCE:
- Security and Defence
Every success the nation has achieved, after Allah, is due to the security and stability that have come through the state system we have built, and the selfless defence provided by our heroic armed forces, who deserve constant appreciation.
In 2025, the Government took steps to strengthen the structure and modernization of the various national armed forces.
Six thousand (6,000) soldiers who had completed their training officially joined the forces. The plan for registering disabled veterans and orphans of the armed forces is progressing well.
A comprehensive reform was carried out in the financial management system of the armed forces, and a mobile phone payment system was introduced that allows every soldier to receive his salary directly on his phone wherever he is.
For the first time in 35 years, the institution for pensions and rights of the various national armed forces was established. It will work to ensure that the heroes who sacrifice their lives for their nation receive comfort and their rights.
Special focus was placed on improving and building military skills. The training system and curricula of the military training schools were reformed and modernized, and the knowledge of instructors was enhanced. Similarly, the forces were strengthened with new equipment, supplies, and vehicles.
The National Army’s Cyber Security Unit was established, and the construction of the armed forces’ data storage center was completed.
The national army now has its own standard uniform. A factory for sewing their uniforms and another for producing some of their food was established.
The trade in military uniforms and other equipment was banned, and all businesses involved in it were closed. The uniforms and equipment they held were taken over by the government, and appropriate compensation was provided.
Cooperation in security and defense with our existing international friends was strengthened, and new countries were added.
For the first time, the National Security Strategy was developed. It clearly defines the plans for defending and protecting the country, its citizens, and national interests.
1.2 Peace
Peace is in everyone’s interest, while conflict brings loss to people, livestock, and the environment. Civil conflict especially diminishes and destroys both sides. Neighbors whom Allah has placed together in one place are obliged to live together in peace and harmony.
Injustice and the unjust shedding of Muslim blood anger Allah and contribute to droughts and hardship in our lives.
To the brotherly people among whom conflict has occurred in the west, we call upon them to embrace and strengthen peace. The Government has made great efforts to stop those conflicts and held national consultations with the presiding committees of both houses on the matter.
The Vice President and the delegation he led have made significant progress on that peace, and we will continue until full peace is achieved.
We will not allow anyone to ignite conflicts. Whoever is proven to do so will face legal action. As is our custom and as Islam teaches us, everything that is disputed can be resolved through dialogue.
I call upon everyone who can contribute a word, an idea, or resources to this peace to lend a hand and to further support the delegation led by the Vice President.
In the eastern regions, the Government has made great efforts. Heavy weapons have been returned exclusively to the control of the Government.
Fortunately, peace has been achieved in Sanaag. Any future disputes will be addressed collectively and unitedly.
Regarding Sool, since the Government took office, various peace contacts have been made with our brothers in Las Anod. We are very hopeful that this issue will be resolved in the same way as Sanaag.
The people of eastern Sool are people without whom the rest of Somaliland cannot do without. They share blood and culture. If mistakes have occurred or harm has been exchanged, it is something we can resolve together with a lasting solution.
I thank the traditional leaders’ committee led by Garaad Kulmiye, who travelled several times to Buuhodle and Las Anod as a peace delegation.
In early 2025, we informed the delegation that the Republic of Somaliland is forming a Peace Committee, is ready for peace, for the exchange of prisoners without preconditions, and for opening trade and people’s movement. Those points have not yet received a response from Las Anod.
2.1 Good Governance
The Government has focused on strengthening good governance and reforming the justice system, while decentralizing government services.
Community courts in the districts have been increased and reformed. They adjudicate for the public and play an important role in reconciliation and dispute resolution before cases reach the formal courts.
The Government’s agenda for reforming and implementing good governance centers on fighting all forms of corruption, including financial and public asset corruption, poor administration, and the misuse of power and law.
The Government plans to establish systems and procedures in line with the laws to strengthen the capacity and professional competence of national institutions responsible for upholding good governance, justice, and the fight against corruption.”
2.2 Crimes Committed in the Country
The types of crimes that occurred in the country in 2025 show that the level of drug-related offences, petty theft, rape, and killings remains high, especially in major cities. The majority of victims or perpetrators are young people between the ages of 15 and 25.
This alerts us to the need for parents, teachers, religious scholars, national institutions, and the Government to work together to improve the upbringing of our children.
I thank the Somaliland Police Force for their great efforts in preventing and combating crime.
In 2025, traffic accidents decreased by 18%, and killings decreased by 7% compared to 2024.
2.3 Elections
Delays in elections pose a danger to democracy, political stability, and the international reputation of the Republic of Somaliland. Today, as the world is watching our existence, the damage is even greater.
My view as President, and the policy of my Government, is based on this.
We have made great efforts to ensure that the elections for the House of Representatives and local councils are held on time. However, we have often been hindered by the political situations we live with and recurring droughts.
After many consultations and discussions with stakeholders, it was agreed that the decision on this matter should be left to the National Electoral Commission, as the law technically assigns it to them.
I will soon submit to you the proposal from the National Electoral Commission (NEC) so that you can fulfil your duty. I request that the technical timeline proposed by the Commission be respected.
The Republic of Somaliland, even before it had firmly stood on its feet, built a democratic system and, despite all circumstances, refused to let the train of democracy stop even once.
It is my firm commitment to exert all my efforts to implement the second step: strengthening democracy and ensuring that elections are held on time.
2.4 The Constitution
Justice and good governance begin with improving and developing laws and applying them correctly. The highest of laws is the Constitution, from which all other legislation derives.
Our Constitution is one of the most valuable achievements of our nation. It has been the foundation of the statehood we are proud of. However, any human document requires amendments and updates to address any gaps that arise and to keep pace with changing times and circumstances.
There is a need to clearly separate the powers of government branches and to define the powers and working mechanisms of constitutional institutions.
To achieve shared ownership and inclusivity in national decision-making, the representation quota of regions in elected bodies, and the national development plan, it is important to create a transparent system based on proper data. Therefore, the Government plans, during this first term, to conduct a National Census.
Similarly, fulfilling the promise I made during the presidential election campaign, I will appoint a technical committee to study the need for constitutional amendments and the procedure for doing so.
3.1 Production
Development begins with stabilizing and growing the economy and benefiting from the various natural resources.
It is important to have an economy built on a strong foundation that can withstand challenges from both inside and outside.
In 2025, the Government made great efforts to develop the economy and the country’s financial system.
The system whereby all government revenue is collected in a single treasury account (Treasury Single Account – TSA) was implemented. This simplifies the management and protection of the nation’s money and assets.
Despite tensions in the Red Sea, the economy grew in 2025. Commercial activity at the Port of Berbera increased, with cargo volumes 27% higher than the previous year.
Livestock exports to Gulf countries reached three million six hundred thousand (3.6 million) head, including camels, cattle, and sheep/goats, along with 16 tonnes of meat. Exports of fish, various gums, and minerals also increased.
The national budget increased by 20% compared to the previous year, while government expenditure was reduced by 9%.
However, the Government incurred debts to fund the nationalization of civilian armed groups, the takeover of their equipment and vehicles, salary increases for national forces, and peace and security operations — expenses that were not included in the 2025 national budget.
- Livestock:
Livestock is the backbone of the Republic of Somaliland’s economy. Therefore, the Government gives special priority to strengthening veterinary care and livestock trade.
In 2025, veterinary care and treatment were provided to three million (3 million) head of livestock of various types.
More than sixty-three (63) veterinary centers were reopened, and a modern veterinary center was established in Hargeisa.
The livestock research and development centers in Aroori, Wajaale, and Gar’adag were further modernized and improved. The Qool-Aday plains was successfully established, which will provide great benefit to our livestock.
- Agriculture
Agriculture is an untapped resource that plays an important role in strengthening the economy and ensuring food security. The Wajaale agricultural development project was implemented.
One thousand two hundred and four (1,204) farmers were trained in combating crop diseases and pests.
Farmers were provided with equipment to increase production, such as water pumps, drip irrigation systems, and greenhouses.
Ponds for agricultural irrigation in some areas were dug or rehabilitated and equipped with solar-powered systems.
Various farmers received financial incentives, and some were provided with shared tractors for their communities.
- Fisheries
The Government has made efforts to promote and develop the fish trade.
Two hundred (200) fishermen received training in modern fishing and fish preservation. Six hundred (600) fishermen were provided with modern storage containers and fishing equipment.
3.2 Infrastructure
In 2025, the Government carried out good work on basic infrastructure that directly affects the daily lives of citizens, including the development of water and electricity services and making them more accessible.
- Roads
Roads are vital for economic growth, social unity, security, public service delivery, and overall national development.
Despite economic challenges, the Government, recognizing the great importance of roads, is committed to developing them. Upon taking office, it immediately began work on the Hargeisa–Balli Gubadle and Borama–Baki roads.
Various circumstances caused some delays, but fortunately, construction of these roads has never stopped. Today, 60% of the work has been completed, and the plan is for them to be finished in 2026.
Preparation for the largest road project ever undertaken in Somaliland is now in its final stages — the Lawya-Addo–Fardaha–Borama road, with support from the African Development Bank.
The groundbreaking ceremony for this road will be held soon.
- Water
A detailed survey of the country’s water resources was conducted to obtain reliable data to guide the management and development of water infrastructure.
The knowledge and skills of water sector workers were enhanced, including sending water experts to Israel, which has advanced greatly in water management.
In Borama town, the price of piped water per cubic metre was reduced by 24%. The pricing of water in US dollars was also stopped so that prices do not fluctuate with exchange rates.
To make clean water more accessible to people and livestock, 72 boreholes were dug or rehabilitated in various regions. Sixteen ponds for rainwater harvesting were also dug.
Citizens were encouraged to invest in water, and public-private partnership (PPP) systems were implemented in several towns.
The Government’s plan is to provide clean, easily accessible, and affordably priced water.
- Electricity
Electricity is essential for economic development. It is part of natural resource production, industrialization, modern commerce, health, and education.
We are pleased that last year we succeeded in reducing electricity prices in the country. In Berbera, which had the highest need, the price was brought down to twenty cents (0.20) per kilowatt (kW). In other towns, prices were reduced by 19%.
The long-term goal of the Government is to bring the price per kilowatt down to twenty cents (0.20) across the entire country, Insha Allah.
Solar power generation capacity was increased by 24% with support from the World Bank. This increase will reduce dependence on expensive diesel-generated electricity.
A plan is underway to provide free solar electricity to health centers and schools in remote areas.
The first phase, covering 46 health facilities and 57 educational institutions, is nearing completion. These will be equipped with powerful solar systems.
- Communications and Technology
The Government has taken steps to expand technological infrastructure and strengthen Somaliland’s ability to benefit from it.
The plan to extend high-speed fiber-optic internet cables across the entire country has been completed. This project, implemented by the Government, is supported by the World Bank.
The activation of the National Data Centre is nearing completion. It will serve as the foundation for national data security and the implementation of the Government’s electronic management system (e-Government), which will make government services easier for citizens to access.
To encourage youth creativity and develop the country’s digital economy, an annual competition has been introduced in which young people showcase their technological innovations. The winner of first place each year receives a national award presented by the President.
3.3 Investment
Relying on an economy based on a single resource makes a country vulnerable to damage if problems affect that resource or its market is closed.
For our economic growth to be stable and sustainable, we need to develop our abundant natural resources, find diverse markets, and establish industries. This cannot be achieved without attracting both foreign and domestic investment.
It is essential to showcase our untapped resources to the world, build confidence for foreign investment, and actively seek opportunities rather than wait for them. Therefore, we participated in important international economic forums.
- We participated twice in the World Governments Summit in Dubai, which brings together more than 6,000 guests from about 150 countries, including presidents, political leaders, and thousands of investors and economic experts.
- We also had the opportunity to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland — the most influential gathering that sets the global economic agenda.
- We participated in the Africa Economic Forum, which focuses on developing Africa’s economies and investment opportunities, held in the United Arab Emirates.
At these forums, we conducted campaigns presenting Somaliland’s strategic resources and untapped investment opportunities to international companies, investors, and global capitalists.
Our participation greatly increased our visibility on the world stage, raised awareness among international investors about our resources, and opened new doors for investment opportunities in the country. We returned from these forums with very high hopes that the Republic of Somaliland will attract investment in the near future, Insha Allah.
I take this opportunity to encourage citizen businessmen to invest in small industries and agriculture. The Government will provide significant facilitation for them.
3.4 Economic Challenges
- The Impact of the Middle East Conflict
The impact of the Middle East conflict on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, and on oil shipping routes, has caused economic problems affecting the entire world.
Fuel prices, shipping costs, and maritime insurance have risen. This has led to severe inflation and uncertainty in markets for essential goods, especially in Somaliland, which imports food, fuel, and basic commodities. Government revenue declined by an average of 23% in the first three months of 2026 compared to projections.
The Government has taken steps to strengthen preparedness against fuel and food shortages and to monitor market prices. It is also working, in cooperation with traders, to find alternative sources of fuel and food.
The most important lesson this situation has taught us is the need to increase domestic production, especially of food. As I have repeated many times, the Government is encouraging and working on investment in this sector both domestically and internationally.
- The Environment and Climate Change
Problems caused by climate change include recurring droughts, water scarcity, deforestation, and soil erosion that threaten livestock, food security, and economic stability.
Environmental protection is a national responsibility to which the Government gives high priority. Therefore, programs have been implemented to strengthen environmental protection, tree planting, and resilience to climate change. Last year, more than six hundred thousand (600,000) trees were planted, and the same number will be planted this year.
High-level training was also provided to environmental workers and community members on climate change adaptation.
The President emphasized that a nation’s development begins with investment in its people, requiring an educated, healthy society with skills and work capacity.
- Education Development
Education is the most impactful investment we can make in our youth. Education improves the workforce, strengthens national institutions, and guides us on the right path for developing our country. With this vision, the Government has given special priority to education development.
Thirty-six (36) schools were built, including primary, secondary, upper secondary, and early childhood education. One hundred and twenty (120) new classrooms were added to various schools that were overcrowded.
In terms of quality, the curricula for primary and secondary schools, teacher training, Quranic education, and technical/vocational schools were reformed and modernized. Some have been completed and implemented, while others are nearing completion.
More than two thousand (2,000) people — including existing and newly prepared teachers, supervisors, and school administrators at various levels — received higher education, professional development, and training. Six hundred (600) of them are women. One hundred and six (106) female teachers were employed.
The Government is committed to building an education system capable of preparing our young people for the future.
- Health Development
In 2025, the Government implemented a national health data storage system to improve planning, coordination, and management of healthcare across the country.
Medical equipment and medicines were delivered to 142 facilities, including health centers and hospitals, to enhance the services provided to the public.
Various training programs were provided to two thousand five hundred and forty-six (2,546) health workers, including doctors, nurses, and other professionals.
Construction has begun on the national specialized hospital with support from the Government of Taiwan. We are very hopeful that it will greatly contribute to meeting the healthcare needs of the capital and its surroundings.
The Government of the United Arab Emirates, with whom we are friends, will begin construction this year (2026) of a modern hospital in Burao offering various specialized medical services.
- Youth Development
Since the majority of our society is young, investing in their future is a priority for the Government, just like education, job creation, sports, and participation in national social activities.
To encourage youth interaction and keep them away from drugs and immorality, seven (7) fully modern sports fields have been completed.
Various young people were sent to participate in international sports events. This gave them the opportunity to gain playing experience that elevates national sports, while also carrying Somaliland’s cause and flag to world arenas.
To build on this, the Government will continue job creation for youth and promote technical and vocational education, which is crucial for employment and economic development.”
- Care for Vulnerable People
The Government’s policy is to prevent citizens from being too widely separated in living standards. It takes special responsibility for caring for vulnerable groups.
With this in mind, houses were built for 101 families among these citizens, while 200 displaced families were given land. Four hundred (400) families received cash grants intended for investment in small businesses.
- Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
5.1 Recognition and Diplomacy
The goal of our foreign policy is for the Republic of Somaliland to obtain the recognition it rightfully deserves, and to seek strategic partnerships with countries based on mutual interests.
Our foreign policy is guided by the principles of peace, cooperation, and responsible, equal relations with the world.
In 2025, our diplomacy focused on increasing our international engagement, building strategic friendships, and accelerating the pursuit of recognition.
Recognition is not only about diplomatic relations; it is a path to many opportunities that our country and people urgently need today.
International recognition attracts investors, facilitates foreign trade, opens access to international financial institutions, strengthens security cooperation with many countries, and enables us to gain membership in regional and international organizations.
It is an opportunity that will enable the Republic of Somaliland to play a role in regional stability, security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, and cooperation in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
Recognizing the importance of recognition and the many challenges our people have faced without it for a long time, we have devoted considerable time and effort to the pursuit of recognition.
The Government of Israel is the first country to take a bold decision by recognizing the Republic of Somaliland. We believe it will be a reliable friend. It will not be the only one; other countries will recognize us in the near future.
There are also countries that wish to establish diplomatic relations and cooperation equivalent to recognition.
These achievements that Somaliland has attained have angered many enemies. Plots against our nation and our recognition have been organized in many places.
I call upon both houses of Parliament, the various national institutions, civil society, and all citizens of the country to welcome this success and those that will follow with unity, solidarity, and confidence. Let us all work together to defend our nation.
The historic re-recognition we have received, and the diplomatic relations we have established, reflect that the world has understood the case of the Republic of Somaliland, which has been misrepresented for more than 60 years.
Since the recognition, the Republic of Somaliland has hosted a large number of delegations consisting mainly of diplomats, heads of international and regional organizations, and international investors.
This demonstrates the growing interest the world has in relations with Somaliland, its stability, its democratic system, and its strategic role in the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea.
To build the capacity of our diplomatic staff, the Somaliland Institute of Diplomacy was established. It has provided high-level training to the first batch of diplomats to prepare a new generation with strong diplomatic skills who can represent us in the world.
5.2 Relations with Neighboring Countries
The Republic of Somaliland gives special priority to maintaining good relations with neighboring countries. It believes in the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence, since the stability and development of the region are interconnected.
It is ready to further strengthen relations with these countries while respecting their sovereignty, borders, and internal affairs, and expects the same in return.
We thank Ethiopia, with which we have long enjoyed healthy, mutually respectful relations. We expect even more from our brotherly countries in the region.
The Republic of Somaliland is ready for relations that do not undermine its sovereignty and for cooperation on shared interests, including peace, security, facilitating movement, strengthening economic and cross-border trade cooperation, infrastructure development, maritime security, environmental protection, and overall regional stability.
To the Government in Mogadishu (Somalia), I call upon them to recognize that the sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland has reached a point of no return.
Today, the only open path for Somalia is for us to become two brotherly countries with good unneighborly relations. We are ready for that. We are telling them to accept the reality that Somaliland has become an independent and recognized country.
Although many tasks were accomplished in 2025, there is still more work ahead. There are recurring security challenges in different places, and the complex situation in the Middle East and the Red Sea. These are challenges that sometimes prevent us from progressing as we would like.
In 2026, we will focus on strengthening the foundations of our economy — first by increasing efforts to benefit from our untapped resources such as minerals, expanding crop production, increasing investment in livestock and fisheries, boosting exports, building economic infrastructure, and investing in social services including health, education, water, and electricity.
Ultimately, to achieve our aspirations, we need strong cooperation among our national institutions and to strengthen the unity of our people and their confidence in statehood.
I thank you for the laws you have previously drafted or approved and which previous governments have submitted to you.
The Unity and Performance Government of the Republic of Somaliland has prepared policies and strategies that will guide the various sectors of national work.
It has also drafted, amended, or supplemented laws that serve as the framework for that work. Some of these are before you, while others will be submitted to you soon.
The Government is committed to completing the legislation and implementing the laws that come from you, as well as the policies and strategies it develops.
I especially thank you for fulfilling your duties and for the cooperation and joint work for the national interest that exists between us.
May Allah bless the Republic of Somaliland.
Long live Somaliland. May Somaliland endure. Allah will.
The address was received with attention by parliamentarians and is seen as a comprehensive roadmap for Somaliland’s continued nation-building efforts in the face of both domestic and regional challenges.
