Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Cirro” has met representatives of the international community and international organisations based in Kenya during a visit to Nairobi.
The meeting focused on the situation in Somaliland, the government’s development plans and efforts to strengthen cooperation and relations with the international community.
According to a statement from the President’s office, President Cirro discussed his government’s priorities, saying Somaliland sought partnerships and investment based on mutual interests and cooperation, rather than relying on foreign aid.
Peace and security
President Cirro said that peace and stability were the top priorities of his administration.
He said more than 6,000 clan-based militia members, together with their equipment, had been integrated into the Somaliland security forces after being formally incorporated and provided with training.
He also said that clashes in parts of western Somaliland were being addressed through dialogue, reconciliation and a peaceful process.
On the situation in Las Anod, the President said his administration wanted the issue to be resolved through dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful means.
Somaliland’s pursuit of recognition
On the issue of international recognition, President Cirro described Israel’s recognition of Somaliland on 26 December 2025 as a “historic event”, but said it did not mark the end of Somaliland’s efforts to secure wider international recognition.
He said Somaliland’s aspirations were based on security, stability, democracy and functioning state institutions.
Somaliland has long sought international recognition, maintaining that it is an independent state that separated from Somalia in 1991.
Development and infrastructure
The President also outlined his government’s development priorities, saying particular attention would be given to roads, water, energy, healthcare, education and telecommunications.
He highlighted projects to develop strategic roads, as well as efforts to reduce electricity costs and expand clean energy.
Water security, particularly the exploration and utilisation of underground water resources, was also described as a key priority.
President Cirro called on the international community to support Somaliland through expertise, technical assistance and technology.
“We are not seeking aid alone”
President Cirro said Somaliland did not want to approach the international community solely with requests for aid, but also wanted to demonstrate its achievements and identify opportunities for mutually beneficial investment and cooperation.
He urged international partners to assess Somaliland on the basis of its current circumstances, its achievements and its institutional development.
The President said cooperation between Somaliland and the international community should be based on mutual respect, facts, performance and shared interests.
