Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad
Hargeisa, Somaliland
Somaliland’s dream of being officially recognized by the world just got a huge push. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has openly called on President Donald Trump to recognize Somaliland as an independent country, based on its 1960 borders. Senator Cruz described Somaliland as an “important U.S. security partner” in the Horn of Africa. He said its location is key for protecting trade routes in the Red Sea, fighting terrorism, and keeping global supply chains safe. He also warned that Somaliland is under growing pressure from China and Somalia, and that America should act now to support it. For Somaliland, this is one of the strongest signs yet that powerful voices in the U.S. are taking its case seriously. Many Somalilanders see this as a moment of hope that their decades-long wait for recognition may soon be over.
Our friends in Somalia are beginning to confront a stark new reality, one that carries significant implications for the stability and sovereignty of Somaliland. This challenging situation necessitates not only heightened awareness but also immediate and decisive action from all sectors of our society, including government, civil society, and local communities.
We would like to take this moment to express our profound gratitude to Senator Ted Cruz for his steadfast support for the Republic of Somaliland during these trying times. His commitment underscores the importance of having influential allies on the international stage, which can play a crucial role in our quest for recognition and support.
In light of recent developments, this situation calls for a re-evaluation of our diplomatic strategy. It should remain flexible and adaptive, allowing us to anticipate not only new opportunities for collaboration but also the conditional demands that may arise in our interactions with the United States and other global powers. By doing so, we can ensure that our approach effectively addresses both the challenges we face and the possibilities that may enhance our standing on the international stage.
As tensions rise, we should expect our adversaries, both foreign and domestic, to intensify their campaigns aimed at destabilizing our progress. These efforts will likely include targeted propaganda, disinformation, political infiltration, and attempts to exploit societal divisions. This makes it absolutely essential for Somaliland’s intelligence and security agencies to maintain constant vigilance, enhance their counter-intelligence capabilities, and strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Equally important is public cooperation. Communities must be educated on the signs of infiltration, extremist recruitment, and coordinated disinformation. Citizens should feel empowered and obligated to report suspicious activity, knowing that they are a vital part of the national defense network.
We cannot ignore the fact that the Ethiopian government is Somaliland’s security partner. The two sides have to cooperate. Certain individuals within borders may be vulnerable to recruitment by those working to weaken our statehood. These individuals may be motivated by personal grievances, financial incentives, or ideological manipulation. The risk they pose is not theoretical, it is immediate and real. Preventive engagement, surveillance, and targeted counter-radicalization efforts are needed to neutralize this threat before it escalates.
Recently, a former security officer from Somalia, associated with the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), made a controversial statement urging the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization to intensify its military actions against both Ethiopia and Somaliland. This alarming call to arms serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security threats in the region and highlights the necessity for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to counter extremist violence. Furthermore, it is concerning to note that the leader of this effort, who is also the defense minister of the Villa-Somalia administration, appears to support these provocative actions, raising questions about the stability of the region and the potential for increased conflict. As tensions escalate, it becomes crucial for both local and international communities to remain alert and to implement strategies aimed at preventing further unrest.
At the diplomatic front, Somaliland’s foreign affairs personnel must operate with renewed urgency. This means not just routine representation, but active lobbying, relationship building, and crisis diplomacy. Our diplomats must mobilize every available channel, governmental, media, and diaspora networks—to ensure our narrative is not overshadowed by our adversaries. Engagement with allies should be strategic and continuous, with clear objectives and follow-up actions.
We must also remain realistic about the geopolitical landscape. Arab nations, including UAE, will most likely align themselves with U.S. policy. This alignment could work in our favor if we maintain strong U.S. support.
Finally, the complexity of the challenges we face demands a whole-of-nation approach. The government cannot carry this burden alone. Civil society, the media, business leaders, the diaspora, and the general public must all contribute to safeguarding our sovereignty. National unity is not a slogan, it is the decisive factor in whether we succeed or fail in this critical period.
Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad is a senior consultant. He has also studied international diplomacy and is a political analyst and writer known for his detailed commentary on the politics of the Horn of Africa and international relations. He has published numerous articles analysing current policies in the region and is a strong supporter of the cause of the Republic of Somaliland. He can be reached at: tra50526@gmail.com 15/8/2025
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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