Amanze Chinonye
Somaliland has renewed its campaign for international recognition after U.S. President Donald Trump described the territory as a “totally different country” from Somalia, prompting celebrations in its capital but no indication of a change in Washington’s diplomatic policy.
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The territory’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation welcomed Trump’s remarks, saying they underscored Somaliland’s distinct identity and separate political status. The ministry reiterated the territory’s commitment to securing international recognition.
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Hundreds of people gathered in Hargeisa on Wednesday, waving Somaliland and U.S. flags following Trump’s comments at a rally in Ohio on Monday. Participants celebrated the remarks as a sign of potential progress towards recognition.
Somaliland declared the restoration of its independence from Somalia in May 1991, following the collapse of the central government. It has since maintained its own administration, security forces, currency and passport system, while Somalia continues to regard the territory as part of its sovereign territory.
The territory’s strategic position along the Gulf of Aden is central to its efforts to strengthen international ties. Berbera port, operated by Dubai-based DP World, lies near the Bab el-Mandeb maritime corridor, a key shipping route linking the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.
Somaliland’s bid for recognition has also drawn attention because of regional competition over maritime access and infrastructure. Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland in January 2024 seeking access to the sea through the territory, triggering a dispute with Somalia over sovereignty and maritime access.
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Saudi Arabia Rejects Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland, Reaffirms Support for Somalia
Israel formally recognised Somaliland in December 2025, becoming the first country to do so. The decision drew condemnation from Somalia and criticism from regional actors. Somaliland has continued to seek broader international support, including closer relations with the United States.
However, Somaliland’s international status remains disputed, with Somalia opposing its separation and the African Union generally maintaining support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
