The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has received US$118 million from the United States Government, through USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, to provide life-saving assistance to over 1 million displaced people in Burundi, Djibouti, Kenya, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The number of displaced people in Eastern Africa has doubled over the past four years, rising from 13.2 million in 2020 to 26.5 million in 2024. This increase is largely due to conflict, with the war in Sudan forcing record numbers of people from their homes, as well as extreme weather events such as the 2020-2023 Horn of Africa drought.
“People who have lost their homes and livelihoods represent a significant portion of those WFP aims to reach across eastern Africa this year. This funding from the US is critical to ensure we can maintain support for these vulnerable displaced people, many of whom rely almost entirely on humanitarian assistance to survive,” said Laurent Bukera, WFP’s Regional Director for Eastern Africa.
The growth in the number of displaced people in recent years has not been matched by a growth in resources, forcing WFP to make difficult decisions about who receives food assistance and how much. None of the displaced people that WFP supports in Burundi, Djibouti, Kenya, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, or Uganda are receiving a full ration (equivalent to 2,100 kilocalories) due to funding pressures.
The timely contribution from the US will enable WFP to provide cash transfers and in-kind food assistance to over one million displaced people, including refugees, asylum seekers, returnees, internally displaced persons, and some food-insecure host communities. In Rwanda, it will prevent a pipeline break in WFP’s refugee operation, ensuring continuity and stability for the most vulnerable through early 2025.
Burundi: WFP supports over 60,000 refugees and asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash and in-kind at 75 percent of a full food ration. Burundian returnees receive food assistance for 3 months on arrival. WFP supports an average of 4,200 returnees per month.
Djibouti: WFP supports 23,000 refugees and asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash and in-kind at 70 percent of a full food ration.
Kenya: WFP supports 650,000 refugees and asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash and in-kind at 40 percent of a full food ration.
Republic of Congo: WFP supports over 30,000 refugeesand asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash at 70 percent of a full food ration.
Rwanda: WFP supports over 120,000 refugees, asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash and in-kind at 75 percent of a full ration for the most vulnerable refugees. People classed as moderately vulnerable receive a 37.5 percent ration and support through livelihood strengthening activities that support a transition to self-reliance.
Tanzania: WFP supports 191,000 refugees and asylum seekers with in-kind food assistance at 82 percent of a full food ration.
Uganda: WFP supports 1.4 million refugees and asylum seekers with food assistance in the form of cash and in-kind at 60 percent of a full ration for the most vulnerable refugees and a 30 percent ration for those classed as moderately vulnerable. New arrivals receive a full ration for the first three months. WFP also supports 52,000 refugees and Ugandan nationals with livelihood strengthening activities that support a transition to self-reliance. WFP
The African Union (AU) has urged Ethiopia and Somalia to implement "without delay" an agreement aimed at ending tensions between the neighbours over Ethiopia's access to the sea, calling the deal an "important act."
The two countries have been at loggerheads since landlocked Ethiopia struck a deal in January with Somalia's breakaway region Somaliland to lease a stretch of coastline for a port and military base.
In return, Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 in a move not recognized by Mogadishu, said Ethiopia would give it formal recognition, although this was never confirmed by Addis Ababa.
Somalia branded the deal a violation of its sovereignty, setting international alarm bells ringing over the risk of renewed conflict in the volatile region.
Following hours of Turkish-brokered talks, Ankara announced late on Dec. 12 that an "historic" agreement had been reached between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said he believed the agreement would help Ethiopia gain its long-desired access to the sea. Technical talks are set for next year.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had flown into Ankara for the talks following two previous rounds that made little progress.
Speaking in the Turkish capital after the agreement, Mohamud said the neighbours had "mutual interests in cooperating together."
"We belong to a region where peace and stability is first priority for our people's lives," he said.
African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat stressed the "important act" taken by the leaders to find a deal but emphasized the urgency to "implement, without delay, the relevant measures adopted."
He did not give any indication in the statement, posted on social media platform X, of what measures had been agreed.
East Africa's regional bloc IGAD (the Intergovernmental Authority on Development) also welcomed the agreement as an "important step."
It "demonstrates a commitment to resolving bilateral issues amicably," IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu said.
According to the text of the accord published by Türkiye, the parties agreed "to put aside differences of opinion and contentious issues, and to move resolutely forward in cooperation towards common prosperity."
They agreed to work closely together on commercial arrangements and bilateral agreements that would ensure Ethiopia's "reliable, safe and sustainable access" to the sea "under the sovereign authority of the Federal Republic of Somalia."
To that end, it said they would start technical talks no later than the end of February which would be completed "within four months", with any differences to be dealt with "through dialogue, where necessary with Türkiye's support." Daily News
The government has announced plans to fast-track dual citizenship applications for Kenyans who renounced their citizenship before the 2010 Constitution.
Immigration and Citizen services Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the decision will attract Diaspora investments and skilled migration.
The Ministry of Interior and Coordination of national government committed to fast-tracking and clearing backlogs of citizenship and permanent residence applications.
According to the Kenya Constitution, 2010 and the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act of 2011, Kenyan citizens who have acquired other nationalities are required to disclose their other citizenship within 3 months of becoming a dual citizen.
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that they are appalled by reports of massive civilian casualties due to air strikes on a market in Kabkabiya in Sudan’s North Darfur State earlier this week. Local sources tell us that more than 100 people were killed, with many more wounded.
UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarric who was briefing the media in New York on Thursday said there were reports of another 20 people killed in another attack in Khartoum.
“Our humanitarian colleagues tell us that there were also reports yesterday that at least 20 people were killed by heavy artillery fire in Omdurman in Khartoum State, in an area controlled by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), HE SAID.
“As we have said repeatedly, and I think that the Secretary-General has been very clear on this, the large-scale violence we have seen against civilians, in North Darfur, Aj Jazirah, and Khartoum and beyond, underscores the need for immediate de-escalation.”
Dujarric added: “Our humanitarian colleagues stress that after almost 20 months of conflict, the bloodshed in Sudan must stop now.”
He urged all parties to respect international law, and international humanitarian law and protect civilians.
“The parties must do all they can to spare civilians and civilian objects,” the spokesperson stated. Radio Tamazuj
Congratulations on your historic and decisive victory. The 64% mandate given by the people of Somaliland is both a testament to their trust and a call to action. It reflects their desire for a leader who can heal divisions, restore economic stability, and guide the nation toward a prosperous future. As the saying goes, “𝑇𝑜 𝑤ℎ𝑜𝑚 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑖𝑠 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑛, 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑖𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑.”
This letter is both a message of encouragement and a humble appeal for wisdom-based leadership. Drawing from the timeless examples of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his companions, and modern leaders who transformed their nations, I wish to offer perspectives on leading Somaliland during this pivotal moment.
𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲
Somaliland is at a crossroads. Regional disparities, tribal tensions, and political divisions have eroded unity. Healing these divisions is paramount for progress.
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Medina, he found a deeply divided city. His first act was to establish the Constitution of Medina, which created a unified society under the principles of mutual respect, justice, and cooperation. He treated every group fairly, ensuring inclusivity regardless of religion or tribe. His leadership showed that unity is achieved through fairness, consultation, and justice.
leaders like Nelson Mandela in South Africa inherited fractured nations but prioritized reconciliation and unity over vengeance. Mandela’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission acknowledged past injustices while fostering a spirit of forgiveness. As he wisely noted, “𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑠𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑜𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑘𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑒𝑠.”
For Somaliland, initiating national dialogue with tribal elders, civil society, and marginalized communities can foster trust and harmony. A government that treats all regions equitably will pave the way for lasting unity.
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁
Economic instability and eroded trust in government institutions are significant challenges you face. Mismanagement, corruption, and nepotism have undermined progress. Yet, history shows us that transformative leadership can reverse even the gravest economic challenges.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), even before his prophethood, was renowned for his ethical dealings in trade, earning him the title Al-Amin (The Trustworthy). As a leader, he encouraged fair trade, banned exploitative practices, and ensured equitable distribution of resources.
Modern examples like Franklin D. Roosevelt in the United States offer lessons in addressing economic crises. In the wake of the Great Depression, Roosevelt implemented the New Deal, a series of bold reforms that revived the economy, provided jobs, and restored confidence in government institutions. His famous words, “𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑖𝑠 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑖𝑡𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓,” rallied the nation to confront challenges with courage and determination.
For Somaliland:
● Strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms to ensure government resources are used for public benefit.
● Prioritize sectors like agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and small businesses to create jobs and reduce dependency on aid.
● Introduce independent oversight bodies to monitor government spending and promote accountability.
As the Somali proverb goes, “𝐴 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑏𝑢𝑖𝑙𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑑𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑.” Let your administration be the model of transparency and ethical governance.
𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺
Leadership is not a solo endeavor. A capable, diverse, and ethical team amplifies the impact of a leader’s vision. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified this by appointing individuals based on merit, integrity, and expertise. For instance, he sent Muadh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen as a governor because of his knowledge and ability to administer justice.
Modern examples reaffirm the importance of a strong team. Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew surrounded himself with technocrats who shared his vision of transformation. Together, they turned Singapore from a struggling nation into a global economic powerhouse. His guiding principle was simple: “𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧.”
In contrast, President Muse Bihi’s administration relied heavily on favouritism, often appointing individuals based on loyalty rather than competence. This weakened institutions and deepened public mistrust.
Your administration must break from this pattern by selecting leaders who reflect Somaliland’s diversity and possess the expertise to drive reform. “𝐴 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑖𝑠 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑜𝑑 𝑎𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚.” Surround yourself with advisors who challenge you constructively and align with your vision for progress.
𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
Your landslide victory brings with it immense expectations. Somalilanders believe in your ability to deliver on your promises. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against breaking trust, saying, “𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑠 𝑎 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑒 𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑏𝑟𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟, ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑓𝑢𝑙𝑓𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑡.”
Modern leadership examples highlight the importance of delivering on promises. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil inherited an economy plagued by inequality and corruption. Through decisive reforms and pro-poor policies, he lifted millions out of poverty while restoring trust in government.
In contrast, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe squandered his early goodwill by failing to address corruption and mismanagement. His broken promises led to economic collapse and widespread disillusionment.
To succeed, your administration must:
1. Prioritize quick wins in key areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure to demonstrate immediate progress.
2. Communicate openly with the public about challenges and progress.
3. Ensure that all government actions align with the principles of fairness and equity outlined in the Waddani manifesto.
As John Maxwell wisely said, “𝐴 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑖𝑠 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑦, 𝑔𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑦, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑤𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑦.” Be that leader for Somaliland.
You are inheriting a government system plagued by corruption, weak institutions, and regional instability. Addressing these systemic issues requires wisdom, patience, and courage.
The leadership of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) provides a powerful example. He implemented reforms that ensured accountability at all levels, even declaring, “𝐼𝑓 𝑎 𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑒 𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝐼𝑟𝑎𝑞, 𝐼 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐴𝑙𝑙𝑎ℎ 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑖𝑡.” His governance was marked by justice, transparency, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Modern leaders like Paul Kagame of Rwanda also faced immense challenges. After the 1994 genocide, Kagame rebuilt Rwanda by focusing on good governance, zero tolerance for corruption, and fostering national unity. His leadership transformed Rwanda into one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
In contrast, Muse Bihi’s administration failed to address corruption and foster national cohesion. Its legacy of nepotism and resource mismanagement stands as a cautionary tale.
𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) left behind a legacy of justice, equality, and moral governance, transforming Arabia into a model society. Modern leaders like Nelson Mandela and Lee Kuan Yew have shown that transformational leadership is possible even in the face of immense challenges.
Let your presidency be remembered as a turning point in Somaliland’s history. Build a legacy where divisions were healed, prosperity was shared, and justice prevailed. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑑 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑖𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠.”
May Allah grant you wisdom, strength, and the courage to fulfil this noble mission.
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