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 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.
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.
African Trade & Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI) and African Solidarity Fund (ASF) have signed a framework cooperation agreement, paving the way for further strategic collaboration to promote economic development and mitigate the risks associated with investment and trade in Africa.
The agreement signed on the sidelines of the Africa Investment Forum 2024 (AIF 2024) held in Rabat –Morocco last week, provides a framework for cooperation in support of infrastructure and economic development projects in member states belonging to both institutions (Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal and Togo), and also helps mitigate risk for investors, corporates and lenders looking to invest in Africa.
Commenting on the deal, ASF Managing Director Mr. Abdourahmane Diallo said the marked an important milestone in promoting sustainable development in Africa.
“We are joining forces to drive investment and encourage economic growth across the continent, while ensuring a secure environment for investors,” Mr. Diallo said.
ATIDI CEO Manuel Moses, on his part noted that the partnership presented the Company with an opportunity to strengthen its range of practical financial solutions designed to meet Africa's economic challenges, including by mitigating the risks that often hinder trade & investment.
“It also reflects the need for multilateral institutions to work together to facilitate access to development financing for our continent. Together, we will help create a prosperous future for member states and African businesses," Mr. Manuel added.
The main objectives of this partnership include marketing of both organizations' risk mitigation solutions for commercial and investment transactions; supporting the development of renewable energy sources and infrastructure within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA); and developing professional skills and improving the business environment in Africa.
The agreement represents a turning point for both institutions, which are committed to co-ordinating their efforts to boost intra-African trade, encourage investment in projects with strategic impact, and promote economic development across the continent.
The African Solidarity Fund (ASF) is a pan-African financial institution headquartered in Niamey, Niger. It became operational in September 1979, and its mandate is to contribute to the economic development and social progress of its African member states by facilitating, through its various methods of intervention, access to the financial resources required for investment projects and other income-generating activities. The ASF currently has twenty-three (29) Regional Member States in seven (7) of the eight (8) African Regional Economic Communities (RECs) (EAC, ECOWAS, ECCAS, CEN-SAD, COMESA, SADC and AMU). www.fondsolidariteafricain.org
ATIDI was founded in 2001 by African States to cover trade and investment risks of companies doing business in Africa. ATIDI predominantly provides Political Risk, Credit Insurance and, Surety Insurance. Since inception, ATIDI has supported USD85 billion worth of investments and cross border trade into Africa. For over a decade, ATIDI has maintained an ‘A/Stable’ rating for Financial Strength and Counterparty Credit by Standard & Poor’s, and in 2019, ATIDI obtained an A3/Stable rating from Moody’s, which has now been revised to A3/Positive. www.atidi.africa
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