HARGEISA (KAAB TV) – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Abdillahi Ismail (Irro), announced today during a meeting with key business leaders in Hargeisa that he will soon travel to the town of Erigabo, the capital of the Sanaag region, as part of a new government-led peace initiative.
This visit is part of a broader reconciliation effort launched by the Somaliland government aimed at resolving recent inter-clan conflicts that have destabilized parts of the Sanaag region.
The tensions have involved confrontations between members of the Warsangali and Habar Je’elo clans, two major communities with a historical presence in the area.
A statement released by the Somaliland Presidency, signed by Presidential Spokesperson Hussein Aden Deyr, emphasized that the purpose of the Erigavo peace initiative is to bring an end to recurring clan-based violence and restore long-term stability to the region.
The statement reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive dialogue, local mediation, and sustainable peacebuilding across Somaliland’s eastern regions.
Local officials in Sanaag confirmed to KAAB TV that preparations are underway in Erigavo to receive President Irro and his delegation, who are expected to meet with clan elders, religious leaders, civil society representatives, and regional administrators.
The President is expected to formally launch the peace initiative in Erigavo, signaling the beginning of a structured reconciliation process involving all stakeholders.
In a significant diplomatic development, sources close to the negotiations informed Kaab TV that Somaliland and neighboring Puntland have recently engaged in dialogue regarding the conflict in Sanaag.
While Puntland has historically claimed parts of the region, both administrations reportedly expressed a shared interest in reducing tensions and avoiding further escalation.
According to those familiar with the discussions, there is a newfound alignment in the desire to prioritize peace and community-led resolution efforts over political rivalry.
This marks a rare moment of political convergence between the two administrations, following years of dispute over territorial claims in eastern Somaliland.
The new leadership in Puntland had recently reiterated claims over areas within Sanaag, including Erigavo, which the Somaliland government firmly rejected.
However, recent talks suggest a possible shift toward a more cooperative approach.
President Irro’s upcoming visit to Erigavo will be his first major field engagement in the conflict-affected region since assuming office.
It is widely seen as a test of his administration’s ability to deliver on its promises of unity, peace, and effective governance throughout the country.
Somaliland, a self-declared republic that has enjoyed relative peace and democratic governance compared to much of the Horn of Africa, continues to face internal challenges in managing clan dynamics and regional disputes.
The Erigavo peace mission is being closely watched both domestically and internationally as a critical step toward consolidating peace in the eastern frontier of the unrecognized state.