Abdirahman Irro Archives - Kaab TV

Somaliland President Begins Historic Working Visit to the United States

Staff Reporter — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:27:05 +0000

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), departed today on an official working visit to the United States, traveling first through the United Arab Emirates before continuing to Washington, D.C.

The visit marks President Irro’s first trip to the United States since assuming office and is being viewed as one of the most significant diplomatic engagements undertaken by Somaliland’s current administration.

The visit comes at a time when Somaliland is seeking to expand its international partnerships, strengthen economic and security cooperation, attract foreign investment, and advance its longstanding campaign for international recognition.

According to Somaliland officials, President Irro is expected to hold a series of high-level meetings with U.S. policymakers, members of Congress, diplomats, business leaders, think tanks, and representatives of the Somaliland diaspora.

Discussions are expected to focus on regional security in the Horn of Africa, maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, economic cooperation, investment opportunities, democratic governance, and Somaliland’s strategic role in regional stability.

The visit also provides an opportunity for Somaliland to showcase its democratic credentials, relative stability, and economic potential.

Somaliland has increasingly sought to present itself as a reliable partner in a region facing persistent security and political challenges, particularly as global attention remains focused on Red Sea security, international trade routes, and counterterrorism efforts.

President Irro is also expected to use the visit to highlight Somaliland’s position on international recognition, a goal that has remained central to Hargeisa’s foreign policy since Somaliland declared the restoration of its independence in 1991.

Somaliland argues that it has maintained peace, democratic institutions, and effective governance for more than three decades despite lacking formal international recognition.

The trip follows a period of intensified diplomatic activity by Somaliland, including efforts to strengthen ties with regional and international partners.

Officials in Hargeisa view the United States as a key global actor whose engagement could help expand political, economic, and security cooperation with Somaliland.

During his meetings, President Irro is expected to convey the aspirations and interests of the people of Somaliland while promoting closer relations with the United States and encouraging greater international engagement with Somaliland.

The visit underscores Somaliland’s broader strategy of deepening its diplomatic outreach and pursuing strategic partnerships based on shared interests, economic cooperation, regional stability, and mutual security concerns.

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Somaliland President Irro Departs for Unannounced Private Visit to UAE

Kaab TV News Editor — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:02:19 +0000

Hargeisa (Kaab TV) – The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), departed today on an unannounced trip to the United Arab Emirates.

In a brief statement, the Presidency confirmed that the visit is not official, but rather a private trip.

Although the duration of the visit has not been formally disclosed, informed sources indicate that the President is expected to stay in the UAE for a short period before returning to Hargeisa.

The United Arab Emirates maintains close ties with Somaliland across various sectors.

However, this particular visit is limited to personal matters, according to the Presidency.

The visit comes at a time when Somaliland is increasingly drawing international attention amid discussions around potential recognition by Israel and its growing relations with regional powers such as the UAE and Ethiopia.

Rising tensions in the Middle East have once again placed Somaliland in the spotlight due to its strategic location near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden—two of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.

It remains unclear whether the President will hold any informal meetings with UAE officials during his private stay.

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Somaliland President Travels to The UAE Two Weeks After His Expulsion from the Country

Staff Reporter — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:07:01 +0000

Somaliland (Kaab TV) – Abdirahman Cirro, President of the Somaliland Administration, traveled today to the United Arab Emirates, where he is expected to hold meetings with Emirati leaders, according to officials accompanying his delegation.

The visit comes two weeks after the UAE was expelled from Somalia, following a decision by Prime Minister Hamza’s government to annul all previous agreements with the Emirati government.

For years, the United Arab Emirates has provided financial and political support to the Puntland and Somaliland administrations, at a time when political tensions between the federal government and the regional states have continued to intensify. Cirro’s visit is widely viewed as potentially impacting relations between Somalia and the UAE, as well as the federal government’s ongoing reconciliation efforts.

Multiple sources have confirmed that Cirro’s trip is part of broader Emirati efforts to support regional administrations, while the federal government continues to pursue a firm policy aimed at tightening control over foreign agreements.

The dispute between the federal government and the Puntland and Somaliland administrations continues to escalate, and Abdirahman Cirro’s visit is seen as a clear indication of the country’s deepening political tensions.

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Somaliland Pins Hopes on Mining Investment to Drive Economic Stability and International Recognition

Mohamed Jamal — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:49:30 +0000

HARGEYSA (Kaab TV) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro on Monday officially launched the Somaliland Minerals Expo 2025 at the Mansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, marking the first event of its kind in the region and signaling renewed efforts to attract global investment into the country’s extractive sector.

The two-day expo, organized to international standards by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in partnership with mineral companies and key stakeholders, aims to showcase Somaliland’s mineral wealth and natural resources to international investors and the local public in a professional and strategic manner.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Irro expressed gratitude to senior officials and staff of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, as well as to countries, companies, and individuals who supported the organization of the landmark exhibition.

The president emphasized that Somaliland is a reliable and trustworthy destination for international investment, cooperation, partnerships, financing, and business engagement. He noted that the country has established comprehensive laws, policies, procedures, and administrative systems designed to make it easier for investors to start and operate their businesses.

“Somaliland will begin oil exploration in 2027,” President Irro announced, adding that his government’s economic agenda prioritizes the responsible and transparent development of the country’s natural resources.

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He said the Unity and Action Government is committed to ensuring that resource development contributes to economic stability, long-term growth, and shared benefits, while upholding accountability and sustainability.

Senior officials, including the Director General of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, Shuaib Boqor Osman-Buurmadow; Minister of Investment Said Mohamed Buraale; Chairman of the Waddani Party Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan; and Minister of Energy and Minerals Ahmed Jama Barre, also delivered remarks at the event.

The expo additionally featured contributions from international experts who participated both in person and via virtual video link, highlighting growing global interest in Somaliland’s mineral potential.

President Cirro further stated that Somaliland’s political stability, democratic governance system, internal and border security, and judicial institutions meet international standards, providing confidence to global investors.

He concluded by reiterating that Somaliland is ready to engage in fair, transparent, and mutually beneficial partnerships to responsibly harness its abundant natural resources, which the government believes could play a key role in achieving economic stability and advancing Somaliland’s quest for international recognition.

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President Irro’s East Africa Tour Revives Somaliland Diplomacy and Push for Recognition

Mohamed Jamal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 04:06:06 +0000

NAIROBI, Kenya (Kaab TV) — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has wrapped up a three-week diplomatic tour across East Africa, marking a significant shift in Somaliland’s regional engagement strategy.

The visit included high-level meetings in Djibouti and Kenya, with officials describing the trip as a “successful re-launch of Somaliland’s foreign policy agenda.”

In Djibouti, President Irro held Somaliland’s first formal talks with Djiboutian authorities since the January 2024 fallout over a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between former President Muse Bihi Abdi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea.

Djibouti, which had strongly opposed the deal, had since kept relations with Somaliland at arm’s length.

President Irro met with Djiboutian President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh and Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed.

According to sources close to the Somaliland Presidency, the talks helped ease diplomatic tensions and laid the groundwork for “cooler and more constructive engagement” between the two neighbors.

While in Djibouti, Irro also held talks with Ethiopian diplomats led by Kebede Abera Ido, Deputy Ambassador of Ethiopia to Djibouti.

The discussions focused on regional security, trade corridors, infrastructure development, investment opportunities, and humanitarian aid.

“The President discussed the development of the region’s economy, trade facilitation, and strengthening cooperation on security and infrastructure,” read a statement from the Somaliland Presidency.

Irro visited the headquarters of Djibouti Telecom, which manages the country’s critical submarine internet cables.

He also met with the Somaliland diaspora in Djibouti, urging unity and highlighting the strategic importance of a strong, brotherly relationship between Somaliland and Djibouti.

“Somaliland is fully committed to strengthening its ties with the Republic of Djibouti and advancing a shared vision for peace, development, and cooperation between our two brotherly nations,” said Irro during a public address.

Kenya Reception Marks Diplomatic Milestone

On May 30, President Irro was received with what officials described as “unprecedented” hospitality at Kenya’s State House in Nairobi, where he held bilateral talks with President William Ruto.

The two leaders discussed a wide range of strategic priorities, including: Boosting bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and air travel, enhancing regional security, particularly in counter-extremism and peacebuilding as well as promoting educational partnerships, skills training for youth, and institutional capacity building.

While in Nairobi, President Irro formally inaugurated Somaliland’s Liaison Office to Kenya and held a roundtable meeting with international diplomats. He used the occasion to advocate for international recognition, saying:

President Irro engaged with diplomatic community in Kenya.

“We have not come to Nairobi today with a begging bowl. We are not looking for handouts. We are here to build genuine partnerships with governments, investors, and institutions that understand the value of mutual benefit.”

In a separate event at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), Irro addressed the Somaliland diaspora, assuring them of his commitment to democratic principles.

“I want to inform my people: you elected me for five years — not a single day, not even an hour, will be added to that mandate,” he said, in a clear pledge against term extension.

Upcoming U.S. Visit and Strategic Offer

Somaliland officials have hinted that President Irro is preparing for an upcoming visit to the United States.

While the exact dates remain unconfirmed, sources say Irro is expected to present what insiders describe as “a deal the U.S. cannot refuse” in exchange for formal recognition.

According to those sources, the proposed package to the U.S. government — specifically the Trump Administration — includes: A long-term lease for the Berbera military base, access to Somaliland’s 850 km-long strategic coastline, rights to develop a spaceport, partnership in rare earth mineral exploration, and oil and gas concessions.

If confirmed, the offer would mark a bold diplomatic gamble by the Irro administration to anchor Somaliland’s recognition drive in strategic geopolitical value.

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President Irro: Time for the World to Recognize Somaliland’s Sovereignty

Mohamed Jamal — Sun, 18 May 2025 18:02:53 +0000

HARGEISA – May 18, 2025 — The breakaway region of Somaliland has formally requested recognition from 195 countries worldwide as it marks the 34th anniversary of its self-declared independence from Somalia in 1991.

President Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro delivered a national address in Hargeisa during celebrations that included a military parade by Somaliland’s armed forces, with widespread participation from various sectors of the public.

In his first address as head of state on May 18, President Irro made a passionate appeal to the international community to recognize Somaliland’s statehood.

“Today marks the 34th anniversary since we regained our freedom. There is no legal reason preventing Somaliland’s recognition — only political decisions, and political decisions are not permanent,” he said.

The President revealed that his government had sent formal recognition letters to the heads of state and monarchs of all 195 UN member states, reminding them of their responsibility to uphold international justice and acknowledge Somaliland’s right to self-determination.

“I thank the countries that have maintained security and economic relations with us, including Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan,” he added.

Reflecting on history, President Irro stated that the optimism that led Somaliland to unite with southern Somalia in 1960 marked the beginning of the long-standing crisis.

He emphasized that Hargeisa’s experience offers valuable lessons, particularly for other Somali communities.

If cooperation is encouraged, he said, Somaliland could play a constructive role in promoting peace and stability across the Horn of Africa and within Somalia.

“I am confident that the Republic of Somaliland, as an independent nation, can significantly contribute to resolving the longstanding crisis facing our Somali brothers and sisters,” Irro said.

The national celebration gained momentum with colorful displays including camels and horses draped in the national flag, traditional dances, and performances by school children, showcasing national pride.

President Irro reiterated that Somaliland’s ports, airports, territorial waters, and natural resources are matters that can only be negotiated directly with the government and people of Somaliland.

“Only the Somaliland government has the legitimacy to negotiate on our resources,” he stated, firmly rejecting any involvement by external actors.

He also addressed recent unrest in the eastern and western regions of Somaliland, calling for peaceful dialogue and negotiations to resolve internal disputes.

Finally, President Irro praised the Somaliland diaspora, emphasizing their crucial role in economic support and international advocacy. He noted that diaspora communities provide the largest share of financial inflows to the country, and urged them to continue their investments and efforts in promoting Somaliland’s quest for recognition.

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Puntland and Somaliland Set to Exchange Prisoners in Landmark Agreement

Kaab TV News Editor — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 21:45:05 +0000

GAROWE (Kaab TV) – Puntland and Somaliland are expected to exchange prisoners on Wednesday as a sign to normalise their relations.

Sources close to the Puntland presidency have confirmed that nine prisoners currently held in Puntland prisons, who were captured from Somaliland, will be transferred from Garowe tomorrow.

In return, Somaliland is set to release 11 prisoners originally from Puntland.

This marks the first such agreement aimed at normalizing relations between the two neighboring regions, which have long been at odds.

Puntland and Somaliland have been in dispute over the Sool and Sanaag regions. However, in 2023, following a major conflict in Las Anod, a new administration called SSC-Khaatumo was established.

Somaliland considers itself an independent state, while Puntland is a federal member state of Somalia.

Sources in Hargeisa indicate that this prisoner release reflects a new thaw in relations between Hargeisa and Garowe.

During the Las Anod conflict, Puntland supported the local population with troops, weapons, and finances, which contributed to Somaliland’s defeat in the August 2023 battle.

However, relations between Puntland and SSC-Khaatumo have recently soured, particularly after SSC-Khaatumo aligned itself with the Federal Government of Somalia — a government that Puntland currently has strained ties and deep disagreements with.

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All Undocumented Foreigners Ordered to Leave Somaliland Within Three Days – Decree

Kaab TV News Editor — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 21:15:00 +0000

HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – The Ministry of Interior of Somaliland has issued an order targeting individuals without legal residency documents for Somaliland.

A directive released by the Minister of Interior, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, has given all undocumented foreigners a deadline of three days to leave the region.

“The Minister of Interior and Security, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, has issued an order regarding foreign nationals who do not possess legal documentation for the Republic of Somaliland,” the decree stated, which was released today, Tuesday.

The three-day period begins on Wednesday, April 30, and ends on May 2, 2025.

The directive did not clarify who exactly is considered a foreigner under this order.

Somaliland, known for being relatively stable compared to other parts of Somalia, hosts a diverse population, including Ethiopian migrants, people displaced from southern Somalia, and some from countries such as Yemen, Syria, and others.

In 2022, Somaliland deported thousands of people from the city of Las Anod, many of whom were from the southern Somalia.

Authorities claimed they were undocumented foreigners causing insecurity in the area.

Recently, international media reported that U.S. President Donald Trump was considering relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Somaliland and Puntland, regions perceived to be safer than the rest of Somalia.

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Somaliland President Irro Addresses Parliament: Focuses on National Recovery, International Recognition, and Security Reform

Kaab TV News Editor — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 01:42:59 +0000

HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro, delivered his annual speech to the joint session of the Somaliland Parliament on Sunday, April 20, focusing on key issues related to domestic affairs, security, foreign relations, and the status of talks with Somalia.

National Situation and Governance

President Irro acknowledged that Somaliland has faced serious internal challenges in recent years, including economic decline over the past three years, weakened national unity, setbacks in democratic processes, and political disputes that delayed elections.

However, he emphasized that the security situation is improving, economic activities are stabilizing, and public services and governance systems are undergoing broad reforms.

“We are implementing large-scale reforms in our judiciary, administrative institutions, and public service delivery,” he said.

International Relations and Recognition

President Irro underlined his administration’s commitment to reviving Somaliland’s international relations and lobbying for global recognition.

“We seek to convince the world of our rightful claim to recognition, and we will remain loyal to those who support us,” he stated.

He highlighted the UAE’s investment support in key sectors such as livestock, agriculture, fishing, mining, health, education, water, and infrastructure.

Participation in the World Governments Summit – Dubai

President Irro noted that Somaliland received a formal invitation to participate in the World Governments Summit held in Dubai, which hosted representatives from over 140 countries.

“It was a golden opportunity to promote Somaliland’s investment potential. Our message reached over 50 million people globally,” he said.

He also spoke of efforts to strengthen relations with the United States, particularly in light of current Red Sea security concerns involving the Houthi movement in Yemen.

The UK has supported Somaliland in security and provided multi-sectoral cooperation.

Members of the Somaliland Parliament during President Cirro’s address.

Relations with Ethiopia and Djibouti

Irro announced plans to deepen Somaliland’s historic and cooperative relations with Ethiopia and Djibouti and confirmed upcoming visits to both countries.

Ethiopia is a strategic neighbor for Somaliland, with both sides signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding in January 2024 to grant Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland’s coastline.

Internal Security Reforms

President Irro stressed the importance of peace and stability, announcing the integration of clan militia into the national security forces through disarmament and training programs.

“To strengthen national defense, my government is officially announcing the formation of a National Reserve Force,” he declared.

Security at airports and coastal areas has been reinforced, including the deployment of 700 newly trained coast guards.

Somaliland police officials present at the Somaliland Parliament headquarters during the president’s address.

Climate Change and Environmental Protection

He called climate change one of the greatest threats to Somaliland’s economy and outlined plans to protect the environment and ensure food and water security.

His government aims to plant 3 million trees over its term, with 600,000 trees planted annually.

“We launched the National Tree Planting Day on April 15 with a target of 300,000 trees this year alone,” he added.

Condemnation of Somali PM’s Visit to Las Anod

President Irro strongly condemned Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s April 16 visit to Las Anod, calling it a “clear violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty and a hostile act meant to undermine peace efforts.”

“We have officially informed the international community and warn that such actions could trigger civil conflict,” he warned.

In response, President Irro announced that Somaliland has suspended ongoing talks with Somalia due to the Somali Prime Minister’s visit to the disputed region.

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Somaliland President Irro Describes Somalia PM’s Las Anod Visit as an “Open Act of Aggression”

Kaab TV News Editor — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 09:07:40 +0000

HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro, has described the recent visit by Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to the city of Lasanod as an “Open Act of aggression.”

President Irro made the remarks today during his annual address to the Somaliland Parliament on Sunday.

“The position of the Somaliland government regarding the visit of Somalia’s Prime Minister to the eastern Sool region of Somaliland was clearly outlined in the communiqué issued after the 16th meeting of the Somaliland Council of Ministers, which I chaired on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. In that meeting, the Republic of Somaliland officially withdrew from talks with Somalia,” said President Irro.

Prime Minister Hamza paid a three-day visit to Las Anod last week where he met officials of the SSC-Khaatumo.

During the visit the SSC-Khaatumo released 25 prisoners of war of Somaliland who were captured during the August 2023 conflict between Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo clan forces.

“Open Act of Aggression”

Irro accused Hamza Abdi Barre of attempting to destabilize Somaliland and warned that such provocation could lead to “civil conflict.”

“My government has informed the international community that the arrival of Somalia’s Prime Minister is a violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty and an outright act of aggression against the Republic of Somaliland. This move aims to destabilize and undermine the peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts that Somaliland has pursued with great effort and determination,” Irro added.

“Once again, we warn that this violation could quickly spark civil conflict.”

He stated that Somaliland has informed neighboring countries about its ongoing peace efforts.

“Somaliland continues to notify neighboring countries and the international community that it remains committed to its peacebuilding, reconciliation, and good-neighborly efforts. However, it must also remind them that it retains the full capability to defend itself against any aggression,” said President Cirro.

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