Erigavo (Hornpost) The recently concluded Sanaag Peace Conference marked an important step in Somaliland’s efforts to strengthen peace and unity through dialogue and traditional reconciliation.
Held in Erigavo, the regional capital, the conference brought together elders, religious scholars, women and youth representatives from communities across Sanaag. It ended with a joint declaration calling for lasting peace, peaceful coexistence and stronger social cooperation.
Irro’s Role in Promoting Dialogue
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) played a central role in promoting dialogue and supporting local efforts to build peace.
Delegates and observers praised his administration’s engagement throughout the process. They said its approach helped create space for discussion and consensus among the participants.
In his closing speech, Irro highlighted the importance of peace in Sanaag.
“Sanaag is the bridge that connects our people. The peace we have built here is not just a local settlement — it’s a collective promise to safeguard the unity and future of Somaliland,” he said.
“Our strength as a nation lies in our dialogue, our tolerance, and our shared vision for stability and development.”
A Community-Led Approach to Peace
Diplomatic sources in Hargeisa and regional observers welcomed the conference’s outcome. They described it as a locally driven peace initiative in a region where disputes have sometimes required outside mediation.
A senior diplomat from a Horn of Africa mission told HornPost: “What Somaliland achieved in Erigavo through community dialogue is something many in the region could learn from — a process owned by the people, guided by trust.”
The conference reflects the role that community leaders can play in resolving disputes. It also highlights the importance of involving different groups in efforts to build lasting peace.
What Comes Next?
Analysts say the conference could become an early example of President Irro’s reconciliation agenda. They view internal stability as an important foundation for Somaliland’s political and economic development.
The next challenge will be implementing the conference’s resolutions. Follow-up committees are expected to help carry the commitments into practice.
The Sanaag peace initiative shows the potential of locally led reconciliation. Its long-term success, however, will depend on continued cooperation, public trust and the implementation of the agreements reached.
For Somaliland, the conference offers an opportunity to strengthen peace through dialogue and shared responsibility.
Prepared by:
HornPost staff
