
Visit to Borama, Awdal region comes as Somaliland prepares to mark the 35th anniversary of restored independence amid growing international engagement.
BORAMA, Somaliland (Horn post) Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakal, received a warm and large-scale welcome on Saturday upon arriving in Borama, the capital of the Awdal region, as officials intensify preparations for Somaliland’s upcoming May 18 national celebrations.
Minister Abdirahman Bakal, accompanied by senior government officials, is visiting the region as part of efforts to strengthen and accelerate preparations for this year’s Independence Day commemorations, marking the 35th anniversary of Somaliland’s restoration of sovereignty in 1991.
Officials from the Awdal Region administration, the Borama district leadership and members of the local community welcomed the minister on the outskirts of the city, expressing pride in what they described as Somaliland’s political progress and expanding international engagement.
Regional leaders said they remain satisfied with the leadership of Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and praised the government’s efforts to strengthen national unity, statehood and public cohesion.
They also noted that Awdal has historically played a major role in Somaliland’s reconciliation process, peacebuilding efforts and the reconstruction of state institutions following the country’s declaration of restored independence.
Regional officials added that the people of Awdal remain committed to safeguarding national unity, stability and Somaliland’s long-term national aspirations.
They further said the people of Awdal are ready to play a visible role in achieving Somaliland’s broader strategic goals, particularly efforts aimed at securing full international recognition and strengthening the country’s national standing.
Addressing the gathering, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakal said he was pleased to visit Awdal Borama, describing the region as a place known for education, culture and its historic contribution to Somaliland’s development.
“I am delighted to visit Awdal, a region known for knowledge, culture and the prominent role it has played throughout Somaliland’s history,” Bakal said.
The minister thanked the people of Awdal for what he described as their continued support for Somaliland’s statehood and their commitment to achieving national objectives.
Minister Bakal also urged communities across the region to intensify preparations for the May 18 celebrations.
“I encourage the people to redouble their efforts in organizing the May 18 celebrations, which mark 35 years since Somaliland restored its independence in 1991,” he said.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakal added that this year’s anniversary carries special significance and symbolizes the political and diplomatic progress Somaliland has made in recent years, particularly in the areas of international relations and efforts toward full diplomatic recognition.
“This year’s celebration carries special importance and stands as a symbol of the political and diplomatic achievements Somaliland has made, especially in strengthening international relations and advancing toward full international recognition,” Bakal said.
The visit forms part of a nationwide mobilization campaign as Somaliland prepares for what officials say will be one of the most significant May 18 commemorations in recent years.
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News Desk
Abdikarim Salah
Abdikarim Saed Salah is a multimedia journalist and international correspondent with over 15 years of professional experience in broadcast journalism, digital media, and political reporting across the Horn of Africa. He is the Founder, Editor and reporter at Horn post Digital News Platform, He is currently based in Hargeisa, Somaliland, where he works as a TV presenter and producer at Horn Cable TV, covering politics, regional security, governance, and international affairs. His reporting focuses on major developments in the Horn of Africa, including geopolitical dynamics, elections, security issues, and diplomatic relations. He is known for producing in-depth interviews, field reporting, and analysis-driven journalism.










