Mohamed Farah Tahar – GovAfrika Journal
Introduction
In 2025, Somaliland marks 34 years since its unilateral declaration of independence from Somalia. Despite the absence of formal international recognition, Somaliland has evolved into one of the most stable and democratic polities in the Horn of Africa. Through grassroots peacebuilding, traditional reconciliation mechanisms, and pragmatic governance, Somaliland has not only survived but steadily progressed in a region plagued by prolonged conflict and instability.
This article celebrates Somaliland’s remarkable journey over the past three decades, highlighting its achievements in governance, security, economic growth, and social development. It presents Somaliland as a powerful African success story of bottom-up state-building and homegrown resilience.
1. Historical Context and Founding Vision
Following the collapse of the Somali Democratic Republic in 1991, the people of the former British Somaliland convened in a series of clan-based conferences, notably the 1993 Borama Conference, to restore peace and establish a functioning political order. Rooted in indigenous traditions and consensus-based dialogue, these efforts laid the foundation for Somaliland’s unique hybrid system that blends modern
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