President Cirro unveils security, reform and recognition agenda in annual address

Somaliland President Abdullahi Cirro has outlined an ambitious roadmap focused on security, governance reforms, economic recovery and international recognition during his annual constitutional address to Parliament.

Speaking before a joint sitting of lawmakers, Cirro described Somaliland as a stable and democratic entity within the Horn of Africa, emphasizing its resilience despite mounting economic and security challenges.

He noted that his administration, which took office in December 2024, inherited a range of difficulties, including economic strain, prolonged drought, insecurity in eastern regions and persistent clan disputes.

“Our journey toward peace, stability and full international recognition is irreversible,” Cirro said. “We remain committed to strengthening our institutions, safeguarding our sovereignty and expanding opportunities for our people.”

On security, the President detailed measures aimed at strengthening national defence capabilities. He said 6,000 newly trained soldiers had been integrated into the armed forces, alongside reforms designed to enhance efficiency and welfare.

These include the rollout of a mobile-based salary payment system and the establishment of a pensions framework for military personnel — a move he described as unprecedented in over three decades.

Cirro added that the government had upgraded military training, procured new equipment and established a Cyber Security Unit, as well as a national military data centre.

Authorities have also banned the private sale of military uniforms and equipment in a bid to improve accountability and discipline within the security sector.

The President stressed the importance of internal peace, calling for dialogue and reconciliation in conflict-affected areas.

He cited progress in Sanaag and ongoing engagement efforts in Sool, including Las Anod, expressing optimism that disputes can be resolved through constructive dialogue. However, he cautioned against actions that could inflame tensions.

On governance, Cirro reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, improving service delivery and combating corruption.

He identified abuse of office and misuse of public resources as key challenges and pledged to reinforce legal and institutional safeguards to address them.

Addressing crime, he raised concerns about rising drug abuse and violent offences among young people aged between 15 and 25.

He called for coordinated efforts involving families, educators, religious leaders and the state to tackle the problem, while noting improvements in policing outcomes, including reductions in road accidents and killings.

The President also underscored the importance of safeguarding democratic processes, warning that delays in elections could undermine public confidence.

He said Parliament would soon receive recommendations from the National Electoral Commission to guide the electoral roadmap.

On constitutional reform, Cirro announced plans to establish a technical committee to review the Constitution and align it with evolving governance needs.

He also pledged to conduct a national census to support planning and ensure equitable representation.

Economically, he described 2025 as a year of recovery, citing increased trade through Berbera Port, growth in livestock exports to Gulf markets and expansion in fisheries and mineral exports.

Fiscal reforms, including the introduction of a Treasury Single Account, have improved financial management, he said.

Cirro further highlighted progress in agriculture, infrastructure, water access, energy and digital systems, including the expansion of fibre-optic networks and plans for e-government services.

In foreign policy, he reiterated that securing international recognition remains a top priority. He pointed to increased diplomatic engagement and announced that Israel had formally recognised Somaliland, expressing optimism that more countries would follow.

Calling for unity, Cirro urged Somalilanders to support the recognition agenda and strengthen the territory’s global standing.

He also called on Somalia to acknowledge Somaliland’s status, saying future relations should be anchored on peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

Recent diplomatic developments, he added, have boosted optimism among citizens, with many hopeful that Somaliland is entering a new phase of stability, growth and international engagement under his leadership.