The Republic of Somaliland’s Mission office was opened in Nairobi on Thursday, May 29, during a ceremony presided over by the Somaliland president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro).
The event was attended by senior Kenyan government officials and members of the international community, including those from Somaliland.
President Abdullahi Irro had earlier met with Kenyan President William Ruto during his official visit to Nairobi this week as part of efforts to strengthen ties between Somaliland and Kenya.
Speaking at the inauguration of Somaliland’s new office in Nairobi on Thursday, President Irro said they had a productive discussion focused on bilateral relations, noting that they had reached a “good understanding.”
However, he did not disclose further details about the location of the meeting or specific agreements reached.
“Today marks a new chapter in the relationship between Somaliland and Kenya,” President Irro said. “I was warmly received by President William Ruto at State House, where we held meaningful discussions on advancing the mutual interests of our two nations.”
Following the meeting, President Abdirahman Irro officially inaugurated the Republic of Somaliland’s new diplomatic mission in Nairobi, calling it a significant step in strengthening Somaliland’s global presence and its relationship with Kenya.
“This office is a symbol of our commitment to cooperation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity,” Irro said at the inauguration ceremony.
Regional integration
“Equally vital, this mission is a basis for advancing Somaliland’s role in regional integration within the East African Community. We are committed to fostering investment promotion, trade facilitation, and people-to-people ties that bind our nations together. Kenya, as East Africa’s economic hub, offers unparalleled opportunities for collaboration,” he said.
Mandera West Member of Parliament Yusuf Adan Haji, who attended the event, welcomed the move and conveyed support from the Kenyan government.
“I assure you that the Kenyan government, led by President William Ruto — who is also a pastoralist — welcomes you,” Haji said. “On behalf of Kenya, I apologise for the issues that occurred in the past. Now, we are focused on the future.”
Somaliland and Kenya share historical ties dating back to the British colonial era, when both territories were under British administration. Over the years, the two sides have developed strong informal relations, including cooperation in trade, education, and regional security.
Somaliland, in turn, hosts over 8,000 Kenyan teachers and skilled professionals who are currently living and working across the territory, contributing significantly to the education, health, and technical sectors. Likewise, Kenya hosts a growing number of Somaliland students and businesspeople, further strengthening the people-to-people and economic ties between the two countries.
Somaliland, which regained its statehood from the Somali Republic in 1991, operates as a de facto state with its own government, currency, and security forces. While it is not internationally recognized, it maintains diplomatic and trade relations with several countries and is actively pursuing broader international engagement.
President Irro has been in the Kenyan capital for several days, holding meetings with various officials and stakeholders. His visit comes amid ongoing efforts by Somaliland to build international partnerships despite its unrecognized status on the global stage.
Among Kenyan leaders who attended the event were Uasin Gishu Governor, Jonathan Bii, and Marsabit Senator Mohamed Said Chute.
Somaliland Representative in Kenya, Mohamed Ahmed Mohamoud, said they are committed to regional cooperation and mitigating all forms of trade barriers.
He noted that Kenya and Somaliland share common interests in combating terrorism, promoting regional economic integration, and advancing Africa’s development—particularly in addressing the negative impact of violent conflict and weak democratic governance on the continent’s socio-economic and political stability.
Somaliland’s Mission in Nairobi serves as Somaliland’s representation office in Kenya, with its key roles including trade and investment, consular services, political engagement, and community support.
Somaliland, being a key trading partner for Kenya, especially in the livestock and miraa sector, the mission could facilitate business agreements, boosting trade between Kenya and Somaliland.
