OPINION: Why Kenya should recognize Somaliland

Somaliland’s quest for recognition has gained enormous global attention in the recent years. No UN member state has officially recognized this country, despite functioning as a de facto government with all attributes of a sovereign state including flag, currency, passport and effective government institutions including army.

Many western countries are in favor of Somaliland’s recognition, but they have long been pushing the case towards the African nations to take the initiative in the hopes that countries in the Horn of Africa would pioneer this effort for them to follow suit. Kenya, a country which shares many aspects with Somaliland and a prominent democratic nation in the Horn, is exceptionally placed to take this substantial step and recognize the Republic of Somaliland – a decision which would not only benefit Somaliland and Kenya but also will considerably contribute to the stability and development of the larger East Africa.

Historical Bonds and Perspectives

Kenya and Somaliland are bound by a deeply rooted history and meaningful people to people connections. During World War II, Kenyans and Somalilanders fought bravely for a common cause and this shared history is immortalized by the names of Somalilanders that are till today engraved on a monument at Lang’ata Cemetery in Nairobi.

Despite sharing a similar colonial history, The Somaliland independence served as an impetus to Kenya’s own fight for sovereignty. Historical records, such as remarks made by Kenya’s first president Jomo Kenyatta, where he referenced Somaliland’s independence to motivate Kenyans fight against colonialism, demonstrate how Somaliland independence from the British rule inspired Kenya’s independence and highlights the long-standing ties between the two nations.

In addition, Kenya holds first-hand information on the history of the merger of an independent Somaliland with its neighboring Somalia to form the Somali Republic, and the subsequent dissolution of that union. Kenya also understands that recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty would not draw new borders; rather, Somaliland borders are among the most clearly demarcated on the African continent, established during colonial times which was recognized internationally upon independence.

For over 30 years, Somaliland has been a persistent player and a crucial contributor to the regional peace and stability. Strategically located in the southern coast of the Gulf of Aden and bordering Somalia to the East, Somaliland has played a fundamental role in countering terrorism, suppressing piracy and preventing conflicts that could otherwise enable the proliferation of extremist groups. In contrast to many other nations in the continent, Somaliland has maintained peace and internal tranquility, creating a stark contrast to the chaos in Somalia.

Al-Shabaab and other terrorist groups have absolutely zero presence within Somaliland’s territory. The nation’s security agencies have consistently excelled in safeguarding the region against the activities of radical groups. In addition, not a single piracy incident has ever been recorded in the territorial waters of Somaliland, ensuring a safe passage for the voluminous trade shipments passing through the Gulf of Aden, which is a critical waterway through which over 25% of international trade passes.

Both Kenya and Somaliland have endured the consequence of terrorism stemming from extremist organization that are active in their neighboring Somalia. By recognizing Somaliland, Kenya can solidify its partnership with a stable ally in countering terrorism, enhancing stability and security for both nations and the broader Horn of Africa.

Kenya is widely considered as the region’s champion of democracy and freedom, and in order to advance democratic values and the rule of law in this troubled region of the Horn of Africa, it should lead the charge in supporting this country that harbors these ideals.

Despite lacking international recognition, Somaliland has held a series of presidential, parliamentary and local council elections, including the 2003 presidential contest which is considered as the most closely confronted elections in the history of global democracy, in which a presidential candidate prevailed by a mere 83 votes. Somaliland’s regular power transitions including the recent 2024 election where an incumbent president lost the race and its commitment to free and credible elections serve as a powerful example for the rest of Africa, particularly the countries in the region.

Kenya’s recognition of Somaliland would not only reaffirm its assurance to the tenets of democracy, but also serve as a catalyst for broader regional democracy and integration. This action has the potential to inspire other nations in the Horn of Africa, fostering a ripple effect of democracy and stability across the region.

Somaliland has rich and untapped resources including extractives, livestock and agricultural potential. Given Kenya’s cutting-edge agricultural and livestock technology know-how, Somaliland’s economic and trade opportunities offer a substantial financial prospect to Kenyan investors. Additionally, Somaliland has a sizable market for Kenyan exports including fruits, dairy products and other manufactured goods.

Somaliland’s expanding economy and strategic location make it a desirable destination for investment and Kenya can formalize trade relations with Somaliland to get favorable agreements and position itself as a crucial economic partner of these important country.

Somaliland hosts approximately 15,000 Kenyans who currently live and work peacefully in Somaliland, contributing Kenya’s economy by sending remittance back to the country. These skilled Kenyans work in different sectors including education, health and hospitality. On the other hand, Somalilanders of third and fourth generation, whom their ancestors lived in Kenya for centuries, are scattered across the 47 counties in Kenya, dynamically contributing to the nation’s economic and social fabric.

These demands the formalization of diplomatic relations between the two nations which would facilitate easier movement, enhanced trade and improved cultural interaction between the two nations.

In conclusion, recognizing Somaliland as a sovereign state offers Kenya a remarkable opportunity to reinforce its position as champion of democracy, regional stability and economic growth. The deep historical bonds, shared commitment to fight against terrorism, and mutual dedication to democratic values create a strong basis for this alliance. By making this decisive move, Kenya will ensure its security, improve economic prospects of the region and foster a future of greater stability, prosperity and regional integration.

[Ismail Shirwac is a diplomat based in Nairobi, currently serving as the first secretary of the Republic of Somaliland in Kenya.]