Kenya has employed various modern diplomatic strategies in its dealings with Somaliland, including Constructive Ambiguity, De Facto Diplomacy, Quiet Diplomacy, and Hedging Strategy. Below is an analysis of these approaches:
Constructive Ambiguity
Kenya’s approach to addressing Somaliland’s office without explicitly clarifying its legal status is a clear example of constructive ambiguity. Kenya stated:
“The opening ceremony of the office does not have the imprimatur of the Government of Kenya.”
The term “imprimatur” implies official governmental approval. By using this term, Kenya avoids explicitly rejecting or endorsing Somaliland’s office. This allows Kenya to balance relations with both Somalia and Somaliland without taking a definitive stance. This diplomatic tactic is often used to avoid provoking a strong positive or negative diplomatic response.
De Facto Diplomacy
Although Kenya does not formally recognize Somaliland, it has permitted visits by Somaliland’s President and allowed the opening of a liaison office without imposing obstacles. This reflects a form of de facto diplomacy, where practical cooperation and interaction occur without formal legal recognition.
The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statements use standard diplomatic language to reassure Somalia, but actions such as hosting Somaliland’s President and allowing the liaison office speak louder. Kenya’s dual approach demonstrates a functional relationship with Somaliland, enabling cooperation in trade, security, and migration without violating international norms.
This diplomacy allows Somaliland to gain informal political and legal legitimacy while enabling Kenya to enhance its political influence and bilateral relations with both Somalia and Somaliland.
Quiet Diplomacy
Kenya has employed quiet diplomacy by not widely publicizing the visit of President Muse Bihi Abdi or the Somaliland office. When it emerged that Somaliland planned an opening ceremony, Kenya quickly responded, stating:
“The planned ceremony on May 27, 2025, does not have the approval of the Government of Kenya.”
This indicates Kenya’s preference for low-profile, technocratic interactions with Somaliland rather than politicized diplomatic gestures. Quiet diplomacy is particularly effective in sensitive conflict situations, where visible actions could escalate tensions.
Hedging Strategy
Kenya strategically avoids fully aligning with either side. This is a diplomatic approach designed to safeguard national interests amid geopolitical tensions.
By allowing Somaliland to open a representative office without offering formal support, Kenya keeps open the possibility of future relations if regional dynamics shift. At the same time, its public statements maintain its relationship with the Federal Government of Somalia.
Gulaid Gohe Idaan