Somaliland President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, popularly known as Irro, met with Kenyan President William Ruto earlier today in Nairobi, a significant step toward deepening bilateral ties between the two East African nations. The meeting, held at State House, comes on the heels of opening of a diplomatic mission in Kenya, underscoring Somaliland’s push for regional cooperation and international recognition.
President Irro described the reception as warm and brotherly, stating, “Today, we were warmly welcomed in a brotherly manner at the State House in Kenya by President William Ruto. We discussed the interests of both nations and reached a good understanding.”
Somaliland’s Representative to Kenya, Hon. Mohamed Barawani, asserts Somaliland’s right to a seat in the United Nations, highlighting ongoing efforts for international recognition despite Somaliland’s lack of formal statehood since reclaiming its independence from Somalia in 1991. “Somaliland has the right to occupy a seat in the UnitedNations.” Hon. Mohamed Barawani, Somaliland’s Representative to Kenya Head of Mission.
The inauguration was marked by a speech from Mandera West MP Yusuf Adan Haji, who apologized for past issues and expressed optimism for future relations between Kenya and Somaliland, highlighting a pastoralist connection with Kenyan President William Ruto. “Kenya, under President Ruto’s leadership – a pastoralist himself – extends a warm welcome.
We apologize for past issues and look to a brighter future together.” —Mandera West MP Yusuf Adan Haji, stated at Somaliland’s Nairobi mission inauguration.”
President Irro, who was inaugurated as Somaliland’s president on December 12, 2024, in Hargeisa, has prioritized regional diplomacy since taking office.
Somaliland President’s visit to Kenya, aligns with his administration’s goal of strengthening ties with key neighbors. A key highlight of the trip was the official opening of Somaliland’s diplomatic mission in Nairobi, a move intended to formalize relations and facilitate cooperation on trade, security, and cultural exchange. The mission, part of the Partnership Framework for Somaliland, is seen as a strategic effort to enhance Somaliland’s visibility despite its lack of international recognition.