In a significant move to bolster regional cooperation, the Republic of Somaliland has appointed its most seasoned diplomat, Dr. Mohamed Abdillahi Omar, to Nairobi, recognizing Kenya’s growing stature as a pivotal hub for international diplomacy in East Africa. This strategic appointment underscores Somaliland’s commitment to deepening ties with Kenya and fostering collaboration on regional peace, security, and economic growth.
Dr. Omar, a distinguished diplomat and scholar with a PhD in International Political Economy from the United Kingdom, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His illustrious career spans diplomacy, politics, mediation, and academia, making him uniquely positioned to advance Somaliland’s interests in the region. As former Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and later Minister of Trade & Investment, Dr. Omar spearheaded initiatives that strengthened Somaliland’s regional diplomacy and economic partnerships. Notably, he was the architect of the historic 2012 political dialogue between Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia, marking a breakthrough after over two decades of non-engagement.
For the past decade, Dr. Omar has served as a senior mediator with the Geneva-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD), focusing on resolving political conflicts in the Horn of Africa. His expertise has been instrumental in fostering peace and crafting durable solutions to complex regional challenges. Drawing on his academic background as a former lecturer at Brunel University and the Institute of Education at the University of London, Dr. Omar continues to blend scholarly insight with pragmatic diplomacy to promote international partnerships.
This appointment signals Somaliland’s optimism about building stronger ties with Kenya and leveraging Nairobi’s role as a diplomatic and economic powerhouse to advance mutual goals. Dr. Omar’s arrival in Nairobi is a promising step toward enhanced collaboration, peacebuilding, and prosperity in the region.