Mohamed. A. Egge.
Traditional leaders should preserve our culture, religious leaders should guide our spiritual growth, and politicians must focus on governance, he says in perspective
In a passionate address, Somaliland’s Minister of Information Hon. Ahmed Yasin Sheik Ali Ayanle called for unity and defined roles to safeguard the nation’s progress, describing Somaliland as “a shining star emerging from the turbulent ocean of Africa.”
Speaking as he opened the 18th HIBF on Saturday, he emphasized the need to align individual expertise with national goals to avoid setbacks in the Republic’s development.
Reflecting on 65 years since Somaliland’s independence from British rule on June 26, 1960, Minister Yasin urged the nation to move beyond tribal divisions that once shaped its early governance before multi-partyism.
“We built Somaliland on the unity of its people, not on tribalism,” he said, stressing that clinging to outdated clan-based systems could hinder progress.
He pointed out that, “Our goal was never to remain divided but to build a united nation.”
Highlighting Africa’s potential as a continent with the world’s youngest population and abundant resources, Hon. Yasin expressed optimism about Somaliland’s future. “The days of Africa are coming,” he declared, emphasizing that Somaliland must seize its opportunities while remaining vigilant against the region’s instability.
The minister called for clear delineation of roles to strengthen nationhood.
“Traditional leaders should preserve our culture, religious leaders should guide our spiritual growth, and politicians must focus on governance,” he said, warning that overlapping roles could weaken Somaliland’s unity.
He also underscored the parliament’s role in representing the members of the public and national interests, urging for constructive criticism to foster progress rather than division.
Hon. Yasin concluded by rallying Somalilanders to place “everyone and everything in their rightful place” to overcome challenges and maintain the nation’s trajectory as a beacon of stability in a turbulent region.
“If we align our efforts, we will rise above regression,” he stated affirmingly.