In a stirring address that captivated the audience, Anab Mohamoud Ali Riyorac, Co-founder and former chairwoman of SL-SAG, a passionate advocate for global democracy, took the stage at the Loudoun County Republican Committee’s 3rd Annual Patriot Ball to illuminate Somaliland’s remarkable journey toward sovereignty and its vital role in America’s strategic interests.
Held at the elegant Grand Ballroom of The Hilton, the black-tie gala brought together Republican leaders, dignitaries, and supporters to celebrate patriotism while raising funds for local party initiatives. Ali’s speech, delivered with eloquence and fervor, underscored Somaliland’s status as a beacon of stability in Africa and issued a compelling call for U.S. recognition, aligning seamlessly with the event’s theme of advancing American values abroad.
The evening featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace from South Carolina and Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, both known for their bold defenses of constitutional principles. Adding to the international flavor, Abdirisak Jama, Vice Chairman of the Somaliland Strategic Advocacy Group (SLSAG) and its spokesperson, delivered a commendable presentation highlighting grassroots efforts to foster U.S.-Somaliland ties. Hosted by Loudoun County Republican Committee Chairman Scott Pio, the Patriot Ball exemplified community-driven leadership in promoting conservative ideals on both local and global stages.
A Voice for the Unrecognized Somaliland: Anab Ali’s Powerful Address
Opening with warm gratitude to the attendees, Ali declared, “It is indeed both a privilege and honor to stand before you tonight. I thank you for the opportunity to join such a distinguished gathering and for the leadership you bring to our nation, our county, and our global partnerships.” She swiftly pivoted to her core message, introducing Somaliland—a thriving democracy often overshadowed by its turbulent neighbor, Somalia. “Somaliland is NOT Somalia!” she emphasized, drawing applause for clarifying a distinction critical to understanding the region’s dynamics.
Ali traced Somaliland’s resilient history: achieving independence from Great Britain on June 26, 1960, and briefly uniting with Italian Somaliland in a union she described as “not legalized nor rectified.” The partnership dissolved amid the brutal regime of dictator Mohamed Siad Barre, whose war claimed thousands of Somalilanders’ lives. Undeterred, the people reclaimed sovereignty on May 18, 1991, forging a nation that has since emerged as “a model for Africa—it’s a democracy like no other!”
Highlighting Somaliland’s democratic credentials, Ali celebrated its regular elections—”one person, one vote”—peaceful transfers of power, and multiparty system featuring three active parties. She noted the functioning rule of law across all government branches, its independent currency, and a capable military. “Somaliland has fulfilled all requirements for statehood and is worthy of international re-recognition according to the Montevideo Convention,” she affirmed, positioning it as a natural ally to the United States, bound by shared commitments to freedom and self-determination.
Strategic Imperative: Securing America’s Interests in the Horn of Africa
Turning to geopolitics, Ali made a persuasive case for U.S. engagement: “Why must America engage with Somaliland? America must stop China from invading Africa and especially from Somaliland!” She spotlighted Somaliland’s prime location along the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea chokepoint of Bab el-Mandeb—a vital artery for global trade that the U.S. cannot afford to cede to Beijing. Spanning 68,000 square miles with over 800 kilometers of coastline, Somaliland boasts a population of 6.2 million, with Hargeisa as its vibrant capital and President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (elected shortly after Donald J. Trump’s 2024 victory) at the helm.
Ali lauded Somaliland’s close ties with Taiwan, a partnership that has irked China, prompting destabilizing tactics in Somaliland’s eastern regions. “Due to Somaliland’s strategic geographical location, America NEEDS Somaliland,” she urged, tying it to President Trump’s “America First” agenda. “Somaliland is too important for America to neglect! Please drop the failed one-Somalia policy.”
In a nod to ongoing legislative momentum, Ali respectfully called on Congress to advance H.R. 3992, the Republic of Somaliland Independence Act, introduced by Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) in June 2025. This bipartisan-backed bill seeks to formally recognize Somaliland as a sovereign nation, invalidating Somalia’s territorial claims and authorizing presidential action. Echoing sentiments from Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), who recently urged President Trump to lead on this front, Ali framed recognition as “not only justice for the people of Somaliland who have suffered for many years, but it’s also in America’s best interest.”
A Unified Vision for Freedom and Security
As applause filled the ballroom, Ali closed with optimism: “In concluding, honorable members of Congress, I thank you for your service and your leadership. May God bless you, Somaliland, and the United States of America.” Her words resonated deeply, sparking conversations among attendees about bolstering U.S. partnerships in Africa to counter authoritarian influences.
The Patriot Ball not only celebrated American resilience but also amplified voices like Ali’s, fostering dialogue on how targeted diplomacy can enhance national security. With Somaliland’s stability offering a counterweight to regional chaos—and potential U.S. military and economic collaborations on the horizon—this event marked a positive step toward a more assertive U.S. foreign policy. As Project 2025 outlines, recognizing Somaliland could hedge against waning influence in Djibouti while rewarding a proven democratic ally.
Somaliland’s story reminds us: True patriotism knows no borders—it’s about championing liberty wherever it thrives.