In a moment of pride for Somaliland and its diaspora, Ambassador Abdi A. Hersi, former Somaliland Ambassador to the United Kingdom, received the LPSA Outstanding Diplomat of the Year Award 2025.
The esteemed recognition was celebrated at the 10th Anniversary London Political Summit & Awards, which took place from October 15-17, 2025, in London.
Ambassador Hersi was invited as a Special Guest of Honour for his remarkable contributions to advancing Somaliland’s cause on the global stage.
His achievements included fostering strong ties between Somaliland and the UK, leading parliamentary delegations to Somaliland, elevating the nation’s diplomatic profile at events like the UK Conservative Party Conference, and securing recognition motions, such as the landmark motion by Birmingham City Council.
Additionally, his efforts in promoting educational opportunities through UK scholarship programs like Chevening empowered Somaliland’s future leaders.
The award citation praised Hersi’s “visionary leadership, calm diplomacy, and steadfast pursuit of peaceful engagement,” which amplified Somaliland’s voice and strengthened diaspora unity.
The three-day summit featured Ambassador Hersi’s participation in a Parliamentary Opening Session at the House of Commons, a Mayoral Session & Diplomatic Roundtable at Islington Town Hall, and the grand Awards Dinner Gala Night at the Copthorne Tara Hotel in Kensington.
This prestigious honor celebrated Ambassador Hersi’s enduring legacy as a champion for Somaliland’s self-determination and a beacon of hope for its people. Congratulations to Ambassador Hersi for this well-deserved recognition, which inspires a brighter future for Somaliland and beyond!