In a compelling on-the-ground report from Rebel News correspondent Avi Yemini in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland emerges as a surprising beacon of stability in a volatile region. Despite being a 100% Muslim society with deeply conservative and religious roots, the nation has successfully kept radical Islam, extremism, and terrorism at bay—unlike neighboring Somalia areas plagued by groups like al-Shabaab.
The key, according to Anwar Abdirahman Warsame, a former chairman of a Somaliland civil society organization (Sonsaf), lies in robust community policing and unwavering mutual trust between citizens and authorities.
“Every community, every village has its own community policing,” Warsame explained in the interview. “If they see something happening to their neighbors, they immediately report it to the police stations. They cannot hide.”
He emphasized a policy of zero tolerance: once reported, police act swiftly and decisively. This grassroots vigilance, combined with strong government response, creates an interconnected network where threats are spotted and neutralized early. “The community and the police, or the community and the government—this is the strongest force to keep an eye on instability,” Warsame said.
Yemini pressed on whether Western nations—grappling with radical elements in their own Muslim communities—could adopt similar approaches. Warsame replied unequivocally: “Absolutely.” He argued that Islamic communities in places like Australia, Canada, and Britain should actively draw out radicals and inform authorities, while governments must reciprocate with serious action rather than political hesitation or excessive caution.”
The police and the state also have to do their job. They can’t be scared to deal with the radicals,” Warsame added, highlighting how Somaliland’s authorities remain alert and connected to the people through daily community updates.
The report also spotlighted Somaliland’s broader successes as a “miracle state.” Despite lacking international recognition since declaring independence in 1991 (following a brief independence in 1960 that was recognized by dozens of countries, including Israel), it has built a thriving, free, and fair democracy. Traditional and religious leaders resolve disputes through dialogue rather than violence—a stark contrast to conflict-prone neighbors.
The 2024 presidential election exemplified this maturity: opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro won decisively, and the incumbent handed over power peacefully with no major disputes.
Warsame described Somaliland’s people as “very mature,” crediting dialogue, community commitment to security, and strong social bonds for defeating threats like al-Shabaab infiltration or ISIS influence.
The interview touched on recent diplomatic developments, including Israel’s historic recognition of Somaliland on December 26, 2025—the first by any UN member state. Somalilanders celebrated widely, waving Israeli flags in the streets, viewing it as a breakthrough that could encourage others to follow.
Warsame called the move “fantastic,” noting Israel’s prior recognition in 1960 and dismissing criticism from some Muslim-majority countries as rooted in politics and hypocrisy rather than genuine concern for Muslim unity. “There are over 50 Muslim countries in the world… why didn’t they recognize Somaliland if they are thinking about Muslim? So the only Jewish country in the world has recognized Somaliland.”
He urged U.S. President Donald Trump to follow suit, citing Somaliland’s strategic position along the Bab el-Mandeb strait and its potential to enhance global security and stability.
Yemini’s report, part of Rebel News’ special mission (detailed at TheTruthAboutSomaliland.com), portrays Somaliland as a resilient democracy that has risen from past conflict through self-reliance, community empowerment, and decisive governance—offering a potent example for Western leaders facing similar challenges with radicalism.