Somaliland’s president has said international recognition of his state is now within reach, following growing interest from the United States and recent talks linked to Donald Trump’s possible return to office.
Speaking from the capital, Hargeisa, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi described recognition as likely in the near future.
The development would mark a major shift for the breakaway region, which has claimed independence from Somalia since 1991 but has never been recognised by any country.
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Sources close to the Somaliland government say recent US visits and ongoing discussions have strengthened hopes of a breakthrough. Senior American military officials, including those based in the Horn of Africa, have visited key sites in Somaliland, including the strategic port city of Berbera.
A new US delegation is expected to assess its value for military operations.
The port’s location on the Gulf of Aden makes it important for global trade and security, especially amid concerns over rising Chinese influence in neighbouring Djibouti, where both the US and China have military bases.
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Reports suggest a second Trump administration could support recognition of Somaliland in exchange for access to Berbera. A policy document known as Project 2025 lists Somaliland as a potential ally that could help the US maintain influence in the region.
While Somaliland has held peaceful elections and operated with its own government for over three decades, its independence remains unrecognised.
Somalia still claims the territory, and any recognition would likely be seen as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.
Regional analysts warn that such a move could raise tensions across the Horn of Africa and set a precedent for other secessionist movements on the continent.
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Despite the risks, Somaliland officials believe they are closer than ever to international acceptance. They point to their role in counter-terrorism, maritime security, and democratic governance as proof of their readiness to be recognised as an independent state.
