Trump's words, though cautious, open the door to a conversation long overdue...
During a recent exchange, US President Donald Trump was asked whether he would recognise Somaliland. His response — "That’s a good question, and we are working on that” — may appear brief, but it carries significant political weight. For Somalilanders, it signals a potential shift in Washington’s position on a matter that has been at the heart of their foreign policy ambitions for more than three decades.
Since reclaiming its sovereignty from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has built a functioning democracy, maintained internal stability, and developed its own institutions — achievements that stand in stark contrast to the turmoil experienced in other parts of the Horn of Africa. Yet, despite these successes, it remains unrecognised by the international community, operating in a diplomatic limbo that limits its ability to fully engage in global trade, access international development funding, and contribute more effectively to regional security.
The United States, as a key global player and strategic partner in the region, holds the capacity to reshape this dynamic. Formal recognition of Somaliland would not simply be a symbolic gesture; it would be a tangible investment in regional stability and economic growth. Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden — one of the world’s busiest maritime routes — positions it as a natural ally in combating piracy, countering extremism, and facilitating secure trade.
Economically, recognition could unlock new opportunities for foreign investment, infrastructure development, and cross-border trade. This, in turn, would bolster job creation and improve living standards not only in Somaliland, but across the wider Horn of Africa. Politically, it would affirm the principle that stability, democratic governance, and the rule of law deserve international acknowledgement and support.
Trump’s words, though cautious, open the door to a conversation long overdue in Washington. For too long, Somaliland’s contributions to peace, democracy, and security have been acknowledged informally but withheld the ultimate validation — diplomatic recognition. The United States has the chance to lead the way, sending a clear message that responsible self-governance in Africa will be rewarded, not ignored.
Recognition of Somaliland is not merely a question of foreign policy; it is a question of fairness, stability, and progress. As the world watches, Somalilanders will be hoping that the "good question” asked of Donald Trump will finally be met with a good — and decisive — answer.
Cabdiraxmaan Laambad
buuni12hotmail.com
hadhwanaag 
