Hundreds of people have gathered in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, waving United States and Somaliland flags after US President Donald Trump described the territory as “a totally different country” from Somalia.
The rally took place on Wednesday, October 14, following Trump’s remarks at a political rally in Ohio on Monday. His comments sparked excitement among Somaliland supporters, many of whom hope Washington will eventually recognise the territory as an independent state.
However, Trump’s remarks did not amount to a formal announcement of US recognition.
Hargeisa Welcomes Trump’s Comments
Somaliland authorities welcomed the US president’s statement, saying it reflected the territory’s distinct identity and separate political reality.
In a post on X on Tuesday, the administration reiterated its determination to secure wider international recognition.
“Donald Trump’s statement marks the beginning of US recognition for Somaliland,” Ali Hashi, one of the people celebrating in Hargeisa’s Kheyriyadda Square, said.
Another participant, Ilhaan Abdirahman, described the remarks as a major development and expressed hope that the United States could formally recognise Somaliland.
“We deserve recognition because we are distinct from Somalia in every respect,” she said.
University student Mohamed Yasin also welcomed the comments, describing them as a significant moment for the territory, although he did not agree with every part of Trump’s remarks, including his suggestion that Somaliland should change its name.
Somaliland’s Long Search for International Recognition
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has since developed its own administrative institutions, currency, passports and security forces.
The territory, located in the Horn of Africa along the strategically important Gulf of Aden, has operated with considerable autonomy for more than three decades.
Despite its separate political administration, Somaliland has struggled to secure broad international recognition as an independent state.
Israel formally recognised Somaliland in December 2025, a move that drew strong opposition from Somalia, the African Union and several regional organisations. The African Union continues to support Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Why Somaliland Matters Strategically
Somaliland’s location near major shipping routes connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden has attracted international attention. Its proximity to Yemen and other parts of the region also gives it strategic importance for trade and security.
Supporters of independence argue that Somaliland’s separate administration and political institutions justify recognition. Somalia, however, regards the territory as part of its sovereign territory.
The disagreement remains a sensitive issue across the Horn of Africa, with concerns that further recognition could affect regional stability and encourage other separatist movements.
US Recognition Remains Uncertain
Although the celebrations in Hargeisa reflect optimism among Somaliland supporters, Trump’s comments have not changed Washington’s formal recognition position.
His remarks were made during a speech focused largely on US domestic politics and immigration, rather than a diplomatic announcement outlining a change in policy towards Somaliland.
For now, the rally demonstrates the significance Somaliland residents attach to international recognition and the hope that stronger ties with Washington could advance their long-running campaign for statehood.
Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP), the African Union and the United Nations.
