Hargeisa: English & Somali Translation

Under the theme “Redefining the Role of Diaspora from Benefactor to Strategic Partner,” the 2025 edition of Somaliland Diaspora Week concluded with a celebratory closing ceremony and cultural showcase in Hargeisa. The four-day event, held from August 2nd to 5th at Guleid Hotel, was organized by the Diaspora Department under the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, signaling a bold shift in how the government views and values its global diaspora.

The initiative, spearheaded by the new Somaliland administration, reflects the current government’s strategic vision of transforming diaspora involvement from charitable remittances into long-term economic, developmental, and political partnerships.

A Global Gathering with Strategic Intent

Over 800 participants from 35 countries attended the landmark event, making it one of the largest and most inclusive diaspora-focused forums ever held in the Republic of Somaliland. Attendees included:

• Diaspora leaders and activists

• Businesspeople and entrepreneurs

• Academics and development professionals

• Youth representatives and women’s organizations

• Government officials and local investors

• Civil society and cultural figures

This diverse mix of voices underscored the multi-sectoral importance of diaspora engagement in Somaliland’s national development.

High-Level Opening and Closing Ceremonies

The event was officially inaugurated by Hon. Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakaal, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who underscored the government’s commitment to recalibrating its approach to diaspora policy.

“Our diaspora are not just benefactors sending remittances,” said Minister Bakaal in his opening speech. “They are thought leaders, investors, policymakers, innovators, and cultural ambassadors. We must create space for them to co-create our future.”

The Ministry’s Director General, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman Hassan, along with other senior officials, also delivered remarks during the opening session, outlining the roadmap for enhanced diaspora engagement.

Minister Bakaal returned to close the formal conference component on August 3rd with a high-profile gala dinner, featuring a cultural performance celebrating Somali heritage. This moment symbolized the union between Somaliland’s global citizens and their homeland.

Focus Areas and Program Highlights

Diaspora Week 2025 was more than just symbolic—it served as a concrete platform for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and networking. Some of the key topics and sessions included:

• Investment and entrepreneurship opportunities for diaspora members

• Policy co-creation workshops for inclusive diaspora engagement frameworks

• Knowledge transfer forums connecting diaspora professionals with local institutions

• Youth engagement panels aimed at cultural preservation and national identity

• Showcase of diaspora-led initiatives in health, education, and technology

• Women in the diaspora sessions focused on leadership and empowerment

On August 5th, the final day featured an intergenerational cultural and family event, blending traditional music, dance, storytelling, and discussions on cultural heritage preservation and the importance of youth identity in the diaspora.

A New Government Vision for Diaspora Engagement

The 2025 Diaspora Week marks a strategic policy shift introduced by the new Somaliland government under the current presidency. The administration has made diaspora engagement a national priority, embedding it into broader plans for:

• Economic growth and diversification

• Political inclusion and institutional strengthening

• Diaspora investment frameworks and incentives

• Digital diplomacy and global advocacy

According to organizers, the goal is not just to celebrate the diaspora, but to integrate them as strategic stakeholders in Somaliland’s development, moving beyond charity to co-leadership.

Looking Ahead: Institutionalizing Diaspora Week

Given the success of this year’s event, officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Department indicated plans to institutionalize Diaspora Week as an annual event with rotating themes and expanding global outreach.

There are also proposals to launch a Diaspora Engagement Strategy 2026–2030, which will build on the feedback and collaborations initiated during the week.

“This is not the end—it is the beginning of a deeper partnership,” said one diaspora business leader from Canada. “We are ready to help build a prosperous Somaliland—not just with money, but with expertise, networks, and our voices.”

Conclusion

Somaliland Diaspora Week 2025 proved to be a defining moment in reimagining the relationship between the homeland and its far-reaching diaspora. With strong political will, active civil society participation, and a global network of committed Somalilanders, the future of diaspora engagement now looks more strategic, inclusive, and impactful than ever before.