Editorial

Somaliland – Planning for the next twenty years

May 18, 2011   ·   223325 Commentshttp%3A%2F%2Fsomalilandpress.com%2Fsomaliland-%25e2%2580%2593-planning-for-the-next-twenty-years-22332Somaliland+%E2%80%93+Planning+for+the+next+twenty+years2011-05-18+08%3A44%3A58Qalinle+Husseinhttp%3A%2F%2Fsomalilandpress.com%2F%3Fp%3D22332

EDITORIAL: Somaliland – Planning for the next twenty years

As the twentieth anniversary of Somaliland becoming a self-proclaimed independent state nears there is good reason for a fair degree of satisfaction, but also need for reflection and a degree of caution. The 18th May 2011 will inevitably be marked by celebrations and as the de facto nation moves ever closer to international recognition confidence amongst Somalilanders will continue to grow. Somalis are by their very nature stoical individuals, with a deep sense of self reliance, but this anniversary is bound to trigger some negative reactions and must therefore be handled with dignity and I trust a lack of triumphalism.

To the seasoned observer of the Horn of Africa and of African Affairs in general, what has been achieved by the people of Somaliland is remarkable. After years of persecution and clan rivalry the region have largely managed to put historic enmities behind them and forge a means of survival that thus far has served the nation well. The horrors of Siad Barre years coupled with the internecine warfare that has torn Mogadishu and its environs apart has concentrated minds and served as a salutary lesson. The Somalis of the region have dug deep and discovered a capacity for co-operation, albeit grudging at times, that has seen them hold the country together these twenty years. The fact that last year Somaliland was able to hold a Presidential Election that passed off largely without incident and resulted in a peaceful transfer of power reveals something of the very best of Somalis and the remarkable resolve of Somalilanders. The last two decades has been a journey of discovery, possibly even of rediscovery, one that excites both admiration and envy in equal measure.

In planning for the next five to ten years Somaliland would do well to endeavour to reflect on where it is at. Peace is easily derailed and the picture is more complex than many are prepared to admit. In order to appraise the current situation it helps to apply certain management tools, my following S.W.O.T. analysis should certainly help concentrate minds:

With the relative peace that exists has come a peace dividend, but whilst President Silanyo and previous leaders can take some of the credit for the progress that has to been made, both he and his ministers will be required to redouble their efforts if Somaliland is to really prosper. At present a number of the ministries lack real co-ordination and have yet to formulate a vision beyond a subsistence existence. Current demographic predictions will put an enormous strain on resources and no state can rely on or expect the international community and NGOs to be its safety net. Seasoned observers are aware that minimal progress has been made in regard to reducing pregnancy related mortality, whilst child protection barely registers as an issue. As for are for the care and treatment of the mentally ill, many of whom carry the mental scars of war and persecution, it is near non-existent. Policy makers and Legislative Leaders are desperately in need of training and this will require a willingness to be much more receptive and to learn anew.

Somaliland and the story of the Somali people is one of resilience and the desire to survive. Once the celebrations of 18th May are over it will be time to get back to the business of forging a nation. No one should underestimate the task that lies ahead, but Inshallah the resourcefulness and good humour of the Somalis will win through where ever they reside.

Mark T Jones

Somalilandpress | 17 May, 2011

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By Qalinle Hussein

Tags: 18 May, Independence day, Mark T Jones, Somaliland