Somaliland Diaspora

The Diaspora

The diaspora has always played a positive role in Somaliland’s development. During the civil conflicts of  creation of SNM 1982 up to during genocide of 1988 to 1990, Somalilanders throughout the world raised funds for SNM, generated funds against one of most powerful military in the Sub-Saharan Africa. Those who worked to restore peace to Somaliland often described the diaspora as being even more vital than the people trapped at the heart of the conflict.

But as the roots of peace and stability in Somaliland have grown deeper, the contributions of the diaspora to the reconstruction process have taken on new dimensions. Somalilanders abroad have provided funding, leadership and publicity for activities in their homeland, often returning to take part in the work on the ground. The financial and material contributions from the diaspora have helped to sustain important local efforts, like Camuud University in Borame, Edna Adan Maternity Hospital in Hargeisa, Burco Hospital, Karin road, and the University of Hargeisa. This spirit of solidarity has served as a powerful antidote to the helplessness and disillusionment that prevailed in the wake of civil war, helping to restore a sense of confidence and self-esteem to a people still struggling to build hope for the future.

The links that tie the Somaliland diaspora to the homeland are so many and so strong that the two are virtually inseparable. Affordable air travel, telecommunications and the Internet all work to tie Somaliland’s expatriates more closely to their country of origin.

Somaliland’s most popular web pages are based in UK and main land Europe, USA & Canada and its main airline in Dubai; Somaliland does not export its most recent cultural and musical creations – it imports them from Europe and North America; at least half a dozen members of the presidential cabinet and hundreds of leading entrepreneurs and professionals have returned from the diaspora. Just as they contribute to rebuilding their homeland, Somaliland’s expatriates also help to situate their country more firmly within the international community.