Somaliland Offers US Access to Minerals After Israel recognition Push

Somaliland is offering the United States access to its mineral deposits as the breakaway territory intensifies a diplomatic drive for international recognition, weeks after Israel said it would recognise the region.

Officials in the territory say cooperation with Washington on mining and strategic resources could help cement political ties and strengthen Somaliland’s case for wider recognition after more than three decades of self-rule.

The move comes after Israel announced it would recognise Somaliland, a decision that supporters in Hargeisa say validates the territory’s long campaign for statehood.

But the announcement triggered sharp criticism from Somalia, which regards Somaliland as part of its sovereign territory.

Mogadishu condemned the step as a violation of Somalia’s unity and urged the international community not to follow suit.

Regional blocs including the African Union have also reiterated their support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, warning that recognising Somaliland could set a precedent for separatist movements elsewhere on the continent.

Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 after the collapse of the central government and the fall of military ruler Siad Barre.

Since then, it has run its own administration, security forces and currency, and has held several elections, helping it maintain relative stability in contrast to much of southern Somalia.

Despite functioning like an independent state, Somaliland has struggled to gain formal diplomatic recognition, limiting its access to international institutions and foreign investment.

Authorities say the territory holds deposits of minerals and other natural resources that could attract strategic interest from global powers seeking new supply chains.

Analysts say Somaliland’s location along the Gulf of Aden shipping corridor and the presence of the port of Berbera have also increased its geopolitical importance, particularly as countries compete for influence in the Horn of Africa.

For Somaliland’s leadership, Israel’s recognition has injected fresh momentum into its campaign to win support from major powers, though resistance from Somalia and many African governments suggests the push will remain contentious.

gandae@businessdayafrica.org