Why I Support the Edna Adan University Hospital...and Why I'm Asking You to Join Me

- I've donated to support the Edna Adan University Hospital since I learned about its founder in 2011. Edna Adan is a remarkable woman who came to my attention thanks to aNew York Times column written by Nicholas Kristof on Mother's Day two years ago.

As you may know, Kristof along with his wife, Sheryl WuDunn, co-wrote a book and started a movement, both entitled Half the Sky, dedicated to raising awareness of the worldwide oppression of women and girls and providing concrete steps to fight these problems and empower women. Towards that end, Half the Sky has highlighted a number of women-focused charitable groups committed to bettering the condition of women. Edna Adan's Hospital is one of their featured programs. Currently, Half the Sky is partnering with The Huffington Post and The Skoll Foundation on the RaiseForWomen Challenge, a fundraising campaign designed to raise money for organizations that support women and girls.

Ardaydii Dhagaxtuur Iyo Dhugashadii Maxamed Baaruud Cali.

Hambaaber dhowaanta Dareen ma hurdaana 

Dagaal wata heeso Hidday u lahayde 

Hargeysi ma toostay Hogaanka ma diiday 

Harqoodka ma tuurtay Inaanay hummaaga 

Hadoodilan yeelin Sidii hebed geel ah 

Heshii Nebi Saalax(CS) Horaadada dhiibin 

Hankeedu ma siiyey. Waxay hibanayso 

Ninkay la hadlayso Hagaag ma u sheegtay 

Hadday sama weydo Inay hantideeda 

Nafteeda hurayso Hubaal ma caddaysay 

(Abwaan Maxamed Ibraahin”Hadraawi” Maansadii Hambaabir)

Stiffer penalties, formal justice to curb rape in Somaliland

HARGEISA, 28 May 2013 (IRIN) - Stiffer penalties and reduced reliance on traditional justice systems could help end the rising incidence of rape in the self-declared republic of Somaliland, say officials. ''We estimate that about 5,000 rape cases may have taken place in Somaliland in 2012, compared to 4,000 cases in 2011,” Abdi Abdillahi Hassan, the director of social affairs in Somaliland’s Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, told IRIN. “There is no data of gender-based violence rates in Somaliland,” he added. 

Records at the Sexual Assaults Referral Centre (SARC), also known as Baahi-Koob, of the Hargeisa Group Hospital in Somaliland’s capital, also indicate a rising trend. “The centre received 195 rape cases in 2012, compared to 130 cases in 2011,” Ahmed Dahir Aden, SARC’s director, told IRIN.

Somaliland: Island of Stability in a Sea of Chaos

- Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. In 1991, the people of Somaliland declared independence from Somalia. But international recognition did not follow.Instead, they have been forced to remain attached to the anarchic nation against their will and expressly against the universal principles declared in the founding documents of the United States. 

Somaliland is more apt to embrace democracy than Somalia. The British colonization of Somaliland, while not without its faults, introduced a rule of law and democratic institutions. The Italians however, colonized Somalia and ruled in a manner more fitting of their fascist institutions. Somaliland, conversely, does not have the historical experience of warlords and nepotism that has plagued the rest of Somalia. And, the territory is predominantly occupied by one group, the Isaaq Clan creating an inherent homogeneity.

Wasiirka Arrimaha Dibeda Somaliland oo Ashkato ula tagay Xafiisyada Qaramada Midoobay ee Kenya

-Wasiirka Arrimaha dibadda iyo iskaashiga caalamiga ah ee Somaliland Dr. Maxamed Cabdilaahi Cumar, ayaa sheegay inay qarramadda Midoobay kala xaajoonayaan gaabis iyo isbedel ku yimid qaar ka mid ah Hay’adaha UN-ka ee ka hawl-gala dalka.Wasiirka Khaarajigu waxa uu sidaasi ka sheegay mar uu Shallay ka dhoofayay madaarka Berbera isagoo u kicitimay dalka Kenya, waxaanay Saxaafadu su’aalo ka weydiisay dulucda socdaalkiisa.

Wasiirka oo ugu horayn la weydiiyay sida uu u arko wada shaqaynta Somaliland iyo Jimciyadda Quruumaha ka dhaxaysa waxa uu yidhi “Marka Loo eego xidhiidhka iyo wada shaqaynta ka dhaxaysa Dawladda Somaliland iyo ha’yaddaha Jimciyadda quruumaha ka dhaxaysa wuu wanaagsan yahay, hase yeeshee waxa imika jira oo soo baxaya oo aanu arkaynaa meelo u baahan in la hagaajiyo.”

Somaliland: Education Success Story

- The Abaarso School of Science and Technology outside Hargeisa, Somaliland, has done an amazing job of preparing Somali students for some of the leading universities in the United States. According to its Spring 2013 update, its first graduating class has seven students on their way to the United States, including one to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, one to Oberlin and one to Georgetown.

The privately run school expects to send more than half of its first graduating class to well regarded higher education institutions around the world. Hats off to Abaarso School of Science and Technology!!! - ''David H.Shinn

 Abaarso School of Science and Technology Update Spring 2013

Inspired to Make a Difference in Maternal Health (Edna-Hospital)

- As a registered nurse, I love to connect with my patients on a human level, positively impact their health, and empower them through education. It is rewarding to interact with patients and see their physical and mental health improve. But I've always wondered if there was more I could do beyond the walls of a hospital.

Then a friend suggested I read Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity For Women Worldwide. I pored through the book and within a few days, I felt like my questions had been answered. Reading about the stories of Urmi Basu, Edna Adan, and Somaly Mam showed me that anyone can be an "agent of change." We can make a difference in one person's life or in a whole community. We can address an issue, raise awareness, or even provide a solution. These powerful stories of women from across the globe shed light on my own life and I began to ask myself, "How can I be an agent of change?"

Somaliland Success Story

A BRIEF HISTORY OF SOMALILAND AND ACCOMPLISHED SUCCESS 

- Now the 22^nd anniversary of Independence of Somaliland has passed in grace, peace, and enjoyment and Somali Unity discussions are behind us, it is very unnecessary to spoil our flourishing democracy and the success we accomplished with unfortunate political speeches such the one made by Hassan Eise through Radio Hargeisa in which he claimed that SNM forced some tribes in the region into submission and would continue to do so. Instead of healthy debates and continuing our progress with wisdom and carefully planned agenda, Hassan Eise pities tribes against one and another as happened in the last Municipal Elections in Salal region.This kind of behavior is not in his interest or that of Somaliland. By avoiding divide-and-rules strategies and attitude, Somaliland can make a difference. Let us leave Hassan’s political ambition to the people of Somaliland to decide and turn to the main topic and give young people an opportunity to learn from history.  Here is a brief history of Somaliland, what it had been denied before 1991, and what it has achieved after.

THE UNIQUENESS OF SOMALILAND PEOPLE AND THE ROOT OF THEIR PROBLEM WITH SOMALIA

''Somaliland people has a unique and diverse culture that differs them from Italian-Somalia. World should give enough attention to this matter".Ismail Hussein Duale(suufi) 

- The old theory that Somali people are the only African people with the same believe who speaks the same language and share the same common culture is invalid and proven wrong. Facts gathered by western sociologist and anthropologists' did not only prove the diversity of the two cultures (Somaliland, and Somalia) but they found a define border-line between the two cultures.

Somaliland Fact Sheet May 2013

Humanitarian overview

- Drivers and features of the humanitarian situation: Recurrent droughts, flash floods and protracted displacement are the humanitarian issues of concern in Somaliland, which declared its independence in 1991. It has remained relatively stable, but a border dispute with neighbouring Puntland over areas in the regions of Sanaag and Sool has been a flash point and has hampered humanitarian access to the area.

- Recent trends: According to the latest food security and nutrition analysis released in February 2013*, people in need of humanitarian aid have decreased to 413,000 from 650,000 since August 2012. The agricultural production in Somaliland has increased by 7 per cent since 2011. The livestock exports have increased 25 per cent since 2010.

GPE approves $439m for quality education for children in 12 low-income countries

Press Release;

- Global Partnership for Education's Board of Directors has approved US$439 million in grants to 12 developing countries, providing critical funding and momentum toward quality education for all children. This new financing strongly reflects the Global Partnership's top priorities: increasing access to basic education in fragile states, improving the quality of education, generating measurable results and championing girls' education.

"For these countries this is crucial funding to make progress on getting all children into school for a quality education," said Alice Albright, Chief Executive Officer at the Global Partnership. "All children should have access to a school, have effective teachers, and be able to learn so she or he can contribute to the development of their community and nation," she said.

Somaliland: EU hands-over Sheikh Technical Veterinary School to IGAD

Press Release

- Today, the European Union has launched the handing over phase of the Sheikh Technical Veterinary School to the Inter-Governmental Authority for Development (IGAD). The pioneer school specialised in animal health and initiated by the EU in Somaliland 10 years ago, will indeed soon become a regional centre of excellence within the Horn of Africa.

With a third aid envelope of 3 million EUR, the EU will ensure a smooth transition of the school management and boost the school's education services. This by upgrading the academic programmes to university level and by extending training and collaboration with other institutions in the entire Horn of Africa.

Aqoon-isawaydaarsi: ''Tayada Dawada Xoolaha'' - Wariye Cawke & Hereri

- Kulan lagu gorfaynayay tayada dawooyinka xoolaha Soomaalida ee dalka loo soo waarido saamaynta xun ee ay ku yeeshaan xoolaha nool oo shalay lagu qabtay huteelka Xaraf ee magaalada Hargeysa ayaa waxa ka soo qaybgalay shirkadaha iyo xubnaha daawooyinka xoolaha soo dajiya oo ka kala yimid gobollada iyo degmooyinka dalka, ayaa waxa aqoon is waydaarsigan oo socon doona hal maalin soo qabanqaabiyay wasaarada xanaanada xoolaha, waxaan maalgaliyay hay’ada DAI, oo ay daadihinayeen labada wariye ee caanka ah Axmed Xasan Cawke iyo C/salaam Hereri, waxaa kale oo ka soo qaybgalay agaasimaha guud ee xanaanada xoolaha Somaliland Dr Axmed Cagaweyne.

What Motivates Somalilander’s Opponents

- Somalilanders need to understand motivation of their opponents, especially the tribal tooting on and off line effective hate campaign – believe it or not, their motivation is nothing more than a simpl ENVY ! They have long convinced themselves Somalilanders (particularly Idoors) are Qad chewing wild society who is unskilled to govern… They just don’t want to accept what they thought was Qad chewing wild society have not only proven to govern, but in fact succeed building their own thriving nation.

To be envious of success is inherent human and Somali characteristic (.. hadee ma kii xunka ahaa ee reer waqoyi baa wax qabsan kara), regrettably, in Somalia, this prevailing indoctrination now became a clinical disease affecting our civilization.  Somalilanders need to come together with foresight and work harder for the nation building. But, with new and relevant strategies, especially, at the national, intra-Somali and international diplomacy front. We acted by standing up to injustice and by building a successful nation from the ground up.

Taariikhdii la Dafiray (The Denied History): Dr. Maxamed-Rashiid Sheek Xassan

- Hadal layaab leh ayaa ka soo yeedhay Madaxweynaha Soomaaliya Maalintii la xusayay xornimada Somaliland.? ?. ?18 May Waxay Mudnayd Hambalyo iyo Hawraar San, Balse Bah-dil iyo Hawraar Xun May Gayin? Maalinta xornimada Somaliland ee 18-ka May waxa loo soo maray dhibaatooyin fara badan oo dad aad u tiro badani u god-galeen, taas oo wali ay sii taagan tahay riiqdiisii iyo raadkii uu ka tagay. 

Waxa xusid mudan dhacdadii naxdinta iyo argagaxa xambaarsanayd ee lagu laayay dadkii 40-ka kor u dhaafay ee lagu xasuuqay xeebta Jazeera ee ku taal duleedka Magaalada Muqdisho 17 July, 1989. Waxa kale oo jira xabaalo wadareedyadii daadadku soo faqi jireen oo ka mid ah xasuuqii loo geystay ummaddan u dabaal-dagaysay midhihii halgankii ay dhiiga badan u daadiyeen. 

Somaliland marks 22 years of independence - *Read/Watch

- People in Somaliland are marking 22 years of self-declared independence from Somalia, but they are still waiting for the world to recognise their region as a country. Celebrations were held in the capital, Hargeisa, on Saturday, with people holding rallies, waving flags from their vehicles and staging shows in various stadiums.

Somaliland, which is more tribally homogeneous than the rest of Somalia, has been striving for international recognition since it broke away in 991. Ahmed Mahamoud Silany, the region’s president, told Al Jazeera on Friday that, despite Somalia's calls to be united with the region, Somaliland is determined to retain its independence

Khudbadii M/wayne Axmed Sillanyo Iyo Xuskii 18-MAY *Daawo

BBC: Xuska 18ka May Ee Somaliland - *Dhegta-maal

- Magaalooyinka uu ka kooban yahay dalka Jamhuuriyadda Somaliland guud ahaan iyo gaar ahaan caasimada dalka Hargeysa, waxa saaka subaxii ilaa duhurkii maanta ka socday dabaaldegyo iyo damaashaadyadii ugu balaadhnaa ee xuska maalinta 18ka May loo sameeyo!

Munaasibadan maanta oo ku beegan sanad-guuradii 22aad ee ka soo wareegtay markii lagu dhawaaqay la soo noqoshada madaxbanaanida qaran-nimada J. Somaliland oo ahayd 18-kii bishii May ee Sanadkii 1991. Waxa xuskan dartii maanta Khudbad dadka u jeediyay Madaxwaynaha J.Somaliland mudane Axmed M. Maxamad Siilaanyo. BBC-Somali ayaa barnaamij ka diyaarisay maalintan Qiimaha leh.

*Dhegta-maal;

http://www.bbc.co.uk/somali/war/2013/05/130518_somaliland.shtml

Somaliland Hopes For Independancy: Aljazeera-English

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Madaxwayne Axmed Siilaanyo: Fariinta Xuska 18ka MAY

- Xuska 18ka May: Madaxweynaha J. Somaliland Mudane Axmed M. Maxamuud (Siilaanyo) ayaa shacbiga reer Somaliland meel ay joogaanba ugu baaqay inay u midoobaan oo ay nooleeyaan munaasibadda 18ka May ee 22-guurada ka soo wareegtay dib ula soo noqoshadii madax-banaanida qaranka J.Somaliland. Madaxwayne Axmed Siilaanyo oo farriin u diray shacbiga reer Somaliland ayaa waxa uu yidhi sidan;

“Xiligan oo aynu u dabaal degayno xornimada Somaliland, waxaan anigoo ah madaxweynaha Somaliland ugu baaqayaa bulshadda Somaliland ee ku kala sugan daafaha dunida inay u midoobaan xuska 22-guuradda ka soo wareegtay dib ula soo noqoshadii madax-banaanida Somaliland,”ayuu yidhi Madaxweyne Axmed Siilaanyo, siday caawa daabacday mareegta SomalilandGov.

Somaliland hopes for independence - Aljazeera - *Read/Watch

- Citizens and leaders of Somaliland say they are historically and politically a separate country. The Horn of Africa has been ravaged by war and famine for decades, and now one of Somalia's regions, hopes to become an independent state. Somaliland sits on the Gulf of Aden and is officially regarded as an autonomous region of Somalia. The two were, however, separate until 1960. During the civil war in the 1980s, MORE THEN 50,000 people from Somaliland were killed, and nearly half a million fled. The region then declared independence in 1991. Since then, it has held four peaceful elections. Poverty, however, remains high and because Somaliland is not recognised as an independent state, it is not eligible for international development loans. Read/WATCH more: http://www.aljazeera.com/video/africa/2013/05/201351802149541959.html

18-ka May Waan Mahadinay Ee Muunadeeya!‏

- Todobaadadii u dambeeyay ee ina dhaafay dadka reer Somaliland meel ay joogaanba waxa ay u diyaar garoobayeen, qabanqaabada damaashaadka, dabaaldaga, xusida iyo waynaynta maalinta 18ka May ee inoogu suntan; ''la soo noqoshada Qaran-nimada Jamhuuriyadda Somaliland''.

Si ay u noqoto maalintani (18ka May), mid gaar ah oo yuhuunta dadka reer Somaliland bil-sha lagana reebo xasuuso dib u dheehasho leh oo duug yeesha waxa Gu' kasta fooladaynteeda loo huraa oo la galiyaa, tacab aad iyo aad u badan. Waxa loo quudhaa aduun aan cadad iyo xisaab lahayn! Waxa loo maroojiyaa maskaxo badan oo laga tuujinayo murti iyo maaweelo dareenka dadka cariya! Waa loo kalaha oo loo guura galaa!

SSE’s statement on the occasion of the 22nd anniversary of Somaliland independence.

SSE: Press Release

Date : 17/05/2013

REF:  SSE/EXT/F033 

Somaliland Society in Europe (SSE), on behalf of its affiliated organisations, wishes the people of Somaliland wherever they are festive celebrations for this national day. SSE commends Somaliland diaspora communities in Europe for their heartless efforts to organise celebration events across major European cities and promote the independence of Somaliland. SSE would like also to thank to government of Somaliland for nominating the 18th May independence committee to make this day bigger and nationwide event style. 

Why we celebrate

Knowledge of TB within the Somali community: UK

- Many new tuberculosis cases are occurring in people born outside the UK. Culturally appropriate services need to be developed for the effective treatment of TB

IN THIS ARTICLE…

• How the research was undertaken
• Insight into knowledge and attitudes about tuberculosis within the Somali community
• The implications for practice arising from the research

Author

Kate Gerrish is professor of nursing research at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust; Andy Naisby is TB specialist nurse at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust; Mubarak Ismail is research assistant at Sheffield Hallam University.

Xukuumadda Oo Jawaab Kulul Ka Bixisay Hadal Ka Soo Yeedhay Ku Xigeenka Xoghayaha Guud Ee Qaramadda Midoobay

- Wasiirka Arrimaha Debadda Somaliland Dr Maxamed C/laahi Cumar ayaa si kulul u naqdiyey War-murtiyeed 9-kii May uu soo saaray Ku xigeenka Xoghayaha Guud ee Jimciyadda Quruumaha ka dhaxaysa Jan Eliasson, kaas oo uu ku sheegay in Somaliland ay si dad-ban uga qaybgashay Shirkii dhawaan Somalia loogu qabtay Magaaladda London.

Dr Maxamed C/laahi waxa uu waxba kama jiraan iyo been-abuur ku tilmaamay hadalkaas ka soo yeedhay masuulka labaad ee Jimciyadda Quruumaha ka dhacaysa Mr Jan Eliasson, kaas oo sheegay inaanay Somaliland qayb ka ahayn wufuudii Somalia ka socotay ee ka qaybgashay shirkaas, isla markaana xusay in la xaqiray dadaalada Jamhuuriyadda Somaliland ay Caalamka kagala shaqayso sidii loo xasilin lahaa Somaliland. 

Pastoralism’s economic contributions are significant but overlooked

- Pastoralism is often regarded as an antiquated practice ill-suited to the modern economy, yet trade between pastoral communities in Africa - much of it informal and illegal - generated an estimated US$1 billion each year, according to a new book published by the Futures Agriculture Consortium,. 

“If we shift our gaze from the capital cities, where the development and policy elite congregate, to the regional centers and their hinterlands where pastoralists live, then a very different perspective emerges. Here we see the growth of a booming livestock export trade, the flourishing of the private sector, the expansion of towns with the inflow of investment, and the emergence of a class of entrepreneurs commanding a profitable market, and generating employment and other business opportunities; and all of this driven without a reliance on external development aid,” said the authors of the study.

Fighting Maternal Mortality in Somaliland: Jenni Morello

''It is difficult to change people's minds and ideals, but Edna is slowly transforming the minds of women and men in a country that has deeply held on to its generational roots''. Janni Marello

- Being a part of Half the Sky Movement has been an incredible, eye-opening experience that has taught me a lot about myself and has also empowered me to be a better woman. I think of all the strong-willed and influential women I've met in the past year and one in particular jumps out at me. In Somaliland, I met one of these incredible women -- her name is Edna. Edna Adan is one of those people that you meet and instantly feel proud and empowered to be a woman. She has done such amazing work in Somaliland in terms of maternal health. She started the first ever maternal health hospital in Hargeisa. Simple access to pre-natal vitamins, and access to a midwife are usually scarce.

18th May Date is Emblem of Dignity in Sovereignty : Somaliland

- Thanks to 18 May 1991, it heralded peaceful co-existence between all the clans of Somaliland after a long period marked by mutual animosity. The clans of the ex-British Somaliland Protectorate shared their territory and enjoyed a close cultural similarity. After independence and union with Italian Somalia in 1960, an ethnic related enmity was introduced between them.

The Siad Barre military regime pitted the Somaliland clans against each other. The Somali National Movement (SNM), which was created in response to his heavy handedness, ousted the occupying army of Siad Barre from Somaliland back to Somalia. On 18 May, 1991 an all inclusive Somalilander clan elders' conference signed a peace accord in Burao town. They re-founded their formerly shared sovereign state of Somaliland.

Healthcare And Nutrition In Developing Africa: Jackie Wolf talks with Edna Adan and Nafisa Bedri.

- On this edition of Conversations from Studio B, host Jackie Wolf talks with Edna Adan and Nafisa Bedri.

The former Foreign Minister of Somaliland, Edna Adan is the founder and director of the Edna Adan University Hospital. Nafisa Bedri is the current director of international and external relations at Ahfad University and an associate professor of women and community health.

Wolf, Adan and Bedri discuss the faltering healthcare system in Somalia, the importance of breastfeeding and infant nutrition in the developing world, and some steps towards bettering healthcare in Somalia and Sudan.

Listen more about this conversation;

http://woub.org/2013/05/13/healthcare-and-nutrition-developing-africa

Somaliland Bans UN Flights in Retaliatory Move

- Somaliland’s minister of Civil Aviation and air transport Mr. Mohamoud Hashi Abdi has announced on Tuesday that Somaliland government has banned UN air-crafts from flying over, or landing in Somaliland and all grounded UN airplane can’t departure, without further notice. 

The announcement came after Somalia’s Federal government in Mogadishu announced on Sunday that they are preparing to take over the control of Somalia airspace by the end of this year. Mr. Mohamoud Hashi, ascertained starting 27th May, Somaliland, will have complete authority controlling its airspace. 

Also, starting June, Somaliland aviation will start collecting all charges fee from airlines using its airspace and all airlines using their airports. Somaliland Aviation minister, also warned SFG, if they pursue their decision of controlling airspace of what was known Somalia that might jeopardize continued dialogue between them.

Madaxweyne Siilaanyo Oo La Filayo Inuu Maalinta Xuska 18 May Uu 12 Sarkaal Ka Dhigi Doono Jananno

 - Munaasibada 18-ka May xuska maalinta qaranimada Somaliland oo ku began 18-ka bishan May ayaa la sheegay Xuska maalintaas Xukuumadda Somaliland laba iyo toban Sarkaal oo ka tirsan Ciidanka Qaranka ku Toli doonto darajada Janan, taas oo ka dhigi doonta tirada Jananada Ciidanka Qaranka 15 Genaraal. 

Ku tolista darajada laba iyo Tobanka Janan ayaa la sheegay in uu Madaxweyne Siilaanyo ku taxi doono marka uu dhamaado dabaal dega xuska 18-ka May, isagoo Maalintaas ku xusi doona arrimo kale oo lagu weynaynayo Xuskaasi. Warku ma sheegin in la siin doono Ciidamada kale wax darajo ah, hase yeeshee ilo wareedyadu waxay intaa ku darayaan in tirada la siin doonaa noqon doonto oo kali ah laba iyo tobankaas Janan oo laga soo xulay Ciidanka qaranka oo kali ah. 

Baby Zuber (Subeer) Born with Heart Condition. Edna Adan

- I’m so grateful for all the support we have received from our friends, especially on the occasion of Mother’s Day. There is no better way to honor your mother than to help a mother who wants to give her baby all of the love and care that every mother wants to give to her child.

Let me share with you yet one more reason that makes me happy to have built my hospital. This is Baby Zuber. He was born at home approximately six weeks ago. He was born in very poor health and has had trouble breathing since birth. The only reason he has lasted as long as he has is because he has a very devoted and loving mother who has given him around-the-clock attention. But Baby Zuber developed pneumonia and even his mother’s tender loving care was not enough, so she brought him to our hospital. We discovered that Baby Zuber was born with a defect where his heart is located on the wrong side of his chest.

Barnaamij Gaar Ah: Taariikhdii Maxamad X. Ibraahim Cigaal. (Part-2

The Politics of Unification and Separation.

- A close examination of the history of unification and partition shows that the two political realities are usually interconnected. In the past, when empire building was the norm, many countries with often different nationalities were united under one central government.  The last central government of that kind was the United Socialist Soviet Republics (USSR), which was dismantled in the early nineties.  

After the dismantling process was completed, many of the republics of the USSR became independent and sovereign countries. Likewise, the old Czechslovakia Republic was separated into two countries: the Czech Republic and the Slovakia Republic. Other countries that experienced political separation after a very long unification are Sudan, which became the Republic of Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan; Serbia, out of which came out Kosovo; and Indonesia, out of which came out East Timor.

Somaliland: On Mother's Day, Let's Invest in Women

- When I first arrived in Somaliland in April 2011, I became immediately aware of the societal norms and cultural value system that was distinctly based on gender. I saw how the male perspective was the only one that mattered regarding human sexuality, while women's reproductive rights were non-existent. Women in Somaliland have no voice -- their bodies are culturally controlled long before puberty and their very worth is male-dictated. Their maternal health is a matter of chance and luck yet an abundance of children is inherently expected and valued above their well-being and often their survival.

Despite the immense adversity of circumstances I witnessed, I was inspired by the great work I saw Edna Adan doing in her native country. Edna became a personal hero of mine -- even just from reading the chapter about her in the book Half The Sky. She exemplifies what it means to be a true "nurse," as well as an ambassador of her nation's women. Edna is a genuine inspiration who has earned every bit of respect and esteem through her determined efforts in a wildly patriarchal society.

Edna Invited to Sponsor Fistula Day

- Preventing Fistula Saves Lives. This is the theme of the United Nations Population Fund’s global Campaign to End Fistula. The Population Fund, or UNFPA, is marking the 10th anniversary of this drive by declaring May 23 to be International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. Here at Edna Hospital, we’ve been involved in the fight against obstetric fistula for years, so we’re honored that the UNFPA has asked Edna to be its partner in celebrating the first ever Fistula Day in Somaliland.

Obstetric fistula, while virtually unknown in the US and Europe, is one of the most devastating – and preventable – conditions faced by women in developing countries. An obstetric fistula is caused when a woman suffers with obstructed labor for a prolonged period of time, often days, without access to a medical professional who can perform a caesarian section or provide other medical relief. 

Read more:

http://www.ednahospital.org/2013/05/edna-invited-to-sponsor-fistula-day/

Moogow Walaal! Waa Sheeko ka hadlaysa Laba Shakhsiyadood Oo La Yidhaa “Wiil iyo Warside''

- Moogow walaal waxay ka hadlaysaa sheeko dhex martay shakhsiyad la yidhaa “Wiil” iyo shakhsiyad la yidhaa “Warside”. Wiil wuxu u taaganyahay Somaliland; Warsidena wuxu u taaganyahay waqtiga wareega ee nolosha aduunku ku xidhantahay isla markaana keydiya wixii dhacay.

Wiil iyo Warside waxa dhex martay dood. Doodaas oo ku saabsan doonistii midnimada shanta Soomaaliyeed (Soomaali Weyn: “Shantoo is weheshada eey wacnaydaa; calan inay wadaagaan eey wanaagsanaydaa!”) iyo gogol xaadhkii midinimadaasi ay ku midoombeen Somaliland iyo Somalia. Doodu waxay ka hadlaysaa intii aanyay midnimadu dhicin, markii ay dhacdo, iyo waxa ay ku dambayn doonto markay dhacdo.

Geeri: ''Maxamuud Maxamad Warsame (Ina-Afay)

Tacsi

- Shalay oo ay taariikhdu ahayd 10/05/13, waxa Hargaysa ku geeryooday oo lagu aasay marxuum Maxamuud Maxamad Warsame oo loo yaqaanay ''Maxamuud Afay'. Anaga oo ka tiiraanyaysan geerida lama filaanka ah waxanu halkan tacsi murugo leh uga diraynaa qoyskii (xaaskii iyo caruurtii marxuumka), xigtadii, asxaabtii, ardaydii iyo dhamaan intii kale ee tabi doontaba oo aanu leenahay dhamaantood Samir iyo Iimaan Allah ha idinka siiyo. Marxuumkana, Ilaahay waxan uga baryaynaa inuu Janadii Fardawsa ka waraabiyo. Aamiin Aamiin Aamiin.

Faalo kooban: Macalin Maxamuud Afay, waxa uu ahaa nin ilaahay hibo u siiyay fahamka Xisaabta! Allah magane, Isna intii uu noolaa waxa uu baristeeda hagar la'i uga haqab-tiray ardaydii nasiibka u heshay inuu macalim u noqdo! Meelaha sida gaarka ah loogu xasuusan doono waxa ka mid ah dugsigii caanka ahaa Qalax/Timo-cade.......'Inaa Lilaahi Wa Inaa Ilayhi Raajicuun''

Somaliland - Why Elections Matter. By Edward Paice

- As news and analysis emerges from the second UK-Somalia conference in London, the absence of the government of Somaliland is noticable. Somalia and Somaliland are bound by many longstanding ties, but over the past two decades their political trajectories have diverged.

As institutions in Somalia have crumbled under the weight of protracted sectarian violence, Somalilanders have made considerable headway in building a functioning democratic system of government. While political developments in Somaliland should not be romanticised, they are worth examining and reflecting upon.

Two State Solution: The Republic of Somaliland And The Federal Republic of Somalia

- After the conclusion of the recent London conference to bolster support for the fledgling provisional administration in Mogadishu, two things became quite clear.

1. There must be a two state solution for Somaliland and the rest of the defunct “Somali Republic”.

2. The International Community is throwing the last dice on Somalia with the administration of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the hopes of a democratically elected government in 2016.

Somaliland’s role in peace and security

''From President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud Silanyo.

- Sir, Increased international attention and support for Somalia is both welcome and necessary. We hope that the Somalia conference makes a tangible difference, channelling more and smarter funds towards the development and security of our region.

Despite progress in Somalia to rebuild the shattered country, peace and a lasting political settlement remain some way off as Katrina Manson reports (“Leader appeals for new Marshall Plan for Somalia”, May 7). The damage and instability caused by the lack of governance for two decades will take time to repair.

We Look Forward To Continuing Our Dialogue With Somalia On a Political Settlement for Somaliland.”: President Ahmed Sillanyo

- In response to the International Somalia Conference final communiqué President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud Silanyo said:

“We are pleased that the Somalia Conference agreed continued partnership between the international community and the Government of Somalia to build peace, stability and prosperity in our region. However the Somalia Conference was right to note that political progress remains the key to ensuring long-term stability for Somalia. We reiterate the importance of addressing the political independence of Somaliland, which will be an important part of making this pledge of political progress a reality.

Barnaamij Gaar Ah: Taariikhdii Maxamad X. Ibraahim Cigaal '' Part-1

London's Somalia conference does not recognise Somaliland – we cannot go

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'As president of Somaliland I wish the conference well, but we cannot attend an event that ignores our history and our reality''. President Ahmed M. Sillanyo

- The Horn of Africa has for too long been one of the world's most troubled regions. It has been defined, for good reason, by conflict, repression, famine, terrorism and piracy. 

So it is a sign of hope that 50 countries and organisations will meet in London this week to discuss how to help the new government of Somalia forge a better future for its citizens. This high-profile conference shows Somalia is getting international attention. The new government needs support in rebuilding state institutions and its shattered economy. Britain's re-opening of its embassy last month shows security is slowly improving although recent terrorist attacks in Mogadishu show the scale of the challenge.

The Road to Economic Development; the case for Somaliland

- This work tries to pave the way for the achievement of a sustainable economic growth by taking into account the current position of the Somaliland economy and then compiles a set of recommendations for those agents including policy makers who are interested in improving the economy.Currently, Somaliland is in the stage of what Rostow called “the preconditions for take-off”. According to Rostow, the “preconditions for take-off”, the second stage of a five stage process, is characterised by the presence of entrepreneurs in the society and investors who are ready to invest ideas.

In his paper Is there a proper sequence in Democratic transitions? Francis Fukuyama highlights that “Development is a complex process that takes place across multiple dimensions of Human life”, and that economic growth, the State, Rule of law and mechanisms of democratic accountability are just few of those several dimensions. In this paper I will focus on the economic side of that development process.

CAN BRITAIN HANDLE THE RAPES, KILLINGS, AND CLANS IN SOMALIA?

- Tomorrow, the good, the bad, and the hard to pin down will meet for the Somalia Conference in London. Officials from the UN, the African Union, the IMF, and 50 countries will be there to impart their wisdom/spout platitudes in a bid to help Somalia rebuild itself after two decades of conflict. One area that won't be represented, however, is Somaliland—the largely autonomous region of Somalia that's seeking its independence—making it the largest of a number of pretty sizable elephants in the room.

The London conference, inaugurated last year, is very much David Cameron’s baby. Although it's held in the foreign office, last year it was Cameron directing the press conference from the podium, while Foreign Minister William Hague had to suffer the indignity of slinking in beforehand to sit at the front, looking up at Principal Cameron like a naughty schoolboy.

Contrasting Somalia and Somaliland

Yan Digilov, Chief Strategist for Firestarter, talks about his discovery of a place called Somaliland which has never been recognized by any government and was thoroughly neglected by the major NGO’s. See below for full video. Here are excerpts. “As a hypothetical exercise, picture in your head a country in Africa limping into the end of the 20th Century facing widespread disease, poverty and war. Now let’s take this country and split it in half.”

What if we gave the one side everything they needed, an enormous credit card to build their infrastructure, whatever they needed, and aid in times of famine. “And the other side, we just leave it up to them to figure out how to pay for key infrastructure projects without access to support from international development experts. Leave it up to them to figure out how to secure peace without our 

Read/Watch  more:

http://www.ednahospital.org/2013/05/contrasting-somalia-and-somaliland/

Historical Landmarks In Somaliland, Somalia, And Greater Somalia

- Since we are in a period in which an intensified international effort is being made to make peace and find a lasting solution for the “Somali Problem”, I reckon that it is important to show some historical landmarks in Somaliland, Somalia and Greater Somalia. These historical landmarks are factual events that must be considered in any efforts to reach a lasting and an acceptable solution for the “Somali problem.”. Prof. A/salam

Historical Landmarks in Somaliland

1866 Khedive Ismail Pasha, the ruler of Egypt, claimed that Somaliland was part of the Red Sea coastal area that the Turkish Ottoman Empire transferred to his jurisdiction.

''Parliament in Somaliland:- Report from African Research Institute

Report from Africa Research Institute''

- On the eve of local elections in November 2012, Africa Research Institute interviewed ten prominent Somalilanders, including the three Speakers of the House of Representatives, two government ministers, MPs, civil society activists and representatives of women’s organisations. The conversations presented in After Borama: Consensus, representation and parliament in Somalilandfocus on the way in which political stability has been maintained since the landmark Borama conference in 1993 – and on approaches that need to be adapted in the future. Collectively, they are a timely assessment of democratic politics, the role of institutions and national development priorities in Somaliland

'' New Report From Africa Research Institute:- ''After Borama: Consensus, Representation And Parliament In Somaliland

“Elections matter in Somaliland. They are not mere formalities, conferring a thin veneer of legitimacy on a permanent incumbent; nor are they conducted solely as a sop to foreign donors insisting on greater democracy; nor is the prime motivation to further the pursuit of international recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state. For most Somalilanders, elections are above all an essential component of internal peace and security…” Edward Paice and Hannah Gibson, Africa Research Institute (May 2013).

Twenty years since the historic Borama conference in Somaliland, Africa Research Institute has produced a remarkable report on the development of democratic politics in the country. It features interviews with a range of key Somalilanders who played a part in the historic moments of Somaliland’s politics over the last 20 years and continue to do so today.

Minister Mark Simmonds: ''Somaliland diaspora event in Cardiff

- Foreign Office Minister Mark Simmonds met members of the Somaliland diaspora in Cardiff to discuss a range of issues around UK foreign policy. More than 20 local leaders, community workers and political activists, including women representatives, attended the event at the National Assembly for Wales on Monday.

In his remarks, the Minister paid tribute to the long-standing friendship between the UK and Somaliland, including the deep historical ties with Cardiff. He also noted the impressive progress made in Somaliland in terms of development and business links, and welcomed the significant contribution the diaspora had made towards strengthening Somaliland