More Than a Degree: Solving the post-graduation skill Gap.

 

You graduated. It is one of the biggest dreams that every alumnus should be proud of, since knowledge serves as the essential tool for transcending ignorance and developing critical thinking skills. Higher education also enables an individual to apply their acquired knowledge for the benefit of society while also fostering personal intellectual and financial growth.

We'll take a different perspective on the matter this time. It all starts with graduating and how you deal with life, including finding a job, which is the main goal that the alumnae are focusing on after finishing higher studies. This is not true for those who continue their higher education and pursue masters or PHD studies.

College or higher education can be overwhelming and cause an undergraduate to give up on pursuing higher education, but he/she perseveres to achieve his academic goals. For years, you have devoted yourself to racking your brain and staying up late at night to accomplish your academic objectives, by sacrificing and keeping consistent reading habits. You have borne the burden of taking on different university courses while perhaps facing difficult financial circumstances or being solely dependent yourself and paying for your life consumptions.

Upon obtaining your degree, you present it to the job market to address the inquiry, "Did you complete your college education to enter the job market?" However, you are confronted with new obstacles, the most significant of which is the experience paradox, which states, "you require experience to secure a job, yet you must first have a job to gain experience." At this juncture, you come to understand that the job market offers no leniency.

The obstacles encountered by a university graduate encompass not only the experience paradox but also the perplexing realities, including the impact of clan affiliation on hiring, which undermines the level and quality of knowledge an individual possesses. This phenomenon is frequently observed locally. It prompts numerous questions in a graduate’s mind, leading to doubts about the relevance of the knowledge they have gained when it fails to align with the demands of the job market.

This should not be viewed as an individual failure, but rather as a strategic error within the university higher education system, which focuses more on theoretical knowledge than on professional preparation. Additionally, it is a longstanding tradition that tribalism significantly impacts the employment prospects of young individuals. Even though university curricula and higher education do not align with the demands of the job market, it is crucial for young people to recognize that they have alternative avenues to equip themselves for the job market. They must establish a proactive approach to safeguard their futures from disappointment and unemployment post-graduation, as merely obtaining a degree is insufficient.

It is now clear that possessing a university degree by itself does not guarantee success in the job market, as employers seek more than just a bachelor's certificate. They depend on your experience and skills, which necessitates a shift in your mindset, moving beyond reliance solely on a university degree. It is your skills and technological knowledge that will enable you to advance in the job market and secure a suitable job in a timely manner, accompanied by your skills and experience.

The misalignment between academic instruction and occupational demands.

University curricula frequently emphasize imparting theoretical knowledge instead of practical skills and application, which is why one should not depend exclusively on a university degree. These programs aim to eliminate ignorance and cultivate your ability to think critically and contribute by adhering to the foundational knowledge provided. Research, assignments, peer collaborations, lectures, and discussions at the university are intended to develop your intellect; however, they do not always ensure success in a professional environment.

The job market requires an individual capable of performing this role and possessing the necessary skills. However, a graduate with a grasp of Keynesian economics or post-structuralist literary theory does not ensure that they will secure a suitable, stable, and dependable job. This does not imply that a university degree lacks value; rather, it highlights that employment opportunities demand specific skills and knowledge to effectively address the projects at hand.

The employer's wishlist - skills missing from your degree.

Higher education entails acquiring knowledge to become an enlightened person, devoid of ignorance. This gained knowledge enables you to successfully apply what you have learned; nonetheless, the crucial element is the employer's choice. In the competitive job environment, employers look for the most skilled and highly capable graduates who can contribute to their business goals. It's not just about the knowledge acquired in university; it's crucial to grasp the competitive skills needed for the job. Currently, employers often prefer graduates who have these three abilities that might not be thought in the university curriculum.

1. Digital Literacy.

In today's world, understanding technology is crucial, and it is necessary for individuals to be digital citizens. The era is over when individuals relied solely on Microsoft Office to complete their tasks. The moment has arrived when technology assumes control in life. Technology is ever-changing, and numerous applications and programs have been developed to perform various tasks autonomously. This understanding has enabled data analysis, financial issue resolution, online education, filmmaking, and AI that can perform tasks beyond human capability.

Proficiency in using software related to skills and career advancement is as necessary as water in this contemporary workspace. For instance, if you are a civil engineer, it is essential to be proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and Civil 3D software, which will enable you to execute your engineering tasks in a high-quality and contemporary manner, aligning your profession with the demands of the modern world.

Likewise, if you are a professional accountant, familiarity with QuickBooks, Tally, and Excel accounting is necessary to position yourself as a preferred candidate for employers. Knowledge of technology holds significant importance in the job market, and it is possible that you may not have fully developed your technological skills during your university lectures, resulting in a gap in your technology competencies.

2. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving

Upon entering the job market or beginning a new position, we encounter numerous challenges, such as a lack of experience and the anxiety of executing tasks competently, given that our understanding is primarily theoretical. Work environments demand cognitive abilities and critical thinking to effectively address work-related challenges and manage projects. As an employee, it is essential to possess not only knowledge but also skills in conflict resolution, patience, and communication to successfully manage the project you are involved in as efficiently as possible.

In the real-world, the workplace poses challenges that cannot be solved with textbook answers; instead, they demand that you apply your intellect and analytical skills to navigate your tasks and the dynamics surrounding you. You may not have acquired the critical thinking skills at your college level, so it is essential to cultivate your critical and creative thinking abilities to avoid feeling disheartened by work-related dilemmas.

3. Communication & Collaboration.

Work it is essential to develop your workplace communication abilities and familiarize yourself with the chain of command to grasp the various levels of management authority, ultimately facilitating your growth into a valuable employee who significantly contributes to the workplace.

You have received an excellent university education; however, it is crucial to enhance your skills in using emails, video calls, reports, and presentations to become an engaged participant in the workplace. This will help boost collaboration within your work environment and elevate your job satisfaction.

Work environments are intricate settings that necessitate strong communication skills to foster a sense of belonging, akin to home. Effective communication skills allow you to influence the business's trajectory. They enhance collaboration and efficiency. As a recent graduate.

How to bridge your Skill Gap Post-Graduation.

Acquire soft skills to position yourself as a strong candidate in the job market, enabling you to swiftly adjust to the demands of your role and workplace culture. Abilities like effective communication, team leadership, conflict resolution, and more will assist you in becoming a valuable employee who supports organizational objectives.

To connect with your employer, it is essential to market yourself by highlighting your strengths. After graduation, you should think about writing articles and conducting research pertinent to your area of study, concentrating on the job requirements that your field can fulfill to showcase your skills. Develop podcasts and blog entries from an employer's viewpoint that provide value. This approach will assist you in understanding yourself better and in reaching out to prospective employers.

Networking remains crucial even after you complete your college education. Life necessitates building connections, particularly with individuals you have collaborated with. To ensure your expertise is recognized within the community, it is essential to establish professional networks that can provide you with valuable advice and inform you about job opportunities beyond your immediate field. Furthermore, you can engage in professional outreach to potential employers by showcasing your skills and knowledge, making them aware of how your expertise can benefit their business.

The Ripple Effect: How Somaliland's UN Bid Could Transform the Horn and Gulf of Aden.

 

For over three decades, the Republic of Somaliland has been the world’s most successful de facto state that survived in the volatile Horn of Africa, where there is conflict and tense diplomacy.

It has been a self-declared independent state without a single seat at the UN, but it is a functioning democracy with a stable government and a thriving economy. What would happen if Somaliland were formally recognized? This question has long been a regional issue, but as geopolitical tides shift, the answer has far-reaching implications that could change the horn of Africa's future and the safety of the Gulf of Aden, one of the most important maritime transit routes in the world.

Recognition would be a diplomatic earthquake, especially in terms of region-wise. A pillar of the African Union (AU) since its founding, the long-standing international principle of the inviolability of Africa's colonial borders - the sacrosanct principle of uti possidetis juris - would be shattered. Given that Mogadishu views Somaliland as an integral component of a single Somali state, this act would unavoidably encounter strong opposition.

Somaliland's recognition project is not intended to support random border changes. It is the only case in which it was a separate British protectorate that voluntarily joined with Italian Somalia in 1960 to form the Greater Somali Republic. It is not secession but the dissolution of a failed union that frames its return as a separate sovereign state in 1991.

This move would impact all countries in the region, creating new alliances and rifts - that is the nature of politics. Perhaps the main advocate would be Ethiopia, which has expressed a strong desire to gain access to the sea through the port of Berbera in Somaliland. Conversely, Egypt could side with Mogadishu in order to oppose Ethiopian influence, as the two countries are engaged in a rivalry over the Nile River.

Consequently, since the project to recreate a unified State of Somalia has failed, this diplomatic puzzle is a task for the African continental bodies, the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which must effectively contribute to Somaliland's transition into an independent country that contributes to Africa.

Perhaps the most immediate global impact would be felt in the Gulf of Aden, the artery linking the Indian Ocean to the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean. This vulnerable maritime chokepoint would have an immediate effect. Thus, global recognition would give Somaliland's coast guard and maritime authorities’ legitimacy to deal with that traffic chaos, enabling direct international assistance and collaboration.

From a de facto actor to a legitimate maritime security partner, Somaliland can contribute to patrol its waters, combat piracy, eliminate illegal fishing, and secure shipping lanes. This would provide a stable and capable anchor in the region, making maritime traffic safer and more predictable for the world as a whole.

This could significantly enhance maritime safety. International naval coalitions such as Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) could formally collaborate with a recognized Somaliland to fight illicit fishing and piracy in its territorial waters. Somaliland may be able to better manage its coastline and help secure important shipping lanes for international trade with improved capabilities, funding, and legal clarity. From regional governments to global energy and shipping firms whose ships pass through the Suez Canal, everyone would gain from this.

Worldwide recognition to Somaliland can reason two scenarios: calm and chaos when it comes to security in the region. The recognition could, on the one hand, reinforce a stronghold of stability. In order to counter international threats like terrorism, arms smuggling, and human trafficking, a recognized Somaliland could establish official security partnerships and obtain direct access to international training, equipment, and intelligence-sharing. In securing the Horn, it would grow stronger and more responsible, possibly providing a stable base for operations against terrorism.

Scenario two: The Mogadishu-based Federal Government of Somalia could incite turbulence since it considers recognition to be an act of aggression, cutting diplomatic ties with the recognizing country and possibly mobilizing allies in the Arab League and AU to impose sanctions. Even though a traditional interstate conflict is unlikely, Mogadishu might support insurgencies in the disputed eastern regions of Somaliland, which could lead to proxy wars. Here, the risk of short-term escalation is balanced against the prospect of long-term stability, creating a ripple effect.

The pursuit of international recognition for Somaliland represents a significant economic opportunity, poised to unlock the region's considerable potential. Formal statehood would grant access to global financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This, in turn, would provide essential development funding for critical investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

The accelerating of the Berbera Corridor would have the biggest economic impact. With a population of more than 120 million, Ethiopia is one of the nation’s prioritizing accessing Berbera port.

This would not only transform Somaliland's economy but also change the dynamics of regional trade, giving other port states less strategic clout and establishing a new, competitive entry point to the Horn of Africa. In addition to investment and jobs, this economic ripple promises a potent new link in global supply chains.

Conclusion: A Decision with Global Resonance.

The recognition of Somaliland is no longer a local matter. It is a calculated move that will have an impact on the bustling decks of cargo ships navigating the Gulf of Aden, on diplomatic buildings in Addis Ababa and Brussels, and on commercial centers in Dubai and Mumbai.

It is a golden opportunity to reward democratic governance, unlock immense economic potential, and anchor a critical region with a proven partner. The global powers are learning that the future of one of the most strategically important stages in the world is closely tied to the fate of this unrecognized country as major powers reassess their interests in the Horn of Africa.

 

 

Maxay dadku ugu dhacaan Dabinka Tuugada Online-ka wax ku dhaca (Online scamming).

Si gaar ah nooca beryahan danbe Somalida lacagaha xad-dhaafka ah lagaga dhacay ee loo yaqaan “advance Fee Schemes”.

Sanadahan u danbeeyay waxa dunida ku soo batay Tuugada online-ka wax ku dhacda. Tuugada online-ku (online scammers) ku dhacdaa waa mawduuc caalami ah oo dunida oo dhan ka jira, sanadkiina waxa hab online ah lagu dhacaa malaayiin Dollar. Sanadkii 2024 waxa la qiyaasay in lacagaha Tuugada online ku dhacdaa ay gaadheen hal Tiriliyan. Hadaba, Somaalida waxa sanadahan danbe ka mid noqotay dhibaneyaasha lacago badan lagaga dhacay barnaamijyo been abuur ah oo loo ekaysiiyay ganacsi maalgalineed oo sharci ah. Barnaamijyadaasi waa kuwo been ah, inta badana qofka aqoonta aasaasiga ah ee maaliyada iyo Tiknoolajiyada wax uun ka yaqaan wuu fahmi karaa in barnaamijyada noocan ahi yihiin kuwo tuugo leedahay oo xoolaha dadka lagu dhacayo.

 

Dadka waxa laga qaado lacago horumarin ah (upfront fees), ka dibna waxa la soo bandhigaa xulashooyin qiimahoodu kala duwan yahay oo qofku maalgashanayo isaga oo loo balan qaadayo faa’iido badan oo degdeg ah. Faa’iidadan wakhtiyada hore qofku wuu helayaa ilaa dabinka lagu soo hoobanayana way bixiyaan lacagaha ay ku sheegeen faa’iidada. Qodobka ugu culus ee ay tahay inaad ku aaminto waa in laguu sheegayo in raasamaalkaagu faa’iido %100 ah kuu dhalayo ama ka badan muddo kooban “Overnight return on investment”.

 

Todabaadkan, Barnaamijka AGA oo dad badani lacago ku maalgashadeen hawada ka baxay sidaana dadkii lacagahoodii ku waayeen. AGA oo ah nooc Barnaamij oo dadku lacag ku maalgashadeen si ay faa’iido u helaan. Waxa uu ka mid yahay noocyada Tuugada online-ka ugu caansan ee loo yaqaan “advance fee scheme” scams.

 Hadaba, su’aashu waxay tahay Maxay dadku ugu dhacaan dabinka Tuugada Online-ka ah?

 1.    Damaca faa’iido-doonka degdeg ah ee dadka (overnight rich desire).

 Dadku abuur ahaan waa faa’iido doon firfircoon. Kooxahani waxay kulmiyeen doonista dadka ee ah inay dadku dabci ahaan yihiin kuwo iimaankooda lacag samayntu sarayso marka loo sheego in wakhti kooban aduun badan lagu samaynyo iyo xirfadooda samaynta barnaamijyo hab online ah u shaqaynaya kuwaas oo abuuraya hirar been ah (fake trading signals)  oo ay dadka ugu sheegayaan inay lacago samaynayaan.  Damaca iyo rabitaanka hodannimada degdega ah ayaa la odhan karaa waxa uu aasaas u yahay in dadku markiiba galaan maalgalin aanay garanayn sida ay u shaqaynayso, cida ka shaqaynaysa, meesha ay ku shaqeeyaan iyo dabeecada suuqa ay maalgashanayaan. 

Dhanka kale waxay adeegsadaan farsamooyin qofka lagu soo saarayo waxa jeebkiisu ka jira. Tusaale ahaan waxay diyaarinayaan kooxo suuqgayn ah oo sheeganaya inay lacago badan ka sameeyeen oo %100 aamin yahay barnaamijku si dadku ugu soo yaacaan iyo fariimo horumarsan oo lagu sharaxayo sida loo adeegsanayo barnaamijkooda. 

2.    Iska dhigidda Shirkado la aqoonsan yahay (impersonating trusted institutions).

Marka horeba qorshahooda waxa ku jirta inay iska dhigaan shirkado suuqa hore ugu jiray ama dadku wada yaqaanaan sida Bangiyo, hayado maaliyadeed iyo ururo taburaacaad si ay kor ugu qaadaan aaminaadooda.

 

Waxa kale oo ay soo bandhigaan caddaymo dad kale oo maalgashigan faa’iido wayn ka helay iyo kuwa tijaar ka noqday.  Qodobkan waxay ku kabaan dhukumentiyo  been abuur ah, maqaallo laga baahiyay oo been ah iyo xitaa koontooyin baraha bulshada oo ay ku baahiyaan shaqooyinka ay qabtaan si dadku ugu qancaan. Halkani waa meelaha ka dhigaya kooxahan in u muuqdaan shirkad sharci ah (legit firm) aan marnaba laga shakiyi Karin.

3.    Farsamadooda oo heersare ah (Sophisticated scamming tricks)

Tuugadani waa kuwo aqoontooda iyo farsamooyinkooduba sareeyaan, oo aqoon buuxda u leh waxa ay samaynayaan. Xeeladahoodu waxay u sahlayaan in dadku u arkaan shirkad la aamini karo iyaga oo samaynaya website-yo si fiican u diyaarsan iyo barnaamijyada Mobilada lagu soo dejisto oo dhamaystiran si dadku halkaas lacagta ugu shubaan. Waxay sameeyaan xaysiisyo iyo joornaalo ay kaga hadlayaan ujeedooyinkooda iyo himilooyinkooda maaliyadeed ee wakhtiga fog iyaga oo iska dhigaya in qof waliba faa’iido raasamaalkiisa ka badan helayo wakhti kooban. Tusaale ahaan; haddii aad $600 dollar maalgashato 24 saacadood waxaad helaysaa $40, wakaas qofku jeebkiisa wixii ku jirayba ku shubay.

Intaas oo kaliya ma aha, waxay sameeyaan xog ururin heersare ah iyo baadhis (Sophisticated Social Engineering tactics) ku saabsan baahida loo qabo barnaamijyada ay abuurayaan iyaga oo ku dhisaya waxyaabaha ay dadku aamini karaan iyaga oo iska dhigaya shirkad qof waliba ka dhex arki karo fursadaha u saamaxaysa in uu gaadho yoolkiisa maaliyadeed.

Waxay kula wadaagayaan fariimo Email ah oo heerkoodu sarreeyo iyo taleefano iyaga oo xidhiidhkooda ka dhigaya mid heersare ah mudada ka horaysa inta aanay fulin mashruucooda dhactooyada. Wax waliba waxay u muuqdaan sharci indhahaaga hortooda (legit and living), waayo haddii aad ka mid noqoto dadka ugu horeeya ee maalgashada waxaad helaysaa faa’iido.

4.    Aqoondarada aasaaska Maaliyadda; si gaar ah dadkeena (Financial Literacy Gap). 

Fahamka mabaadi’da aasaasiga ah ee maaliyadda, gaar ahaan faa’iido samayntu waa muhiim marka la joogo maalgalinta suuqyada maaliyada (investing financial markets). Dad badan ma fahmsana sida maalgelinta sharciga ah u shaqeyso iyo farqiga u dhexeeya maalgalinta aan sharciga ahayn. Xeerka koowaad ee ay tahay in qofku ku dhaqmo waa  in “faa’iido-soo celinta degdeg ah ee wixii aad maalgashatay ay ku lamaan tahay khatarta luminta gabi ahaanba wixii aad maalgashatay - raasamaalka. Marka lagu yidhaa waxaad helaysaa faa’iido %100, ogow waa khad cas (red flag) oo aad ku fahmi karto in waxani yihiin sharci daro ama dhactooyo. Hadaba, bulshadeena waxa inta badan hoda aqoon la’aanta ka haysta aasaasiyaadka maaliyada iyo maalgashiga maadaama oo aynaan lahayn suuqyo maaliyadeed oo shaqeeya.

5. Bartilmaadeedka dadka nugul (unstable financial and emotional people).

Haddii aad u fiirsato dadka inta badan lagu dhaco barnaamijyada online-ka ah boqolkiiba saamiga ugu badan waa dadka aan dhaqaalahoodu buurnayn. Waa dadka sameeyo dhaqaale kooban oo ka baxsan noloshooda, ka soo qaad inay haystaan $500  ilaa 10,000 dollar oo  kayd ah. Markaa waad fahmi karta in aanay badanaa dabinkan ku dhicin dadka tujaarta ah maadaama oo ay heli karaan talo-bixin maaliyadeed ama ay leeyihiin khibrado maalgashi oo ay fahmi karaan dabeecadaha maalgashiga iyo Tuugada.

Kooxahani (scmmers) waxay beegsadaan dadka caadifadooda maaliyadeed ay kacayso marka ay arkaan lacag wakhti kooban lagu samaynayo iyo faa’iido degdeg ah, iyaga oo aan tixgalin maalgashigani ma wax la hubaa mise waa mashruuc aan la garanayn meel uu ka bilaabmo iyo meel uu ku dhamaado. Si qofka loogu sheego inuu ka baxayo xaaladan dhaqaale ee adag waxa ay abuurayaan bandhig indho-sarcaad ah iyaga oo  dadka u sheegaya “ku hel $500 dollar ee aad maalgashato 10,000 dollar.” Wakaas markiiba qofku faraqiisa furay ee wixii uu hayay ama mudada ururinayay ku shubay barnaamij tuugo ah oo aanu garanayn cida maamulaysa iyo meesha laga maamulayaba.

5.    Aqoondarada Tiknoolajiyada (Technological handicap).

Tiknoolajiyadu waxay ku socotaa xawaare sare, saacad kastana waxa soo kordha barnaamijyo iyo xirfado tiknoolaji ah oo saameeya hab nololeedka maalinlaha. Aqoondarada tiknoolajiyadu waxa qodob kale oo qofka ku riixaysa inuu si indho la’aan ah u galo khalad wayn. Tusaale ahaan, haddii aanad aqoon u lahayn sida loo aqoonsado website-yada been abuurka ah, Barnaamijyada been abuurka ah iyo macaamilka maaliyadeed ee habka dhijitaalka ah loo maamulo, waxaad noqonaysa qof naafo ka ah tiknoolajiyada mana kala garan kartid xaqiiqada barnaamijyada ay adeegsanayaan tuugada Online-ka wax ku dhacdaa.

Farsamooyinkooda horumarsan waxa ka mid ah inay dadka ku qanciyaan inay soo dejistaan barnaamij ganacsi oo been abuur ah kaas oo aan laga helayn madalaha internetka ee la isla yaqaan sida Google play iyo App store, haddii aanad faham ka haysan farqiga u dhexeeya labadan platform iyo kuwa kale ee la soo galiyo barnaamijyada waxaad si fudud ugu dhacaysaa khalad waxaana laga yaabaa inaad soo dejisato barnaamij aan sax ahayn.

Muhiimadda ay leedahay in aad taqaano wax ku saabsan tiknoolajiyada, gaar ahaan kuwa la xidhiidha maaliyada sida kuwa bixiya adeegyada lacag la bixidda ama dhigashada waxay ku siinayaan inaad fahmi karto kaartooyinka tuugada Online-ka. Inta badan waxay adeegsadaan aalado lacag bixineed oo aan sharci ahayn (illegal payment methods) sida wallets, kuwaas oo aan ku waydiinayn wax macluumaad xaqiijin ah taasina waxay muujinaysaa in aan lagu kalsoonaan Karin.

Qaybta ugu darani waa tan; marka barnaamijka wakthgiisii dhamaadka la gaadho waxay hakiyaan lacagaha dadka ugu jiraa akoonada ay ku leeyihiin Barnaamijka. Ka dib waxay kaa codsanayaan in aad khasaarahaaga kharashka kale ku bixiso, macnaha adiga oo dhacan lagu sii dhaco.

Marka la isla besbeelo ee ay fadhiisiyaan lacagtii dadku maalgashadaan (freezing funds) waxay ku odhanayaan lacagihii waxay u xaniban yihiin cashuuro ama khidmado Bangi markaa si xanibaada looga qaado lacagaha taagan ee aanad la bixi Karin fadlan ku shubo lacag, tusaale ahaan $20 ilaa $100 ama ka badan. Qofkii oo kurbada ka badatay oo lacagtiisii ku socoto jidka dhactooyada ayaa hadana markale si ismaqiiq ah amarkooda u fulinaya isaga oo rajaynaya haddii uu lacagta kale markale bixiyo in xanibaada laga qaadayo lacagtiisa.

FG. Qaybta wanaagsan ee maalgashiga Barnaamijyada tuugada ee nooca loo yaqaan maalgashiga horumarinta (advance fee scams), waa in dad badani ka faa’iidaan dadka ugu horeeya ka qaybqaata inta ka horaysa xiliga ay u qorsheeyeen inay suuqa kaga baxaan. Arintani maaha mid hoos martay tuugadu (scammers), balse waa qorshahooda qaybta ugu muhiimsan ee ay maalgashadeyaasha ku helayaan. Marka ugu horeysa ee ay suuqa soo galaan waxay  lacagaha u bixiyaan sida ugu fiican ee ugu dhakhsaha badan.

Maxaa lagu gartaa Tuugada Online-ka ah si gaar ah (Red flags).

1. ·       Waxay kugu qancinayaan inay yihiin shirkada ugu fiican ee kuu damaanad qaadaysa faa’iido sare oo aan khasaare lahayn.
2. ·       Waxay kuu soo bandhigayaan dalab aanad codsan, iyaga oo fariin kuu soo diraya ama barahooda bulshada kugula wadaagaya xaysiisyo.
3. ·       Waxay culays kugu saarayaan inaad maalgashato barnaamijkooda.
4. ·       Waxay kaa codsanayaan lacag horumarin ah oo kugu sheegayaan hawl socodsiin (Upfront transaction Fees), markaas waxaad fahmi kartaa in shirkad aad maalgashanaysaa aanay lacag kale oo horumarin ah kaa qaadayn.  
5. ·       Nidaamo lacag bixineed/dhigasho oo aan la garanayn ama cusub oo aan damaanad lahayn.

 

Somaliland: Bridging the Divide.

 

Somaliland's mediation and dispute settlement project has been praised since its inception for its ability to reconcile internal conflicts. Religious scholars, traditional elders, and organizational actors made this initiative possible to embark on a long journey of peace-building in Somaliland. Even though the concepts of individual political beliefs depend on clan identities, the tribal polarizations and community segregation based on clan divisions are a significant hindrance to democratic values and state-building.

Somaliland's past history demonstrates its incredible resilience in recovering from election-related polarizations by applying proper strategies for peace and reconciliation, but the post-election rifts cannot be denied.

Not only do election-related results usually spark social unrest or tribal deviations, but leaders might also design destructive and divisive conspiracies to split the population.  Leaders fuel social polarization to further solidify their tenure in office. They also incite animosity by causing divisions into clans and self-made buffer zones, which is always advantageous to the ruling elite.

From the succeeding governments till today, Somaliland has been dealing with community polarization or tribal disagreements stemming from clan interests, which may be ignited by opposition and clan leaders to spoil the system.

Former Somaliland President Dahir Riyale Kahin, in his speech to then-President Silanyo on the day of the handover ceremony, said, "I hand over to you a united country and its citizens." This becomes a legacy quote, which validates how crucial maintaining national unity is to nation-building and internal security. Thus, the incumbent president has a significant duty to bring the people together and preserve their unity.

As per their manifesto, the current office-holding president, H.E. Mr. Irro, and his government are available to listen to people's grievances and resolve them peacefully under the rule of law and accepted customs, in line with democratic principles. Interested.

It is also essential for nationals to cooperate on this in order to strengthen their unity. This contributes to the country's overall security. To attain this, the government must have a policy to lessen animosity, hatred, and division to prevent partition.

Consolidating mode has to be turned on to avoid political turmoil and community polarization through various means. Let us recommend some approaches.

1.     Identifying grievances and inspiring dialogue.

Examining election-related complaints and developing nonviolent means of resolving ideological disagreements within society must be applied. The government ought to set up Public Reconciliation Forums, which aim to bring together politicians and civil society groups with varying opinions to find common ground.

To avoid recurring disparities, the government should also foster an atmosphere of truth and transparency. Similarly, community leaders, traditional elders, and government officials should avoid anything that might incite animosity or ideological disputes.

2.     Strengthening Democratic Institutions.

Elections can be the source of societal disputes. Those institutions that engage in electoral processes and other democratic bodies must be strengthened to preserve social cohesion. To fairly serve society, the various government institutions must treat all people equally, irrespective of their race, clan, or political beliefs. Independent oversight, for instance, ought to be permitted during elections to guarantee the impartiality and openness of the provision of election services.

3.     Encouraging National Unity over Partisan Divides.

The government ought to establish nationwide unity campaigns by spreading messages of solidarity via poetry, the media, and public gatherings to prevent political rivalry from tearing apart the social fabric. Similarly, cross-party collaboration should be encouraged to urge opposition and ruling parties to work together on key national issues. More importantly, reducing social division also requires the inclusion of women and youth.

4.     Economic Recovery and Shared Prosperity.

Post-election tensions and social unrest are often fueled by economic frustrations. Therefore, to fight against unemployment and post-election rifts, there should be job-creation initiatives and enhance infrastructure developments. In the case of Somaliland, there are complaints concerning inequality in budget and project allocations in certain regions; then there should be must devise a regionally based national asset distribution that fairly distributes the government's yearly budget.

5.     Media Responsibility and Countering Misinformation

Like nationwide, the office-holding government is having difficulty dealing with the rise of bogus news on social media. Media is a double-edged sword; in one scenario, it can incite public discontent and create negative set ups by broadcasting misleading contents that disrupts internal security. If no policy is established to regulate news content on social media, people will fall into the trap and lose trust in the system. Thus, the government should develop a fact-checking policy and support ethical journalism to combat fake news. Instead, the government should use the media to inspire unity while also raising community awareness against disinformation and unsourced news.

6.     Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanisms.

It is a dime a dozen in Somaliland: traditional elders - Guurti, and religious leaders have historically played a key role in mediation and community cohesion since its founding.

Somaliland has adopted the practice of using traditional elders to settle internal conflicts. The involvement of traditional elders in Somaliland's nationalizing of civil forces—more than 7,000 civil forces—is a true example.

We can infer that post-election dissatisfactions and other tribal polarizations test a nation's resilience, but they also offer a chance for development.

Resolving grievances, bolstering institutions, and promoting national unity can help Somaliland deal electoral disputes more united than before. The way forward calls for tolerance, communication, and dedication to prioritizing Somaliland's future over political rivalries. “Somaliland First” is the most deserving project to contribute to.

Somaliland’s Foreign Diplomatic mission: A Regional Perspective Roadmap.

 

Since regained its sovereignty in 1991, Somaliland has navigated a complex and often contentious path in its international relations. Despite lacking widespread international recognition, Somaliland has maintained a functional government and sought to engage constructively with the global community. Its new foreign policy roadmap represents a significant shift in strategy, focusing on regional collaboration and shared benefit.

Political involvement at a regional level is decisive since geopolitics has a big impact on the nation's security and socioeconomic progress. For the purpose of improving security and promoting trade and cross-cultural exchange, it is essential to establish solid relationships with neighboring states based on shared interests. Therefore, Somaliland's current diplomatic mission implies a win-win approach to share political and trade welfare with nations in the region.

 

So far, the leaders of Djibouti and Kenya have extended formal invitations to the president of Somaliland. Along with attending the “World Governments Summit 2025” in the United Arab Emirates, President Irro made Somaliland more well-known by telling the conference's leaders they are prepared for political and economic cooperation in exchange for global recognition.

It seems that Somaliland has recently introduced a new foreign relations roadmap aimed at enhancing its regional influence and fostering stronger ties with neighboring countries and international NGOs. This strategic initiative comes at a critical juncture, as Somaliland seeks to assert its presence on the regional stage and address the challenges of a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

Somaliland gained international attention after President Irro visited Kenya at the end of May. Somaliland’s attempt to boost its political office in Nairobi was obstructed by Somalia’s political pundits, who tried to stop its moves to elevate the office's status. Following a multi-day diplomatic battle, Somaliland delegates achieved a regional political objective by successfully upgrading its office in Kenya and formally opening it, with the president cutting the ribbon.

Meeting with the foreign ambassadors of various countries in Kenya and the extension of political engagement in Nairobi are the most noteworthy developments so far. According to the president, "We came to Nairobi to establish a genuine partnership, not to seek assistance."

As per Kenyan state media “Somaliland head of state - Abdirahman Irro met with Kenyan President William Ruto on Friday, days after Nairobi upgraded the Somaliland’s liaison office to a diplomatic mission—despite Somalia fought hard to stop the implementation of this office. This high-level meeting marked a deepening of ties between Hargeisa and Nairobi, drawing quiet but pointed attention to Kenya’s increasingly warm posture towards Somaliland.”

The fact that Somaliland and its neighbors have had some political disagreements in the past, it now seems that the country is shaping diplomatic ties that will usher in a new era of Somaliland's foreign policy. This new roadmap is structured around several key pillars, each designed to address specific regional dynamics and opportunities, like economic diplomacy and security cooperation.

That is to say, the Somaliland-Djibouti relations weren't sustainable and were influenced by historical, economic, and political factors. For instance, Djibouti has acted as a mediator between Somaliland and Somalia, seeking the basis for bilateral negotiations. However, recent visits by Somaliland delegations to Djibouti signal a desire to improve ties and cooperate on cross-border trades.

Taking advantage of its strategic location along the Red Sea, hoping to establish itself as a hub for regional trade and commerce. Initiatives to increase trade ties, draw in foreign capital, and foster economic alliances with nearby nations and beyond are outlined in the current adopted roadmap.

In third-world countries, security is a top priority. And for this reason, Somaliland emphasizes the importance of regional security cooperation while calling for solidarity in the fight against transnational threats like terrorism and piracy.

Another essential element of Somaliland's new diplomatic strategy is cultural diplomacy. In order to strengthen ties with surrounding nations and promote understanding. The current government places a strong emphasis on the value of cultural exchange and hopes to foster a sense of regional identity and improve people-to-people relations by exhibiting its rich cultural legacy.

Politicians, social workers, and businesspeople, for instance, who are Somaliland-Kenyan, can promote Somaliland's recognition mission. They were instrumental in welcoming the president's delegation and making their trip easier.

Although the road to recognition is still difficult, the foreign relations roadmap offers a clear framework for fostering understanding and support among nations.

 

Challenges and Considerations.

Despite the ambitious and foreign relations roadmap scheme, Somaliland faces several challenges in its regional presence. The state’s full participation in the Horn of Africa political arena is restricted by certain indisputable obstacles. Why? Somaliland's capacity to interact fully with the international community is still hampered by its lack of worldwide recognition. To increase support for Somaliland's sovereignty, the foreign agenda roadmap must negotiate this challenging terrain.

Regional skepticism is another provocation. The efficacy of some initiatives may be hampered by some neighboring nations' continued skepticism regarding Somaliland's independence. It will be essential to address these issues through communication and collaboration.

To sum up, Somaliland's new foreign policy roadmap is an audacious and progressive strategy for regional involvement. It is making a name for itself in the Horn of Africa by emphasizing security cooperation, cultural exchange, and economic diplomacy. The roadmap offers a clear and strategic direction for the country's foreign relations, despite there still being obstacles to overcome. This roadmap is evidence of Somaliland's tenacity and resolve to accomplish its objectives as it continues to negotiate the intricacies of regional politics.

 

 

Mohamed M Jaaj.

Freelance Content writer and Political/finance analyst.