The elections of Somaliland were a marvel unfolding, the actual elections had been delayed for some time, but when they took place, the Somalilander's spoke in one voice and heralded a new government in office. Most impressive was the manner of outgoing President, the peaceful handing of power showed that in last 17 odd years this small horn of African nation has gained more maturity than so many other African nations can boast of.
Equally impressive is the start given by the new office bearers, there is no vendetta and no bad blood, simply issues that matter to Somaliland, development and growth, Somaliland in many ways is a remarkable story, that many around the world do not know about.
I have a limited experience of this nation, just one visit along with my father, it was a mixed bag on the whole, but what was striking was the honesty of the people and their manner and charm, they have only one bad habit...khat eating, but perhaps every society has its vices. Apart from this the people are a great community and seem to be becoming a great nation builder.
I hope and pray people around the world wake up to this African community poised for greatness, I pray they get their recognition as it would open doors of international aid that is so much required. I have always spoken of this nation wherever I have been, but somehow people cannot de hyphen it from Somalia, I wonder why...perhaps in the same manner as world could never view India without linking it to Pakistan and Kashmir. Like India who absorbed all humiliations extended by the western world, and quietly went on to be self reliant, I am sure Somaliland will also do the same and then the world will simply have to rise up and take notice.
I hope I visit Somaliland one day...perhaps with my grand children and show them the comparison of the change that occurred in the time from my first visit till then which I assume will be immense, and I hope they also love the fish that I had at Berbera port....like of which I have yet to enjoy.
Somaliland is rich in natural resources, and richer in human resources, their idea of social insurance is unique and when the country grows the society will flourish as a whole, they are one community least likely to have disparities and inequalities.
Few years back somewhere on this blog I had written about water problem in Somaliland, it has terrain, climate and topography like Rajasthan in India, and simple water harvesting techniques can change the scenario pretty soon, the investment in such projects is human will and effort....Somaliland has plenty of that and more....
