In a significant diplomatic development, Kenya has removed the “Republic of Somaliland” from its official list of foreign diplomatic missions, reinforcing its recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Kenya Revises its Official List of Foreign Diplomatic Missions
The initial inclusion of Somaliland at number 20 on the list sparked widespread debate and public reaction.
However, Kenya government has now revised the list and removed the reference to the Republic of Somaliland.
On May 29, 2025, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as Irro, inaugurated a liaison office in Nairobi.
Coinciding with this event, Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement reaffirming its unwavering recognition of the Federal Republic of Somalia as a sovereign state.
Lack of Official Approval for the Republic of Somaliland
The ministry clarified that it was unaware of the liaison office’s opening and had not sanctioned such an establishment.
Despite the lack of official approval, President Irro met with Kenyan President William Ruto at the State House in Nairobi.
In a statement written in Swahili, Irro described the meeting as significant, highlighting discussions on strengthening bilateral relations in trade, education, transport, and the economy.
He also emphasized the importance of peace, stability, and security in the Horn of Africa region.
Somalia and Kenya Relations
Kenya and Somalia have maintained close cooperation on matters of safety and stability.
The Kenyan Defence Forces contributed troops to peacekeeping missions.
Kenya also serves as a major trading partner for Somalia, underscoring the importance of diplomatic clarity in the region.
This development highlights the complexities of international recognition and the delicate balance of diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa.
