The African Union’s report on Somaliland is a strong reminder that the country deserves to be recognized by the world. The report, released in 2005, says it’s time for the global community to accept Somaliland’s independence. This is because Somaliland’s history is unique and its independence doesn’t go against the African Charter.
The AU team, led by Patrick Mazimhaka, carefully looked at Somaliland’s progress in areas like politics, economy, security, and humanitarian issues. The report showed Somaliland’s achievements and challenges, and gave useful recommendations for the AU and the world to help Somaliland.
The AU Fact-Finding Mission said Somaliland’s case is special and should be treated differently due to its unique history, particularly given the absence of a ratified union with Somalia. As a result, the AU agrees that Somaliland’s situation is one-of-a-kind and should be looked at on its own, rather than being grouped with other African countries. The AU Fact-Finding Mission also states that Somaliland’s recognition is not against the AU Charter and will not open a Pandora’s box, since Somaliland is within its colonial borders.
The AU report is a strong call for the world to recognize and support Somaliland. If the AU follows its own recommendations, it can greatly help Somaliland overcome its challenges and have a better future. The report says Somaliland needs a special plan that fits its unique situation, which won’t change the old colonial borders or cause new problems. It simply recognizes a historical truth that has been ignored for too long.