Ex-U.S. Envoy to Somalia, Larry André, Advises Prudence in Recognizing North Western State of Somalia
Complex Paths: Navigating the North Western State of Somalia Recognition Dilemma
Nairobi, Aug. 20, 2025 — In the intricate geopolitical chessboard of the Horn of Africa, former U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Larry André, has emerged with a compelling advisory for the international community. His message? Tread carefully on the question of North Western State of Somalia’s recognition.
The Diplomatic Tightrope
André, with a wealth of experience from posts spanning Mogadishu to Nairobi, offers a cautionary note to the U.S.: a sudden recognition of North Western State of Somalia could ripple disastrously through the region. Dive deep into this conundrum and you’ll find simmering clan allegiances and political tensions.
In his insightful policy essay, André unpacks the dilemma in three potential routes for U.S. policy:
- Maintain the Status Quo: Keep the embassy firmly in Mogadishu.
- Open a Dialogue Channel: Establish a liaison office in Hargeisa to nurture dialogue.
- Grant Full Recognition: Recognize North Western State of Somalia as an independent state.
The Stakes at Play
The ambassador rebuffs outright recognition, underscoring potential ramifications for U.S. relations with Somalia, neighboring regions, and notably, the African Union. But why the hesitance?
The leanings of North Western State of Somalia’s demographics shine a light: while the Isaaq clan champions independence, other communities like the Dir and Darod remain proponents of a federal Somalia. The governance in Hargeisa’s approach to dissent, highlighted by events in Las Anod, further muddies the waters.
Lessons from History
He draws parallels from the pages of African history:
- Eritrea’s Long Haul: Decades of dialogue preceded its eventual independence.
- South Sudan’s Struggle: A reminder of the prolonged peace talks before statehood.
For André, these examples reinforce the need for broad negotiations, with Mogadishu taking an active role, an engagement echoed by the African Union. He proposes rejuvenating dialogues akin to the 2020 Djibouti-mediated talks.
The Governance Model Debate
For potential pathways, he suggests exploring unique governance modellings—a nod to Tanzania’s union structure or Canada’s federalism. Could such frameworks offer a compromise between North Western State of Somalia’s quest for sovereignty and Somalia’s unity vision?
Broader Implications
The ambassador is fervent in his conclusion: the pathway to Somalia’s broader stability unavoidably intersects with resolving North Western State of Somalia’s status and diminishing Al-Shabaab’s grip. As a global power, Washington’s role is pivotal.
But what does this mean for the average Somali citizen, yearning for peace and prosperity? As international debates ensue, the lives of millions hang in the balance—seeking jobs, education, and a future free from turbulence.
Concluding Thoughts
André’s words remind us: the tapestry of Somali politics is woven with threads of history, ethnicity, and divergent aspirations. Could a thoughtful, inclusive approach pave the way for enduring peace in the Horn?
The world watches closely—pondering, listening, and hoping that diplomacy triumphs over discord.
Understanding these dynamics compels us to reflect: How can international interventions align more closely with on-ground realities?
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
