LONDON, Aug 20(Correspondent LP) – Ms. Salma Nasir, Managing Director of Light4Life Charity, met with Somaliland’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, H.E. Said Hassan Bihi, at the Somaliland UK Mission in London. The meeting, aimed at fostering dialogue and exploring collaborative opportunities, spotlighted Somaliland’s determined efforts to strengthen international relations, advance its education sector, and pursue global recognition.
Ms. Nasir briefed Ambassador Said Hassan Bihi on Light4Life Charity’s mission, which focuses on advancing education globally, particularly in developing nations. The organization provides scholarships and comprehensive support to ensure children from underserved regions gain access to high-quality education, including opportunities in the UK. She emphasized Light4Life’s commitment to empowering young minds through tailored programs that address barriers to learning, such as financial constraints and lack of resources.
His Excellency, Said Hassan Bihi, in turn, showcased Somaliland’s remarkable democratic achievements, including its consistent record of peaceful elections since declaring independence in 1991. He underscored the Somaliland government’s robust initiatives to transform its education system, a cornerstone of the nation’s development agenda. Key efforts include expanding access to primary and secondary education, with a focus on rural areas, and increasing enrollment rates, which have risen significantly over the past decade. The government has also prioritized teacher training programs and partnerships with international organizations to enhance curriculum quality and infrastructure, Ambassador added.
“Somaliland is deeply committed to education as a pathway to progress,” said Ambassador Said Hassan. “We are investing in schools, vocational training, and higher education to equip our youth with the skills needed for a prosperous future. Collaborations with organizations like Light4Life are vital to achieving these goals.”
The Somaliland government has launched several flagship programs to bolster education, including the National Education Strategic Plan (2022–2026), which aims to achieve universal primary education and improve literacy rates. Recent data indicates that primary school enrollment has increased by 20% since 2015, with a particular emphasis on closing the gender gap in education. Additionally, the government has established technical and vocational training centers in cities like Hargeisa and Borama to address youth unemployment and foster economic growth.
The meeting also addressed Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition, a longstanding goal for the self-declared republic, which remains unrecognized despite its stable governance. Ambassador reaffirmed Somaliland’s commitment to dialogue with Somalia while asserting its right to self-determination. Ms. Nasir expressed admiration for Somaliland’s democratic resilience and educational strides, noting its potential as a partner for Light4Life’s initiatives in the Horn of Africa.
Discussions highlighted potential areas for collaboration, including scholarships for Somaliland students, teacher exchange programs, and joint projects to build educational infrastructure. The historical ties between the UK and Somaliland, dating back to its time as British Somaliland until 1960, were acknowledged, with both parties noting the UK’s diplomatic presence in Hargeisa since 2012 as a foundation for deeper engagement.
“We are honored to engage with Ambassador Said Hassan and explore how Light4Life can support Somaliland’s inspiring educational journey,” said Ms. Nasir. “This meeting marks a step toward meaningful partnerships that uplift communities and foster global understanding.”
The dialogue concluded with a mutual commitment to pursue structured follow-ups, focusing on education, sustainable development, and regional stability.The meeting signals growing interest in Somaliland’s educational and diplomatic aspirations, particularly in the context of its strategic role in the Horn of Africa through assets like the Berbera Port.
His Excellency the Ambassador was accompanied and supported by Mr. Mohamed Warsama Boss, Counsellor for Trade and Tourism, during the meeting.
