By Abukar Osman - Reporter
Somalia, 17 January 2026 — Calls for Awdal region to breakaway from Somaliland and become part of the Federal Republic of Somalia have emerged following remarks by a senior federal minister and the recent violent protests that took place in the regional capital, Borama.
Somalia’s Minister of Public Works, who is also a Member of Parliament elected from Awdal, Ayub Ismail, said the people in Awdal are seeking the formation of a semi-autonomous administration under the federal structure.
“The people of this territory want an administration under the federal government, that is, an Awdal State,” the Minister said, while speaking during the inauguration ceremony of the leadership of the North Eastern State administration on Saturday.
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Last year, protests erupted in Borama, the capital of Awdal, in opposition to Somaliland’s engagement with Israel and recognition of independence by Tel Aviv. The violent demonstrations resulted in loss life and injuries.
The Minister’s remarks places additional pressure on Somaliland, which is actively seeking international recognition, at a time when a section of the northern region have already slipped from its control and became part of North East State. Analysts say the loss of further territory—should Awdal follow the same path—could significantly undermine Somaliland’s recognition campaign.
Although protests have subsided, experts warn that unresolved grievances in Awdal could further complicate Somaliland’s political standing, particularly amid highly sensitive debates over recognition, regional alliances, and international geopolitics.
