Hargeisa, Somaliland — January 6, 2025 — The self-declared Republic of Somaliland has made an urgent appeal for international humanitarian assistance as the situation in Erigavo worsens following tribal clashes late last year. The violence displaced tens of thousands, leaving many in dire need of basic necessities. Somaliland also issued a warning to neighboring Puntland over what it described as violations of its territorial sovereignty.
Ahmed Abdi Muse, Governor of the Sanag region, called on global and local humanitarian organizations to act swiftly in addressing the crisis. He emphasized the dire conditions facing displaced families, many of whom lack access to shelter, clean water, and food. “The humanitarian situation is extremely concerning,” Muse said, urging aid agencies to prioritize providing essential supplies, including temporary housing and sanitation resources.
The conflict, which erupted at the end of 2024, forced nearly 43,000 people from their homes in Erigavo, the largest town in the Sanag region. Rooted in tribal tensions, the violence has deepened insecurity in the area, hampering relief efforts. The United Nations reported severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical care, with ongoing security concerns making aid delivery increasingly difficult.
Governor Muse also accused Puntland of attempting to cross Somaliland’s borders under the guise of humanitarian activities. He issued a strong warning, saying, “Any attempts to cross our borders will not be tolerated. We will act decisively to protect our independence.” The border dispute between Somaliland and Puntland has been a longstanding source of friction, with both sides claiming parts of the Sanag region.
Despite the challenges, local leaders have called for calm and cooperation among residents to rebuild their communities. However, the scale of the humanitarian crisis has prompted intensified calls for international assistance to ensure the survival of displaced families.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, operates as a self-governing entity, though it remains internationally unrecognized. Its leaders have long sought to assert control over disputed territories, including parts of the Sanaag region, which Puntland also claims.
As conditions in Erigavo grow more desperate, Somaliland’s leadership is hopeful that the global community will step forward to address the pressing needs of those affected. For displaced families, immediate aid is crucial to prevent further suffering in a region already grappling with the aftermath of violence and displacement.