President William Ruto on Friday, May 30, hosted Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) at State House, Nairobi.
In a statement, Somaliland Spokesperson Hussein Aden Igeh said the two leaders held high-level talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing regional peace initiatives.
The meeting, held as part of Irro’s official visit to Kenya, was described as cordial and constructive, with discussions covering a broad spectrum of mutual interests.
"The two Heads of State engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on matters of mutual interest and regional significance,” Igeh noted.
The leaders discussed ways to boost trade and investment, promote economic development, and improve air connectivity between Kenya and Somaliland.
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Ruto and Irro also focused on the importance of regional security, agreeing to work closely in countering violent extremism and supporting peacebuilding efforts in the Horn of Africa.
Additionally, the two presidents acknowledged the vital role of education and institutional capacity-building in national development.
According to Igeh, discussions included expanding vocational training for youth and enhancing academic exchange programs.
“The meeting reaffirmed the strong and longstanding relationship between Somaliland and Kenya — a partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for peace, stability, and prosperity across the region,” Igeh said.
The meeting came a day after Irro presided over the opening ceremony for the Somaliland Liaison Office in Nairobi.
The event was attended by members of the international community and senior Kenyan government officials including Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii and Marsabit Senator Mohamed Said Chute.
Notably, the event came two days after the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs issued a statement announcing its cancellation.
In a statement on Monday evening, May 26, the Ministry expressed that the event had not received the necessary approval from the government.
"To the extent the event of the 27th May 2025 has not been granted approval from this Ministry, its investiture of the status of a Diplomatic Office does not enjoy the imprimatur of the Republic of Kenya and cannot be allowed to proceed,” the statement read.
Despite the cancellation, the Ministry reaffirmed Kenya’s diplomatic stance regarding Somalia.
“The Government of the Republic of Kenya maintains and respectfully reaffirms its unwavering recognition of the Federal Republic of Somalia as a sovereign State,” the statement added.
