In a visit that drew national attention, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre led a high-level federal delegation to Laascaanood, the administrative capital of SSC-Khatumo, from April 12 to 15, 2025. The trip marked a historic moment in Somalia’s political landscape, as the federal government officially recognized SSC-Khatumo as a member of the Somali federal system.
The Prime Minister’s visit was welcomed with optimism by the local population and the SSC-Khatumo administration, who expressed full support for the government’s agenda, including the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS, as well as national peacebuilding, democratization, and state development.
During the visit, the federal government praised SSC-Khatumo’s stability and pledged to integrate its local security forces into the national security architecture. The two sides agreed to strengthen unity, protect sovereignty, and launch joint development projects in the region to improve infrastructure and livelihoods.
Prime Minister Barre confirmed that SSC-Khatumo will be treated as a full federal member, with inclusion in the National Consultative Council and future constitutional discussions.
However, this is not the first time the Federal Government of Somalia has declared recognition of SSC-Khatumo. Similar announcements were made in 2011 and 2023, raising questions about the long-term implications and consistency of such recognitions. It also remains unclear how this recent recognition will differ in practice.
Moreover, observers have noted that SSC-Khatumo does not currently meet all the constitutional requirements to qualify as a federal member state under Somali law. The decision to grant full recognition despite these legal gaps has sparked debate among legal experts and political analysts.
Another key development from the visit was the agreement on prisoner transfer. SSC-Khatumo handed over 25 detainees who had been arrested during clashes with Somaliland forces. The federal government pledged to facilitate their safe return and reintegration.
Prime Minister Barre concluded his visit with a strong call for national unity and cooperation.