The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has reaffirmed Kenya's recognition of Somalia’s sovereignty, rejecting the newly opened Somaliland Mission in Nairobi.
Led by President Abdirahman Mohamed, Somaliland opened a Mission office in Nairobi on Thursday, May 29, despite Kenya initially disapproving of the opening of a Liaison Office.
Reacting to the events that unfolded on Thursday, attended by leaders from both Somaliland and Kenya, the Ministry has now reaffirmed its initial stand and confirmed that it disapproves of the opening of the Republic of Somaliland’s Mission office, therefore, it lacked official endorsement.
The Kenyan government had previously stated that the establishment of a Somaliland Liaison Office could not be upgraded to a diplomatic mission, citing its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity.
However, Somaliland proceeded with the inauguration, marking a significant step in its push for international recognition.
Kenya has clarified that it continues to recognise the Federal Government of Somalia as the sole legitimate authority over Somali territories, including Somaliland.
''The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs wishes to reiterate that 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 reads in part.
Despite Kenya's initial position, which it is now reaffirming, the opening ceremony of Somaliland's Mission office was attended by senior Kenyan officials, including Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii and Marsabit Senator Mohamed Said Chute, who championed the move.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has operated as a self-governing entity with its own government, currency, and security forces. However, it remains unrecognised by the United Nations and most countries, including Kenya.
But, Kenya continues to maintain unofficial ties with Somaliland, particularly in trade and security cooperation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasised that any engagement with Somaliland must be coordinated through Mogadishu, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity.
On their part, Somaliland leaders have hailed the mission’s opening as a diplomatic milestone.
