Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenyan government issued a formal statement on May 30, reaffirming its unwavering recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. This declaration came in response to the opening of a liaison office by Somaliland in Nairobi, an event attended by Somaliland’s President Abdirahman “Irro” Abdullahi on May 29, which Kenya stated was not officially sanctioned for diplomatic status.

Kenya's Official Stance

Despite the attendance of several Kenyan officials at the May 29 ceremony, Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was quick to issue a warning, clarifying that any attempt to elevate the Somaliland office to full diplomatic status was not approved by the Kenyan state. “The Government of Kenya maintains its unwavering recognition of the Federal Republic of Somalia as a sovereign state,” the ministry's statement read, underscoring its alignment with the African Union's position. It further clarified that any perceived diplomatic status for the Somaliland office “does not enjoy the imprimatur of the Republic of Kenya.”

Regional Complexities and Future Engagement

The opening of the Somaliland office has ignited considerable debate within Nairobi's diplomatic and political circles. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, speaking on May 29, emphasized that Kenya’s foreign policies must adhere strictly to established legal and constitutional frameworks. However, interactions between Kenyan entities and Somaliland have been described by some observers as increasingly cordial. Both Kenyan and Somaliland representatives have indicated an intention to continue discussions on mutual interests such as trade and security cooperation, navigating these talks despite the formal objections from Mogadishu regarding Somaliland's quest for international recognition.