This week, I explore global, regional, and national issues, adopting a structured approach for this year’s posts. While Somalia remains the focal point, the analysis will incorporate various perspectives to sustain a constructive discourse at a macro level. The ultimate aim is to contribute to Somalia's progress through peaceful strategies founded on collaborative efforts, both domestic and international.
Let us start with a bit of old history…
Revisiting History: A Diplomatic Milestone
On November 27, 1962, the capital of the United States witnessed a historic diplomatic engagement as Somali Prime Minister Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke visited Washington, D.C., meeting President John F. Kennedy at the White House. This significant event underscored the deepening of bilateral relations between Somalia and the United States, with discussions centered on global issues and Somalia’s social and economic development.
During their meeting, President Kennedy acknowledged the shared values of governance between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of the separation of powers as a cornerstone for safeguarding individual liberties. In his response, Prime Minister Sharmarke conveyed warm regards from the Somali Republic and expressed optimism regarding strengthened ties and mutual understanding between the two countries. See transcript of the welcoming remarks:
“.. Mr Prime Minister separated as we are by geography and history, we also find a sense of kinship to your government which in its separation of powers between the executive and the legislature and the Judiciary bear a resemblance to the balance of powers which we have felt in this country best ensures the liberty of the individual. We are particularly heartened to have you visit us prime minister you're welcome’
‘.. Mr President it is great pleasure to Convey to you and to the people of the United States the warmest greetings from the president of my country from the government and the people of the Somali Republic I'm looking forward to our meeting which I'm sure will contribute on the creation of good relations between our two countries thank you.’ That day the Prime Minister and President Kennedy had their first meeting in the White House to discuss World issues and Somali social and economic development. Here is a summary of that historical visit.
Highlights of the Historic Visit:
Diplomatic Engagements: Sharmarke attended receptions hosted by Somali Ambassador Omar Moalim, engaged with Somali students in the U.S., and visited notable sites, including the Islamic Center, where he was presented with a Quran.
United Nations Visit: At the United Nations headquarters in New York, Sharmarke held meetings with General Assembly President Sir Muhammad Zafarullah Khan and Secretary-General U Thant. He was also welcomed by New York City Mayor Robert F. Wagner, who honored him with a golden key to the city.
Puerto Rico Stopover: In Puerto Rico, Sharmarke met Governor Luis Muñoz Marín, toured community development projects, and discussed strategies to address shared economic challenges.
Strengthened Bilateral Relations: The visit reinforced diplomatic ties, with Sharmarke expressing appreciation for the hospitality extended to him, further solidifying cooperation between the two nations.
This historical visit holds lessons for contemporary Somali leaders, emphasizing the value of diplomatic engagement and strategic collaboration. Somali scholars are encouraged to reflect deeper into this event, examining its implications for current and future Somali leadership.
Contemporary Reflections: Governance and Economic Insights
Hussein M. Mohamed, a former Somali diplomat and scholar of U.S. history, could not resist to note and pointed out to me in highlighting President Kennedy’s remarks on the rule of law and the separation of powers. These principles, though challenged in modern contexts, remain pivotal for functional democracies. On that note, I can’t also resist to mention the clear decline of the current dysfunctional the US democracy and point out to you for a contemporary perspective, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.’s 2024 Year-End Report on the Federal Judiciary offers insights into the resilience of governance structures. This report is a recommended resource for those interested in the evolution of institutional integrity.
There is hope, and I would encourage you to read the report of the US Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., 2024 Year-End Report on the Federal Judiciary (pdf). This is the 20th report Chief Justice Roberts has issued since he was appointed chief justice in 2005. For reports from previous years, visit the U.S. Supreme Court website. Click on the link below:
Economic Challenges: A Call for Scholarly Exploration
A recent interview with a successful Somali entrepreneur sheds light on pressing economic issues, particularly the remittance outflow from Somalia. See below: wareysiga Shiiq Axmed Nuur Cali Jimcaale, prominent succesfull Somali businessman.
Despite his contributions to national economic development, he established many telecommunication and financial companies in Somalia. In this interview, the entrepreneur raises concerns about the immediate exit of remitted funds from the local economy. This phenomenon warrants academic investigation into digital transformation, the evolution of mobile money, and the potential role of digital currencies, including cryptocurrencies. Such research could inform policy interventions by Somalia's Central Bank and financial authorities. I also shared a brief clip in my 5 minutes of fame video of the week (see above), which is part of the interview purely for academic and knowledge sharing purpose.
If remittance funds sent by the Somali diaspora through international platforms ultimately flow out of the country, the functioning of Somalia's mobile money industry warrants closer examination. In particular, it raises questions about how money is generated within Somalia, who is responsible for its creation, and under what authority and mechanisms this process operates. Unlike many other countries where central banks or monetary authorities regulate the issuance and management of currency under formal economic frameworks, Somalia seems to operates in a unique context. Understanding how these mechanisms compare to traditional systems in other nations—where structured monetary policies, central banking systems, and international reserves play a crucial role—offers valuable insights into Somalia's distinctive financial landscape.
A Moment of Reflection
Lastly, a brief but thought-provoking social media clip, initially shared for its humor, revealed deeper insights upon closer examination.
While it is left open for interpretation, the clip underscores the multifaceted nature of communication in today’s digital age, and the many ways Somalis use the social media. A subject for a forthcoming post.
Looking Ahead
Midweek, a supplementary post will be shared on the topic of cryptocurrencies, exploring their implications for Somalia's financial ecosystem. Stay tuned and engaged for further updates.
Comments, feedback as always welcome.
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