African Union Condemns Reported Israeli Move On Somaliland Envoy

Mintesinot Nigussie

The African Union Commission has reaffirmed its recognition of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, expressing concern over reports that Israel intends to appoint a diplomatic envoy to Somaliland, a self-declared region that is not recognised as an independent state by the continental body.

In a statement, the Commission said it “strongly condemns” the reported decision, describing it as inconsistent with international law and the African Union’s principles on state sovereignty and territorial unity. The AU reiterated that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia under its constitutional framework, and stressed that it does not recognise the region as a separate state.

The statement referenced the African Union Constitutive Act, which upholds the principles of respect for borders inherited at independence, non-interference, and the sovereignty of member states. It also recalled conclusions from the African Union Peace and Security Council’s 1324th meeting held on January 6, 2026, which stated that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland would be considered without legal effect and could carry risks for regional stability.

The Commission warned that actions perceived as altering Somalia’s territorial status without consensus could undermine broader stability efforts in the Horn of Africa, a region already facing complex security and political challenges. At the same time, the African Union said it remains committed to supporting Somalia’s ongoing state-building process, including efforts to strengthen governance, national cohesion, and peacebuilding initiatives.

The statement comes amid renewed diplomatic attention on Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received international recognition, despite maintaining its own government and institutions. The AU said it will continue to engage with Somali authorities and regional stakeholders to support stability and uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity across the continent.

Overall, the African Union’s condemnation of the reported Israeli move to appoint an envoy to Somaliland underscores the continental body’s commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity and highlights ongoing sensitivities around recognition issues in the Horn of Africa.