The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yusuf, has rejected any move to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, reaffirming the union’s “firm commitment” to Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.

In a statement addressing “recent developments in Somaliland,” Yusuf said the African Union “unequivocally reaffirms its long-standing and consistent position” in line with the principles of its Constitutive Act.

He noted that the Union’s stance, inherited from the Organization of African Unity, is rooted in “respect for the inviolability of borders inherited after independence,” citing a 1964 resolution.

The statement added: “The African Union strongly rejects any initiative or action aimed at recognising Somaliland as an independent entity. Somaliland will remain part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”

The remarks follow Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland as an “independent and sovereign state.” Somaliland, which has operated independently of Somalia’s central government for more than three decades, has not previously received formal recognition from any UN member state.