South Africa says the recognition of Somaliland as an independent state violates the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.
This comes after the state of Israel announced the recognition of Somaliland.
Pretoria says this is a direct threat to peace in the Horn of Africa. It has urged the international community to reject what it calls external interference and support a united, stable Somalia.
A statement by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), South Africa has noted with concern the recent announcement by the State of Israel recognising Somaliland as an independent state.
WATCH | Social commentator and Mail & Guardian columnist Donovan Williams unpacks Israel’s controversial decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state. pic.twitter.com/69c85zHpyr
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 29, 2025
The statement says the recognition constitutes a violation of the Federal Republic of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and a direct threat to peace in the Horn of Africa.
“We uphold the African Union’s principle of uti possidetis the sanctity of inherited borders as the continent’s essential safeguard against conflict. We distinguish unequivocally between decolonisation and secession. The former restores sovereignty; the latter dismantles it. Israel’s action validates fragmentation and risks a domino effect of instability,” reads the statement.
South Africa urges the international community to reject this external interference and support a united, stable Somalia.
WATCH | An increasing number of nations have rejected Israel’s move to recognise Somaliland, Somalia’s breakaway region, marking the first such recognition in over 30 years. pic.twitter.com/yJgIi9Tyzv
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 29, 2025
