Somalia makes New Diplomatic Appointments, reopens Border with Kenya

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed Jabril Abdulle as the new envoy to Kenya, marking a significant shift in diplomatic ties. Abdulle, who has extensive experience in Kenya over the past decade, replaces Mohamed Nur Tarzan, the former Mayor of Mogadishu appointed by former President Mohamed Farmaajo in 2018.

During Tarzan’s tenure, Somalia and Kenya experienced diplomatic tensions, leading to severed ties in 2019 and disruptions in direct flights. Tarzan, in turn, succeeded Gamal Hassan, who later became the Minister for Planning. Abdulle, a candidate in Somalia’s previous presidential race, played a role in the Council of Presidential Candidates, alongside President Mohamud.
Abdulle’s immediate priority is to facilitate the reopening of the common border between Somalia and Kenya, closed since 2009. This move aligns with Somalia’s aspirations to join the East African Community. Despite initial plans for reopening, Nairobi recently postponed to assess the security situation.
The Joint Commission for Co-operation (JCC) meeting identified key areas for collaboration, including joint security activities, defense, agriculture, trade, intelligence exchange, health, education, and the movement of people. Abdulle, known for his involvement in peace-building and reconciliation among Somali clans, is expected to leverage his experience.
As the former head of the Centre for Research and Dialogue, Abdulle played a pivotal role in the early 2000s Somali peace talks in Eldoret and Mbagathi, Kenya. Analyst Abdullahi Mohamed emphasizes that President Mohamud’s choice of Abdulle signifies a strategic move to avoid the pitfalls of previous diplomatic relations.
“Jabril Abdulle understands the historical relationship between the two countries. He is familiar within Kenya’s establishment, positioning him to cultivate a strong strategic partnership,” commented Abdullahi Mohamed to The EastAfrican.