For over three decades, women in Somaliland have called tirelessly for inclusion in decision-making roles. Despite their relentless efforts, these demands have largely gone unmet. The 2021 elections highlighted the persistent challenges women face: economic disadvantages compared to their male counterparts were cited as a key barrier to winning seats in parliament and local councils, even though the majority of voters were youth and women. Adding to this, the clan-based power-sharing system remains a significant obstacle. Women often lack the support of clan elders whether due to inherent biases or because their marital ties leave them without the backing of either their birth or marital clans.
Faced with these obstacles, I propose a shift in approach one that requires women to rethink their strategies. Historically, women have relied on appeals and advocacy to push for inclusion, but this has not yielded the desired results. It is time to be more tactical, leveraging existing systems, even if they are imperfect, to secure a place at the table.
Take the power of clan networks, for example—a domain often dominated by men. Why shouldn’t women engage with this resource? Clan elders wield significant influence in Somaliland’s political landscape, and women can work with them not out of subservience, but as a means of negotiation and collaboration. By supporting clan elders and building alliances, women can position themselves as indispensable contributors to the political process. While this approach may not fit the ideal vision of inclusivity, it is a practical strategy given the current realities.
Additionally, women must approach political parties and leaders with clear agendas and bargaining power. Before pledging support to any party or candidate, women should establish a “memorandum of understanding” that explicitly outlines their conditions for participation and the contributions they bring to the table. This ensures that their demands whether representation in ministerial cabinets or leadership roles within political parties are documented and binding. We cannot afford to wait for external help, as none has been forthcoming. Somaliland women, particularly those seeking decision-making roles, have yet to receive meaningful support in this arena.
This shift in strategy marks a significant departure from the traditional methods of advocacy, which have too often been met with dismissal. Women must move beyond simply asking for inclusion and instead focus on negotiating from a position of strength. Somaliland’s women have the potential to demonstrate their value as organized, resourceful, and indispensable contributors to the nation’s political and social development.
Some may disagree with me, but we must come together now to explore alternative strategies, as the usual ways have not worked. Talking loudly has not brought results. It is time for deliberate, tactical actions steps that may not bear fruit immediately but will set the foundation for meaningful, lasting change. If we do not see results today, we may see them tomorrow, for those who come after us. We owe it to them and to ourselves to take bold and decisive action now, ensuring that future generations inherit a system that values, includes, and empowers them.
Samira Hassan