Is Somaliland Safe?
Nestled in the Horn of Africa between tiny Djibouti and its southern cousin, Somalia, Somaliland holds a very strong strategic position in the region. This is a historically hostile area where civil war once raged. So, the question of safety often comes up when we talk about venturing into the region. But, what about Somalia’s northern breakaway province — is Somaliland safe?
One needs to look at Somalia vs Somaliland as two separate countries to answer this question. Throughout the early 1990s, Somalia was engulfed in a civil war between rival clans. It was at this time Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia proper. In response to this claim of independence, the region was heavily bombed by the southern Mogadishu government. Since then, however, Somaliland has flourished within its own borders and is autonomous, even with its own army and security system. It has become a model for democracy and government in East Africa.
When you visit Somalia or Somaliland, an armed security unit will escort you during your stay. In Mogadishu, this can number up to 12 men, but in Somaliland, it’s likely to be the one guard. They are not needed in Somaliland, but the government provide one anyway as an extra layer of security. This all adds up to keep the country safe from the troubles of its southern neighbour. So is Somaliland safe? Very! Visit this amazing place with Rocky Road Travel on one of our custom-made Somaliland tours now! Email info@www.rockyroadtravel.com for more info.