© BBN
A presidential motorcade in Somaliland, highlighting the need for modern, organized, and dignified security to reflect the nation’s pride and professionalism.
Every citizen who watches the President’s convoy pass through Hargeisa, Berbera, Borama or Bur’o sees the same picture: a mix of old civilian cars, pick-up trucks similar to those used by ordinary traders or even armed groups in the region, and technicals with young guards standing in the back. The vehicles are not uniform in colour or type, many have civilian number plates, and there is little visible distance between the President’s car and the rest of the traffic. In many countries, even smaller and younger than ours, the presidential escort is instantly recognisable: matching black or dark armoured SUVs, motorcycles that clear the road ahead, and a clear security ring that keeps danger far away. In Somaliland we have the discipline and the talent to do the same.
When the President travels, the current vehicles make it simple for a hostile person to hide among ordinary traffic or to speed away after any attempt. A modern, organised motorcade with proper armoured vehicles, jammers, and trained drivers would close those gaps immediately. It would also send a strong message to every visitor, every investor, and every diplomat: Somaliland is a serious state that protects its leaders with the same professionalism it protects its borders and its ballot boxes. The sight of a dignified, well-equipped convoy flying our flag would lift the hearts of citizens as much as the sight of voters queuing peacefully on election day.
President Irro and every leader before him have earned the right to travel in vehicles that reflect the dignity of our republic. This is not about luxury; it is about safety and national respect. The money spent on proper presidential vehicles and a trained rapid-response escort unit would be small compared to the cost of losing a president or damaging the reputation we have worked so hard to build. Our police and special protection units already contain brave and capable officers who only need modern equipment, regular training, and clear standard procedures to reach world-class level.
Somaliland has proved that we can organise elections admired across Africa, keep peace where others failed, and hand over power without a single tank in the street. Now it is time to bring the same excellence to the protection of the man who carries our flag. A strong, modern, and clearly organised presidential motorcade will protect President Irro today, protect future presidents tomorrow, and show the world that every part of Somaliland’s sovereignty is guarded with pride and professionalism. Our peace and our democracy deserve nothing less.
