Profile – Ahmed Mire

Ahmed has worked with ISF for five years and is a seasoned professional in development cooperation.  

As the Country Director for International Solidarity Foundation in Somaliland, Ahmed Mire is passionate about working with civil society and development cooperation. Even as a child, he was helpful and supportive, always assisting those in need, and he continues to take pride in helping others.  

Ahmed has two master’s degrees in business administration and in Peacebuilding, is deeply interested in social issues. In the coming years, he wants to focus on changing his country’s laws and political practices. Effective policies help people transform their lives. According to Ahmed, laws in Somaliland need to be more equitable and should create more opportunities for the poor.  

Little-Known Facts About Ahmed  

Ahmed mentions people are often surprised when they see me with my children. They think we are siblings, especially with my first two children. “I enjoy training with my children – we practice many skills together that will benefit them in the future.” Ahmed also has a strong athletic background, having participated in various sports, including volleyball, swimming, and football. One of his cherished hobbies is writing. He writes political texts and stories that he believes can lead to change. Currently, he is writing a screenplay for a short film depicting societal changes. The story focuses on the clan system in Somalia and Somaliland, illustrating how it is still a daily reality in Somali context.  

Childhood Memories  

Born in Hargeisa, Ahmed was forced to flee his hometown due to war at the age of six. He recalls their efforts to escape the city, spending days and nights moving and worrying. Ahmed lost his father while he was still a child. However, his role model – his mother – was a strong businesswoman who led the family to safety. Alongside bright and “normal” childhood memories, Ahmed’s early years are marked by tragic events that follow him throughout life.  

Ahmed admires his mother, a formidable businesswoman, and acknowledges the significant role of his teachers in his education. Highly educated, Ahmed has studied not only in Somalia but also in Malaysia and the United Kingdom.  

Graduating in May 2005, it took only two months for Ahmed to secure employment. “Throughout my work, I have dedicated myself to influencing my country’s political landscape. I work tirelessly to promote a more inclusive and functional political system, aiming to ensure that all voices are heard and represented fairly.”

Somaliland operates with its own government, complete with distinct political structures and institutions. It has developed a separate economy and even issued its own currency, further establishing its autonomy. Despite these efforts and the internal stability, it has achieved, Somaliland has not yet been recognized as an independent state by the international community. This lack of recognition continues to affect its ability to fully participate in global diplomacy and access international aid and trade opportunities. 

Cultural Barriers on the way of Equality  

Traditionally, Ahmed explains, the role of women in society has been limited compared to other countries. There are many cultural barriers. Women’s political participation is low – “people in our society expect that women should be at home managing household affairs. However, things are changing, including lifestyles.” When the country collapsed and descended into chaos, it was the women who stepped in to support families, ensuring their survival and well-being. Many fathers were lost during the civil war, and women, as mothers, filled this void, a role they continue to fulfill even today. 

“The people are changing and becoming more educated and are increasingly accepting women into politics and other decision-making forums.” Interestingly, although more than half of the voting population is female, very few women are elected to parliament and local councils. Even women themselves often do not vote for female candidates. Despite the presence of female candidates, only a few are elected. Women should be represented proportionally in parliament and other forums.”  

From ISF’s perspective, the challenges Somaliland faces among others include the lack of equality and limited opportunities for women. Ahmed hopes to see changes in the status of women and the country in general. ISF plays a significant role in this work. Combating female genital mutilation and advocating for related legislation is essential.  

ISF has a significant role in supporting Somaliland to implement reforms. “We need to be proactive,” states Ahmed. Equality and justice should be a top priority. ISF is a crucial player in helping women achieve their potential and create an enabling environment to improve their conditions.  

Ahmed Mire calls for a proactive approach while also supporting the efforts of the government. Where there is a gap and delayed achievements, government must be pressured to adopt updated political practices. Equality, justice, and political stability are topics that, according to Ahmed, need to be actively discussed.