Ambassador Dahir Hassan Abdi delivered a keynote address during the Peace Week at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University (GMU). Speaking before a diverse audience of students, scholars, and peace practitioners, Ambassador Dahir shared Somalia’s hard-earned lessons in governance, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward peace and stability.
In his remarks, the Ambassador reflected on the enduring ties between Somalia and the United States, a relationship rooted in shared values and mutual respect. He traced Somalia’s trajectory from post-independence optimism in 1960, through decades of civil war, and toward the recovery process that began with the federalization shift in 2012.
“Somalia’s journey is one of painful setbacks, but also of hope, determination, and progress.” – Ambassador Dahir Hassan
Ambassador Dahir highlighted key governance milestones achieved between 2012 and 2025, including the formation of Federal Member States (SSC-Khatumo being the latest member), the adoption of a Provisional Constitution, national elections, and significant reforms in the justice and economic sectors. These steps have been accompanied by Somalia’s re-engagement with international partners, debt relief efforts, and a successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
On the topic of peace and security, he emphasized Somalia’s progress in liberating major cities from terrorist control, counter-terrorism cooperation with international partners, and the evolving role of Somali-led security efforts.
“Somalia’s partnership with the United States and others has been instrumental, but ultimately, peace must be owned and led by Somalis themselves.” – Ambassador Dahir Hassan
The Ambassador also underlined Somalia’s economic potential, particularly in oil exploration, resource development, and the pursuit of a transparent and sustainable Blue Economy. He urged stakeholders to view Somalia not only through the lens of its past challenges but as a rising geo-strategic partner in the Horn of Africa and Gulf of Aden.
“Somalia’s location makes it a critical driver of regional integration, maritime security, and trade.” – Ambassador Dahir Hassan
He concluded by addressing the vital role of academic institutions in peace-building. He invited GMU scholars and students to collaborate with Somalia in research, institutional capacity building, and decentralized development.
“The Somali Embassy welcomes partnerships with academia,” Ambassador Dahir declared. “We need your insights, your curiosity, and your commitment to peace.”
The Ambassador thanked Dr. Alpaslan Ozerdem, the Carter School Dean; Anti Pentikainen, Director of Carter School MHCR; and Rowda Olad, the Associate Director of Carter School MHCR.
His final message was a challenge to all in attendance: “Learn more about Somalia—not just the headlines, but the real stories of progress and resilience.”
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