In 2002, the first local govt elections were held followed by presidential elections in 2003 that brought in Pres Dahir Kahin making Somaliland a multiparty democracy.

Somaliland has been relatively stable despite having restive neighbours in Puntland and Somalia. It has a 65,000 strong armed force, a relatively well developed capital city of Hargeisa, fledgling education system, good airport (built by the US for their Columbian space shuttle), nascent but fast growing civil society, etc.

The question is: why won't the international community recognise this state? No country has voiced its support towards Somaliland's right to self-determination, except Israel.

Can we replicate what is happening in Somalia and indeed other failing or failed states in Africa?