Somaliland, while not recognised as an independent nation, recently celebrated its independence day. The country is looking to not only gain official recognition from the international community but also hopes to become a regional economic player by encouraging trade through its port in Berbera. In fact, the United Arab Emirates has agreed to help develop the port, which may encourage landlocked countries, including Ethiopia, to do business there. As a special contribution to EBR, Elias Meseret visited Hargeisa to speak with government officials about their plans to bring recognition and development to Somaliland’s economy.