This file photo taken on May 18, 2016 shows a woman holding a flag of Somalia's breakaway territory of Somaliland during an Independence day celebration parade in Hargeisa.
The Horn of Africa country remains a beacon of peace and democracy in a region marred by internal strife.
Somaliland has made important strides towards creating one of the most inclusive multi-party democracies in East Africa.
Somaliland’s fragile democracy will be tested once again on November 13 when it holds its presidential election.
The Horn of Africa country, which has for the past three decades fought to gain international recognition, remains a beacon of peace and democracy in a region marred by internal strife. The interest with which the international community is following the events leading to the elections lends demonstrates the country’s importance on the global stage.
