Published: May 17 2011 22:26 | Last updated: May 17 2011 22:26
While no government recognises Somaliland, the business stamp of approval is proving less elusive. Coca-Cola has issued a second licence within Somalia, which will cover Somaliland and neighbouring, semi-autonomous Puntland, a tacit recognition of Somaliland’s functioning economy. The company’s other franchise, which is based in Mogadishu, is no longer able to function because of violence in the Somali capital.
Coca-Cola’s vote of confidence – long withheld – may do more to propel investor interest and confidence than any political move. Only two other Coca-Cola franchises remain to be given out in the world: Cuba and North Korea.
Ahmed Guelleh, a Somaliland businessman and owner of Somaliland Beverage Industries, had the franchise to Somaliland – then a region of Somalia – 26 years ago, before war broke out and he lost everything. He won the licence back in late 2010 and production is due to start this year.
Mr Guelleh’s band of five brothers is a typical, if highly successful, example of a strong trading family. Their $5m-a-year import-export operation brings in everything from porridge oats to tyres while sending out animal skins and frankincense, as well as serving as agents for a shipping company and DHL.Continued
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