[9] During its brief existence, the State of Somaliland received international recognition from 35 countries,[10] that included China, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Israel, Libya, the Soviet Union.

Widespread dissatisfaction spread among the north's population,[17] and British-trained officers attempted a revolt to end the union in December 1961.

[17] After the SNM was able to exert control over Somaliland, the organisation quickly opted for a cessation of hostilities and reconciliation with non-Isaaq communities.

[18] A peace conference occurred in Berbera between 15 and 21 February 1991 restore trust and confidence between Somaliland communities whereby the SNM leadership had talks with representatives from the Issa, Gadabursi, Dhulbahante and Warsangeli clans.

[21] However, any nationalistic objectives amongst SNM members and supporters was abruptly altered in light of the genocide experienced under the Barre regime.

[22][2][3][4][23] Seventeen Somali Sultans from Sool, Sanaag, Awdal, Woqooyi Galbeed and Togdheer signed the Declaration of Independence of Somaliland.

In May 1991, the SNM announced restoration of the independence of "Somaliland" and the formation of an interim administration whereby Abdirahman Ahmed Ali Tuur was elected to govern for a period of two years.

[25] The conference was attended by 150 elders from the Isaaq (88), Gadabursi (21), Dhulbahante (21), Warsengali (11) and Issa (9) communities and was endorsed by the SNM.

[25] As a result, the conference granted the government of Somaliland local legitimacy beyond the realms of the Isaaq dominated SNM, especially since the town of Borama was predominantly inhabited by the Gadabursi.