By Goth Mohamed Goth

Today, April 9, 2025, marked the official launch of the finalization process for the Basic Education Curriculum for primary and intermediate schools. Led by the Curriculum Development Department of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Training, this initiative aims to develop a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the educational needs of students at these levels.

The session began at 1:00 PM and concluded at 5:40 PM, followed by a gathering in the Curriculum Development Department’s hall. The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Mohamed Abdi Ismail, Director of the National Curriculum Department, who highlighted the significance of the task and commended the teachers for their dedication. He urged all participants to adhere to the timeline to ensure the project stays on track.

Dr. Mustafe Khadar Abdi, a key expert in the process, provided teachers with a detailed overview of the workflow, emphasizing the importance of following the established schedule for systematic progress. Similarly, Omar Ali Abdullahi, a core member of the working group, stressed the need for clear communication and collaboration between teachers and experts to achieve success.

Dr. Abdulkarim Mohamed Ibrahim also addressed the attendees, encouraging full commitment and diligence in finalizing the curriculum. Teachers then shared their reflections on the day’s work, confirming their adherence to the schedule and their readiness to consult with experts and coordinators to maintain efficiency.

The session proceeded smoothly, with all planned steps successfully executed. Both teachers and experts demonstrated strong commitment to delivering a high-quality curriculum that meets the needs of primary and intermediate school students.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Mohamed Abdi Ismail praised the team’s efforts and reiterated the importance of timely completion. He extended special thanks to the teachers and experts for their exceptional contributions.

The finalization of the Basic Education Curriculum is a pivotal milestone for Somaliland’s education system. This initiative is expected to drive meaningful progress in enhancing the quality of education for young learners.

The worldwide recognition of Somaliland cannot be ignored for even a second longer. Somalia is a failed state. The president is already proving a liability — failing to combat terrorism, lawlessness on the streets, and presiding over an appalling human rights record. Baseless and damaging claims regarding the legitimacy of critical infrastructure such as Berbera Port and Berbera Airport, represent nothing more than a land grab and a desperate attempt to laud power over a sovereign state in Putin-like fashion.

Therefore, the world, including the United Kingdom, must wake up and recognise Somaliland to not only reward a key ally, but also for the crucial benefit of Western intelligence including a say over one of the most strategic maritime checkpoints in the world.

China, Iran, and Russia are watching with eagle eyes. They are hoping that Western nations miss a crucial opportunity to fill a vacuum and allow their totalitarian regimes to form a destructive coalition with Somalia that will have devastating consequences for global trade.

We have already seen Chinese, Iranian, and Russian aggression in shipping lanes as they seek to exert their influence, disrupt supply chains, and damage the economy of democratic nations. Failing to recognise Somaliland would allow this to continue at pace. Somaliland’s Berbera Port presents a direct line of access into the Gulf of Aden and the Bel el-Mandeb Straight, a passage through which almost 12% of global trade flows. China has been flooding the region to form economic and military alliances, whilst Iran’s proxy war with Yemen has crashed economies and held goods at ransom.

Expansionist rhetoric and propaganda can only be combatted by recognising Somaliland — a stable, functional, and successful nation with a strong record of holding democratic elections. In stark contrast, Somalia is wracked with in-fighting and provides a haven for piracy with a president willing to use his own people as collateral in a never-ending campaign of self-promotion and regional dominance. As war ravages in Somalia, peace prevails in Somaliland. Therefore, it is simply astonishing that governments across the world are making a conscious decision to put Somaliland’s future in the hands of the despots that are running Somalia into the ground.

Figures from the United Nations lay bare the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Somalia. The recent poverty report shows that 52% of Somalis are living well below the poverty line, with the government failing to put sufficient measures in place to combat natural disasters and alleviate the severe deprivation across the country. Somalia was the lowest ranked African country in the Human Development Index — ranking 193 in the worldwide standing. The Index itself was created to demonstrate how a country supports the wellbeing of its citizens and thus Somalia’s positioning makes for sobering reading. The only conclusion that can be drawn is Somalia’s president does not care about his people, infrastructure, or development of human rights.

The litany of abuses that Somalia’s president has presided over is endless. His direction of travel is creating international turmoil and the only way to achieve stability as well as to prevent rogue nations dictating strategic territories, is to recognise Somaliland. Dithering will only worsen an already dire situation. The time to recognise Somaliland is now before it’s too late.

The Central Bank of Somaliland and AfricaNenda formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Nairobi, aimed at enhancing access to financial services and promoting inclusive payment services for all segments of society.

The MoU was signed by the Governor of the Central Bank, Hon. Abdinasir Ahmed Hirsi, and the Chief Executive Officer of AfricaNenda, Dr. Robert Ochala.

The signing ceremony was attended by Somaliland’s Ambassador to Kenya, Ambassador Mohamed Ahmed Mohamoud.

This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Somaliland Central Bank and AfricaNenda marks a significant step and a strategic partnership aimed at advancing Somaliland’s financial system.

This collaboration will lead to:

The planning and development of the National Payment System Policy & Strategy.

Strengthening and enhancing payment services and the overall financial sector framework  & Financial Sector Oversight).

Expanding access to financial services to reach the unbanked population (Financial Inclusion for the Unbanked).

Providing technical support and capacity building for Somaliland Bank staff on digital payments (Technical Support & Capacity Building on Digital Payments).

Ultimately, this agreement demonstrates the commitment of both the Somaliland Bank and AfricaNenda to the development of Somaliland’s financial system and that of Africa as a whole.

This step will enable the establishment of an efficient national payment system, promote financial stability in the country, and expand access to financial services for all citizens of Somaliland.

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa– Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, Minister of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland, today inaugurated a landmark initiative designed to strengthen the country’s healthcare workforce.

The Global Health Workforce Project, implemented by the Ministry of Health Development in partnership with the Global Health Partnership (GHP) and funded by the British government, aims to enhance the skills and capacities of Somaliland’s healthcare professionals.

A high-profile ceremony marked the official launch of the program, bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health Development, the National Health Professionals Commission (NHPC), the World Health Organization (WHO), Population Services International (PSI), the University of Hargeisa, Amoud University, the University of Burao, Edna Adan University, the Faculty of Health Sciences in Hargeisa, Hargeisa Group Hospital, and the Somaliland Nurses and Midwives Association (SLNMA). The event served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and fostering collaboration in support of national strategies to develop a stronger healthcare workforce.

The launch also highlighted the various initiatives to be undertaken by health sector partners under the Global Health Workforce Program, reinforcing institutional cooperation and alignment in achieving the project’s objectives.

In his keynote address, Minister Hirsi commended all stakeholders involved in the project’s implementation. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to advancing the expertise and professional capabilities of healthcare workers across Somaliland, ensuring sustainable improvements in the nation’s health sector.

Healthcare Workforce Development Project

Hargeisa, Somaliland – Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, Minister of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland, today inaugurated a landmark initiative designed to strengthen the country’s healthcare workforce.

The Global Health Workforce Project implemented by the Ministry of Health Development in partnership with the Global Health Partnership (GHP) and funded by the British government, aims to enhance the skills and capacities of Somaliland’s healthcare professionals.

A high-profile ceremony marked the official launch of the program, bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health Development, the National Health Professionals Commission (NHPC), the World Health Organization (WHO), Population Services International (PSI), the University of Hargeisa, Amoud University, the University of Burao, Edna Adan University, the Faculty of Health Sciences in Hargeisa, Hargeisa Group Hospital, and the Somaliland Nurses and Midwives Association (SLNMA). The event served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and fostering collaboration in support of national strategies to develop a stronger healthcare workforce.

The launch also highlighted the various initiatives to be undertaken by health sector partners under the Global Health Workforce Program, reinforcing institutional cooperation and alignment in achieving the project’s objectives.

In his keynote address, Minister Hirsi commended all stakeholders involved in the project’s implementation. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to advancing the expertise and professional capabilities of healthcare workers across Somaliland, ensuring sustainable improvements in the nation’s health sector.

The Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman, opened a two-day training session organized by the Legal and Consular Affairs Department and the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This training aims to enhance the knowledge of government employees on maintaining security and diplomatic protocol, which are internationally recognized standards, particularly for those directly involved in cooperation or providing services to diplomats residing and operating in Somaliland.

The training was delivered by one of the experts and diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trainer Hassan Mohamed Hussein. Among the ministries and government institutions that participated in and benefited from the training were:

• The Supreme Court of Somaliland
• Egal International Airport
• The Immigration and Border Control Agency
• The Ministry of Finance Development (Customs and Inland Revenue)
• The Police Force
• The Fire Brigade
• The National Prosecution Service

From April 7-11, 2025, global leaders in agriculture, climate science, and health will gather in Nairobi, Kenya, for the inaugural CGIAR Science Week. Co-hosted by CGIAR and the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), this landmark event is set to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, food insecurity, gender inequality, and rural poverty. With a focus on research and innovation, the event also marks the launch of the CGIAR 2025-2030 Research Portfolio—a transformative global initiative aimed at driving agricultural research for sustainable development.

One of the key contributors to this global dialogue is the Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR), a leading Agriculture Research Organization in the Somaliland. Represented by Senior Researcher Mohamed Warsame Farah, SIAR will bring local expertise to the table while tapping into cutting-edge research from around the world.

CGIAR Science Week and the 2025-2030 Research Portfolio

CGIAR Science Week is more than just a conference—it’s a platform for collaboration, innovation, and action. The event will unveil the CGIAR 2025-2030 Research Portfolio, which will direct between $6 billion and $12 billion towards agricultural research over the next six years. This initiative aims to address critical issues like climate change, food insecurity, rural poverty, gender inequality, and environmental degradation.

More than 100 countries will be represented, and participants—including researchers, policymakers, and practitioners—will exchange knowledge, foster partnerships, and drive innovations to reshape agricultural systems. The event will feature plenary sessions, exhibitions, field visits to CGIAR labs, and science talks that will inspire action and set the course for the future of sustainable agriculture.

SIAR’s Role in the Global Agricultural Dialogue

The participation of SIAR in CGIAR Science Week underscores its pivotal role in advancing agricultural research in the Horn of Africa. With an emphasis on local solutions, SIAR has been at the forefront of agricultural research in Somaliland, focusing on issues like drought-resistant crops, sustainable irrigation techniques, and pest control.

As a senior researcher specializing in horticultural crops, Mohamed Warsame Farah will contribute local expertise on sustainable farming practices and innovations tailored to the unique challenges faced by Somaliland. SIAR’s presence at the event will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and networking with global research organizations. These collaborations are crucial for finding innovative solutions that will improve food security and resilience in Somaliland and beyond.

The Importance of Capacity Building and Collaboration

CGIAR Science Week 2025 is not just an opportunity to share research; it’s a chance for SIAR to strengthen its research capacity and forge new partnerships. With sessions designed to build expertise in sustainable agriculture, SIAR’s researchers will gain invaluable insights into the latest scientific developments and methodologies. This exposure will help them tackle the unique agricultural challenges in Somaliland, particularly in areas such as water scarcity, soil degradation, and the impact of climate change on farming systems.

Furthermore, the event will facilitate expert collaboration on solutions to global agricultural challenges, allowing SIAR to contribute to the CGIAR 2025-2030 Research Portfolio. Through this collaboration, SIAR will have a direct impact on the development of agricultural systems that promote food security, climate resilience, and human health in vulnerable regions.

Addressing Global Challenges: Climate, Health, and Food Security

Climate change, health, and food security are interconnected global challenges that will be front and center during CGIAR Science Week. Agriculture plays a critical role in addressing these challenges, especially in regions like Somaliland, where food security is threatened by environmental factors and limited access to resources, particularly for women.

SIAR’s involvement in the event will highlight the importance of inclusive agricultural development, particularly for women, who often face barriers to accessing agricultural inputs and services. Through its research on climate-resilient farming systems, SIAR is helping to ensure that local communities can thrive in the face of climate challenges. Additionally, SIAR’s work on improving crop varieties and livestock breeds is contributing to better nutrition and health outcomes in Somaliland.

Looking Ahead: SIAR’s Continued Impact on Agricultural Innovation

As CGIAR Science Week unfolds, SIAR’s role as a leader in agricultural research will only grow. The institute’s contributions to global agricultural solutions will help shape the future of agriculture, particularly in regions most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and food insecurity. By participating in the CGIAR 2025-2030 Research Portfolio, SIAR is ensuring that innovations and sustainable agricultural practices will not only benefit Somaliland but also the wider global community.

With ongoing partnerships, new technologies, and research-driven solutions, SIAR will continue to drive innovation in agricultural systems and promote the resilience of communities in the Horn of Africa. The institute’s involvement in CGIAR Science Week is a critical step toward advancing the goals of sustainable development and fostering global collaboration for a better future.

Conclusion

CGIAR Science Week 2025 presents a unique opportunity for the Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR) to showcase its ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. By actively participating in this global event, SIAR is contributing to the shared vision of a more equitable, sustainable, and food-secure world. Through collaboration with international partners and exposure to the latest scientific advancements, SIAR will continue to shape the future of agriculture in the Horn of Africa and beyond.

This global platform emphasizes the vital role that research and innovation play in addressing the world’s most urgent agricultural challenges. As CGIAR Science Week unfolds, SIAR’s efforts will help ensure that agriculture remains a key driver of global development, supporting resilient, healthy, and sustainable food systems for generations to come.

Abdirahman Ibrahim Abdilahi

Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research

Abdirahman270@gmail.com

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa, – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), hosted a meeting at the Presidential Palace with the outgoing and incoming heads of the UK Government Office in Hargeisa, Mr. Ilyaas Malek and Ms. Louise Hancock, respectively, alongside their delegation.

The discussions centered on reinforcing the longstanding bilateral ties between Somaliland and the United Kingdom, as well as exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation.

During the meeting, Mr. Ilyaas Malek introduced his successor, Ms. Louise Hancock, and the Deputy Head of the UK Office in Somaliland to President Cirro. Mr. Malek expressed his appreciation for Somaliland’s hospitality and commended the new administration’s efforts in fostering peace and stability.

He also lauded Somaliland’s steadfast commitment to democratic governance and underscored the significance of inclusive dialogue in addressing regional challenges.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Deepening Bilateral Relations
2. Expanding Economic and Investment Collaboration
3. Enhancing Regional Security and Stability
4. Promoting Higher Education and Academic Partnerships
5. Supporting Statehood and Local Development Initiatives

UK officials emphasized their interest in fostering investment opportunities, particularly in business, renewable energy, and technology—sectors critical to Somaliland’s sustainable growth.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about the future of Somaliland-UK relations. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships, advancing shared priorities, and supporting Somaliland’s development and international engagement.

Hussein Adan Cige (Deyr) Presidential Spokesperson, Republic of Somaliland

By Goth Mohamed Goth

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Iirro), held a distinguished dinner meeting at the Presidential Palace for various business leaders from Somaliland.

The business community’s dinner reception was attended by members of the Council of Ministers, parliamentarians, leaders of the National Armed Forces, the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Somaliland, Director Generals, elders, and other dignitaries.

During the occasion, significant remarks were made highlighting the crucial role and esteemed position of Somaliland’s business community in the country’s development, security, stability, and overall social welfare.

The Ministers of Interior and Commerce, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Arab and Mr. Abdirahman Hassan Nur, the Chairman of Dahabshiil Group, Mr. Mohamed Said Duale, and the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Jamaal Aideed Ibrahim, who each delivered speeches, all warmly welcomed the President of Somaliland’s dedicated initiative to hold a special meeting with the nation’s business leaders. They also clearly stated their commitment to closely collaborate on the developmental steps being taken by the government in partnership with the people.

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, delivered brief remarks during the distinguished dinner, thanking the business community for their indispensable role in peace, stability, social progress, and the enhancement of national income and economy.

Similarly, the President of the Republic of Somaliland expressed his gratitude to the business leaders for their enthusiastic participation in the meeting. He emphasized that his administration is determined to work closely with the business community on all matters related to trade, investment, tourism, and industrial development in the country.

Hussein Adan Cige (Deyr), Spokesperson of the President of the Republic of Somaliland