By Goth Mohamed Goth
Hargeisa, April 2, 2025-The 14th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), was held today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting addressed several critical national issues, including:
(1) General Security Update
The Minister of Interior and Security provided a comprehensive report on the country’s security situation, confirming overall stability while acknowledging daily criminal incidents and traffic accidents. The minister emphasized the need for heightened vigilance regarding potential threats from regional instability in the Red Sea and tensions among global powers.
(2) Financial and Economic Progress
The Minister of Finance and Economic Development presented an update on Somaliland’s fiscal status, revenue collection, and economic growth. He reported the successful completion of the first quarter of the 2025 budget, with a notable 19% revenue increase compared to 2024. The minister also highlighted improvements in the tax integration system for electricity and telecommunications companies, which is expected to further boost national income.
(3) Drought and Water Crisis Response
The Minister of Water Resources Development briefed the council on the severe drought and water shortages in eastern regions, stressing the need for a coordinated national relief effort.
(4) Youth and Sports Development
The Minister of Youth and Sports shared updates on sports activities, challenges, and initiatives to enhance youth engagement. He announced the conclusion of regional football tournaments in Awdal and Saaxil, as well as the Sports Stakeholders Conference. Preparations are underway for the Somaliland Football Federation elections and an upcoming multi-sport tournament in Hargeisa in August 2025.
(5) Media and National Unity
The Minister of Information, Culture, and National Awareness reaffirmed the ministry’s role as a public service institution. He declared that state media will no longer be a platform for division but will instead promote balanced, fact-based reporting in the national interest. Plans were also announced for a National Cultural Conference.
(6) Eid al-Fitr Celebrations
The President received reports from ministers deployed across Somaliland’s regions to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with local communities. The ministers noted the public’s warm reception of government leaders during the festivities.
(7) Peacebuilding and Militia Integration
Finally, the President shared progress on the peaceful disarmament and integration of militias in the Sanaag region, particularly in Erigavo, praising the efforts of the Vice President and his delegation. He expressed optimism about the ongoing peace process in El Afweyn and announced plans to extend militia integration to other eastern regions soon.
