Somaliland’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Abdilahi Jama Osman (Geeljire), held a pivotal meeting with representatives from the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) in London to advance collaborative efforts in wildlife conservation, with a particular focus on protecting Somaliland’s cheetah population.
The discussions centered on deepening the partnership between Somaliland’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) and CCF, an organization dedicated to cheetah conservation globally. Both parties agreed to accelerate joint initiatives aimed at curbing illegal wildlife trafficking, enhancing ecological research, and promoting community-driven conservation strategies in Somaliland.
Minister Geeljire commended CCF for their steadfast commitment to preserving Somaliland’s biodiversity, particularly their work at the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre (CRCC) in Geed-Deeble. “We are grateful for CCF’s tireless efforts in safeguarding our wildlife, especially the cheetah, which faces significant threats from illegal trade and habitat loss,” the Minister stated. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in ensuring a sustainable future for Somaliland’s ecosystems.
The CCF delegation reaffirmed their dedication to supporting Somaliland’s conservation goals. They highlighted ongoing projects, including the Somaliland Camera Trap Project, which uses non-invasive techniques to monitor cheetah populations, and community engagement programs aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict.
The meeting also explored new avenues for collaboration, such as expanding educational programs to raise awareness among Somaliland’s youth and strengthening legal frameworks to combat wildlife trafficking. The Minister and CCF representatives expressed optimism about the potential impact of these initiatives on both cheetah conservation and local livelihoods.
This high-level engagement underscores Somaliland’s growing role in regional conservation efforts and marks a significant step toward ensuring the survival of its unique wildlife heritage.
For more information on CCF’s work in Somaliland, visit cheetah.org.