The Somaliland Maritime Domain Working Group Meeting convened today at the Ambassador Hotel in Hargeisa, marking a significant step in strengthening the nation’s maritime governance and security framework. Hosted by the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the meeting brought together local authorities, international partners, and maritime stakeholders to advance coordination and strategic planning in the maritime sector.
The discussions centered on the evolving role of the Somaliland Maritime Security Coordination Office and updates to the Strategic Maritime Plan. Participants reviewed achievements, identified gaps, and outlined priorities to enhance maritime safety and surveillance. International partners, including EUCAP, UNTMIS, UNODC, and IOM, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Somaliland’s maritime efforts. EUCAP highlighted its technical assistance in training and equipping maritime law enforcement, while UNODC and IOM emphasized initiatives to combat maritime crime, human trafficking, and irregular migration.
A key focus was the integration of community policing principles, as championed by UNTMIS, to foster collaboration with coastal communities and prevent crimes such as piracy, armed robbery, and smuggling. The meeting underscored the need for robust inter-agency cooperation and information sharing to address the complex challenges in Somaliland’s maritime domain.
The strategic importance of Somaliland’s maritime sector was a recurring theme, with the Port of Berbera—developed by DP World—positioning the nation as a critical hub along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden trade corridor. As global trade and regional security dynamics evolve, Somaliland’s efforts to institutionalize maritime governance are seen as vital for economic growth and regional stability.
“This meeting reflects our collective resolve to safeguard Somaliland’s maritime interests and unlock its potential as a maritime hub,” said Mohamed Abdirahman Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “With the support of our international partners, we are building a resilient and inclusive maritime framework.”
The working group’s collaborative approach signals a promising path forward, aligning Somaliland’s maritime policies with regional and global priorities. As the nation continues to develop its maritime infrastructure and governance systems, stakeholders expressed optimism about transforming maritime opportunities into lasting prosperity.