In a bold and innovative move, the Somaliland government, under the leadership of President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at fostering sustainable environmental management and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. The Qoolcaday Bank Closure Project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Livestock and Rural Development, marks a significant shift in governance, emphasizing community participation, resource protection, and transparent decision-making.
According to a detailed report by Ahmed M. Saleebaan, Editor-in-Chief of Dawan Newspaper, the project is built on three critical pillars essential for the future of Somaliland’s rural communities: community-driven environmental governance, the preservation of natural resources, and the establishment of robust legal frameworks. These pillars reflect the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development while addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
A New Approach to Governance
The Qoolcaday Bank Closure Project represents a departure from traditional top-down decision-making, which often sidelined local communities. Instead, the initiative prioritizes consultation and collaboration, ensuring that the voices of rural residents are central to its planning and execution. This shift underscores the government’s vision of inclusive governance, where policies impacting communities and their environment are developed with their active involvement.
To engage local communities, a high-level delegation led by Deputy Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Mr. Ali Ahmed Abdi, alongside Director-General Mr. Ahmed Osman Jama (Talo-same) and other ministry officials, conducted an awareness and information-sharing campaign in the Salaxlay District. The delegation visited key areas under the Qoolcaday Bank, including Dhimbiryaale, Qoolcaday, Aadan-Abokor, Bali Case, and Gaydhka. Their mission was to inform residents about the project’s objectives and encourage their participation in its implementation.
A Strategic Response to Environmental Challenges
The Qoolcaday Bank, a vital ecological and economic resource, particularly during droughts, serves as a lifeline for rural communities and their livestock. The project aims to establish a formal protection system to ensure environmental sustainability, efficient rainwater utilization, preservation of livestock fodder, and the management of daily rural livelihoods. By addressing these critical needs, the initiative aligns with Somaliland’s national agenda for sustainable development and climate resilience.
The Ministry has emphasized transparency, clarifying that the project is not designed to favor any specific group, nor does it rely on secretive agreements. This commitment to openness strengthens public trust and reinforces the government’s dedication to equitable resource management.
A Model for Modern Governance
The Qoolcaday Bank Closure Project is more than an environmental initiative; it is a historic opportunity to build a modern governance system rooted in consultation, transparency, and resource sharing. By fostering collaboration between the government and its citizens, the project sets a precedent for how Somaliland can manage its natural resources effectively while empowering local communities.
This initiative also enhances the credibility of the Ministry of Livestock and Rural Development and lays the groundwork for comprehensive legislation to govern natural resources. As Somaliland navigates the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, the Qoolcaday Bank Closure Project stands as a testament to the government’s forward-thinking leadership and its commitment to improving the lives of its people.
In conclusion, the Qoolcaday Bank Closure Project is a beacon of hope for Somaliland’s rural communities and a model for other nations striving to balance environmental protection with inclusive governance. Through this initiative, Somaliland is not only safeguarding its natural resources but also building a brighter, more sustainable future for its people.