By Goth Mohamed Goth
Hargeisa – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland concluded a two-day policy dialogue and validation workshop (July 16-17) at Hargeisa’s Ali Jirde Hotel, dedicated to finalizing Somaliland’s National Diaspora Policy Development.
Organized by the Ministry’s Diaspora Department, the event convened academics primarily from Somaliland communities abroad. Participants included diaspora returnees (business people, community leaders, activists youth, women, and professionals), officials from Somaliland ministries and agencies, representatives of Somaliland missions, civil society members, academics, researchers, and other stakeholders.
Foreign Minister Mr. Abdirahman Daahir Aden Bakaal opened the meeting and highlighted significance of the event. Remarks were also delivered by the Director-General of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Abdirahman Hassan, Minister of Resettlement & Rehabilitation, Mr. Hassan Mohamed Ducaale, Deputy Ambassador of Somaliland to the UK, Mr. Mohamed Hassan Waes.
During the working sessions, the Diaspora Department presented draft document for the policy, and discussions focused on: Strengthening Engagement: Optimizing diaspora participation in national development and state-building, addressing Challenges: investment barriers, taxation system, land ownership, access to information, reintegration support, facilitating the homecoming of the diaspora-born children, essential services provision upon return, formalising incentives to the diaspora and formulation of required regulatory frameworks, among other topics.
Key insights highlighted:
* Somaliland possesses a significant diaspora with substantial financial and intellectual resources currently underutilized.
* Structured engagement could unlock vital economic investment, innovation, and modern expertise.
* The diaspora was encouraged to collaborate on major projects and investments, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), supported by enabling legislation and enhanced trust-building.
* Participants recommended increasing consultative meetings and knowledge-sharing forums between the diaspora, the Government institutiond and all stakeholders.
Director of the iaspora Department, Ms. Ugbaad Nasir Omar closed the workshop, thanking attendees and announcing registration for the upcoming ,”Somaliland Diaspora Week Conference” (August 2-5, 2025, Serene Servor Hotel, Hargeisa).
Policy Significance:
The National Diaspora Policy i finalization is a priority for the Foreign Ministry, aligned with the Unity & Action Government Agenda and the 3rd National Development Plan. Once ratified, this long-awaited policy will produce strategic frameworks, actionable programs, and impactful projects to elevate diaspora participation and service delivery, marking a significant step in leveraging this vital national asset.