The Ministry of Energy and Minerals of Somaliland hosted a pivotal workshop titled “Hydrocarbon Prospectivity in Somaliland: Now or Never,” organized by its Petroleum and Human Resources Departments. The event, held in Hargeisa, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the untapped potential of Somaliland’s petroleum resources and the urgent need for strategic action.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Mohamed Yusuf Ali, a renowned Somaliland-born geoscientist with extensive expertise in the nation’s natural resources. Prof. Ali, whose research and academic papers are archived in global knowledge repositories, presented a fact-based lecture highlighting the scientific and economic prospects of Somaliland’s hydrocarbon sector. His presentation underscored the critical window of opportunity for Somaliland to capitalize on its resources, emphasizing that delays could jeopardize future progress.
Attendees included representatives from various ministry departments, academic leaders from Golis and Al-Huda Universities, notably from their Geology Faculties, and executives from international and local companies interested in investing in Somaliland’s energy sector. The workshop featured in-depth discussions on the opportunities, challenges, and the necessity for robust policies to accelerate petroleum exploration and production.
A key takeaway from the event was the pressing need for swift, strategic decision-making to harness Somaliland’s natural resources effectively. Participants left with heightened awareness and motivation to advance both scientific research and policy frameworks to support the development of the hydrocarbon industry.
“This workshop marks a turning point for Somaliland’s energy sector,” said a Ministry statement. “It has galvanized stakeholders to double efforts in creating a sustainable strategy for resource development, ensuring Somaliland seizes this critical opportunity.”
The event signals Somaliland’s growing commitment to unlocking its natural resource potential, positioning the nation as an emerging player in the global energy landscape.