The Ministry of Agriculture Development of the Republic of Somaliland has demonstrated consistent effort, efficiency, and innovative development aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, addressing the impacts of drought, and strengthening international partnerships to build a resilient agricultural system.
A report prepared by the editor of Dawan newspaper, Ahmed M. Saleebaan, highlighted that these efforts are led by the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Mohamoud Ege Yusuf, Deputy Minister Mukhtar Haji Mohumed, and Director General Eng. Abdirisaaq Gaas.
The Ministry has, during the tenure of the results-oriented government led by President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro, implemented effective measures directly addressing the real needs of farmers. The Ministry has strategically utilized the national budget and funding opportunities from international organizations such as the World Bank, WFP, KfW, and Somaliland’s ally, Taiwan.
Dawan Newspaper, one of the media outlets closely monitoring the country’s developmental progress, particularly in key ministries like Agriculture, conducted an in-depth analysis of the Ministry’s efforts and achievements in recent years. These efforts have significantly transformed farmers’ lives by focusing on:
– Providing high-quality seeds suited to the local climate.
– Developing agricultural infrastructure, including seed storage, irrigation systems, and modern farming equipment.
– Strengthening the Ministry’s engagement with farmers to address their actual needs.
– Combating pests and diseases to reduce crop losses.
– Promoting the marketing of local crops to ensure farmers benefit from their produce and access stable markets.
Monitoring, Engagement, and Awareness
Extensive field visits by the Ministry’s leadership and departments across regions such as Maroodi-jeex, Awdal, Salal, Sanaag, Saraar, Daad-madheer, Gabiley, and Togdheer reflect a data-driven agricultural policy based on direct consultation with farmers. This has significantly boosted public confidence in the Ministry.
Training and Knowledge Enhancement
Recognizing the role of knowledge in modern agriculture, the Ministry has sent staff for advanced training in Taiwan and conducted local workshops to teach new skills to agricultural office personnel. This strategic step enhances the quality of services provided to the public.
Support for Farmers
Direct provision of agricultural equipment to farmers in regions like Awdal, Maroodi-jeex, and Saraar demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to tangible progress, fostering farmers’ self-sufficiency.
Somaliland Food System Resilience Project (SL-FSRP)
The Ministry leads transformative projects like the Somaliland Food System Resilience Project (SL-FSRP), funded by the World Bank, implemented across various regions to strengthen food systems, particularly during droughts. This project aims to enhance food security and build community resilience against climate change, drought, and market vulnerabilities.
Establishment of Seed Banks
The Director General’s visit to the construction of a seed bank in Midhisho is a strategic, long-term step to preserve local seed varieties, safeguarding farmers’ heritage and improving local productivity.
Policies, Regulations, and Awareness
The Ministry has taken significant steps reflecting Somaliland’s long-term vision for agricultural development. Two key initiatives highlight substantial progress in planning, regulation, and productivity:
1. The preparation of the Agricultural Development Strategic Plan (2025–2030), which underscores Somaliland’s commitment to sustainable, innovative, and collaborative agricultural growth.
2. The adoption of key policies and regulations, including the Pesticides Policy, Seed Law, and Cooperatives Policy, which are central to regulating markets, improving seed quality, and strengthening farmers’ cooperatives.
International Partnerships and Future Investments
A landmark $100 million investment by AFS to enhance Somaliland’s agricultural productivity marks a historic achievement. Strong ties with the World Bank and Germany’s KfW Development Bank reflect Somaliland’s growing international credibility.
– Pharo Foundation (UK): This UK-based charity focuses on supporting Somaliland’s agricultural productivity, clean water access, and rural livelihoods, with plans for a major agricultural project.
– TİKA (Turkey): TİKA consistently supports Somaliland’s farmers, particularly in drought-affected areas, by providing fertilizers, high-quality seeds, engines, and farming equipment in collaboration with the Ministry.
– FAO and Switzerland: Partnerships with the FAO and the Swiss government have led to projects improving farmers’ livelihoods, addressing food insecurity, drought, and market access.
– SIAR (Somaliland Institute for Agricultural Research): The Ministry’s collaboration with SIAR plays a key role in testing climate-adapted seeds, advancing agricultural research, and improving soil fertility, with partnerships with global institutes like ICRISAT and CIMMYT.
These extensive collaborations between the Somaliland government, development organizations, and agricultural research institutes demonstrate a sustainable path built on local production, research, and international cooperation, signaling a bright future for Somaliland’s farmers.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Agriculture’s performance in 2025 reflects a long-term vision, effective governance, and alignment with climate and market changes. Domestic and international partnerships, adopted policies, and major projects lay the foundation for Somaliland to become a self-sufficient food producer in Africa, poised for exporting local agricultural products