“We hope Somaliland will soon join the international community.” President Irro echoed.
Somaliland is emerging as a key player in East African trade, with Berbera Port positioned as a strategic gateway for global commerce, according to discussions at the Ports, Policy, and Possibility: Berbera and the New Gateway to East Africa session during the Africa Debate in the UAE.
In a fireside chat, Somaliland’s President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Irro) and DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem highlighted the transformative potential of the Berbera Special Economic Zone, emphasizing Somaliland’s stability, democratic governance, and investment-friendly environment.
President Irro celebrated Somaliland’s 34 years of nation’s sovereignty since reclaiming independence on May 18, 1991, following its initial independence from Britain on June 26, 1960. “I came from Republic of Somaliland, not Somalia. We are a liberal country, ready for investment across all sectors,” Irro declared, pointing to untapped opportunities in health, agriculture, minerals, tourism, and hospitality. He underscored Somaliland’s 850 km coastline along the Gulf of Aden, noting that its robust coastal security has eradicated piracy, setting it apart from neighboring Somalia and reassuring investors.
DP World’s significant investment in modernizing Berbera Port, alongside developing a free zone and the Berbera Corridor, was hailed as a game-changer. Sultan revealed that the port currently handles 500,000 containers annually, with plans to scale to 1 million, positioning it as a vital trade hub for Africa, India, and beyond. “The support from the government, people, and even the opposition has been extraordinary,” he said, citing a recent $20 million agricultural investment by the Pharo Foundation as evidence of growing investor confidence.
On the topic of international recognition, Irro expressed optimism despite no responses to his May 18, 2025, letters to global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Somalia’s Hassan Sheikh. He noted support from politicians in the U.S. and UK, stating, “We hope Somaliland will soon join the international community.” Sultan added that recognition would “double Berbera’s importance,” attracting more global firms to leverage its strategic location near the Red Sea and its logistics infrastructure.
Addressing misconceptions, Irro clarified the distinction between Somaliland and Somalia, emphasizing Somaliland’s democratic elections and stability. “The world is awakening to the difference,” he said, crediting DP World’s investment for inspiring others. Sultan highlighted the absence of piracy in Somaliland’s waters, noting, “We’ve never encountered mishaps or pirates since we began operations here.”
With its strategic location, secure maritime environment, and burgeoning investment landscape, Somaliland is poised to redefine East Africa’s trade future. The Berbera Special Economic Zone, backed by DP World’s vision and Somaliland’s open-door policy, positions the nation as a critical link in global trade, with recognition expected to unlock even greater economic potential.