-He establishes Presidential Technology Award as he as he opens its 7th Expo summit
By M.A. Egge
The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi popularly known as Irro has made it categorical that the nation of Somaliland will never again reunite with the Mogadishu government of Somalia.
He made the remarks as he officially opened the 7th Annual Somaliland Technology Expo on Saturday in Hargeisa. The event showcased services and advancements made by ICT companies in the country, as well as innovations by Somaliland’s youth in the field of modern digital technology.
He announced the introduction of the Annual Presidential Technology Award for the winners of the Somaliland Technology Expo who achieve breakthroughs in technological innovation.
As concerns the Somalia issue, the Head of State made it clear that the country will not reunite with Somalia and that the few technicalities remaining to completely sever the ties are in the offing.
“We are aware that, despite Somaliland’s reassertion of its sovereignty hence separation from Somalia on May 18, 1991, there are still matters that need to be finalized to complete the separation process”, said the Head of state, and added, “such as the Hajj quota, and the national telephone code, despite the fact that major telecommunication companies have made great efforts”.
He pointed out that the aviation administration is another issue, and commended the Minister of Aviation for the significant steps he has taken, hence expressed his hopes that he will succeed.
The President asserted that “In general, I want to emphasize that we are not at war with Somalia, nor do we harbor hatred or resentment. On May 18, 1991, we freely decided our own destiny, just as we freely chose to unite with Somalia before. Now, we seek a dignified and honorable separation”.
He continued “Somalia faces many challenges; its regional administrations are fragmented and unable to come together, yet they talk of forming new ones while failing to unite the existing ones”.
He posed the query, “Isn’t this the parable of the woman who is already laden yet wanted to carry more burdensome loads?”.
In a significant speech, the President emphasized the profound impact of modern technology on society, the economy, education, healthcare, and government administration.
He highlighted that technology is now the backbone of progress, ambition, and global transformation. He stressed that any nation aspiring to advance must keep pace with technological and innovative developments.
The President expressed his vision for Somaliland to become a leader in digital innovation and progress. He urged government institutions, businesses fraternity, and youth to fully exploit the opportunities presented by modern technology and contribute to building a digitally advanced Somaliland rooted in knowledge, innovation, and tangible progress.
Additionally, the President announced the establishment of an Annual Presidential Award to be given to individuals who achieve breakthroughs in technological innovation. President Irro specifically commended the Minister of Civil Aviation and Airport Development for the significant steps taken in the sector.
The event also featured speeches by ministers of various ministries and top officials from major telecommunications and technology companies, who presented their progress, new services, and future plans in modern technology.
In conclusion, the President praised the Minister of Communications and Technology, the ministry’s staff, and the nation’s technology community. He encouraged them to continue their efforts in advancing national digital services, ensuring Somaliland keeps pace with the rapid advancements and transformations in modern technology.