In a jubilant and landmark moment for Somaliland’s economy, Berbera Port is buzzing with excitement as the first-ever shipment of 16 tons of premium, halal-certified processed meat is fully prepared and set to sail to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the coming days.
The milestone was celebrated today during a high-spirited visit to Berbera’s state-of-the-art Al Manar slaughterhouse by Berbera District Mayor Abdikarin Iddin, the Sahel Region Coordinator of the Ministry of Livestock, and Al Manaar Meat Company owner Abdilahi Sheik Abib Mohamed.
A Dream Realized: From Live Exports to Global Meat Leadership
For decades, Somaliland has proudly exported millions of live animals to the Gulf. Today, the nation takes a giant leap forward by slaughtering, processing, and exporting high-value meat — keeping wealth, jobs, and pride at home.
Al Manaar owner Abdilahi Sheik Abib Mohamed beamed with gratitude:
“We’ve dreamed of this day for years — to export our meat, not just our animals. Today, that dream comes true! This is the first direct processed meat export in Somaliland’s history, and it starts right here in the Sahel Region.”
He continued with heartfelt thanks:
“We thank Almighty God for making this possible. Our animals — once shipped live — are now slaughtered with care, health-certified, and ready for the world. This means more value stays in Somaliland, hundreds of new jobs are created, and no shipment will ever be returned. We pray to God this blessing continues!”
Government Vision Becomes Reality
The triumph follows a recently signed agreement between the Government of Somaliland and the UAE, opening premium Gulf markets to Somaliland’s world-class livestock products.
The Ministry of Livestock and Berbera District Administration played pivotal roles, ensuring international health standards, halal compliance, and seamless logistics.
Al Manaar’s abdilahi praised the teamwork:
“This is Somaliland at its best — government, business, and community united. Berbera is not just a port; it’s now a global meat export hub!”