The Ministry of Planning and National Development hosted a high-profile event in Hargeisa to celebrate African Statistics Day, observed annually on 18 November and recognized in Somaliland as National Statistics Day.
The ceremony, attended by cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, directors-general, representatives of international organizations, universities, and national data stakeholders, highlighted the critical role of reliable data in driving sustainable national development.
Opening the event, Minister of Planning and National Development Hon. Kaltun Sheikh Hassan Abdi declared that accurate and independent national data is the cornerstone of effective planning and sustainable progress.
“Somaliland is a self-reliant nation that independently collects, stores, and transparently utilizes its own data to plan its development and present evidence-based facts to the world,” Minister Kaltun stated. She emphasized that no meaningful development can occur without comprehensive data covering health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic needs at both national and regional levels.
The Minister stressed the need for region-specific data to ensure resources are directed where they are most needed. “If you want real development in any region of Somaliland, you must first have accurate data showing whether that area needs better roads, agricultural support, or other economic interventions. Without data, we waste time and resources,” she said.
Director-General of the Ministry Mohamed Said Mahmoud and Director of Statistics Khadar Mohamed Gahayr also addressed the gathering, outlining how quality data underpins the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improves public service delivery.
Several ministries presented their latest data systems and publications during the event:
- Ministry of Health showcased its Health Management Information System (HMIS)
- Ministry of Education presented the Education Management Information System (EMIS)
- Ministries of Finance and Planning shared economic and household welfare reports
Participants unanimously agreed that strengthening national statistical systems and inter-agency collaboration remains essential for evidence-based policymaking.
This year’s celebration aimed to demonstrate Somaliland’s growing capacity in data collection and management, while reaffirming its readiness to engage with African and international statistical communities on equal footing.
The event concluded with renewed commitment from government institutions and partners to further develop Somaliland’s independent national statistics ecosystem.