The Somaliland Minerals Exhibition and Conference opened today in the capital city of Hargeisa, marking a significant effort by the nation to showcase its untapped mineral resources to the international community.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Shu’eyb Osman Mohamed, Director General of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, emphasized the event’s importance in highlighting Somaliland’s rich natural resources.
The Minerals Exhibition is significant for the Republic of Somaliland, as it shows its resources to the world,” he stated
The two-day event is expected to facilitate key partnerships, with Somaliland poised to sign memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and agreements with international investment companies focused on mineral development.
“During the two days that the Somaliland Minerals Exhibition fair is taking place, Somaliland will sign agreements and general memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with investment companies for developing the country’s minerals,” Mr. Osman Mohamed told attendees.
The exhibition has drawn participants from major global players, including investors and large companies from the United States, United Kingdom, Kenya, United Arab Emirates, and several other countries worldwide.
Somaliland, since reclaiming its independence in 1991, is known for its significant mineral potential. Geological surveys indicate deposits of gemstones (including emerald, ruby, sapphire, and garnet), gold, iron ore, tin, lead, gypsum, marble, and industrial minerals, with high prospects for base metals, precious metals, and rare earth elements.
The Ministry of Energy and Minerals has been actively promoting sustainable exploration and exploitation of these resources to drive economic growth. Recent efforts include welcoming international delegations, such as a World Bank mission earlier this year, to support projects like electricity recovery and resource development.
This exhibition comes amid growing global interest in Somaliland’s mining sector, which remains largely under-explored despite favorable geological conditions similar to neighboring regions with proven reserves.
Officials hope the event will pave the way for increased foreign investment, job creation, and infrastructure development in the mineral-rich nation.