By M.A. Egge
The state has announced the formation of a specialized task force to develop and implement a national strategy on digital sovereignty.
This was revealed at the 59th session of the Council of Ministers of by the foreign minister Hon. Abdirahman Dahir Adan Bakaal who briefed the cabinet on the strategic importance of digital sovereignty.
Digital sovereignty will enable the country to control its digital assets, data, and technology independently, ensuring autonomy over infrastructure, software, and information flows on all-encompassing physical, codes and data layers.
He emphasized its role in protecting national data, enhancing global engagement, improving public services, and advancing technology-driven diplomacy.
The session was chaired by the President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, at the Presidential Palace, which addressed a range of key national issues.
At the opening of the session, the President formally welcomed newly appointed ministers to the cabinet, viz., the Ministers of Agriculture Development Hon. Adan Geedi Qayaad, Water Development Hon. Mohamed Abdimalik Ahmed, Communications and Technology Hon. Abdirizaq Hussein Awaale, and Information, Culture and National Guidance Hon. Barkhad Jama Hirsi Batuun.
The ministers expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them and pledged to carry out their duties with integrity, transparency, and a strong sense of national responsibility, prioritizing the interests of the country and its citizens.
A security briefing by the state minister for Interior and National Security, Hon. Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed (Magalo), indicated that the overall security situation remains stable, with no major threats reported. He noted that peace efforts in the Awdal and Selel regions are progressing well, with communities showing readiness to embrace reconciliation.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Abdillahi Hassan Adan, presented an update on the country’s economic situation, highlighting the impact of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He cited rising fuel prices, increased import costs, and higher maritime insurance fees as factors placing pressure on businesses and households, contributing to inflation and reduced purchasing power. He stressed the need to strengthen domestic production, boost internal revenue, and reduce reliance on external markets, while outlining measures to stabilize the Somaliland shilling and control inflation.
On his part the Minister of Resettlement and Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Suleiman Duale Haji Jama, reported on ongoing humanitarian efforts, including the distribution of food aid over eight days to drought-affected communities in eastern regions. He called for increased emergency support, stronger coordination with international and local partners, and the development of a national strategy to address recurring droughts.
The Minister of Education, Professor Ismail Duale Yusuf, presented a framework for decentralizing basic education, aimed at improving governance, clarifying institutional roles, and enhancing service delivery at the local level. He noted that the initiative would improve access to quality education and strengthen collaboration between government institutions and communities.
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Abdillahi Osman (Geeljire), briefed the cabinet on preparations for National Tree Planting Day scheduled for April 15, 2026. He announced plans to plant 13 million trees to combat climate change and urged all government institutions to actively participate in environmental protection efforts.
In his closing remarks, the President reaffirmed that peace efforts in Awdal and Selel are progressing steadily, with a high-level delegation led by the Vice President currently on the ground. He commended traditional leaders for their vital role in promoting peace and unity.