By M.A. Egge
The government of the Republic of Somaliland has stated that the latest efforts of calming the western regions of Awdal and Selel has been quite productive and that peaceful stability between rival clans in the areas has now been concretely established.
The remarks were vividly stated by the VP H.E. Mohamed Ali aw Abdi who has severally led a high-powered delegation of government officials and camped in the said regions to quell skirmishes that were triggered by clan rivalries in the areas.
He made it clear that it was imperative that peaceful stability ought to be safeguarded, protected and maintained.
He pointed out that the latest “20-day peace mission to the Awdal and Selel regions had concluded successfully, resulting in reconciliation and improved stability.”
However, he stressed the need for continued vigilance, warning of both internal and external actors seeking to undermine security in the western regions.
He emphasized the importance of government institutions fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to strengthen peace, unity, and statehood.
The VP was stating the facts during the 61st session of the members of cabinet’s weekly meeting, which was over the week.
As usual, it was chaired by the President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillaahi Irro.
The meeting addressed several key national issues, including security, the economy, public health, energy, and development planning.
The Minister of Interior and National Security, Hon. Abdalle Maxamed Arab, briefed the cabinet on the overall security situation of the country, saying that it remains stable, with no incidents of unrest reported.
He highlighted government-led efforts to strengthen peace in the Awdal and Selel regions, noting that the initiatives have resulted in reconciliation, reduced tensions, and improved social cohesion.
He emphasized that tangible progress has been made and called for continued efforts to sustain peace and stability.
Fuel and Commodity Prices
The Minister of Trade and Tourism Hon. Abdirahman Hassan Nuur, noted that the conflict in the Middle East has significantly impacted daily life by increasing fuel prices, which in turn has driven up the cost of basic commodities.
He also noted a slowdown in global trade activity. The Minister stated that the government is closely monitoring price fluctuations and maintaining ongoing consultations with the business community, adding that the country currently has sufficient reserves of food and fuel.
The Minister of Health Development, Xuseen Bashiir Xirsi, reported outbreaks of measles and diarrhoea in some regions. He outlined measures taken by the ministry, including developing prevention and control plans for communicable diseases, strengthening data monitoring systems, and deploying rapid response teams. He also highlighted a recent field visit to assess healthcare conditions and services, during which new medical services—such as CT scan facilities and dialysis machines—were inaugurated at Borama General Hospital, alongside the foundation laying of a new district hospital in Boon.
The Minister of Investment and Industrial Development, Saeed Sheikh Mahamed Buraale, presented a proposal to establish industrial zones in the Awdal and Gabiley regions. He described the initiative as a strategic step to attract investment, create employment opportunities, boost domestic production, and accelerate economic growth.
The Minister of Planning and National Development, Kaltun Sheikh Hassan Abdi, briefed the cabinet on population estimates and the need for an accurate national census.
She noted that while Somaliland’s population is estimated at over 6.2 million, reliable data is essential for effective development planning, resource allocation, and policymaking.
On his part the Minister of Energy and Minerals Hon. Ahmed Jama Barre, reported that rising fuel prices have directly impacted electricity costs, placing a financial burden on citizens. He stated that the ministry is working on measures to stabilize prices and expand energy sources to reduce dependency and mitigate the impact.