Republic of Somaliland has announced plans to establish its first-ever seawater desalination plant in the coastal city of Zeila, marking a major step toward improving access to clean and reliable water in the country.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Water Development, Mohamed Abdimalik Ahmed, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the project. He said President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) had decided that Zeila would host Somaliland’s first seawater desalination facility.
“The President has decided that the first seawater desalination plant will be established in Zeila,” the minister said during the ceremony.
Minister Ahmed emphasized that the initiative would move swiftly beyond the groundbreaking stage, with construction expected to begin promptly. Once completed, the plant is expected to provide the residents of Zeila with a dependable supply of clean, safe drinking water, helping to address the area’s long-standing water challenges.
He added that the project forms part of a broader national strategy by the Ministry of Water Development to expand seawater desalination technology to other regions of Somaliland. Priority will be given to communities experiencing chronic water shortages and harsh climatic conditions, with the goal of ensuring sustainable access to clean water across the country.
The Zeila desalination project represents a significant milestone in Somaliland’s efforts to strengthen water security, improve public health, and build resilience against recurring droughts and increasing water demand.