By M.A. Egge
The Government of Somaliland is to step up public rapport in a move to combat misinformation, distortion of facts and disinformation such that general public services and associated issues may run smoothly without hiccups.
A comprehensive communication strategy tailored to unify national public messaging and rapport, strengthening of civic awareness, promotion of social cohesion and combat misinformation and disinformation is to be bolstered and fortified.
The move has been rendered crucial at the cabinet’s 68th weekly meeting of the Council of Ministers which also outlined a series of major policy initiatives. It was chaired by the President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) while flanked by his deputy the Vice President H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi.
According to an official statement from the Somaliland Presidency, the cabinet discussed key national priorities aimed at strengthening governance, economic growth, public services and national security.
In focus this week were generally the following issues: –
National Security: The Ministry of Interior reported that Somaliland remains peaceful and secure, with security agencies continuing efforts to safeguard stability across all regions.
2027 National Budget: The Ministry of Finance updated the Cabinet on preparations for the 2027 budget, focusing on government spending priorities, development projects, revenue growth and expanding the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system.
Media Reform: The Ministry of Information announced a National Media Development Plan to register and strengthen independent media institutions, improve journalists’ professional skills and ethics, and promote responsible journalism that supports democracy, public awareness and Somaliland’s national interests.
National Public Awareness Policy: The government is also preparing a comprehensive communication strategy designed to unify national messaging, strengthen civic awareness, promote social cohesion and combat misinformation.
Healthcare: The Ministry of Health reported a decline in fever-related illnesses following recent interventions and announced stricter regulation of private hospitals, clinics and pharmacies to improve healthcare standards and public safety.
National Development Projects: The Ministry of Planning proposed establishing a National Project Pipeline to identify strategic infrastructure projects, attract foreign investment and accelerate implementation of Somaliland’s National Development Plan (NDP III).
Water Development: The Ministry of Water Resources highlighted ongoing projects in Salal, Awdal, Gabiley and Saahil regions aimed at expanding access to clean water and improving essential public services.
Cybersecurity: The Ministry of Communications emphasized that protecting government digital infrastructure and national data has become a critical national security priority as Somaliland works to strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities against growing cyber threats.
Livestock Sector: Cabinet members also continued discussions on a proposed National Livestock Quarantine Law and a National Animal Feed Policy, with further deliberations expected in upcoming meetings.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening governance, improving public services, modernizing national institutions and advancing Somaliland’s long-term development agenda.
