President Abdirahman Irro Chairs the 38th Meeting of the Council of Ministers

The 38th Session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland, chaired by the President, H.E. Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), convened today at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The meeting reviewed a broad agenda covering diplomatic relations, economic performance, drought response, healthcare advancement, justice sector reforms, technological development, and agricultural progress.

🌟 Key Agenda Items Discussed:

1. Presidential Briefing on Official Visits to the UAE and Ethiopia

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) briefed the Council on his recent official visits to the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia, highlighting the objectives, key discussions, and strategic outcomes of both missions.

The President underscored that the visits were of great diplomatic and economic significance, aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, regional security, and political partnership.

He reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to cultivating relations based on mutual respect, shared interests, and sustainable cooperation, further enhancing Somaliland’s stature and constructive role in the Horn of Africa and the wider international community.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Abdirahman Dahir Adam, provided additional insight into the Ethiopia mission, describing it as highly productive and mutually beneficial. He reported that the delegation held extensive high-level meetings with senior Ethiopian government officials, ministers, and security leaders—resulting in strengthened understanding and coordination between the two nations.

2. Economic and Fiscal Performance Report

The Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Abdillahi Hassan Aadan, presented an update on the country’s fiscal situation, reporting consistent progress in national revenue collection and overall economic stability.

He noted that domestic revenue continues to record measurable growth and that the Ministry has embarked on a comprehensive modernization program for customs operations nationwide to enhance efficiency and regional competitiveness.

The Minister further reported that preparations for the 2026 National Budget are progressing smoothly, with all central and local government entities having submitted their respective budget proposals and plans.

3. Update on the National Drought Response

The Minister of Religion and Endowments, Hon. Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Daahir Jaamac, who also serves on the National Drought Relief Committee, briefed the Council on the ongoing drought response efforts across the country.

He noted that while rainfall has been received in several regions, parts of eastern Somaliland continue to experience water shortages. Relief operations—including the distribution of food aid and rehabilitation of water wells—are being implemented effectively to address urgent needs in the most affected areas.

4. National Health Sector Developments

The Minister of Health Development, Hon. Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, provided an overview of the national health situation and outlined the Ministry’s efforts to combat communicable diseases, particularly malaria.

He informed the Council that the Ministry has developed and is implementing comprehensive national strategies aimed at strengthening healthcare services and expanding access to quality care. As part of these efforts, Hargeisa and Burao hospitals have been equipped with state-of-the-art life-support and mechanical ventilation systems to enhance critical care capacity and patient outcomes.

5. Preparations for the National Justice Conference

The Minister of Justice, Hon. Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis, briefed the Council on the ongoing preparations for the upcoming National Justice Conference.

He emphasized that access to justice and the rule of law are the cornerstones of good governance and sustainable peace, reaffirming the Government’s determination to strengthen the justice system across all levels.

The Minister noted that the conference will serve as a national platform for judicial reform and institutional coordination, bringing together key stakeholders to evaluate existing challenges, identify opportunities, and reinforce the independence, integrity, and fairness of the judiciary in Somaliland.

6. Somaliland Technology Fair and the 7th ICT Conference

The Minister of Communications and Technology, Hon. Jamaal Mohamed Jaamac, reported on the preparations for the Somaliland Technology Fair and the 7th ICT Conference, which are currently taking place in Hargeisa.

He highlighted that the events have brought together government institutions, academic institutions, private technology firms, innovators, and international partners to discuss the transformative role of technology in public service delivery, economic growth, and digital governance.

The Minister added that the Ministry is actively formulating national digital transformation policies to accelerate innovation and strengthen Somaliland’s integration into the global digital economy.

7. World Food Day Commemoration in Ceerigaabo

The Minister of Agricultural Development, Hon. Mahmoud Egeh Yusuf, reported on the successful commemoration of World Food Day held in Ceerigaabo under conditions of peace and stability.

He explained that the event strengthened cooperation between farmers, civil society organizations, and government institutions, aimed at promoting food production, agricultural innovation, and national food security.

The Minister also informed the Council that the Ministry has finalized key sectoral policies and legislative frameworks to support its operations, which will soon be presented to the Council of Ministers for endorsement.