President Cirro Launches $7 Million Drought-Resilience Project in Qoolcadey

Sallehley, Maroodijeex Region – President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Cirro” has officially launched a landmark drought-mitigation project in Qoolcadey grazing land, Sallehley district — a transformative $7 million initiative aimed at safeguarding Somaliland’s pastoral economy and strengthening rural resilience against climate shocks.

The project will provide protected grazing reserves, reliable water access through boreholes and modern water systems, and expanded veterinary services. Together, these measures are designed to ensure sustainable livestock production, secure food supplies, and protect thousands of pastoral families who rely on herding for their livelihoods.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Cirro reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rural development, stressing that the Qoolcadey initiative reflects the government’s pledge to prioritize the needs of pastoralists.

> “This project is not only about livestock — the backbone of our economy — it is about securing the future of our communities, strengthening food security, and protecting the resilience of our people,” he said.



The event drew traditional elders, ministers, donors, community leaders, and local residents, who hailed the initiative as a historic milestone. Elders praised the government for responding directly to pastoralists’ concerns and for taking tangible steps to mitigate drought and land degradation.

Government ministers present at the ceremony pledged full institutional support to ensure the project’s successful rollout. Donor representatives commended the initiative as a model of proactive leadership and promised continued technical and financial backing.

By laying the foundation stone in Qoolcadey, President Cirro has set in motion one of Somaliland’s most ambitious rural resilience programs. The project stands as a cornerstone of his government’s broader vision: to protect pastoral communities, secure the livestock sector, and build a more prosperous and climate-resilient nation.