
Tog Wajaale (Hornpost) Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Wajaale Farmland Development Project, a major agricultural initiative being implemented by the international development organization Pharo Foundation through its investment arm, Pharo Ventures.
The Somaliland government described the project as one of the largest agricultural development initiatives undertaken in the Tog Wajaale district in more than six decades. The project aims to modernize farming, expand irrigation infrastructure and increase local food production.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, President irro thanked the organizations and individuals involved in bringing the project forward, particularly Pharo Foundation, which has invested in Somaliland in sectors including education, water, health and agriculture.
He said the initiative could contribute to food security, create employment opportunities and support environmental conservation.
Project to Modernize Farming and Expand Irrigation
According to details presented at the ceremony, the Wajaale Farmland Development Project will focus on introducing modern agricultural technologies and improved farming practices.
The initiative also plans to develop sustainable irrigation systems to support year-round cultivation, increase the local production of livestock fodder and address soil degradation and other forms of environmental damage in the Wajaale area.
These measures are intended to strengthen agricultural productivity and help farmers manage land and water resources more sustainably.
Pharo Foundation Reaffirms Commitment
Pharo Foundation executives, including Chief Executive Officer Tom Mason and the organization’s Somaliland representative, Mohamed Muse Elmi, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting agricultural development and rural livelihoods in Somaliland.
They highlighted the project’s focus on agricultural technology, training, water management, fodder production and environmental protection, saying these areas could help create more sustainable employment opportunities for rural communities.
Local administrators and community leaders welcomed the initiative, describing it as a long-awaited development project expected to benefit households in Wajaale and surrounding villages.
Government ministers, traditional leaders and regional officials also attended the ceremony. Speakers encouraged residents to make use of the opportunities the project is expected to create, including improved farm productivity, employment and stronger rural economic activity.
Boosting Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods
The Wajaale Farmland Development Project represents a significant agricultural investment in the area. By improving irrigation, promoting modern farming methods and supporting fodder production, the initiative aims to strengthen local food production and increase rural incomes.
Its long-term impact will depend on the implementation of the planned infrastructure, the adoption of improved farming practices and the extent to which local communities benefit from the resulting economic opportunities.
Hornpost staff
Abdikarim Saed Salah
Abdikarim Saed Salah is Editor-in-Chief and Founder of HornPost.com, an independent Hargeisa-based news platform covering Somaliland, the Horn of Africa, East Africa, the Red Sea and international affairs. A journalist, television presenter, producer and geopolitical analyst, he has more than 15 years of experience in broadcast journalism, digital media, reporting and diplomacy. He works with Horn Cable TV and focuses on politics, elections, security, foreign policy and conflict. He holds a BA in Journalism and an MA in International Relations.

