Hargeisa, (Horn Post) — The Council of Ministers of Somaliland held its 58th session at the presidential palace in Hargeisa, chaired by The President of the Republic of Somaliland HE Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro and attended by Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, with discussions focusing on national security, rising living costs, public health, and the livestock economy.
Security Situation and Awdal–Selel Clashes
Somaliland’s Interior and National Security Minister, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, told the cabinet that the country’s overall security remains stable, with no widespread threats reported, except for recent clashes in the western regions of Awdal and Selel.
The minister said the government has intensified efforts over the past four months to contain the conflict and expressed condolences to families affected by the violence. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting civilian lives and restoring stability, noting that a unified national response is being prioritized to halt further bloodshed.
Rising Prices Linked to Global Instability
Minister of Trade and Tourism, Abdirahman Hassan Noor, presented a detailed report on the economic impact of ongoing tensions in the Middle East, citing disruptions to global trade, increased maritime insurance costs, and a surge in fuel prices.
He said Somaliland has been directly affected, with fuel and essential commodities becoming more expensive, contributing to inflation and a decline in household purchasing power. The minister attributed the price increases to higher import costs and global market volatility, noting that Somaliland’s economy remains heavily dependent on external trade.
To mitigate inflation, the ministry has introduced measures including continuous market monitoring, tracking fuel and staple prices, and engaging with local businesses to stabilize supply chains and prevent excessive price hikes.
Public Health Improvements and Vaccination Campaign
Health Development Minister Hussein Bashir Hirsi reported improvements in the country’s health sector, stating that a recent wave of illness has declined over the past three weeks following a nationwide response campaign.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and reduce reliance on externally funded health programs, amid shifting international donor priorities.
The minister also provided updates on the nationwide “Big Catch-Up Vaccination” campaign conducted between March 24 and 31, targeting children who missed routine immunizations. The program aims to prevent life-threatening diseases and expand immunization coverage.
Livestock Sector Remains Economic Backbone
Livestock Minister Omar Shuaib Mohamed said the sector continues to underpin Somaliland’s economy, despite recent drought conditions.
He noted that livestock health remains stable overall, with grazing areas such as Aroori supporting millions of animals and contributing to improved productivity. The ministry has also launched a modern veterinary facility to enhance animal healthcare services, including treatment and surgical care.
The minister added that livestock exports are progressing steadily, while calling for the development of a dedicated livestock export port in Berbera to expand trade opportunities and boost national revenue.
President Calls for Unity and Coordinated Response
In his closing remarks, President Irro stressed the critical importance of security and stability for national development, reaffirming the government’s commitment to resolving the Awdal–Selel conflict through dialogue and reconciliation.
The President of the Republic of Somaliland HE Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro also acknowledged the economic strain caused by Middle East instability, particularly rising fuel and food prices, urging cooperation between the government, business community, and citizens to navigate the challenges.
“The protection of lives and property is a constitutional obligation that cannot be compromised,” the president said, emphasizing that the government is leading a coordinated national effort to restore peace and economic stability.
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Prepared by: Horn Post Staff
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