TEL AVIV, Israel (HornPost) – The Somaliland Ports Authority has highlighted Berbera Port’s strategic importance at the 2026 Africa–Israel Economic Forum. Its manager, Ali Dirie Ahmed, represented Somaliland at the event.
The forum took place on November 11, 2026, at the Yitzhak Rabin Center in Tel Aviv. It brought together business leaders, investors and representatives from Africa and Israel. They discussed economic cooperation and new investment opportunities.
According to the Somaliland Ports Authority, Ahmed’s participation reflects Somaliland’s efforts to build international partnerships. It also aims to attract investment to the country’s maritime and port sectors.
In a statement, Ahmed said Somaliland remains committed to expanding cooperation in maritime trade, logistics and investment.
“Our participation reflects our commitment to strengthening international partnerships and advancing cooperation in maritime trade, logistics and investment,” he said.
Berbera Port’s Strategic Importance
Ahmed also highlighted Berbera Port’s strategic location on the Gulf of Aden, near the entrance to the Red Sea. The port connects major international shipping routes with markets across the Horn of Africa.
“Its modern infrastructure, integrated economic zone and transport corridor to Ethiopia position Berbera as a gateway for regional trade and economic growth,” he said.
Berbera Port plays a key role in Somaliland’s efforts to become a regional trade and logistics hub. Its location provides access to major shipping routes and international markets.
In addition, the transport corridor linking Berbera with Ethiopia offers an important route for regional trade. The port’s development and its associated economic zone also aim to attract investors and expand commercial activity.
Somaliland Seeks International Partnerships
The Somaliland Ports Authority says international forums provide opportunities to promote Berbera Port. They also allow the Authority to engage with investors and organisations involved in maritime trade and infrastructure.
Ahmed said the Authority welcomes partnerships that could improve regional connectivity and attract investment.
“We welcome partnerships that expand connectivity, attract investment and unlock the full potential of Somaliland’s maritime sector,” he said.
The Africa–Israel Economic Forum provided a platform for discussions on economic cooperation. Participants also explored potential partnerships between African and Israeli businesses.
However, the Authority’s participation did not come with any publicly announced investment agreement or new project for Berbera Port.
Somaliland’s presence at the forum offered an opportunity to promote Berbera as a regional gateway. It also highlighted the port’s potential role in trade and maritime connectivity across the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.
Pictures: Somaliland Ports Authority Manager Ali Dirie Ahmed at summit
Prepared by:
HornPost Staff
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