Hargeysa (Hornpost) Minister of Livestock Development and Pastoral Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland, Omar Sho’ayb Mohamed, has highlighted renewed efforts to modernize the country’s livestock sector during a national consultative meeting on trade challenges and livestock export.
Speaking at the forum, held in Hargeisa and organized by the Ministry of Livestock, Minister Sho’ayb said Somaliland’s economy relies heavily on live animals, noting that “around 70% of the national revenue is generated from livestock.”
The consultation brought together experts, exporters, private sector stakeholders, and officials including the Minister of Trade and Tourism. Participants examined barriers facing the sector from production to export, as well as global market requirements.
Minister Sho’ayb stated that the sector faces two main challenges:
Export markets and competition, and Traditional livestock handling practices that no longer meet modern standards, especially under changing climate conditions.
Minister of Livestock Development and Pastoral Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland, Omar Sho’ayb Mohamed urged exporters to improve animal care during pre-export quarantine, calling for quality feed and proper nutrition to ensure the health, weight, and market value of exported animals.
According to the minister, the government is working to introduce high-nutrition animal feed to boost productivity, strengthen animal health standards and ensure Somaliland livestock — both for domestic sales and foreign markets — meet international requirements.
Minister Sho’ayb reiterated that improving livestock health and export readiness is essential, as the sector remains the backbone of the national economy.
Hornpost staff Reporter
