HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) – Somaliland’s Council of Ministers on Tuesday reviewed a wide range of national issues, including the worsening drought, security conditions, economic performance, public health, illegal mining activities, and the President’s recent working visit to the United Arab Emirates, according to a statement from the Presidential Palace.
The 53rd session of the Council of Ministers was chaired by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), with the participation of Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, at the Somaliland Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
Worsening Drought Conditions
Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, who also chairs the National Drought Response Committee, presented a comprehensive briefing on the deteriorating drought situation across all regions of Somaliland. He reported widespread water and food shortages, increasing displacement, and severe living conditions, particularly affecting pastoralist and rural communities.
The Vice President stressed the need for urgent action and a unified national response, calling on the government, business community, and the public to rely on domestic solidarity and self-help, rather than waiting solely for foreign assistance.
National Security Situation
The State Minister for Internal Affairs and National Security, Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed (Magalo), briefed the cabinet on security developments, stating that overall national security remains stable, with no reports of major security incidents or unrest.
Economic and Financial Performance
Minister of Finance and Economic Development Abdillahi Hassan Aden reported that government revenue collection for January 2026 proceeded smoothly and exceeded projections set out in the 2026 national budget.
He said the ministry continues to implement national strategies aimed at strengthening revenue sources and accelerating economic growth. The minister also confirmed that the Somaliland shilling exchange rate remains stable, reflecting market confidence and sound fiscal management.
The finance minister emphasized the importance of financial transparency and accountability, urging all government ministries and independent agencies to fully comply with national financial governance frameworks to strengthen public trust and good governance.
Public Health Update
Minister of Health Development Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi informed the cabinet that a widespread fever outbreak has been reported across all regions over the past two weeks, disproportionately affecting children and the elderly.
He said the ministry has taken emergency measures, including deploying additional medical staff, supplying medicines, and expanding health services to contain the illness and prevent further spread. The minister also noted that a nationwide blood donation campaign is underway to ensure adequate blood reserves for emergency and critical patients.
Illegal Mining Concerns
Minister of Energy and Minerals Ahmed Jama Barre briefed the council on the growing problem of illegal mining activities in several regions, warning of their negative impact on security, the environment, the economy, and social cohesion.
He said unregulated mining contributes to resource exploitation, environmental degradation, unfair competition, and security risks, adding that the involvement of foreign nationals in some illegal operations further complicates the situation. The minister called for a coordinated national strategy to curb illegal mining and protect Somaliland’s natural resources.
President’s UAE Working Visit
President irro briefed the cabinet on his recent official working visit to the United Arab Emirates, including his participation in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. He noted that this marked his second consecutive high-level participation in the global forum, which he described as one of the world’s most influential international gatherings.
The President outlined a series of high-level meetings with international leaders, delegations, and business representatives, highlighting the strategic importance of such engagements for diplomacy, investment, security cooperation, and economic infrastructure development.
He said Somaliland’s presence at international platforms continues to enhance its global profile and credibility, while opening new opportunities for cooperation and investment that benefit the Somaliland public.
President Irro reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening statehood, accelerating economic growth, expanding international relations, and advancing Somaliland’s long-term goals of development and international recognition.
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Horn post staff reporter
