HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) The Somaliland Council of Ministers reviewed a broad range of national priorities, including security, the 2027 national budget, media reform, healthcare, economic development and cybersecurity during its 68th Cabinet meeting, chaired by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and attended by Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, according to an official statement issued by the Somaliland Presidency.
The meeting focused on government policies aimed at strengthening national institutions, improving public services and advancing Somaliland’s long-term development agenda.
Cabinet Says Somaliland’s Security Remains Stable
Minister of State for the Ministry of Interior and National Security, Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed (Magaalo), briefed the Cabinet on the country’s overall security situation, stating that Somaliland remains peaceful and stable.
He informed ministers that there are no significant security disturbances across the country’s regions and said security agencies continue working to safeguard peace, public safety and national stability.
Government Advances Preparations for the 2027 National Budget
Minister of Finance and Economic Development Abdillahi Hassan Adan updated the Cabinet on preparations for Somaliland’s 2027 National Budget, outlining discussions held by the National Budget Committee.
According to the minister, the committee has agreed on key budget priorities, including:
The overall size of the 2027 national budget.
Government operational and development expenditures.
Priority sectors for public investment.
Measures to increase domestic revenue.
He also reported that the Ministry is accelerating reforms to broaden Somaliland’s inland revenue base, with particular emphasis on improving the collection of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to strengthen domestic financing.
National Media Reform and Public Awareness Strategy
Minister of Information, Culture and National Guidance Barkhad Jama Hersi Batun presented the government’s plans to modernize Somaliland’s independent media sector.
He announced that the Ministry has prepared a National Media Development Plan aimed at registering, regulating and improving the quality of independent media organizations operating throughout Somaliland.
The initiative seeks to enhance journalists’ professional skills, ethical standards and institutional capacity while promoting responsible journalism that supports democratic governance, public awareness and Somaliland’s national interests.
The minister also revealed that the government is drafting a National Public Awareness Policy, which will provide a unified framework for government communication, strengthen civic awareness, promote shared national values and improve public understanding of issues affecting Somaliland.
He said the policy would also help combat misinformation and disinformation while encouraging informed public participation during a period of significant national importance.
Health Ministry Reports Decline in Fever Cases
Minister of Health Development Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi informed the Cabinet that recent government interventions have resulted in a noticeable decline in fever-related illnesses reported in several parts of Somaliland.
The ministry, he said, continues to strengthen disease prevention measures, public health monitoring and community awareness campaigns to limit the spread of communicable diseases.
The minister also announced that the government is intensifying oversight of private healthcare providers, requiring all private hospitals, clinics and pharmacies to comply fully with national health regulations and licensing requirements.
He emphasized that the measures are intended to improve healthcare quality, protect public safety and strengthen professional standards across the country’s healthcare sector.
Government Plans National Development Project Pipeline
Minister of Planning and National Development Kalthum Sheikh Hassan Abdi introduced a national initiative designed to accelerate the preparation of large-scale development projects.
The proposal includes conducting a comprehensive national assessment of Somaliland’s natural resources and establishing a National Project Pipeline to prioritize strategic investment opportunities.
The minister said the initiative builds upon previous government reforms, including the Third National Development Plan (NDP III), the establishment of the government’s Delivery Unit, and implementation of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Law.
She noted that the initiative is expected to attract foreign direct investment, expand financing opportunities and support major infrastructure projects that will contribute to long-term economic growth.
Water Ministry Highlights Regional Development Projects
Minister of Water Resources Development Mohamed Abdimalik Ahmed presented a report on his recent working visit to the regions of Salal, Awdal, Gabiley and Saahil, where he assessed water services and monitored ongoing development projects.
During the visit, the minister inaugurated and launched several water infrastructure projects aimed at expanding access to clean drinking water and improving essential public services.
He also encouraged local communities to preserve peace, national unity and cooperation, emphasizing that security and community participation remain essential for sustainable development.
Government Prioritizes National Cybersecurity
Minister of Communications and Technology Dr. Abdi Salam Hussein Awale briefed the Cabinet on Somaliland’s efforts to strengthen national cybersecurity.
He said the Ministry is conducting a nationwide assessment of vulnerabilities within government digital systems to improve resilience against cyber threats.
According to the minister, the government’s priorities include protecting national data, strengthening digital infrastructure and reducing risks posed by organized cyberattacks through the implementation of modern cybersecurity measures.
He stressed that cybersecurity has become as vital to national security as traditional military and law enforcement institutions, warning that cyber threats now represent one of the most significant security challenges facing governments worldwide.
Livestock Quarantine and Animal Feed Policy Under Review
The Council of Ministers also discussed Somaliland’s proposed National Livestock Quarantine Law and the National Animal Feed Policy.
Cabinet members agreed to continue deliberations on both policy frameworks during future sessions before reaching a final decision.
The meeting concluded with ministers reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening governance, improving public services, enhancing economic resilience and implementing reforms that support Somaliland’s long-term development objectives.
Prepared By:
Horn Post Staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
