GAROWE, Puntland (Horn Post) President of Puntland Somalia Region Said Abdullahi Deni has dismissed claims that his administration imposed new taxes on businesses, saying recent controversy surrounding Bosaso Port stems from the implementation of long-standing contractual obligations rather than new government levies.
Speaking during a 16-minute press conference at the Puntland Presidential Palace in Garowe on Tuesday, Deni addressed growing public debate over Bosaso Port operations, Puntland’s business environment and the regional government’s economic policies.
The president said his administration remains committed to strengthening Puntland’s economy through infrastructure investment, trade expansion and long-term economic reforms.
President Rejects Reports of New Business Taxes
Deni strongly denied reports circulating on social media and other platforms claiming that the Puntland government had introduced new taxes on traders.
He described the reports as misinformation, explaining that the current issue relates to the implementation of contractual agreements previously signed by the Puntland government and the company responsible for the development and expansion of Bosaso Port.
According to the president, the government had delayed enforcing certain contractual port service charges for the past seven years due to security and economic challenges.
He said improved security conditions and continued economic growth have now created an opportunity to implement those agreements as originally planned.
“There has been no new tax imposed on Puntland’s business community,” Deni said, emphasizing that the government’s actions are intended to fulfill existing legal commitments rather than introduce additional financial burdens.
Bosaso Port at the Center of Puntland’s Economic Strategy
The Puntland leader said his government has spent the past seven years investing in infrastructure designed to stimulate economic growth and attract private investment.
Among the flagship projects highlighted were the modernization and expansion of Bosaso Port, improvements to the Bosaso-Galkayo highway, and other strategic infrastructure initiatives intended to strengthen regional trade and economic connectivity.
Deni described Bosaso Port as a key driver of Puntland’s future economic development, saying the facility will enhance commercial activity and improve the region’s competitiveness within the Horn of Africa.
Calls for Business Community to Support National Development
President Deni praised Puntland’s security institutions for improving public safety and protecting businesses, noting that the government has worked to safeguard both the lives and property of traders across the region.
He also highlighted the decline in extortion payments previously demanded by terrorist groups, arguing that improved security has created a more favorable environment for commerce and investment.
The president urged Puntland’s business community to support the expansion of Bosaso Port by utilizing domestic infrastructure instead of relying on foreign ports for imports and exports.
He said investing in local facilities would strengthen Puntland’s economy, generate employment opportunities and contribute to sustainable development.
Appeal for Unity and Responsible Public Discourse.
Concluding his address, Deni called on business leaders, citizens and the wider Somali public to work closely with the government in advancing Puntland’s development agenda.
He urged the public to reject misinformation and avoid actions that could undermine state institutions or damage national interests.
The president stressed that collective responsibility, national unity and support for public institutions are essential to achieving long-term economic progress and strengthening Puntland’s governance.
Prepared By:
Horn Post Staff
GAROWE, Puntland
