NAIROBI, Kenya (Horn post) Minister of Finance and Economic Development of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdillahi Hassan Adan participated in a high-level African trade and economic integration summit in Nairobi, where regional leaders, development partners, and policymakers discussed strategies to strengthen intra-African trade, create jobs, and improve economic resilience across the continent.
The meeting brought together the Oversight Committee for African Trade Facilitation, the Board of Directors, and the Advisory Council of Trademark Africa (TMA), alongside senior government officials and representatives from African nations and international development organizations.
Somaliland Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Trade, Customs Modernization at Nairobi Summit.
The summit was chaired by former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, who serves as Chairman of the Trademark Africa Board, while Leo Svahnback, Deputy Ambassador of Finland to East Africa and Chair of the TMA Advisory Council, also took part in the discussions.
Among the participants was Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics Dr. Alemu Sime Feyisa, together with ministers, policymakers, and development experts from across Africa.
Addressing the forum, Finance Minister Abdillahi Hassan Adan underscored Somaliland’s commitment to advancing regional trade integration, economic cooperation, and trade facilitation. He emphasized that trade is not only a driver of economic growth but also a critical tool for promoting peace, job creation, and long-term economic resilience.
Somaliland Finance Minister Showcases Berbera Port Expansion at African Trade and Economic Development Forum.
The minister highlighted Somaliland’s investments in trade infrastructure, particularly the modernization and expansion of Berbera Port, as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen customs systems, improve logistics and transport corridors, and enhance the competitiveness of regional trade routes.
Discussions at the summit focused on two key themes: the role of trade in job creation and the impact of global economic developments on African trade dynamics.
Participants exchanged views on reducing non-tariff trade barriers, lowering trade costs, improving customs procedures, expanding digital trade systems, and harmonizing regional policies to accelerate economic integration.
Minister of Finance and Economic Development of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdillahi Hassan Adan reiterated Somaliland’s commitment to modernization of customs, digital transformation, regional cooperation, and private sector-led economic growth. He also called for stronger collaboration among African governments, regional institutions, and development partners to unlock new opportunities in trade, investment, and sustainable economic development.
The summit served as an important platform for regional leaders to share experiences and explore practical solutions to emerging trade challenges while advancing efforts to deepen economic integration across Africa.
Pictures:
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
