Hargeisa – The Somaliland National Army has successfully conducted a training exercise focused on logistics management and preparedness for humanitarian assistance operations and rapid disaster response. The exercise was held in the vicinity of Hargeisa, the capital of the Republic of Somaliland.
Carried out in collaboration with international allied military advisors operating in Somaliland, the training was designed to strengthen operational coordination and enhance logistics planning. It further underscored the Somaliland National Army’s unwavering commitment to national readiness and the maintenance of regional stability.
This exercise reflects the high level of professionalism and efficiency demonstrated by the Somaliland National Army in its preparation for critical security and stability-related operations.
Moreover, the training serves to further bolster the Army’s comprehensive capacity to effectively respond to future humanitarian needs and provide emergency relief in the event of disasters.
Las Anod – A group of five members of the North West Administration’s Council of Representatives has formally tendered their resignations, citing significant policy misalignments and the failure to achieve key developmental objectives in the Las Anod region.
In a joint statement released on Saturday, the lawmakers revealed that their decision follows an exhaustive year-long review of the regional administration’s strategic framework. They noted that despite their initial hopes, the current governance model in Las Anod does not adequately serve the best interests of the local population.
The MPs further disclosed that they had repeatedly attempted to initiate corrective measures from within the system. However, their efforts were met with resistance, as their policy recommendations and reform proposals were consistently disregarded by the leadership.
Consequently, the group declared their official withdrawal from the parliamentary body, emphasizing that their resignation is rooted in a principled commitment to their constituents’ welfare. They also pledged to elaborate on their future political direction and the broader public interests they intend to champion in the coming weeks.
The signatories of the resignation are:
Makhtal Said Mohomoud
Ahmed Caabi Xasan
Abdisalaan Abdulaahi Mohamed
Sadik Jama Muse
Ahmed Ali Mohamed
Concluding their statement, the representatives extended their gratitude to the public and assured that further announcements regarding their political roadmap will be made in due course.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Chairman of Somaliland’s leading political party, WADDANI, Hon. Hersi Ali H. Hassan, held a significant meeting today with Mr. Michael Rubin, a prominent American historian and a renowned expert on the Horn of Africa and international security affairs. The closed-door session, which took place in the capital, focused on the Republic of Somaliland’s ongoing quest for international recognition and the evolving dynamics of its relationship with the United States.
The meeting marks a continued diplomatic engagement by Somaliland’s political leadership to solidify its case on the global stage, leveraging the expertise and networks of influential international figures. Mr. Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) and a former Pentagon official, is well-regarded for his deep understanding of the geopolitical intricacies of the Horn of Africa.
Rubin Expresses Optimism on Recognition and US Relations
During the extensive discussions, Mr. Rubin briefed Chairman Hersi Ali on the latest developments concerning the international campaign for Somaliland’s recognition. Rubin, who has long followed Somaliland’s journey towards statehood, conveyed a positive outlook, stating he is highly optimistic that several other nations will soon follow in the footsteps of those who have already established diplomatic ties with the Republic. He emphasized that the momentum for recognition is growing, bolstered by Somaliland’s stable governance, democratic credentials, and strategic location.
Furthermore, Mr. Rubin highlighted the significant progress in the bilateral relationship between Somaliland and the United States. He noted that the partnership is currently at its strongest and most productive stage in history, underscoring the mutual interests that bind the two nations, particularly in the areas of regional security, counter-terrorism, and maritime stability in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.
Chairman Hersi Ali Applauds Rubin’s Advocacy and Reaffirms Unified Effort
In response, Chairman Hersi Ali expressed profound gratitude to Mr. Rubin for his long-standing and visible role in advocating for Somaliland’s cause within international circles, particularly in Washington D.C. He acknowledged Rubin’s dedicated efforts over many years, describing him as a true friend of the Somali people and a stalwart supporter of Somaliland’s quest for self-determination.
The WADDANI Party Chairman reiterated that both his party and the Somaliland government are completely united in their efforts to secure full global recognition. He stressed that this is a national priority that transcends political affiliations, with all stakeholders working collaboratively to achieve this historic milestone. He stated, “Our dedication to this cause is unwavering, and we are presenting a unified front to the international community, demonstrating our readiness to take our rightful place among the family of nations.”
Confidence in Further International Support and US Congressional Efforts
Expressing strong confidence in the future, Chairman Hersi Ali affirmed his belief that more countries will soon join the roster of nations that have recognized Somaliland. He pointed to the growing international awareness of Somaliland’s unique history, its distinct colonial legacy, and its successful model of democratic governance and peaceful power transfers as compelling arguments for recognition.
Additionally, the Chairman specifically commended the ongoing efforts of several members of the United States Senate. He praised the bipartisan group of Senators who have been actively working to advance the cause of Somaliland recognition within the U.S. government. He voiced his hope that these legislative efforts will ultimately result in the United States granting full and formal recognition, which would be a monumental step for Somaliland and a catalyst for wider international acceptance. “The work of these Senators is invaluable,” said Hersi Ali, “and we are confident that their advocacy will bear fruit, bringing us closer to achieving full recognition from America and the broader international community.”
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue their close cooperation and dialogue, with the shared goal of advancing Somaliland’s strategic interests on the world stage.
Hargeisa – The 19th Hargeisa International Book Fair officially opened with a powerful call to embrace continuity as the foundation of cultural growth, education, and peaceful societies. Honorary Patron Edna Adan Ismail welcomed writers, scholars, diplomats, and guests from around the world to this year’s festival.
In her opening address, Edna Adan emphasized that the book fair is far more than a literary gathering; it is a celebration of the cultural connections and lasting friendships made possible by books. She extended a special welcome to Eswatini, this year’s guest country, noting that its participation enriches the festival and further strengthens the cultural ties between the two nations. She added that the presence of the Eswatini delegation reflects the enduring friendship and solidarity shared by their peoples.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Continuity,” Edna Adan observed that while every journey begins with a first step, it is the determination to continue that ultimately shapes nations. She noted that the Hargeisa International Book Fair started as a modest initiative but, through perseverance and commitment, has grown into one of the region’s most respected cultural festivals. Its success has inspired other towns across Somaliland and neighboring countries to establish their own book fairs—a living example of continuity in action.
Highlighting the broader role of literature, Edna Adan stated that books build bridges between cultures, generations, and nations, fostering mutual understanding, strengthening cooperation, and promoting peace and confidence among communities.
Addressing young people, she encouraged them to make reading the foundation of their lives, to use writing as their authentic voice, and to offer their knowledge as their contribution to the peace and development of Somaliland.
The Honorary Patron also invited international guests to experience Somaliland beyond the book fair by enjoying its renowned hospitality, traditional cuisine, and visible development over the past decade. She encouraged visitors to explore Laas Geel—one of Africa’s most remarkable prehistoric rock art sites, estimated to be over 7,000 years old—and to visit the coastal city of Berbera to enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Aden. She further urged guests to wander through local markets, shopping centers, and cultural attractions, while immersing themselves in everyday Somaliland life, from traditional camel husbandry to the warmth of its local communities.
Concluding her address, Edna Adan called on participants to celebrate continuity as both the courage to begin and the commitment to persevere. She urged everyone to honor the enduring power of books to unite cultures, strengthen friendships, and build peaceful societies, before warmly welcoming all to the 19th Hargeisa International Book Fair.
Hargeisa – Against the vibrant backdrop of Somaliland’s cultural renaissance, the 19th Hargeisa International Book Fair commenced with an impassioned celebration of the written word, drawing together a mosaic of poets, novelists, academics, and diplomats. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the international diplomatic community, Ms. Louise Hancock, Head of the British Office in Somaliland, took to the stage to articulate a vision of literature not merely as a repository of knowledge, but as the very engine of independent thought and societal evolution.
She anchored her address with a deeply personal creed that would echo throughout the proceedings:
“I never went anywhere without a book. It taught me how to think, not what to think.”
Opening with the warm bilingual greeting of “Subax Wanaagsan” and “Good morning,” Hancock immediately bridged cultures, welcoming a distinguished assembly of international scholars, celebrated authors, emerging artists, and voracious bibliophiles. She extended a particularly notable welcome to the delegation from Eswatini, this year’s esteemed guest country—a powerful testament to the pan-African literary solidarity that the fair continues to foster.
Expressing profound gratitude for her second consecutive year at the festival, Hancock paid homage to the visionary architects behind its endurance: Dr. Jama M. Jama, the Red Sea Cultural Foundation, and the Hargeisa Cultural Centre. She lauded their nearly two-decade-long stewardship, noting that the survival and flourishing of the fair through nineteen editions is nothing short of monumental—a vivid testament to its stature as one of the longest-running and most resilient literary gatherings in the Horn of Africa.
Reflecting on this year’s resonant theme, “Continuity,” Hancock offered a profound meditation on the role of books as temporal vessels. Continuity, as she articulated, is not a passive inheritance but an active, deliberate dialogue between eras. In a region where oral tradition runs deep, the written word serves as an indispensable anchor, ensuring that ancestral wisdom is not merely preserved, but critically examined and creatively adapted to meet contemporary challenges. Books, she posited, are the resilient threads stitching together the tapestry of human identity—they safeguard history, fortify cultural bonds, and plant the intellectual seeds for tomorrow’s solutions.
Sharing a window into her own formative years, Hancock painted an evocative picture of her younger self as a consummate “bookworm” who rarely ventured anywhere without a literary companion. For her, reading was never an escape from reality, but rather a profound engagement with it. It was in the quiet solitude of pages that she discovered the crucible of independent thought—a sanctuary for intellectual sovereignty where she learned to question, interpret, and reason, rather than simply absorb prescribed dogma.
As she formally declared the fair open, Hancock issued a stirring clarion call to the next generation. She urged readers, writers, educators, and especially the youth gathered beneath the festival’s banner to view themselves not just as consumers of stories, but as active custodians of the future narrative. She challenged them to renew their commitment to lifelong learning, to defend the vitality of literature, and to champion the accessibility of books for all.
Her closing remarks resounded with hope and aspiration. She expressed her fervent belief that this year’s festival would serve as a fertile ground for fresh ideas, ignite intellectually daring conversations, and rekindle a lasting, visceral love for the written word.
Ultimately, her words reinforced the Hargeisa International Book Fair’s enduring mission: to stand as a living institution that celebrates literature as the ultimate bridge across generations, geographies, and ideologies—ensuring that the knowledge of the past continues to illuminate the possibilities of the future, and that the spark of curiosity is faithfully passed from one hand to the next.
The Hargeysa International Book Fair (HIBF) featured the Kingdom of Eswatini as its Guest Country, with a dedicated panel that explored how indigenous knowledge, cultural preservation, and intergenerational learning continue to build resilient societies across Africa.
Moderated by Fatima Ahmed Omer, the session brought together two distinguished voices from Eswatini: Dr. Boyie Sabelo Dlamini, an academic and multidisciplinary researcher, and Judith Mthupha, a librarian, researcher, and cultural documentation officer dedicated to preserving her nation’s rich heritage.
The Power of Hybrid Knowledge
Presenting his paper, “The Power of Hybrid Indigenous Knowledge and Contribution,” Dr. Dlamini argued that indigenous wisdom remains a vital force for sustainable social development. He described hybrid indigenous knowledge as the integration of various knowledge systems rooted in local communities and their environments.
Dr. Dlamini explained that knowledge shaped over generations through interaction with specific environments equips communities with both practical tools and cultural frameworks to address modern challenges without losing their identity. When combined with other forms of knowledge, he noted, indigenous wisdom becomes a powerful catalyst for social transformation, grounded in cultural continuity.
Safeguarding Heritage for Future Generations
The discussion also emphasized the urgency of preserving traditions for the future. Drawing on over two decades of experience in information management and heritage preservation, Judith Mthupha shared her work documenting Swazi clan histories, oral traditions, and cultural practices at risk of being lost. Since joining the Eswatini National Trust Commission in 2022, she has been instrumental in protecting both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
Responding to a question on how young people can actively keep culture alive, Mthupha stressed the importance of involving youth in traditional national events.
She pointed to Eswatini’s renowned Umhlanga Reed Dance, explaining that the celebration is much more than a performance. While participants spend days gathering reeds and preparing for the ceremony, they also receive instruction in cultural values, principles, and community responsibilities.
“The youth are encouraged to attend such events,” she said, noting that these gatherings provide a direct channel for passing cultural knowledge from one generation to the next.
A Shared African Narrative
The panel reflected the overarching theme of the 2026 HIBF—Continuity—by demonstrating how living traditions remain relevant in modern societies. As this year’s Guest Country, Eswatini was presented as a nation where centuries-old customs, indigenous governance, and cultural institutions coexist with contemporary life.
The discussion drew striking parallels between Eswatini and Somaliland, highlighting how both societies have drawn resilience, stability, and social cohesion from deeply rooted local traditions rather than externally imposed systems. Speakers described the partnership as an opportunity for mutual learning, bringing together two African communities with shared experiences of protecting identity and strengthening society through culture.
Through literature, oral history, research, and the performing arts, the Guest Country program affirmed that indigenous knowledge is a living resource, not a relic of the past.
The panel concluded with a unified message: preserving cultural roots is not about resisting change, but about ensuring that future generations inherit the knowledge, identity, and confidence needed to shape Africa’s future—while remaining firmly connected to its past
HARGEYSA – The 19th Hargeysa International Book Fair (HIBF) opened with a powerful message of cultural preservation and inter-African unity, as founder and director Dr. Jama Musse Jama declared that the transfer of knowledge, vision, and values from one generation to the next remains the festival’s enduring foundation.
Addressing a distinguished audience of ministers, government officials, diplomats, writers, scholars, poets, students, cultural leaders, and international guests at the opening ceremony, Dr. Jama warmly welcomed participants from around the world. He underscored the festival’s role as a vital bridge connecting communities through literature and storytelling.
This year’s guest country, Eswatini, was represented by a delegation led by Dr. Dlamini and Judith Mthupha. Dr. Jama described their presence as a unique opportunity to deepen cultural ties between the Horn of Africa and Southern Africa.
“Literature and storytelling know no borders across our continent,” he remarked, emphasizing that the partnership with Eswatini transcends official relations to represent a human connection forged through shared traditions, poetry, history, and artistic expression.
The ceremony also paid heartfelt tribute to two recently deceased pillars of Somaliland’s cultural landscape: veteran journalist and producer Mahamud Abdi Ali “Duale,” and renowned poet Adan Tarabbi Jama, a member of the Mus-danbeed poets and journalists’ council. Dr. Jama called on attendees to honor their contributions and offered prayers for their peace.
Reflecting on the festival’s 19-year journey, Dr. Jama noted that the HIBF has evolved into a lasting institution, sustained by successive generations of cultural leaders. He observed that many of today’s young organizers first attended the fair as children and are now managing the event themselves.
“This is what we mean by continuity,” he explained, clarifying that it is not merely the passage of time, but the deliberate transmission of memory, purpose, and responsibility from one cohort to the next.
Dr. Jama expressed his gratitude to Somaliland’s government institutions for their support, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Education and Science, Trade and Tourism, and Information, National Guidance, and Culture. He specifically praised the nation’s stable security environment, which he said enables cultural events and international exchanges to flourish.
He also highlighted future collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Science, affirming that culture is central to education. The Ministry of Trade and Tourism was recognized for promoting Somaliland’s economic and cultural heritage, including attractions such as the Laas Geel caves and the historic frankincense trade.
Special appreciation was extended to the Ministry of Information, National Guidance, and Culture for its long-standing partnership. Dr. Jama welcomed Minister Hon. Barkhad Batun and recalled his involvement in cultural initiatives, including the “Qabyaalad Diid” campaign, launched at the Hargeysa Cultural Centre alongside former Mayor Abdikarim Ahmed Moge and other partners.
International partners, including the British Office, the Danish Office, and the Taiwan Representative Office, were also acknowledged for their consistent and committed support. Dr. Jama invited attendees to a special session on “Culinary Diplomacy,” a recently completed project supported by Denmark that explores the intersection of food, culture, and exchange.
The festival, he said, continues to rely on the support of the people of Somaliland, its volunteers, and its sponsors. He welcomed new sponsor Omaar Company, thanked Dahabshiil for its ongoing backing, and praised the volunteers whose dedication makes the event possible.
This year’s six-day program features more than 44 book launches, 22 academic and social discussion panels, art exhibitions, music performances, traditional dances, and dedicated children’s programs.
In closing, Dr. Jama invited all attendees to experience the festival in the spirit of its central theme, Continuity—a celebration of memory, identity, and a future carried forward by new generations.
HARGEISA, – The Somali-speaking world is enveloped in grief following the sudden passing of Aden Tarabi Jama, the distinguished poet, playwright, and songwriter whose creative genius shaped the cultural landscape of the Horn of Africa for over half a century.
His death at the age of 78 has sent shockwaves through the literary community, compounded by the sheer unexpectedness of the event. Just a day prior to his passing, he was spotted sitting outside his residence in Hargeisa’s Shidhka neighborhood in cheerful spirits and apparent good health, with no visible signs of ailment. His sudden departure serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility, but also of the permanence of the art he leaves behind.
From Aynabo to Artistic Immortality
Born in 1948 in Aynabo, in the Sool region, Tarabi’s journey into the arts began with his early Quranic education in Burao. His passion for expression flourished as he moved between Hargeisa and Berbera during his formative years. His illustrious career was ignited under the tutelage of the late Rashiid Bullo, who introduced him to the world of performing arts. As his star ascended, Tarabi became a mentor himself, playing a pivotal role in bringing the legendary artist Jimmy Sheekh Muumin into the spotlight, thereby linking the classical traditions of gabay (poetry) with modern musical performance.
Widely known by his nickname Aden Tarabi Oogle, he earned a revered place among Somalia’s most celebrated literary figures, with his works reflecting the values, struggles, and aspirations of Somali society across generations.
A Catalogue of Enduring Masterpieces
Tarabi’s artistic output is monumental, encompassing songs, theatrical productions, and poems that remain deeply embedded in Somali consciousness. His compositions were brought to life by the nation’s most celebrated vocalists. Among his most revered works is the timeless classic “Yuflo Qabow,” famously performed by Kinsi Xaaji Aadan, alongside the powerful poetic piece “Isma Hura.” His extensive repertoire includes other iconic tracks such as “Bal Dawooy,” “Dar Allaad u Hurudaa,” “Gacan Saydh,” and “Liibaan Ma Leh Adduunyo.”
Perhaps his most celebrated composition, “Goor iyo Ayaan,” is widely considered one of the most important works in the history of Somali music—a testament to his unparalleled ability to weave emotion, rhythm, and meaning into verse.
Beyond songwriting, he was a theatrical visionary. His contributions to plays and series, most notably the renowned production “Ma Ogthay” and works like “Doqoniimo Yey Kula Sii Durkine,” transformed local performance spaces into vibrant arenas of intellectual discourse. His stage works provided a platform for actors, musicians, and directors, creating a golden era of Somali performing arts that remains unrivaled.
The Poet of Conscience and National Identity
Tarabi’s legacy extends far beyond entertainment; he was the moral compass of his generation. His poetry was a vehicle for social awareness, patriotism, and the rejection of tribalism. He believed that art should heal, educate, and elevate—a philosophy that permeates every verse he composed.
This was never more evident than during his participation in the legendary “Deelley” literary chain of 1979 and 1980. Initiated by the iconic poet Mohamed Hashi Dhamac (Gaarriye), this poetic debate brought together over 40 poets whose verses all followed the alliterative letter “D.” What began as a stylistic exercise evolved into a powerful critique of corruption, economic hardship, and the political oppression of the Mohamed Siad Barre regime. Tarabi wielded his verses not just to reflect society, but to challenge it—proving that poetry is not merely a mirror, but a hammer capable of shaping history.
His works promoted public awareness, moral responsibility, unity, and love for one’s country, making them relevant across generations. His poetry continues to be admired not only for its literary beauty but also for the enduring lessons it conveys about dignity, resilience, and self-respect—the very essence of his philosophy embodied in works like “Isma Hura.
Preserving a Voice for Eternity
In a culture historically governed by oral tradition, Tarabi was forward-thinking in embracing documentation. He ensured his masterpieces were captured on tape and meticulously archived. A significant collection of his literary works has been preserved at the Museum of Language and Culture of Somali Art History, guaranteeing that future generations of scholars and enthusiasts can study and appreciate his contribution to Somali cultural heritage.
Moreover, his voice lives on through digital platforms such as Hoyga Suugaanta and YouTube, ensuring that the Somali diaspora—scattered across the globe—retains a tangible, audible link to their roots. Because of his foresight, a young Somali in Minneapolis, a student in Mogadishu, or a family in London can access his complete works with a single click, keeping the flame of Somali culture alive far beyond the borders of the Horn of Africa.
His immense contribution has drawn tributes from the highest levels of government. Former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi paid homage to the late poet, praising him as “a poet who served society through his talent and creativity.” Colleagues, students, and admirers have flooded social media with heartfelt messages, reciting his verses and sharing memories of a man who gave so much to his people.
An Indelible Legacy
While the man has departed, his words remain indestructible. Aden Tarabi Jama did not simply write songs; he composed the soundtrack of a nation. He did not merely compose poems; he crafted the ethical framework for a generation. He taught Somalis that the language possesses infinite nuance, capable of capturing both the deepest sorrows of conflict and the subtleties of the human heart.
His legacy is one of resilience. He bridged the gap between classical poetry and contemporary music, between the stage and the street, and most importantly, between a troubled past and a hopeful future. He turned the transient nature of human life into something permanently beautiful, proving that while empires may crumble and borders may shift, the right word, placed in the right rhythm, can outlast history itself.
As Somalis gather to mourn, they do so with the comfort that every time a youth hums a tune he composed, an elder recites a verse he crafted to comfort a grieving family, or a diaspora child discovers his recordings online, Aden Tarabi is resurrected. His voice remains indelible, his verses eternal.
May Allah grant Aden Tarabi Jama His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, and admit him into Jannatul Firdaws. May his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Somali literary community find patience and comfort during this profound time of loss. His verses will echo through the hills of Hargeisa, the streets of Mogadishu, and the hearts of Somalis everywhere—for generations yet to come.
Written By Abdirahman Abdillahi and Goth Mohamed GothÂ
HARGEISA, Somaliland – The Ministry of Livestock and Rural Development, in partnership with Dahabshiil Microfinance and IBS Bank, has unveiled a major livestock restocking initiative designed to revitalize the sector and strengthen the economic resilience of pastoral communities.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Minister Omar Shuayb Mohamed applauded the Dahabshiil Group for its pioneering role in the program and extended his appreciation to the Government of Sweden for its crucial financial backing through Mercy Corps. The initiative is being rolled out jointly by Dahabshiil Microfinance and IBS Bank.
The Minister commended all implementing partners for their commitment to rebuilding Somaliland’s livestock wealth through modern and sustainable practices. He emphasized that these collective efforts are fundamental to boosting production, reinforcing national food security, and bolstering the livelihoods of households dependent on animal husbandry.
He further underscored the Ministry’s sustained drive to strengthen livestock cooperatives across the country. Through technical guidance, advisory services, and official certification, the Ministry has helped catalyze a marked expansion of restocking projects in all regions. To consolidate these gains, the Ministry continues to roll out veterinary support, animal health programs, and targeted capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing overall sector performance and long-term sustainability.
Reaffirming the government’s steadfast commitment, the Minister reiterated that the sustainable growth of the livestock industry remains a core strategic priority for his Ministry.
“Our commitment is to Somaliland’s livestock and to securing their continued growth and prosperity,” Minister Omar Shuayb Mohamed concluded.
HARGEISA, Somaliland – The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of the Republic of Somaliland, in partnership with UNICEF, officially launched the Youth Climate Champions Platform today, alongside a capacity-building training program designed to empower young people to take a leading role in tackling climate change and environmental challenges.
The opening ceremony was inaugurated by the Director General of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Abdi Ali Mahdi. The event was also attended by the Director General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Abdillahi Mahmoud Jiidhe; the Director of the Somaliland National Youth Umbrella (SONYO), Ahmed Mahmoud Abdi Warsame; and Abigail Tevera, representing UNICEF.
The newly established platform aims to strengthen youth participation in climate action, environmental protection, and the promotion of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives. Through the platform, young people will receive training, leadership development, and practical skills to raise public awareness and contribute to sustainable, community-driven solutions to environmental and climate-related challenges.
Speaking at the launch, officials emphasized the vital role of youth in advancing climate resilience and environmental sustainability, noting that empowering young leaders is essential to building a greener and more climate-resilient Somaliland.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change expressed its appreciation to UNICEF and all development partners for their support in establishing the Youth Climate Champions Platform, describing it as a significant milestone in promoting youth leadership and meaningful engagement in environmental conservation and climate change initiatives across Somaliland.