DP World Berbera has handed over a new, science laboratory to Sheikh University of Science and Technology, fulfilling a USD$250,000 commitment made in 2022 to advance education and empower future generations in Somaliland.

The facility will enhance the university’s research and practical learning capabilities in petroleum and mining engineering, hydrology, environmental sciences, and information and communication technology.

Sheikh University of Science and Technology is a community-owned public university located in the mountain-top town of Sheikh in the Sahil region. The laboratory investment is part of DP World’s broader education portfolio in Somaliland, which includes scholarship programs at Abaarso Secondary School and Barwaqo University—a fellowship initiative running from 2017 to 2031.

The handover ceremony brought together government officials, university committee members, community leaders, and local stakeholders. The laboratory handover reinforces DP World’s belief that trade and education go hand in hand – empowering people, improving livelihoods, and enabling lasting progress for the communities it serves.

DP World has also invested in major infrastructure projects including the Berbera Economic Zone (BEZ) and an upcoming edible oil terminal, both aimed at strengthening Somaliland’s trade ecosystem and creating local employment opportunities.

Goth Mohamed Goth

HARGEISA – The Central Bank of the Republic of Somaliland has announced the implementation of new, modern infrastructure designed to make its facilities fully accessible to people with disabilities. This initiative comes in direct response to a proposal from Abdirisaq Shabeel, a citizen with limited mobility, who advocated for improved access for individuals using mobility aids.

The newly introduced features will enable customers with disabilities to enter the bank with ease and access the services they require. This development marks a significant shift from the previous practice, where individuals who could not enter the building were often served outside the bank’s premises.

In a statement, Hamze Khaire, the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, acknowledged that the initiative addressed a long-overdue need. “The proposal from Mr. Abdirisaq prompted the bank to take decisive action and prepare the necessary infrastructure,” Khaire stated. “This is a vital step toward inclusive banking.”

The project is a key component of the bank’s broader community care and service equality program, which aims to guarantee that every citizen has access to modern and equitable banking services, regardless of physical ability.

Abdirisaq Shabeel expressed his appreciation for the bank’s swift response. He thanked the management for accepting his suggestion and creating a system that accommodates people with special needs.

This initiative underscores the Central Bank’s commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to integrating a segment of society that was previously excluded from full participation in the formal banking sector.

Hargeisa – According to a report from Middle East 24, sources within several African media outlets have confirmed that the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and 20 other countries are in the final stages of an agreement to recognize the Republic of Somaliland in the coming months.

The report further added that Somaliland is also expected to join the Abraham Accords, a series of diplomatic normalization agreements with Israel. This move is anticipated to be a historic diplomatic shift with a significant impact on the Horn of Africa and the wider Middle East region.

The President of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, has previously informed the public and the media on several occasions that international recognition for Somaliland is imminent, and that crucial discussions related to this matter are ongoing.

As reported by local media, President Irro recently informed senior religious scholars in a meeting that Somaliland will be recognized this December, although he did not explicitly name the specific countries leading the recognition efforts.

In a speech to the community in Berbera last month, the President also stated that Somaliland will be formally recognized during his term in office, and that the people of Berbera will soon reunite in celebration of Somaliland’s recognition.

Furthermore, in remarks made days ago in the city of Ceerigaabo during a peace conference, the President revealed that he has sent letters requesting recognition to world leaders. He stated that he has received positive responses and that global leaders are embracing Somaliland’s cause.

Since his election, President Irro has visited the United Arab Emirates three times to attend international forums. Beyond these public engagements, the details of his other meetings with UAE leadership have not been officially disclosed. However, the UAE, which is the largest investor in Somaliland, is widely seen as privately championing its recognition drive.

On another front, the President is scheduled to visit the United States soon, a country that is currently at the forefront of Somaliland’s recognition efforts. This is evidenced by the significant lobbying from numerous members of both houses of the U.S. legislature, who are actively advocating for the formal recognition of Somaliland. This push coincides with the upcoming introduction of official bills in congressional committees calling for this very action.

Given the ongoing diplomatic activities and the assertive statements from President Irro, a sense of optimism has been instilled among many Somalilanders. A segment of the populace believes the President is aware of underlying agreements that will soon lead to recognition, judging by his confident assertions that it is close at hand.

He Establishes Presidential Technology Award at 7th Expo Summit Opening

By M.A. Egge

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (popularly known as Irro), has stated unequivocally that Somaliland will never reunite with the Mogadishu government of Somalia.

He made these remarks on Saturday in Hargeisa while officially opening the 7th Annual Somaliland Technology Expo. The event showcased services, advancements from ICT companies, and innovations by Somaliland’s youth in the field of modern digital technology.

During the expo, the President announced the introduction of an Annual Presidential Technology Award for winners who achieve breakthroughs in technological innovation.

Regarding the issue of Somalia, the Head of State was clear that the country will not reunite with its southern neighbor, noting that the remaining technicalities to formally sever ties are being addressed.

“We are aware that, despite Somaliland’s reassertion of its sovereignty and separation from Somalia on May 18, 1991, there are still matters that need to be finalized to complete the process,” the Head of State said. He cited examples such as “the Hajj quota and the national telephone code, despite the fact that major telecommunication companies have made great efforts.”

He pointed out that aviation administration is another outstanding issue. He commended the Minister of Aviation for the significant steps taken and expressed hope for his success.

The President asserted, “In general, I want to emphasize that we are not at war with Somalia, nor do we harbor hatred or resentment. On May 18, 1991, we freely decided our own destiny, just as we freely chose to unite with Somalia before. Now, we seek a dignified and honorable separation.”

He continued, “Somalia faces many challenges; its regional administrations are fragmented and unable to come together, yet they talk of forming new ones while failing to unite the existing ones.”

He then posed the question, “Isn’t this the parable of the woman who, already laden, sought to carry an even more burdensome load?”

In a significant portion of his speech, the President emphasized the profound impact of modern technology on society, the economy, education, healthcare, and government administration.

He highlighted that technology is now the backbone of progress, ambition, and global transformation, stressing that any nation aspiring to advance must keep pace with technological and innovative developments.

The President expressed his vision for Somaliland to become a leader in digital innovation. He urged government institutions, the business community, and the youth to fully leverage the opportunities presented by modern technology to help build a digitally advanced Somaliland rooted in knowledge, innovation, and tangible progress.

In conclusion, the President praised the Minister of Communications and Technology, the ministry’s staff, and the nation’s technology community. He encouraged them to continue their efforts in advancing national digital services to ensure Somaliland keeps pace with the rapid transformations in modern technology.

Hargeisa – In a significant move to foster technological advancement, the President’s Award for Youth Technological Innovation has been launched in Somaliland. The prestigious national initiative is designed to motivate young citizens to excel in technological creativity and develop solutions for local challenges.

The annual award will honor top performers in the government’s newly established Youth Technological Innovation Competition. It aims to identify and support young innovators who create pioneering software, infrastructure, and other technological solutions that address critical issues, streamline processes, and enhance productivity.

By providing crucial financial backing, the program seeks to help transform inventive ideas into practical and impactful outcomes, empowering the next generation of tech leaders.

In his announcement, President [Abdullahi] emphasized the award’s vital role in equipping young people to drive Somaliland toward a technologically advanced future. He highlighted the initiative’s importance in nurturing a culture of innovation and sharpening problem-solving skills across the nation.

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from youth groups and technology enthusiasts nationwide, who view it as an essential platform to showcase their talent and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Further details regarding competition guidelines and eligibility criteria will be announced in the coming weeks. The inaugural award ceremony is scheduled for next year.