MOGADISHU — The National Conference on the Voice of Somali Women, which concluded in Mogadishu, has called on Somalia’s Federal President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to urgently launch an all-inclusive national dialogue aimed at finding a political resolution to the country’s volatile situation.
In a press release issued at the end of the gathering, the conference stressed that any meaningful negotiation process must include the active participation of civil society, particularly Somali women, to ensure a sustainable solution grounded in consensus and mutual respect.
The national conference, focused on amplifying women’s voices in peacebuilding, expressed deep concern over Somalia’s political climate following recent clashes between government forces and opposition factions.
The statement noted that Somalia is navigating a sensitive period, especially in light of the confrontations between federal troops and some opposition groups, which have resulted in deaths, injuries, displacement, and widespread property damage.
Somali women at the conference reaffirmed that a lasting resolution can only be achieved through dialogue, patience, political compromise, and reconciliation. They underscored that violence and the use of force cannot yield what is attainable through negotiated settlement.
The conference further urged the federal government and opposition stakeholders to cease all actions and rhetoric that could escalate political tensions or endanger peace and stability in Mogadishu and across the nation.
On the electoral front, the conference called on political actors to agree on an inclusive, transparent, fair, and credible electoral process—one that would bolster public confidence and ensure long-term political stability.
Finally, the Somali people were urged to stand united in defending peace, preserving social cohesion, and protecting national stability—working together to safeguard the lives of citizens, property, and the future of their country.
Mogadishu – Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has called for an urgent meeting between current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and former presidents to find a political solution to the country’s escalating disputes.
Farmaajo stated that he has officially invited President Hassan Sheikh to a meeting at his residence, where they would discuss electoral matters, security, and the political future of Somalia.
The former president emphasized that the resolution of political conflicts must be achieved among Somalis themselves, adding that no external interference is needed if Somali leaders are ready for dialogue and consensus.
Farmaajo noted that Somalia is at a critical political juncture, arguing that disputes over the electoral process and governance are affecting security and overall stability.
He reiterated that a lasting solution can only be reached at the negotiating table, calling for an end to existing tensions and confrontations and replacing them with inclusive political collaboration.
Farmaajo also stated that he is ready to play a role in efforts to resolve the conflict, urging all political parties to prioritize national interest and unity.
He argued that Somaliland has drifted further away, while Puntland remains in a worrying position awaiting the central government’s political direction. He also pointed out that political disputes persist in Jubbaland, requiring a consensus-based solution.
He warned that failure to resolve the current disputes could deepen political fragmentation, which he described as a threat to Somalia’s unity and statehood.
Hargeisa (June 8, 2026) – The Minister of Energy and Minerals of the Republic of Somaliland, Eng. Ahmed Jama Barre, today welcomed a World Bank delegation led by Engineer Paul, Task Team Leader (TTL) for the Somali Electricity Sector Recovery Project (SESRP).
The visit is intended to support and fast-track the implementation of the SESRP, which is now in its active delivery phase.
During their mission in Somaliland, the delegation will hold a series of meetings with the Ministry’s senior leadership, the SESRP Project Implementation Unit (PIU), the Somaliland Electricity Regulatory Commission (SEC), and electricity providers operating in the Berbera and Borama districts.
The team will also conduct field visits to selected educational and health facilities that have benefited from SESRP electrification support, in addition to inspecting ongoing electricity expansion projects in Berbera and Borama.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Barre expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s continued partnership with Somaliland, particularly acknowledging its role in strengthening energy infrastructure and expanding access to more affordable and cleaner electricity across project areas.
Gabiley Region stands as one of Somaliland’s most strategically positioned and economically promising regions. Blessed with fertile agricultural land, abundant livestock resources, a growing urban population, and direct access to regional markets through Tog-Wajaale, Gabiley possesses the foundations necessary to become a major economic growth center within the Horn of Africa. While the region has historically been recognized as Somaliland’s agricultural heartland, its future potential extends far beyond agriculture alone. Over the next twenty years, Gabiley can emerge as a leading center for agribusiness, trade, logistics, manufacturing, renewable energy, and urban development. Achieving this transformation will require visionary leadership, strategic investment in infrastructure, institutional strengthening, and active participation from the private sector and development partners. The region’s geographic location provides unique advantages that can be leveraged to accelerate economic growth and improve living standards. The increasing importance of regional trade corridors, particularly the Berbera Corridor and the Somaliland-Ethiopia trade route, creates unprecedented opportunities for Gabiley to become a gateway for commerce and investment. By integrating agricultural production with industrial processing and modern logistics services, the region can significantly increase value addition and employment opportunities. This report presents a long-term vision for Gabiley’s transformation by 2046. It analyzes the region’s strengths, opportunities, and challenges while proposing strategic interventions across key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, industry, education, governance, and environmental sustainability. The proposed vision seeks to position Gabiley as Somaliland’s leading economic region, serving as a model for sustainable development, innovation, and prosperity throughout the country.
Introduction: The Strategic Importance of Gabiley
Gabiley Region occupies a unique position within Somaliland’s economic landscape. Located west of Hargeisa and bordering Ethiopia through Tog-Wajaale, the region serves as a critical link between Somaliland and one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. This strategic location has historically facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and economic activity. Agriculture remains the backbone of the regional economy. The fertile plains surrounding Gabiley, Arabsiyo, Kalabaydh, and Allaybaday contribute significantly to national food production. These areas support both subsistence farming and commercial agriculture, making the region essential for Somaliland’s food security. The region is also home to a dynamic livestock sector that supports rural livelihoods and contributes to Somaliland’s export economy. Livestock production, dairy farming, and fodder cultivation continue to provide income for thousands of households across the region. Urbanization is accelerating as population growth and economic activity increase. Gabiley City and Tog-Wajaale are emerging as important urban centers that require modern infrastructure, effective planning, and sustainable service delivery systems. Given these advantages, Gabiley has the potential to become a regional economic powerhouse if supported by coordinated investment, policy reforms, and long-term development planning.
Natural Resources and Economic Assets
Gabiley’s fertile agricultural land is its most valuable natural resource. The region benefits from relatively favorable rainfall patterns and extensive arable land suitable for crop cultivation. These conditions support the production of cereals, vegetables, fruits, and fodder crops. Groundwater resources provide opportunities for irrigation development and agricultural intensification. Sustainable management of water resources will be essential to increase productivity while ensuring environmental protection and resilience to climate change. Livestock resources constitute another major economic asset. The region supports large populations of cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, creating opportunities for dairy production, meat processing, and export-oriented livestock industries. Human capital represents an often-overlooked resource. The region possesses a young and growing population with significant entrepreneurial potential. Investments in education, technical training, and innovation can unlock this demographic dividend. The region’s proximity to major transportation corridors and border markets further enhances its economic attractiveness. These strategic advantages provide a strong foundation for future industrial and commercial expansion.
Agriculture as the Foundation of Economic Transformation
Agriculture will remain central to Gabiley’s development strategy throughout the next two decades. However, the sector must evolve from traditional farming practices toward modern, technology-driven, and market-oriented production systems. Mechanization can significantly improve productivity and reduce labor constraints. Investments in tractors, harvesting equipment, irrigation systems, and agricultural technologies will enable farmers to increase yields and profitability. Agricultural research and extension services should be strengthened to promote climate-smart farming techniques. Improved seeds, soil management practices, and pest control systems can enhance resilience and productivity. Post-harvest losses remain a major challenge. Modern storage facilities, cold chain systems, and transportation infrastructure are necessary to reduce waste and improve market access. The development of agricultural cooperatives and producer associations can strengthen farmers’ bargaining power, improve access to finance, and facilitate participation in domestic and international markets.
Building an Agro-Industrial Economy
The future prosperity of Gabiley depends on its ability to move beyond primary production and develop value-added industries. Agro-processing can significantly increase incomes, create jobs, and enhance export competitiveness. Food processing facilities can transform locally produced crops into higher-value products. Flour mills, vegetable processing plants, fruit packaging centers, and dairy factories can create substantial economic opportunities. Industrial parks dedicated to agribusiness development can attract domestic and foreign investment. These zones should provide reliable infrastructure, utilities, and regulatory support to encourage private sector participation. The development of livestock processing facilities can enhance Somaliland’s export potential while creating employment opportunities within the region. Meat processing, dairy manufacturing, and leather production are particularly promising sectors. A strong agro-industrial sector can stimulate broader economic development by creating linkages with transportation, logistics, finance, and service industries.
Trade, Logistics, and Regional Connectivity
Gabiley’s strategic location provides significant opportunities for trade and logistics development. Tog-Wajaale serves as one of Somaliland’s most important commercial gateways and has the potential to become a major regional logistics hub. The continued development of the Berbera Corridor will increase the importance of trade routes passing through Gabiley. Improved connectivity can attract businesses seeking access to Ethiopian and regional markets. Modern logistics facilities, including warehouses, distribution centers, and dry ports, can support growing trade volumes and enhance supply chain efficiency. Cross-border economic cooperation with Ethiopia can generate significant benefits. Trade facilitation measures, customs modernization, and infrastructure improvements can strengthen commercial relationships. By becoming a logistics and trade center, Gabiley can diversify its economy and reduce dependence on traditional agricultural activities.
Infrastructure Development for Economic Growth Infrastructure
Investment will play a critical role in supporting Gabiley’s transformation. Roads, water systems, energy networks, and telecommunications infrastructure are essential foundations for economic development. Road connectivity between rural production areas and urban markets must be strengthened. Improved transportation networks can reduce costs, increase market access, and stimulate investment. Water infrastructure is particularly important given the region’s agricultural potential. Expanded irrigation systems, groundwater development, and water conservation measures can enhance productivity and resilience. Reliable electricity is essential for industrial growth and modern service delivery. Renewable energy projects, particularly solar energy initiatives, can improve access while supporting environmental sustainability. Digital infrastructure should also be expanded to facilitate innovation, education, e-commerce, and modern governance systems.
Human Capital and Social Development
Long-term economic success depends on investing in people. Education, health services, and skills development must remain central components of Gabiley’s development strategy. Primary and secondary education systems should be strengthened to improve learning outcomes and prepare young people for future opportunities. Educational quality is as important as access. Technical and vocational education programs can address skills shortages in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and information technology. These programs should align with labor market demands. Higher education institutions can contribute to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship development. Collaboration between universities and industry can strengthen knowledge transfer and economic competitiveness. Improved healthcare systems are essential for maintaining a productive workforce and enhancing quality of life. Investments in health infrastructure and services will support broader development objectives.
Urban Development and Smart Cities
Rapid urbanization presents both opportunities and challenges for Gabiley. Effective urban planning is necessary to ensure sustainable growth and efficient service delivery. The development of comprehensive master plans can guide land use, transportation, housing, and infrastructure investment. Well-planned cities are more attractive to investors and residents. Smart city technologies can improve municipal services, revenue collection, waste management, and public safety. Digital solutions offer opportunities to enhance governance and efficiency. Affordable housing initiatives are needed to accommodate population growth and prevent the expansion of informal settlements. Housing development should be integrated with infrastructure planning. Green spaces, environmental management systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure should be incorporated into urban development strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Governance, Investment, and Institutional Strengthening
Strong institutions are essential for successful economic transformation. Effective governance creates the stability and confidence required for investment and development. Local governments must strengthen their planning, financial management, and service delivery capacities. Institutional reforms can improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Investment promotion strategies should highlight Gabiley’s competitive advantages and attract domestic and international investors. Clear policies and streamlined procedures can encourage business growth. Public-private partnerships offer opportunities to mobilize resources and expertise for infrastructure and service delivery projects. Collaboration between government and business is critical. Good governance also requires citizen participation, transparency, and accountability. Inclusive decision-making processes can strengthen public trust and support sustainable development
Vision 2046 and Strategic Roadmap
By 2046, Gabiley can become Somaliland’s leading center for agriculture, industry, trade, and innovation. This transformation will require sustained commitment and coordinated action across multiple sectors. The first phase should focus on strengthening infrastructure, agricultural productivity, and institutional capacity. These foundational investments will create conditions for broader economic expansion. The second phase should prioritize industrial development, logistics infrastructure, and private sector growth. Value addition and export competitiveness should become central objectives. The third phase should focus on innovation, technology adoption, and regional integration. Gabiley should position itself as a knowledge-based and investment-friendly economy. If effectively implemented, this vision will transform Gabiley from Somaliland’s agricultural heartland into a regional economic powerhouse that contributes significantly to national prosperity, employment creation, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
Gabiley possesses the natural resources, strategic location, human capital, and economic potential necessary to become one of the most successful regions in the Horn of Africa. Its transformation requires a long-term vision supported by strong institutions, strategic investment, and collaborative leadership. The journey toward 2046 will not be without challenges. Climate change, infrastructure deficits, financing constraints, and rapid urbanization require proactive planning and innovative solutions. Nevertheless, the opportunities far outweigh the obstacles. Through investments in agriculture, industry, infrastructure, education, and governance, Gabiley can achieve sustained economic growth and social progress. The region’s success will benefit not only its residents but also Somaliland as a whole by strengthening food security, increasing exports, generating employment, and attracting investment. Gabiley 2046 represents more than a development strategy; it is a vision of prosperity, resilience, and leadership that can inspire future generations and position Somaliland for long-term success in the regional and global economic.
Eng. Mouktar Yusuf Ali
Infrastructure Analyst – Somaliland Specialist in Regional Development and Infrastructure in the Horn of Africa
HARGEISA – The Secretary to the Somaliland Council of Ministers, Abdirahman Ali Elmi, hosted a grand reception in Hargeisa in honour of diplomat Jama Ayaanle Feyte.
The event brought together senior government figures, including the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Ali Jama Farah (Bureed); directors from the Ministries of Planning, Investment, and Higher Education; the Second Secretary to the President; as well as former governors, military commanders, and active members of the Waddani Party currently serving in Somaliland’s administration.
In his remarks, Jama Ayaanle Feyte expressed gratitude to Secretary Elmi for the invitation and the warm reception. He underscored the significance of the gathering, which drew a broad cross-section of officials and leaders from Somaliland’s state institutions.
Hargeisa – The Information Secretary of the KAAH Party, Guled Mohamed Ismail, has strongly condemned the use of excessive force against citizens who are peacefully expressing their views.
Mr.Guled stated that the use of live ammunition or any form of force against civilians peacefully voicing their opinions is utterly unacceptable. He emphasized that such actions constitute a violation of the fundamental rights of citizens.
He reaffirmed that the KAAH Party has previously addressed this issue and will continue to defend and stand in solidarity with the public in order to safeguard their rights and ensure their safety.
“The most important thing to protect is the citizen. Nothing takes precedence over the dignity and life of a citizen,” Guled said.
In conclusion, he called on the government to refrain from using excessive force against civilians and to prioritize the protection of the lives and dignity of the people.
MOGADISHU — Wednesday, June 3, 2026 — Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed narrowly survived an armed assault on his Mogadishu residence just one hour after publicly accusing the federal government of placing his home under siege, witnesses and opposition officials said. The attack was repelled by his personal security detail, but it has dramatically escalated tensions ahead of planned opposition protests.
The former president had earlier held a press conference in which he accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of deploying national forces for political repression. Sharif alleged that large numbers of government troops had been positioned around his home and in surrounding neighborhoods to confine him and block his supporters from mobilizing for upcoming demonstrations.
“The national forces were created to defend the country and fight external enemies, not to be used for political pressure against Somali citizens,” Sharif told reporters. He insisted that the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally guaranteed and that no authority has the legal power to ban such gatherings.
He also claimed that his supporters had been prevented from visiting him, moving freely through the capital, or accessing his residence—actions he described as clear violations of constitutional freedoms.
Assault on the residence
Approximately one hour after the press conference concluded, heavily armed government security forces allegedly launched a direct assault on Sharif’s fortified compound in the capital. According to multiple sources close to the former president and residents of the neighborhood, the attacking force exchanged heavy gunfire with Sharif’s personal guards for several minutes.
The guards successfully repelled the assault, forcing the attackers to withdraw. It remains unclear whether there were casualties on either side, though witnesses reported seeing armed men fleeing the scene. Neither the Somali government nor its military spokespersons have issued an immediate statement regarding the incident.
The attack marks a severe escalation in the ongoing political standoff between the government and opposition figures. Sharif’s security team described the operation as an “attempted forced entry” and said the former president was unharmed.
Wider tensions in Mogadishu
The assault on Sharif’s home comes amid broader unrest in Mogadishu. Heavy gunfire has been heard in several opposition-held neighborhoods, and unidentified grenade attacks have caused damage to civilian properties and left multiple people injured, according to local medics.
Opposition leaders have accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of ordering federal forces to place opposition figures under effective house arrest in order to prevent a major protest planned for tomorrow. The demonstration is expected to be significantly larger than previous opposition rallies, which have drawn thousands into the streets.
Residents in opposition strongholds report increased military checkpoints and patrols, as well as the deployment of armored vehicles near the homes of several prominent political rivals of the president.
Political fallout
The events have drawn sharp criticism from civil society groups and legal experts, who warn that using the national military against political opponents risks plunging the country back into the kind of internal conflict that has plagued Somalia for decades.
International partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, have yet to issue formal statements but are closely monitoring the situation, according to diplomatic sources in Mogadishu.
As night fell over the capital, the atmosphere remained tense, with many residents fearing further violence. Opposition leaders have vowed to proceed with the planned protest, calling on their supporters to remain peaceful but defiant.
MOGADISHU – Heavy gunfire broke out Wednesday at Dabka Junction in Mogadishu between government forces and security guards of former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, just hours before planned opposition demonstrations.
Casualties are unknown. No official statement from the federal government yet.
Khaire accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government of attacking a consultative meeting he was attending with over 70 traditional elders, lawmakers, and opposition figures. He called the assault a “grave attack on constitutional rights” and an attempt to suppress peaceful assembly.
The clash came after authorities approved restricted protest sites—Banadir Stadium, Mogadishu Stadium, and Jaamacadaha area—while banning weapons and warning against public disorder. Opposition leaders, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, reject venue restrictions, insisting peaceful protest is a right across the capital.
Tensions are soaring over elections, constitutional changes, and Somalia’s political transition. The opposition says reforms lack consensus; the government cites the need for public order ahead of one-person, one-vote polls.
HARGEISA – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), today received at the Presidential Palace a delegation led by the U.S. Deputy Ambassador and Chargé d’affaires, Mr. Justin Davis, who is on an official visit to the Republic of Somaliland.
President Irro began by thanking the delegation for their visit and for the growing interest the United States government has shown in Somaliland.
The meeting focused on strengthening relations and cooperation between the Republic of Somaliland and the United States, particularly in the areas of regional security, Red Sea maritime security, intelligence sharing, investment opportunity promotion, economic development, democracy, and consolidating the strategic interests shared by both sides.
The President of Somaliland expressed his appreciation to the U.S. government for draft legislation and political motions currently moving through U.S. legislative bodies that directly pertain to Somaliland’s affairs.
President Irro further assured the U.S. Deputy Ambassador that the Republic of Somaliland is a peaceful, democratic, and stable nation—a reliable partner that the U.S. government can count on.
For his part, Mr. Davis praised the President for the peace, stability, and democratic process that Somaliland has advanced. He affirmed that the U.S. government is ready to strengthen cooperation in the fields of security, defense, maritime security, intelligence sharing, investment, trade, economic infrastructure, mining, and energy.
The Deputy Ambassador also emphasized that the ground realities, progress, and strategic role Somaliland plays in the Horn of Africa cannot be ignored.
This meeting reflects the deepening relationship between the Republic of Somaliland and the United States, as well as Somaliland’s ongoing efforts to advance diplomatic, security, and economic cooperation with the U.S.—built on mutual respect, shared interests, and multifaceted understanding.
The Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait are once again under intense strain, reminding the world that maritime security in the Horn of Africa is not a peripheral issue. In this environment, Western governments need dependable partners. Somaliland has already shown itself to be one of the region’s most stable and capable actors, yet it remains denied formal recognition.
For more than three decades, Somaliland has built and maintained a functioning political order under difficult conditions. It has developed its own institutions, currency, border controls, and electoral system. Its elections have produced competitive contests and peaceful transfers of power, a record that is rare in the Horn of Africa. On the ground, it governs as a state even if the international system refuses to acknowledge it as one.
That disconnect has created a policy contradiction. The United States and its allies continue to affirm Somalia’s territorial integrity while increasingly engaging Somaliland for security cooperation, maritime monitoring, and regional stabilization. In practice, Somaliland is expected to perform like a sovereign state while being denied the legal and diplomatic standing that sovereignty requires.
This approach is no longer sustainable. It weakens a partner that is already contributing to regional stability and limits the strategic options available to Western governments.
Somaliland’s importance is not abstract. Its coastline along the Gulf of Aden places it on one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors. The development of Berbera Port and broader investment in logistics infrastructure have further increased its relevance in regional trade and security planning. In a period defined by shipping disruptions, strategic competition, and rising uncertainty, this location matters.
Yet Somaliland’s lack of recognition limits its ability to access international financial institutions, secure development assistance at scale, and attract the level of investment needed to expand its infrastructure and security capacity. That is not only a burden for Somaliland. It is also a missed opportunity for partners seeking reliable regional cooperation.
The main objection to Somaliland’s recognition has long been the fear that it could encourage secessionist claims elsewhere in Africa. That concern deserves to be taken seriously, but it does not fully fit Somaliland’s case. Somaliland was a separate political entity under British rule, gained independence in June 1960, and then entered a short-lived union with Italian Somalia. That union collapsed after state failure and civil conflict. Somaliland’s current claim is therefore rooted in the restoration of a previously recognized political status, not the fragmentation of a functioning state.
This history matters. It places Somaliland’s case in a different category from ordinary secessionist movements and makes the blanket application of Somalia-centered policy increasingly difficult to defend.
A more realistic approach is needed. Immediate formal recognition may not be politically feasible, but a gradual pathway is available. Western governments could expand bilateral agreements, institutionalize security cooperation, and create special or observer arrangements that bring Somaliland into international forums more fully. Such steps would recognize reality without forcing abrupt regional change.
Maintaining the current ambiguity serves limited strategic purpose. It constrains a capable partner, leaves a key maritime area vulnerable to competing influences, and creates a gap between Western rhetoric and practice. If stability in the Horn of Africa is truly a priority, then policy should reflect the actors actually delivering it.
Somaliland has demonstrated that it can govern, secure its territory, and contribute to regional order. What it lacks is not capability, but recognition. The challenge now is for the United States and its partners to align diplomatic practice with strategic reality.
