Hargeisa, Somaliland – The 35th session of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland convened today at the Presidential Palace. The meeting was chaired by H.E. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) and co-chaired by H.E. Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi.
The council deliberated on several key national issues, with ministers providing comprehensive briefings on their respective sectors. The following is a summary of the proceedings:
- Security Situation Briefing
The Minister of Interior and Security, Mr. Abdalle Mohamed Carab, reported that the overall security situation across all six regions of the country remains stable. He confirmed the absence of any significant disturbances or instability and further noted that the nation continues to enjoy complete political stability.
- Economic and Revenue Update
The Minister of State for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Ismail Mawlid Abdullahi, provided an update on the nation’s fiscal health. He reported that the National Revenue Collection for September 2025 is on track to meet its targets and expressed optimism for continued improvement in the nation’s revenue and economic performance throughout the remainder of the year.
The Minister also informed the council that strategic studies and plans to strengthen the national economy and boost domestic production are advancing systematically. These initiatives are being overseen by the Council’s High-Level Economic Committee, which has recently submitted comprehensive proposals.
- Drought Relief Efforts
A member of the National Drought Relief Committee and Minister of Religion and Endowments, Sheikh Abdullahi-Baashe Dahir Jama, delivered a briefing on the drought response. He stated that relief efforts are progressing effectively, highlighting the rehabilitation of water wells and the successful distribution of food aid to the regions with the most critical needs.
- Livestock Export and Quality Standards
The Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Dr. Omar Shucayb Mohamed, provided a positive update on the livestock sector. He reported that the Ministry is enhancing the export system and enforcing stringent quality control measures for livestock.
A key policy highlighted was the complete ban on the export of underage livestock, a measure designed to protect the national breeding stock and uphold quality standards. The Minister emphasized that this step is crucial for strengthening Somaliland’s reputation in international markets and securing the sector’s long-term economic future. He also noted an increase in health inspections and monitoring of livestock.
- National Health Situation
The Minister of Health Development, Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, presented a report on the public health situation. He outlined the ongoing provision of health services across the regions while also acknowledging significant national challenges that require addressed.
The Minister detailed the severe impact of recent global funding cuts from the United States government on critical health programs administered by the Ministry. These cuts have created a substantial financial shortfall and posed a major challenge to public health services. Despite this, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to securing and strengthening public health services through international cooperation to ensure the people of Somaliland receive sustainable, high-quality healthcare.
- Deliberation on the National Fisheries Law
The Council of Ministers concluded a rigorous two-week deliberation on the Somaliland National Fisheries Law (Act No. 84/2025). Following extensive discussions, proposals, and a detailed review of the law’s articles, H.E. President Cirro issued a directive. Noting the critical importance of the fisheries sector, the President instructed the Council to integrate its recommendations into the draft and ensure it is harmonized with other existing national laws. The technical drafting committee was tasked with finalizing the document, with a view to its approval scheduled for next week.
