By Goth Mohamed Goth
Cape Town, South Africa –The Republic of Somaliland participated officially in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from June 12-13. Somaliland’s presence garnered significant recognition from the South African government, signaling its growing importance in continental green energy initiatives and international cooperation.
High-Level Participation:
The Somaliland delegation was led by:
* Dr. Mohamed Aw Dahir Ibrahim Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change
* Ambassador Ayan Mohamoud Mohamed, Senior Envoy, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
Presidential Welcome:
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa personally welcomed the Somaliland delegation during the summit’s opening ceremony. President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of Somaliland’s attendance, describing it as a “visible example of Somaliland’s engagement on global platforms.”
Strategic Bilateral Meetings:
During the summit, the Somaliland delegation engaged in high-level discussions with key South African and international officials, including:
* Samantha Graham, Deputy Minister of Electricity
* Dr. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI)
* Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, Senior Official, Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) & African Union Liaison
* Alan Winde,** Premier of the Western Cape Province
Discussions centered on:
1. Enhancing cooperation in green hydrogen and renewable energy.
2. Somaliland’s potential role in Africa’s future energy transition.
3. Fostering research, innovation, and development opportunities across the region and continent.
Diplomatic Recognition & Reinforced Ties:
In a notable gesture of diplomatic recognition, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Parks Tau, hosted a special honor dinner for the Somaliland delegation. This event further strengthened bilateral relations, explicitly acknowledging Somaliland as a key stakeholder capable of contributing significantly to Africa’s regional development and energy future.
Commitment Affirmed:
Somaliland’s active participation in the Africa Green Hydrogen Summit 2025 underscores its commitment to playing a leading role in global discussions on clean energy, climate action, and the advancement of regional and international partnerships.
