By Goth Mohamed Goth

Hargeisa–Somaliland’s Minister of Local Government and Urban Development, Mr. Hassan Ahmed Duale (Hassan Macalin), met with a delegation from the Swiss Government currently visiting the country with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in local governance and urban development.

The high-level talks, held in Hargeisa, focused on identifying collaborative opportunities to bolster Somaliland’s local government institutions, enhance urban infrastructure, and promote sustainable development.

Minister Duale emphasized the critical role of international partnerships in supporting Somaliland’s efforts to build resilient and effective local governance systems. He was joined by the Ministry’s Director General, Ali Ige Mohamoud, and several department directors.

The Swiss delegation was led by Ms. Martina Durrer, Regional Head of International Cooperation for the Horn of Africa. It included representatives from Swiss embassies in Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Burundi, underscoring Switzerland’s regional commitment to development in the Horn of Africa.

This engagement represents a step forward in Somaliland’s ongoing efforts to deepen international ties and advance its development agenda, specifically in local governance and urban planning.