Berbera, Somaliland – A major technical conference on implementing Somaliland’s Decentralization Governance System was officially launched in the port city of Berbera, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to bring essential public services closer to citizens at the district level.
The two-day event, organized by the Ministry of Local Government and Urban Development, was inaugurated by Minister Hassan Ahmed Duale. In his opening address, the Minister emphasized that decentralization is not a contest for power, but a strategic reform designed to streamline and accelerate the delivery of critical services.
“Decentralization is about efficiency and proximity,” stated Minister Duale. “It ensures that education, healthcare, clean water, and security are managed and delivered directly at the local level, rather than waiting for slow decisions from the capital.”
The Minister noted that a recent inspection tour of Berbera District revealed education and health services have already reached commendable standards, describing the district as a model for other regions.
Senior officials at the conference, including the Governor of Sahil Region, the Mayor of Berbera, and the Director General of the Ministry, unanimously endorsed the policy. They stressed that transferring authority and resources to local governments will:
· Enhance transparency and accountability.
· Boost community participation.
· Reduce bureaucratic delays.
· Counter the over-concentration of power in Hargeisa.
Governance experts participating in the event highlighted that effective decentralization will empower districts to respond swiftly to local needs and foster grassroots development.
“This is a historic step toward building a more responsive and people-centered administration,” one expert remarked. “When services are managed locally, citizens see tangible results faster, and trust in government grows.”
The Berbera conference is expected to finalize the technical and legal framework for rolling out decentralization across all of Somaliland’s regions in the coming years. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to the policy, describing it as a cornerstone of its vision for equitable development and efficient public service delivery nationwide.
