HARGEYSA (Kaab TV) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro on Monday officially launched the Somaliland Minerals Expo 2025 at the Mansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, marking the first event of its kind in the region and signaling renewed efforts to attract global investment into the country’s extractive sector.
The two-day expo, organized to international standards by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in partnership with mineral companies and key stakeholders, aims to showcase Somaliland’s mineral wealth and natural resources to international investors and the local public in a professional and strategic manner.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Irro expressed gratitude to senior officials and staff of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, as well as to countries, companies, and individuals who supported the organization of the landmark exhibition.
The president emphasized that Somaliland is a reliable and trustworthy destination for international investment, cooperation, partnerships, financing, and business engagement. He noted that the country has established comprehensive laws, policies, procedures, and administrative systems designed to make it easier for investors to start and operate their businesses.
“Somaliland will begin oil exploration in 2027,” President Irro announced, adding that his government’s economic agenda prioritizes the responsible and transparent development of the country’s natural resources.
He said the Unity and Action Government is committed to ensuring that resource development contributes to economic stability, long-term growth, and shared benefits, while upholding accountability and sustainability.
Senior officials, including the Director General of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, Shuaib Boqor Osman-Buurmadow; Minister of Investment Said Mohamed Buraale; Chairman of the Waddani Party Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan; and Minister of Energy and Minerals Ahmed Jama Barre, also delivered remarks at the event.
The expo additionally featured contributions from international experts who participated both in person and via virtual video link, highlighting growing global interest in Somaliland’s mineral potential.
President Cirro further stated that Somaliland’s political stability, democratic governance system, internal and border security, and judicial institutions meet international standards, providing confidence to global investors.
He concluded by reiterating that Somaliland is ready to engage in fair, transparent, and mutually beneficial partnerships to responsibly harness its abundant natural resources, which the government believes could play a key role in achieving economic stability and advancing Somaliland’s quest for international recognition.