DHUSAMAREB – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre concluded the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies’ Annual Forum in Dhusamareb on Wednesday, using the occasion to announce significant hydrocarbon development and reaffirm federal commitments to national cohesion. Speaking shortly after arriving in the Galmudug capital, Barre confirmed that oil extraction operations will launch within the state this May.
Barre portrayed the present moment as a pivotal phase for Somalia, highlighting progress in security, economic growth, and foreign relations. He cited recent orderly elections in the capital as evidence of advancing democratic norms and public trust. The Prime Minister asserted that these gains have strengthened Somalia’s ability to defend its sovereignty, thanking international allies for supporting unity and territorial integrity.
In a notable economic update, the Prime Minister confirmed hydrocarbon extraction will commence in May at a Galmudug site. He linked the move to broader plans for leveraging natural resources to rebuild the nation, while noting nearly 4.4 million Somalis face severe drought and require urgent humanitarian aid.
Barre called on Somali political leaders to unify and affirmed Mogadishu’s openness to talks. However, he maintained a firm stance against any step that could fracture national unity, saying the government and people will resist divisive agendas while remaining ready for cooperation based on mutual interests.
Earlier, Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye (Qoorqoor), along with the Vice President, ministers, and local residents, welcomed the Prime Minister to Dhusamareb. Barre’s trip centered on closing the Heritage Forum, which addressed key questions of politics, security, and rebuilding Somali state institutions. He was also slated to meet Galmudug leaders and community figures to discuss peace and development.
