Hargeisa, Somaliland — In a decisive move to accelerate Somaliland’s economic transformation, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro today chaired a high-level consultative meeting with the country’s leading industrialists at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa. The discussions, convened at the request of the Somaliland Industrial Association, centered on revitalizing the manufacturing sector and deepening collaboration between the government and private industry.
The meeting brought together prominent business figures representing key manufacturing interests across the nation. Before the deliberations began, the industrial leaders commended President Irro for what they described as “tangible progress” achieved during his early months in office — citing his efforts in consolidating peace and stability in the eastern regions, reforming the civilian security forces, and enhancing Somaliland’s diplomatic visibility on the international stage.
During the talks, participants outlined several pressing challenges facing the industrial sector. Chief among them were calls for tax exemptions on essential machinery, raw materials, and equipment, as well as greater access to investment financing and protection from cheap imports that have undermined local production. They urged the government to establish a fair and competitive environment that allows domestic industries to grow and compete effectively.
President Irro, who listened attentively to the presentations, expressed deep appreciation for the sector’s contribution to national development.
“Our industrialists are the backbone of Somaliland’s economic resilience. They create jobs, add value to our raw materials, and strengthen our national self-reliance,” he said.
The President pledged to introduce sweeping measures aimed at boosting industrial growth, including the allocation of free industrial land for factory expansion, improved access to affordable fuel and electricity, and the enforcement of lawful tax exemptions under the National Public Finance Management Act.
He further emphasized that Somaliland’s path to economic independence lies in nurturing domestic production.
“We must build an economy that produces what we consume and exports what we can. A strong industrial base is the foundation of our long-term prosperity,” President Irro asserted.
Highlighting the government’s forward-looking vision, he called for the development of a comprehensive national industrial policy to promote innovation, ensure fair competition, and reduce reliance on imported goods.
The meeting concluded on a positive and collaborative note, with industrial leaders welcoming the President’s pledges and expressing optimism about renewed public–private partnership under his leadership. They praised his pragmatic approach and commitment to economic reform, describing the engagement as “a turning point” for Somaliland’s manufacturing future.
As participants left the Presidential Palace, there was a shared sense of determination — a belief that Somaliland’s path to economic sovereignty and job creation will be shaped not just by government policy, but by the synergy between vision, enterprise, and national will.